Houston Defender: May 23, 2019

DESPITE DREAMS OF PROSPERITY, MANY BLACKS NOT FINANCIALLY READY TO RETIRE P12

FEATURE

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 88 | Number 30

MAY 23, 2019 |FREE

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NEWSTALK

Executive Director Deloyd Parker

SYLVESTER TURNER reveals the State of the City

P2 NATIONAL SYBRINA FULTON runs for office in Dade County, Fl

P5

PRO SPORTS BRIAN MICHAEL COOPER guides Houston XFL franchise

P14 TOP EVENTS

SHAPE Community CenterH turns 50 PAGE 8

Tank headlines concert

The sexy singer will be in Houston Memorial Day Weekend for a concert along with artists K. Michelle and Keyshia Cole. Find out why he decided to bring his talents back to the Bayou City.

James Harden hosts kid camp

The Rockets star will host just one of numerous sports camps available to keep kids active this summer instead of just sitting on the couch playing video games.

Get all the details for sports camps in every area.

Nikia Green, Ashley Turner, Misha McClure at Women of Color in Tech event.

P16

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

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Turner says city economic health is strong Defender News Services

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner used his annual message to the Greater Houston Partnership to tout the city’s economic health. The mayor talked about the work that still needs to be done as he runs for re-election.

Mayors typically use the State of the City address to roll out major policy initiatives, but Turner spent much of his speech making the case that he has been a good steward of local government and deserves another term.

“Since 2016, City Council has approved three balanced budgets, and this fourth budget will be without layoffs or deferrals, and it will fund five police cadet classes for public safety,” Turner said. The speech came just days after a judge invalidated voter-mandated raises for firefighters, passed as Proposition B, Mayor Sylvester Turner delivers the State of the City address. which would have required hundreds of such layoffs.

“I’m prepared to sit down and talk with them,” Turner said.

Turner cited Houston’s unemployment rate as the lowest “It’s important for the city to move forward.” since 1981. He also discussed the state of pension reform, saying Turner emphasized the importance of protecting Houston the city’s unfunded pension liabilities have dropped to $4 billion from flooding after Harvey. from $8 billion since he took office.

“We need a revolving fund created on the state level,” he He also praised Houston’s progress with working conditions, said. “My hope is that the legislature will tap into its Rainy Day boosting youth summer jobs, and tech expansion.

Fund.”

Turner laid out the progress he hopes to make in the coming Turner also stressed ways to give Houstonians more opportuyear, which includes paying firefighters more after the recent Prop nities to move around the increasingly traffic-clogged streets.

B ruling.

“People are demanding multi-modal options, and we have to

give it to them,” he said.

Turner also unveiled the “50 for 50 Effort” during his speech. It calls on 50 companies to partner with 50 parks for five years to help with upkeep and bettering the surrounding neighborhoods.

Opponents respond

Moments after Turner’s speech ended, mayoral challenger Tony Buzbee held his own “state of the city” speech in a ballroom two floors below.

“Our city’s in a state of mess,” Buzbee said.

Buzbee criticized the city’s crime level and policing style, as well as Turner’s handling of issues like homelessness, illegal dumping and trash and recycling pickup.

“We’ve gotten so used to it that it doesn’t even infuriate us anymore,” said Buzbee.

At the same time, challenger Bill King delivered a response to Turner’s address on Facebook Live.

“We’re running these deficits when we have record revenues,” said King, criticizing how Turner handles money. “The solution is not more revenue. The solution is how we spend the money.”

King also criticized low police staffing levels and the poor condition of many Houston roads.

Ford Fund hosts Tuskegee documentary

The Houston community came out to celebrate the Ford Motor Company Fund Texas premiere of “Our Voices: Our Stories-The Tuskegee Airmen,” a new documentary focusing on the stellar military careers of Tuskegee Airmen Lt. Col. Alexander Jefferson and Lt. Col. Harry T. Stewart Jr. The screening took place at Space Center Houston, with both Jefferson and Stewart in attendance. CNN anchor Fredricka Whitfield, whose father was a Tuskegee Airman, was mistress of ceremonies. “Heroes are often humble and frequently shy away from telling their own story, so it is up to all of us who value their contributions to make sure they are heard,” said Pamela Alexander, director of community development, Ford Motor Company Fund.

localbriefs THE TEEN ACCUSED OF KILLING his parents nearly three years ago will stand trial again later this year. The first trial of Antonio Armstrong Jr. ended in a hung jury in April. In capital murder cases, the jury must agree unanimously. A judge scheduled his retrial to begin Oct. 4. Armstrong’s attorney, Rick DeToto, said he and his team are ready to get back to the case and will be taking some different approaches during the retrial. The 19-year-old is charged with capital murder in connection with the deaths of his parents, Antonio Armstrong Sr. and Dawn Armstrong in July 2016…….ALUMS AT AREA HBCUS ARE GEARING up for the HBCU College Fair.

The free event takes place, Saturday, June 8, from

a.m. to 4 p.m. at the George R. Brown Convention Center. There will be representatives from colleges and universities such as Texas Southern, Grambling, Southern, Alabama State, Alabama A&M, Tougaloo, Huston-Tillotson, Prairie View A&M, Jackson State, Jarvis Christian, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Fisk, Tuskegee, Alcorn, Clark Atlanta, Virginia State, West Virginia State, Fort Valley State, Howard, South Carolina State, Stillman College, Tennessee State, Texas College, Wiley, Xavier New Orleans, Wilberforce, Morgan State, Norfolk State, Johnson C. Smith, Arkansas Baptist College, Morehouse, North Carolina Central and Paul Quinn. Visit houstonhbcualumniassociation@

yahoo.com.........FORT BEND ISD IS SEEKING QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED individuals to join the district and will host an auxiliary job fair this summer. The fair will be on Thursday, June 20, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Fort Bend ISD Annex, 3119 Sweetwater Blvd. in Sugar Land. Registration will be open through June 16. Departments represented at the fair include Child Nutrition, Extended Learning, Facilities and Transportation. Positions available include custodial staff, bus drivers, cafeteria specialists, Extended Learning group leaders and many more.

For more information visit www.fortbendisd.com/ careers

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MAY 23 | 2019 | DEFENDER

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national

U.S.briefs LOS ANGELES OFFICIALS APPROVED A $3.75 MILLION payout to settle a civil rights lawsuit against sheriff’s deputies who shot and killed a 16-year-old boy last year.

Deputies shot Anthony Weber during a foot chase. Deputies said they spotted a handgun tucked into the teen’s pants and that he reached for it before one of the lawmen, fearing for his life, fired 13 shots. Investigators did not recover a weapon at the scene.

Defense lawyers insisted that the youth was unarmed…….. FORMER GEORGIA GUBERNATORIAL NOMINEE STACEY ABRAMS urged Hollywood producers not to boycott the state in protest of its socalled “heartbeat” abortion law. Members of the entertainment industry have weighed whether to pull their productions from the state, a popular filming location for Hollywood. Some actors and producers have pledged not to work in the state in protest of the bill, which would restrict abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. Abrams advised those considering a boycott to instead “invest in the work on the ground” by contributing to the ACLU, reproductive health organizations or her own voting rights organization, Fair Fight Georgia……..THE NEW YORK POLICE COMMANDER WHO oversaw the events that led to the death of Eric Garner in 2014 texted an officer that the death was “no big deal,” according to a New York Times report. The texts were revealed during the disciplinary hearing for accused officer Daniel Pantaleo, who faces termination for his use of a chokehold that lead to Garner’s death. Pantaleo arrested the Staten Island man in July 2014 on suspicion that he was selling loose, untaxed cigarettes on the street. The incident, caught on video, showed the officer take Garner, 44, to the ground and place him in the department-banned maneuver. Garner’s last words, “I can’t breathe,” became a rallying cry for the Black Lives Matter movement.

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Black woman sworn in as mayor of Chicago Associated Press

Lori Lightfoot told aldermen and other city powerbrokers assembled at her inauguration as Chicago’s first Black woman mayor that she meant what she said on the campaign trail about top-to-bottom reforms in the nation’s third largest city.

“For years, they’ve said Chicago ain’t ready for reform,” said Lightfoot, speaking minutes after her swearing-in at the Wintrust Arena.

“Well, get ready, because reform is here.”

She spoke about curtailing some powers of city council members to lessen temptations for corruption and that structural changes to reduce Lori Lightfoot is the first Black woman and openly gay person elected Chicago mayor. gun violence would be among her top priorities. Hours later, she she defeated a longtime political insider to signed an executive order limiting aldermanic prerogbecome the first Black woman and openly gay ative, a custom that allows each alderman to direct person elected to lead Chicago, signaled days zoning and period decisions in their ward. before her inauguration that she’s serious about Among her toughest challenges – and perhaps transforming the 13,000-officer force by appointing the one most scrutinized by those outside the city top staffers with histories as strong police-reform – will be overhauling the beleaguered Chicago advocates.

Police Department.

Among her other priorities is improving the Lightfoot isn’t the first incoming Chicago percentage of homicide cases detectives solve from mayor to have pledged to overhaul a departthe current 20 percent. A specific proposal is for a ment accused for decades of abuses. But with a mobile lab that can cut the time it takes to process court-monitored plan, or consent decree, recently ballistics evidence from days to just a few hours. approved by U.S. District Judge Robert Dow, she Lightfoot repeatedly returned to the issue of has the best chance of actually getting it done. violence, saying “there is no higher calling than Lightfoot, who made history in April when restoring safety and peace in our neighborhoods.”

Mother of Trayvon Martin to run for office VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 30 MAY 23, 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).

Defender News Services

The mother of Trayvon Martin noted in the 2018 documentary “Rest in Power” that it took her teen son being shot down by then-neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman for her to find the voice to stand up to the racially-charged injustices that permeates throughout the nation’s judicial system.

In the years since Trayvon’s death, Sybrina Fulton has worked Sybrina Fulton tirelessly as an anti-gun violence activist. Recently, she announced plans to run for a seat on the Miami-Dade

County Commission.

“Since 2012, I have advocated tirelessly to empower our communities and make them safer,” Fulton told the Miaimi Herald. “But the work is not done. I am proud to announce that I will run to represent District 1 on the county commission.”

Fulton was thrust into the national spotlight after her 17-year-old son was racially profiled and killed

by Zimmerman in in 2012. Zimmerman’s subsequent acquittal sparked nationwide protests and lead to the formation of the Black Lives Matter movement.

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

entertainment

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Concert features Tank, Keyshia Cole, K. Michelle Defender News Services

This Memorial Day weekend, the stage at the Arena Theatre will come alive in an exclusive concert featuring Tank, Keyshia Cole, and K. Michelle. Produced

by Houston native JeCaryous Johnson, the concert will take place on Sunday, May 26, beginning at 7 p.m.

Johnson, who has moved to Los Angeles for business, said he wanted to bring the concert to Houston because the city is, and always will be, home.

“I love my city, so when it came time for me to celebrate my birthday this year, I knew there was only one place in this world I could do it big. I’m coming home, and throwing the first ever Memorial Weekend Music Festival on my actual birthday, May 26th,” Johnson said.

Johnson recently celebrated the birth of his third son, who he aptly named after the city he loves.

“I’m also celebrating the birth of my son, Houston Johnson,” said Johnson.

JeCaryous Johnson Tank, known for his hits “When We” and “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” said he had planned to take the holiday

for previous stage productions such as, “Redemption of a Dogg” with Snoop Dogg, which premiered last year in Houston; and “Set It Off Live,” an adaptation of the 1996 film.

He is best known for his hit stage plays, which have grossed over $500 million. He decided to branch out into concerts as well, while he prepares for an upcoming worldwide musical. “Survivor: The Destiny’s Child Musical” is scheduled for a 2020 premiere in Houston and will offer an “honest, behind-the-scenes look” at the creation of the girl group. It’s the brainchild of Mathew Knowles, father to Beyoncé, Solange and the group’s former manager.

“I am ecstatic to be working with Mr. Knowles on the development of Survivor: The Destiny’s Child Musical,” Johnson said.

“It is a unique and inspiring story that will fearMemorial Weekend lessly tackle hard truths while K. Michelle, Tank and Keyshia Cole will be in Music Festival bringing both vindication and concert.

Arena Theater healing to all who lived it. It’s Sunday, May 26, 7 p.m. fair, it’s real and it’s an absoweekend off until he got the call to do the lute honor to know that Mr. show.

Knowles trusts me to pen and “I was gonna take this weekend off and celebrate produce such an iconic piece of American history.” with the family,” Tank said, “but I got a call from “I want to pull back the curtain,” Knowles said in a stateJeCaryous and he said ‘I need you there.’ I thought ment.

“I feel it’s time to give the world an opportunity to hear, about how H-Town has been good to me so I’m going to see and feel the victories and failures that I’ve had as a husband, be there. The concert is going to be great.” father and manager who risked everything in pursuit of fulfilling Johnson attended the University of Houston before dreams – those of mine and others.” moving to L.A. to pursue a career in entertainment. He is known

what’sup Fans of the late WHITNEY HOUSTON are split on social media regarding the news that there’s reportedly a hologram tour in the works that will honor the greatness of the legendary singer.

Houston’s estate, managed by the late singer’s sisterin-law PAT HOUSTON, has struck up a partnership with Primary Wave Publishing, a bi-coastal boutique music and marketing agency, to produce a “hologram” tour, an album of unreleased music and increased branding opportunities such as a Broadway musical further down the line. The “hologram” tour, which is already in development, will feature a digital Houston performing some of her greatest

hits. Houston died in 2012 at the age of 48……..

While in Alabama for his performance at the 2019 Hangout Music Festival, rapper TRAVIS SCOTT showed support to the women affected by the new abortion law. During his set he announced that he will be making a donation to Planned Parenthood, an organization dedicated to educating women about reproductive health and providing affordable health care. Similar legislation was recently signed in Missouri. Many other celebs have expressed being appalled by the passage of the bill, including RIHANNA and KEKE PALMER……..CARDI B postponed her latest concert reportedly because

of complications from plastic surgery. The “Bodak Yellow” singer revealed that after the birth of her daughter, she decided to have liposuction. It was the second surgical procedure postpartum because earlier, she had her breasts augmented. Cardi was set to headline the 92Q Spring Bling Festival Memorial Day weekend. But she’s reportedly canceled. Sources told TMZ Cardi is experiencing complications from both the lipo and her breast augmentation. Doctors have warned Cardi that she needs time to let the swelling go down in order for her body to fully recover. They’re recommending that Cardi take a couple of weeks to rest and recover.

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

SHAPE Community Center t

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

HAPE Community Center has reason to celebrate.

Since its founding on June 1, 1969, the Third Ward institution has made an impact on Houston and beyond for 50 years. SHAPE – which stands for Self-Help for African People through Education – has a history of providing programs and activities to strengthen families and communities.

Deloyd Parker, SHAPE’s co-founder and executive director, has been at the helm since the beginning. He stresses that SHAPE is a team comprised of committed supporters of all ages and backgrounds who have made the organization what it is today.

“SHAPE is not about one individual,” Parker said. “We want to make sure it is around many, many years after I have left this planet.”

In an interview with the Defender, Parker discussed the past, present and future.

Defender: What is the key to SHAPE’s 50-year history of serving the community?

Parker: In order for an organization to continue and evolve and sustain itself, those who come through have to come back and give back. We depend on the community to keep SHAPE alive, not just financially but by volunteering. Time equals money and the fact that people give back and volunteer their services shows that there’s no power like the power of the people.

We deal with three generations at SHAPE – the children, their parents and the elders. Children represent our future, parents help us develop and cultivate that future, and our elders represent the wisdom we need to make sure we’re going in the right direction.

Defender: What is the biggest challenge facing SHAPE right now?

Parker: Sustainability and making sure that the community recognizes our value. That’s not to suggest that many do not. We’re looking for 50 people right now to invest $500 for a total of $25,000 to continue our programs. For those who don’t have $500, we are asking for $50.

Obviously, finances and economics is a continuing problem. For those who contribute we don’t call it a donation. We call it an investment.

Defender: What do you think is the

50th anniversary events

• Pan-African Cultural Festival, Saturday, May 25, 10 a.m., SHAPE, 3815 Live Oak • Founder’s Day Celebration, Saturday, June 1, 6:30 p.m., Emancipation Cultural Center, 3018 Emancipation Ave. “Royal cultural” attire. RSVP at Shape50th.eventbrite.com Visit www.shape.org

greatest challenge facing the Black community overall?

Parker: Getting us to recognize the seven major principles [of African culture called the Nguzo Saba – unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith]. Unity extends from the family to the community.

Self-determination is being able to speak for ourselves, define ourselves, name ourselves. Collective work and responsibility involve developing our community together. Cooperative economics is being able to recognize the importance of pooling our economic resources to build and sustain institutions in our community. We have to have a team effort.

Then we have to have a purpose. We have to know what our purpose is and focus in on it. We have to have creativity; we can’t do it the straight and narrow way. We have to go this way, that way, up, down. As Black people, we have faith, but we have to strengthen our faith.

The challenge is embracing those seven principles. The blueprint is already there. You just have to follow that blueprint and be able to read it and empower it.

Defender: What will the Founder’s Day celebration entail?

Parker: People will be coming from everywhere to join us – children who grew up at SHAPE and are now doctors, lawyers, teachers. We will celebrate and pay homage to those who are no longer with us, from Elder Jean Dember to Esther King, and many more who are gone now. If it hadn’t been for them, there would be no SHAPE Center.

Rev. Bill Lawson, pastor emeritus of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, will receive our first Honorable Chief Chairman Award. Rev. Lawson was instrumental in helping start SHAPE Center. He is the one who called on me to start the program and I answered his call.

Deloyd Parker is co-founder and executive director of SHAPE Community Center (Photos by Aswad Walker).

Elders Institute of Wisdom members meet twice a week at SHAPE.

Youngsters partic

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

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says a lot.” active volunteers, CommuPE A SH , ry sto has more than 150 hi r PE ea A is -y SH 50 its ut ho Ward. The board Throug s, volunard chair Nedzra dicated employee bo de g in ad it on le ud d s cl lie lp in re he s d ha an ing body, its mission nity Center rn ld ve ho go up s n’ lp he tio za to ni it has adpporters the orga re and ensures that teers and other su le of African tu fu op pe le r ab fo in e sta lif su of to advance quality toward a equate resources of improving the le. its mission. descent – all peop the y, ar lg Ward first came to Edith Se in s, looks adm center in the 1980 SHAPE’s program her sons. d with ing for help with istrator, has worke involved ars, She later became the center for 35 ye to Free Afterwith the Coalition beginning with its ll and other She sti Clarence Bradley School Program. s n’ cidents childre racial injustice in consults with the d 90’s. tion to during the ‘80’s an programs, in addi r ’s luntee Ward said SHAPE maintaining the vo ith unity is ting w love for the comm program and assis of its sucone of the secrets accounting.

Selgary said she cess. ’s mis“This love is fully believes in SHAPE ard it W ra ng dz ei factor in its Ne se ys jo sion and en oven to be a major pr s Selgary ha ith d Ed an ed at s. way y, SHAPE reciproc ard said. “To man can make fulfilled in various W ey ,” th ry , le sto op hi h pe e ric at d uc long an pe. From the “When we help ed ace, a place of ho uctive,” she pl od fe pr sa e a or y, m ar e tu m nc co d be is a sa m the harsh better decisions an ing for a shelter fro ok lo on rs pe s es person needhomel said. in; to the helpless ear track record. ra -y or 50 rs ’s te PE in A w s, SH er and racial summ Selgary is proud of victim of injustice ” she said. e th ts, en to ; ar fe dp sa an el gr fe e athetic enviing to “We have been lik enough you survive in an antip to ng g lo in n tio try za st ni ju ga ng an or refuge.” profili “When you stay at PE is their place of up and have A ow SH gr , ch ith ea w d to ke t, or ve w ronmen APE. That see people you ha bring them to SH d an n ow r ei th of children

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Over 25,000 yo g mosisting those w uth have bene of cr rongfully accu im es an fi ted from center d supporting th programs sinc sed e its founding. e anti-aparthei Prominent Afr d movement.

The After-Sch Enrichment Pro ic an ool -Americans an gram provides cans have visite life skills, cultu d South Afrireational and ac d ral, recS H ademic enrich APE, includin ther King III, K ment for child g Martin Lu5 to 15. Comm wanzaa founde ren ages unity service pr r Dr. Maulana and the late Dic ojects, field trip weekly parent Karenga, k Gregory, Win s and sessions are he nie Mandela an “Hurricane” C ld. d Rubin The Summer ar te r.

Youth Enrich Numerous co ment Program a full-day prog m m unity and pro is ram for childre fessional orga zations hold th and activities n 5-15. Classes nieir meetings at include cultura th SHAPE, includ e Association l arts, compute sports and recr of in B r g la lit ck er eational activiti acy, Psychologists of Black Socia es, foreign lang , Association academic chal l Workers, Coc uages, lenges, games aine Anonymou Death Penalty and field trips.

SHAPE’s ann s, Abolition Mov ual Freedom em M ent, Positive B ale Associatio Tour has take young people lack n, P ro je n ct Forward an on a journey of Roots. d Women’s the Deep South history throug hout (Louisiana, M SHAPE hoste ississippi, Ala Georgia, Tenn d the first city bama, essee and Ark wide Kwanza ansas). The to ce lebration and the Civil Right a ur retraces continues to ho s Movement as ac tivities each ye st Kwanzaa students visit hi landmarks and ar . st or HBCUs. ical SHAPE assist The Elders In ed in the establ stitute of Wis ishment of ot d her organizatio om network of elde is a formal ns and facilitie rs whose colle the Third War s, including drawn upon to ct iv d Community e wisdom is educate, guide Cloth Co-oper Kuumba Hou and direct the munity. ative, se Dance Theat comre, Third Ward Service Cente Multir and National Black United local chapter.

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

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Morehouse speaker will pay off grad loans Associated Press

A billionaire technology investor stunned the entire graduating class at Morehouse College when he announced at their commencement that he would pay off their student loans – estimated at up to $40 million.

Robert F. Smith, this year’s commencement speaker, made the announcement while addressing nearly 400 graduating seniors of the all-male historically Black college in Atlanta. Smith, who is Black, is the founder and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, a private equity firm that invests in software, data and technology-driven companies.

“On behalf of the eight generations of my family that have been in this country, we’re gonna put a little fuel in your bus,” the investor and philanthropist told graduates in his morning address. “This is my class, 2019. And Smith’s $40 million gift shocked and delighted Morehouse graduates. my family is making a grant to eliminate their student agement. loans.”

Smith, who received an honorary doctorate from The announcement immediately drew stunned looks from faculty and students alike. Then the graduates broke into Morehouse during the ceremony, had already announced a $1.5 million gift to the school. the biggest cheers of the morning and stood up, applauding.

Smith said he expected the recipients to “pay it forward” Morehouse said it is the single largest gift to the college. and said he hoped that “every class has the same opportunity Though college officials could not provide an estimate going forward.” of the exact amount owed by the current graduating class, “Because we are enough to take care of our own comstudents graduate with an average debt of $30,000 to $40,000, munity,” Smith said. “We are enough to ensure that we have said Terrance L. Dixon, vice president of enrollment man-

Billionaire Robert F. Smith will pay off the class of 2019’s student loans

all the opportunities of the American dream. And we will show it to each other through our actions and through our words and through our deeds.”

Morehouse College president David A. Thomas said the gift would have a profound effect on the students’ futures.

“Many of my students are interested in going into teaching, for example, but leave with an amount of student debt that makes that untenable,” Thomas said. “In some ways, it was a liberation gift for these young men that just opened up their choices.”

TSU sees consistent increase in graduates Defender News Services

This month, 1,199 Texas Southern University students will receive degrees from the university and another 181 students are expected to graduate in August. This represents an increase of 167 students over last year’s numbers.

TSU, the nation’s second largest HBCU, is home to 10 schools and colleges with majors such as aviation management, emergency management and homeland security and administration of justice.

“This growth and increase of graduates are a testament to the tenacity of our students, faculty, and staff,” said TSU President Dr. Austin A. Lane.

“We are very proud of the effort they have made to complete their degrees, and I am proud of the TSU faculty and staff members who work with our students to help them reach this goal.”

TSU recently conducted two commencement ceremonies in the Health & Physical Education Arena. Angela Rye, principal and CEO of Impact Strategies, a political advocacy firm in Washington D.C., gave the commencement address.

Upon enrollment, TSU students participate in Project Graduation, a campus-wide accountability system that maps out steps students should take each semester in the areas of academics, financial planning, career exploration and wellness.

Project Graduation utilizes a passport model where pathways are defined by student success points, which are outlined every 30 credit hours.

There is also a heavy focus on the growth of students in all aspects.

They are encouraged to be academically sound and get involved on campus as well as in the community “We know we have prepared and provided our students with resources, both inside and outside of the classroom, to help them excel in their respective fields,” said Provost Kendall Harris, Ph.D. “TSU is confident that, after the degrees are conferred and they leave campus as alumni, our graduates are well-rounded individuals who will make a mark on the world in whatever area they choose.”

Officials participate in the PVAMU student housing groundbreaking. (Photo by Dallas Post Tribune).

PVAMU breaks ground on student housing facility Defender News Service

The Texas A&M System and Prairie View A&M University broke ground on student housing that will address a growing need because of recent enrollment increases.

Phase IX of campus housing, which will open by fall 2020, will add 164 units with 520 beds, bringing PVAMU close to its goal of providing 5,000 beds on campus.

Chancellor John Sharp noted that enrollment has been increasing with the arrival of Dr. Ruth Simmons, a nationally known academic leader and former president and administrator at several Ivy League schools. The 2018 fall enrollment was 9,516 – up from 8,762 in 2016.

“What a great problem to have,” said Sharp of Simmons’ appeal to young people.

He also noted the Board of Regents’ commitment to PVAMU: •Since 2010, the board has increased funding from the Available University Fund by almost 80 percent to foster excellence in the classroom.

•The regents also approved $247 million from the Permanent University Fund for construction projects and several Chancellor Research Initiative awards to recruit top faculty.

“I have always said this is the prettiest campus in Texas,” Sharp said. “And now there is a real momentum building here.”

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MAY 23 | 2019 | DEFENDER

Defender News Services

Former First Lady Michelle Obama will be among the 2019 headliners at the Essence Festival, which takes place July 4-7 in New Orleans.

Obama’s July 6 appearance will mark her first time attending the event, now in its 25th year, and includes a sit-down interview in the Superdome, where ticketed concerts will also be held during the event.

This year’s musical line-up includes Mary J. Blige, Nas, Missy Elliott, H.E.R., MC Lyte, Teyana Taylor, and Frankie Beverly, who will be honored for his lifetime contribution to music.

“As inspiring and aspirational as it is relatable, Mrs. Obama’s story – told on her own terms – is a remarkable example and celebration of everyday Black women who accomplish extraordinary things, who confront challenges with courage and truth, and who remind us that all things are possible when we support one another,” said Essence Communications CEO Michelle Ebanks.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama The festival serves as an “annual homecoming for Black artists from across the globe,” Ebanks said. “When the Essence Festival was founded 25 years ago, it marked a pivotal moment of vision and reverence – a critical acknowledgement of and investment in the power of our culture.”

The festival will be hosted by “The Real” co-host and comedian Loni Love.

LET’S TAKE A MOMENT

ON MEMORIAL DAY to celebrate the life of a distinguished Houstonian, Major General Marcelite Jordan Harris, the first African-American female major general in the United States Military.

General Harris was born in Houston in 1943. She graduated from Kashmere High School and Spellman College and rose to become the highest-ranking woman in the Air Force and the highestranking African American woman in the entire Department of Defense. She was a fierce military leader, a dedicated public servant and a loving wife, mother and grandmother. General Harris departed this earth on September 7, 2018.

Houston, America and the world are better for General Harris’ life and service and for the lives and service of all those who have served in our armed forces.

S Y LV E S T E R

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MEMBER FDIC

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Michelle Obama making Essence Festival debut

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

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Many Blacks not financially ready to retire

the table. Growing up, saving money was an afterthought and never discussed,” Chapman said.

A report published earlier this month demonstrated how he nation’s leading public interest group providAfrican-Americans, Latinos and other minorities will have a ing seniors and others with information that more difficult time calling it quits than white Americans. empowers them to choose how they live, AARP, The report, published on the financial website the regularly publishes a retirement calculator that Motley Fool, revealed that the troubling disparity in retireindividuals and families can use to provide a ment readiness between white Americans and minorities can personalized snapshot of what their financial future might look be explained largely by income and wealth disparities that like. persist throughout our lives.

One simply has to answer a few “Caucasians didn’t lose as Key survey findings questions about household status, salmuch wealth during the Great • Outside of retirement accounts, ary and retirement savings (such as an Recession and have recovered more only 37 percent of AfricanIRA or 401(k)), include information of it, so white households now Americans own wealth-building about supplemental retirement income hold close to six times the wealth products such as stocks and (such as a pension or Social Security), of African-American or Hispanic mutual funds. and consider how long they intend to households,” the report’s authors • Only 35 percent believe they are work to generate information that will said. doing a good job of preparing for indicated their experts lifestyle as a Median earnings for white retirement. retiree. households recovered from the • 33 percent have less than one The tool is designed to help recession by 2016, but earning month of funds saved for a crisis potential retirees determine the amount levels for both Black and Hispanic and less than 25 percent have of money they’ll need to retire “when – households remained below 2007 amassed more than six months of and how – they want.” levels. emergency savings.

Unfortunately for most African• 58 percent are actively involved Caucasians now earn close to Americans, even the most sophisticated in educating their children on twice as much as minority houseplanning tools lead to the same result: finances versus 48 percent of holds do, according to the Motley Caucasians. retirement has fast become a pie-in-theFool. sky dream.

“The African-American com“As a whole, Americans are bad munity is skeptical when it comes savers. But, I believe it’s worse for African-American commu- to saving,” Chapman said. “Growing up, we were taught by nities because they don’t have access to the right educational our grandparents that we couldn’t trust banks and we were opportunities,” said Cory Chapman, the managing partner and better off burying money in the backyard,” he said.

CEO of EFC Wealth Management.

Understanding how money works is actually getting “Being raised by a single mom with three kids, I underworse with each new generation – Black children aren’t stand the struggle of just trying to pay the bills and get food on learning basic life skills in school, Chapman contends.

T

By STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire

“We need to be teaching children about planning strategies to generate wealth. Retired African-American clients that come into my office are still just trying to make ends meet,” Chapman said.

“They don’t feel like they can save money when they are trying to put their kids through college and help them buy a home or car. They are forgetting about themselves and their own retirement,” he said.

The most recent MassMutual State of the American Family Study found that there are differences in retirement planning among different cultural groups.

African-Americans fall short on executing life-changing measures such as accumulating wealth, being better prepared for retirement and building up savings.

According to the American Family Study, 84 percent of African-Americans believe the American dream means financial security; 78 percent in not living paycheck-topaycheck; and 77 percent in owning a home.

However, based on the study, many African-Americans don’t have tangible assets needed to make those goals happen now.

The study revealed a disconnect between AfricanAmericans’ financial situations and their hope toward the future.

“The study shows African-Americans want to improve their financial situations and are hopeful about the future,” Evan Taylor, African-American market director for MassMutual, told Black Enterprise Magazine.

“At the same time, it sheds light on the financial struggles and inequities that the African- American community continues to battle,” Taylor said.

“Those contradictions indicate a need for greater financial education and discipline for the whole family to achieve economic success. In fact, the biggest financial regret expressed by respondents was that they wished they had started saving and investing sooner,” he said.

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MAY 23 | 2019 | DEFENDER

For

In Celebration of S.H.A.P.E. Community Center serving the Houston area for 50 years, we invite you to donate $50 to further the work of this great organization.

Send Donations to: Web: https://www.shape.org/support-shape Mail: PO Box 8428 Houston TX 77288-8428

Self-Help for African People through Education Join us for the Founders Day Celebration Saturday, June 1, 6:30 PM Emancipation Cultural Center, 3018 Emancipation Ave Attire: Royal Cultural-RSVP: Shape50th.eventbrite.com

Strong Family, Strong Nation

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

sports

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Jones, Cooper to guide

XFL franchise

T

By MAX EDISON Defender

he Houston franchise of the new XFL spring professional football league introduced June Jones as the head coach and general manager of the yet unnamed team. Brian Michael Cooper is the team president.

The XFL kicks off in February 2020.

The inaugural season will launch with teams in Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, St. Louis, Seattle, Tampa Bay and Washington, D.C. The league is owned by WWE chair Vince McMahon.

Jones, 66, is familiar to some local football fans. He was receivers’ coach for the USFL’s Houston Gamblers and quarterbacks’ coach for the Houston Oilers. Cooper is a former senior associate athletic director at Rice University and president of the Houston Rockets NBA GLeague Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

Jones was known early in his career as an offensive innovator who specialized in the run- andshoot offense. He did impressive work in two previous stints in Houston.

Jones spent three years as head coach of the Falcons, leading them to the playoffs in 1995 and getting fired after going 3-13 in 1996. He also spent 10 games as interim head coach of the Chargers. He spent the last two years as offensive coordinator of the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats. He was a college head coach at Hawaii and SMU. “We’re extremely proud to add Coach Jones, a man with

build a team from the ground up is extremely rare in this game, and I’m looking forward to working with Brian Cooper and our coaches to give football fans in Houston a team that’s truly exciting to watch and worthy of their support.”

Cooper will handle the business side of the Houston franchise.

Jeffrey Pollack, XFL president and chief operating officer, described Cooper as “a seasoned sports business leader who knows and loves Houston and will help us connect authentically,” “It’s an honor to help launch the XFL’s team in Houston,” said Cooper. “One measure of our success will be how well we engage the community. Another measure will be how effectively we tap into Houston’s passion for football. In both XFL Commissioner and CEO Oliver Luck is joined by Houston Sports instances, I look forward to planting Authority CEO Janis Burke, Houston coach June Jones and team firm roots for the XFL by building president Brian Michael Cooper. a passionate, loyal fanbase for our four decades in football, as an XFL Houston team.” head coach,” said XFL CommisCooper has 20 years of experience as a sports attorsioner and CEO Oliver Luck, a former ney, agent, executive and advisor. He most recently served Houston Dynamo GM and Oilers as a partner in the Houston and Denver offices of Lewis quarterback.

Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP and as a member of the “June has coached the game in firm’s entertainment, media and sports practice. three different pro leagues, including the NFL, as well as He will be responsible for the team’s fan engagement major college and high school football. The experience he’s and business operations, including ticket sales, corporate gained at every stop along the way will no doubt serve him partnerships, marketing, content, communications, comwell as he helps us reimagine the game and build our Houston munity relations and the game-day experience. team into something special.”

Each XFL team will compete with a 45-man active roster “I’ve spent a few years coaching in Houston, and having over a 10-week regular season with a postseason consisting of a chance to return to be a head coach in the XFL is an optwo semifinal playoff games and a championship game. XFL portunity I couldn’t pass up,” said Jones. “I had a really great games will be nationally televised on ABC, FOX, ESPN time coaching in the CFL, but this new fresh opportunity to and FS.

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MAY 23 | 2019 | DEFENDER

h.s. sports

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Summer sports camps keep kids active

S games.

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

chool is already out for some districts, and others will soon follow. Summer is a time when many kids still need something to do, and there are numerous sports camps available to keep them active instead of just sitting on the couch playing video

BASKETBALL CAMPS

Nike Basketball Camp at the Gym Dates: Session I: June 3-6th, Session II: June 8-11th Ages: 8-17 Location: 2325 Atascocita Cost: $285 Info: 1-800-645-3226 Kelvin Sampson Basketball Camp Dates: June 10-13 Grades: 2-12 Location: Fertitta Center, 3422 Cullen Blvd.

Cost: $325 Info: 713-743-9430 or mlmclean@central.uh.edu T.J. Ford Summer Camp Dates: June 17-20 Grades: 3-9 Location: Austin Cost: $250 Info: 281-813-5485

Whitney Mercilus & Alfred Blue Football Camp Dates: June 29-July 2 Ages: 7-18 Location: Sam Houston State University, Huntsville Cost: $690 day campers, $770 overnight campers Info: 301-575-9400 Contact Football Camp Dates: July 8-11 Ages: 8-18 Location: Houston Baptist University, 7502 Fondren Cost: $465 day camp, $565 extended, $665 overnight Info: 1-800-433-6060

es Harden guard Jam ckets star o R n o st u Ho l camp. basketbal

hosts a

TENNIS CAMPS

James Harden Basketball Pro Camp Dates: June 20-June 21 Grades: 1-12 Location: M13 Center, 1135 Ella Crossing Price: $299 Info: 513-793-2267

FOOTBALL CAMPS

BME Football Camp Dates: June 2-Aug. 4 Grades: 9-12 Location: Redline Athletics, 25133 Lakecrest Manor Drive Cost: $250 for 20 sessions Info: 832-349-4684 or bmecamps@gmail.com Adrian Peterson All Day Elite Camp Dates: June 15-16 Grades: 1-5 Location: St. Thomas High School, 4500 Memorial Cost: $139 Info: 713-322-8005

Zina Garrison Summer Tennis Camp Dates: June 17-July 5 (session one), July 8-26 (session two) Ages: 4-18 Location: MacGregor Park, 5225 Calhoun Cost: $25 per session Info: 281-888-4700 or www.zinagarrison.org

WRESTLING CAMPS

Native Texan and Washington runn ing back Adrian Peterson hosts a football camp.

Booker T’s ROW. Kids Jr. Wrestling Camp Dates: June 3-7 (session one), July 8-12 (session two), Aug. 5-9 (session three) Ages: 8 -15 Location: World Gym Arena, 10000 Emmett F. Lowry No. 1152, Texas City Cost: $200 per session Info: 281-993-5321 or www.realityofwrestling.com

Free activities

The Houston Parks & Recreation Department sponsors a variety of sports and recreation activities to keep kids moving in the summer, including free tennis and swimming lessons and track and field meets. Visit www.houstontx.gov/ parks/

mp. restling ca onsors a w sp T. r ke o pion Bo WWE cham

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DEFENDER | MAY 23 | 2019

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

topevents

MENNINGER’S 2019 ANNUAL SIGNATURE LUNCHEON……..Menninger’s Luthuli and Community Service Award-winner Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson. The keynote recently hosted its 2019 Annual Signature Luncheon featuring NFL player and sixspeaker was African American Studies legendary scholar Dr. Molefi Asante while time Pro Bowler Brandon Marshall in a live, onstage interview with “Great Day entertainment was provided by Jawad and Baba Fana and the Fana Dancers. Program Houston’s” Deborah Duncan. The focus was mental health. Marshall shared his journey director Dr. James Conyers welcomed attendees, including Dr. Crystal Edwards, Dr. with attendees and encouraged everyone to continue changing the conversation about Elwyn Lee, Dr. Kevin Thompson, Erron Putman, David Vet, Van Rountree, Jasmine mental health in a way that encourages people to seek treatment. Marshall also accepted Grant, Emery and Cheryl Robinson, Coreesha Ross and more.……..WOMEN Menninger’s Vital Balance Award, honoring Project 375, an organization he founded OF COLOR IN TECH HITS HOUSTON……..Walker’s Legacy in partnership with with his wife Michi to improve access to mental health care Comcast hosted Women of Color in Tech, a four-city tour program for young people in need. Attendees included Doug and Defender TOP EVENTS showcasing multicultural women in technology and identifying Winell Herron, Rick Scott, Judson Robinson III, Dr. Kathy opportunities and resources minority and women entrepreneurs may More photos on defendernetwork.com Flanagan, Dawn McGuire, Jonathan Zadok, Jim and Kate utilize to grow and expand their businesses. The program also facilitated Lykes, Tony Gaglio, Linda Stafford, Chukwudi Ekwemalor, connecting small business owners and budding entrepreneurs with the Sylvia Anasi and many others……..UH AAS 50th ANNIVERSARY SCHOLARSHIP digital tools, resources, and business contacts needed to take their ventures to the next level.

BANQUET……..The University of Houston’s African American Studies Program held Attendees included Ashley Turner, Joy Hutton, Nikia Green, Misha McClure, Laura its 50th Anniversary Scholarship Banquet honoring the program’s founding and founders Mayorga, Ray Purser, Kimberly Wilson, Janice Weaver, Tonya Davis, Tony Harris, as well as Distinguished Alumni Award winners Dr. Terence Fontaine and Omowale Michael Bybee, Sharnee Francis, Loretta Williams Gurnell and many others.

Rick Scott, Brandon Marshall, Judson Robinson III

Dr. James Conyers, Dr. Molefi Asante, Dr. Dashiel Geyen

Loren McCray, Joy Hutton

Deborah Duncan, Dr. Kathy Flanagan

David Vet, Eronn Putman

Nikia Green, Ashley Turner, Misha McClure

Dawn McGuire, Jonathan Zadok

Coreesha Ross, Kianna Wright, Lindsay Gary

Bryce Kennard, Natalie Cofield

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