Houston Defender: May 31, 2018

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 87 | Number 31 MAY 31, 2018 |FREE

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NATIONAL LONDON BREED next San Francisco mayor?

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Black colleges in

ENTERTAINMENT DONALD GLOVER stars in “Solo” movie

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BLACK ABC EXEC SHUTS DOWN RACIST ROSEANNE

CENTERFOLD SUMMER ACTIVITIES to keep your kids busy

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Rev. John F. Johnson to pastor Antioch

The Mississippi native will be installed as pastor of historic Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. Find out about the pastoral installation celebration and read about special guests, including gospel star Kim Burrell and Pastor Terry Anderson.

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James Harden

TOP EVENTS

falls short of title

The Rockets superstar and his teammates were defeated by the Golden State Warriors in their quest to win a coveted NBA title.

See how Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and Golden State turned Houston’s bricks into a road back to the finals.

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Dr. James Dixon II and Dr. Thomas Freeman at hooding ceremony.

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newstalk Willie Belle Boone honored HISD dedicated the Willie Belle Boone Library at J.R. Reynolds Elementary School in honor of Mrs. Boone, who is shown with her husband Jesse. She started the Reynolds PTO and served as its first president. She is also known for her work as a precinct chair and election judge over the past 30 years and is considered a Sunnyside legend.

HISD eyes $1.7 billion bond referendum Defender News Services

HISD is beginning to plan for a possible May 2019 bond referendum as part of a strategic capital plan designed to rebuild schools and strengthen security at campuses throughout the district.

Board of Education trustees were recently briefed about the recommendation currently under consideration for the possible referendum.

“The safety and security of our students and staff is absolutely paramount, which is why we believe it should play a major role in any potential bond program going forward,” said HISD Chief Operating Officer Brian Busby. “Our students and teachers need and deserve safe, secure learning environments that allow them to thrive. Our goal is to provide that to them.”

HISD consulted with Rice & Gardner Consultants and PBK architects, which were tasked with reviewing facility needs and student growth data, as well as other data related to planning for the district’s Capital Improvement Plan and future bond programs.

The recommendation, which has a cost of $1.7 billion, focuses on replacing 18 schools and building two relief schools,

creating security vestibules at all campuses, upgrading building automation systems and district technology, replacing school buses, and expanding the district’s pre-kindergarten program.

It also includes a new CTE high school for the southern portion of the district, a replacement district stadium and fieldhouse, and districtwide energy efficient lighting upgrades.

New relief schools would be strategically driven by student growth data, while facility repair and replacement would be driven by facility age and needs, number of temporary buildings on-site, and cost of maintaining existing buildings.

The 18 schools slated for replacement are Bonham, Brookline, Burbank, Durkee, Elrod, Grissom, Kelso, Law, McNamara, Memorial, and Scroggins elementary schools, Cage Elementary School/Project Chrysalis Middle School, T.H. Rogers School, and Deady, Key, Henry, Lanier, and Revere middle schools.

As a next step, district administration plans to conduct site evaluations for all campuses and review demographic data to determine possible design and construction schedules. Trustees will be updated again later this year.

HISD trustees would have to approve sending the bond referendum to voters, with board members likely making a decision in late 2018 or early 2019.

Historic Antioch to install new pastor Defender News Service

Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, one of the most historic Black churches in the United States, reaches a new milestone on June 17.

“Envisioning the Future Exceptionally” is the theme as Rev. John Fitzgerald Johnson will be installed as the 13th pastor in the history of Houston’s first and oldest African-American Baptist Church. The congregation was founded by two white Baptist ministers and nine former slaves in 1865 upon hearing that they had been emancipated.

Johnson’s pastoral installation ceremonies take place June 14 and 15, with pre-installation revival services that will feature guest ministers Pastor Terry Anderson of Houston’s Lilly Grove Baptist Church and Dr. Maurice Watson, pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church in Largo, Md. On Sunday, June 17, the celebration concludes with a 10:15 a.m. worship service and 3 p.m. investiture service led

by Dr. James A. Boyd, pastor of Zion Gate Baptist Church in Columbus, Miss. and gospel artist Kim Burrell.

Johnson, a native of Columbus, served as senior pastor of Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Starkville, Miss. for 17 years before accepting the call to Antioch in March of this year.

For more information visit ambchouston.org.

Rev. and Mrs. John Fitzgerald Johnson

localbriefs GOV. GREG ABBOTT ANNOUNCED A PLAN to make Texas schools safer in the wake of the deadly Santa Fe shooting. Abbott’s plan will solicit input from victims, parents, teachers, lawmakers, law enforcement officials and other experts. Abbott tweeted that he would “soon announce many substantive details that can be implemented before the next school year begins.” Abbott’s proposals are expected to fall into two categories: those that can be implemented immediately and those that the Legislature will have to consider the next time it convenes. Lawmakers are not due to return to Austin until January, though Abbott has not ruled out

calling a special session to bring them back earlier… ….A WOMAN WHO SAID A TEXAS STATE TROOPER sexually assaulted her could face charges after body cam video released by Texas Department of Public Safety shows no evidence of officer misconduct.

Sherita Dixon-Cole accused trooper Daniel Hubbard of “forcefully groping” her inside and outside of his cruiser during a traffic stop. Her claims were shared more than 50,000 times online, thanks to posts by Dixon-Cole’s attorney Lee Merritt and social activist Shaun King.

Dixon-Cole was arrested for driving while intoxicated.

In the two-hour video, Hubbard approaches the vehicle,

asks Dixon-Cole why she didn’t stop sooner after he turned on his lights, administered field sobriety tests and determined she was intoxicated. None of the allegations can be seen……..HISD KICKS OFF ITS SUMMER MEALS Program on June 4 at nearly 200 area schools, where both breakfast and lunch will be served free to children ages 1 to 18. Children do not need to be enrolled in summer school to participate in the program, and no paperwork, registration or proof of income is required. The program runs through Aug. 2. To view a map of where meals are being served and times, visit houstonisd.org/freesummermeals.

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Black women make runs for political office

By LAUREN POTEAT NNPA News Service

This year, an unprecedented number of Black women have made history running for political offices across the country. According to blackwomeninpolitics.com, a comprehensive database that lists women of color running for political offices in 2018, currently, over 600 Black female candidates are running for offices nationwide.

In an election that is less than two weeks away, London Breed, the current president of San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors, could become the city’s first Black female mayor.

“Every time someone stands up London Breed could become San Francisco’s first Black female mayor. for what they believe in and they are willing to work hard for something, to the general election. it gives others permission to do the same,” Breed In addition to California, in the state of said. “I never thought I could become mayor.

Alabama, a record number of Black women are “Seeing my name on the ballot the other day running for Democratic offices in the deep-red when I voted was something I never imagined…I state, following Republican Roy Moore’s defeat. am proof that no dream is too big. There will be Over 35 women of color were running for obstacles and setbacks, but each voice is powervarious political offices in Alabama, includful. We need more voices in politics from people ing Suzanne Coleman, who, if she wins, will who come from different experiences.” become one of the first Black females to serve Focused on affordable housing, education, District 5 in Alabama’s House of Representahomelessness, transportation, public safety tives. and a low unemployment rate, Breed hopes to Michigan State Rep. Erika Geiss, who is transform San Francisco into a the city that is running to represent District 6 in the state seninclusive and equitable for everyone. ate, is focused on a number of issues includOn June 5, California will hold elections in ing economics, education and criminal justice. their “top-two primary election system,” for all Geiss believes that races such as these will candidates and party affiliations, where the two prove to be a vital tool in placing more women people with the highest votes, will then advance of color in higher areas of office.

A FATHER AND FALLEN SOLDIER killed in Niger was remembered at a Memorial Day breakfast in Florida, despite the fact that Department of Defense personnel and top military brass didn’t bother to attend. Sgt. LaDavid Johnson was honored at the breakfast attended by Johnson’s widow. There was no indication or trace of government support for the fallen soldier, which seemed to mirror the government’s response when Johnson was killed in combat last year. President Trump’s presence, however, was not missed as Johnson’s widow, Myesha Johnson, joined as Miami city officials and others paid homage to the fallen soldier…….BODY CAMERA VIDEO SHOWING POLICE using a stun gun on Milwaukee Bucks player Sterling Brown over a parking violation is just the latest setback for efforts to improve relations between Milwaukee officers and the city’s Black population. The confrontation involving Brown also represents the first major challenge for new Police Chief Alfonso Morales, who took the job in February promising to restore public trust in a department besieged in recent years by excessive-force lawsuits. Morales has already faced TV cameras twice this month to apologize for his officers’ actions……..THE GOVERNMENT HAS PLACED THOUSANDS of unaccompanied immigrant children in the homes of sponsors, but last year it couldn’t account for nearly 1,500 of them. Steven Wagner, a top official with the Department of Health and Human Services, disclosed the number to a Senate subcommittee while discussing the state of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) that oversees the care of unaccompanied immigrant children. Wagner said during the last three months of 2017, the ORR lost track of nearly 1,500 immigrant children it placed in sponsors’ homes. After a stay in an ORR shelter, the majority of children are sent to live with sponsors who have close ties to the children, typically a parent or close relative, Wagner said.

64 percent of Americans say racism a problem Defender News Services

A majority of Americans say racism remains a major problem in American society and politics, according to a new NBC poll. Overall, 64 percent said racism remains a major problem in our society. Thirty percent agreed that racism exists today, but said it isn’t a major problem.

Four in 10 African-Americans say they have been treated unfairly in a store or restaurant because of their race in the last month, compared to a quarter of Hispanics and only 7 percent of whites.

There have been a number of racist incidents in the past few months, from the Starbucks arrest of two

men who were waiting on a friend to the white Yale University student who called the police when she found a Black student napping in the common room of their dorm.

Other recent incidents include ordinary citizens being harassed or questioned for speaking Spanish, such as the Manhattan attorney who berated restaurant employees on camera for speaking the language and threatened to call immigration authorities.

Racial discrimination isn’t just felt in public spaces. Almost half of African-Americans said they’ve experienced workplace discrimination compared to 36 percent of Hispanics and only 14 percent of whites.

VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 31 MAY 31, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Videographer

Jodie B. Jiles

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison 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 subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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MAY 31 | 2018 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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Donald Glover and Thandie Newton

‘Solo’ co-stars reflect on ‘Star Wars’ The newest episode of one of Hollywood’s most successful film franchises is now in theaters. Two stars of “Solo: A Star Wars Story” include actor, producer, singer and rapper Donald Glover and actress Thandie Newton.

Glover portrays a young Lando Calrissian. The character, a smooth-talking smuggler who became a selfless leader, was portrayed by Billy Dee Williams in “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.”

The role is another plus for Glover, the star and creator of the acclaimed FX series “Atlanta.” He is one of the music industry’s hottest stars as well. Glover’s alter ego, Childish Gambino, scored his first No. 1 single with his hit, “This Is America.”

Some film critics said that Glover’s Calrissian has pulled off his biggest score – stealing the show in “Solo: A Star Wars Story.”

Newton plays a no-nonsense crack shot named Val in the film. The London native can also be seen in the HBO sci-fi western series “Westworld.” She appeared in such films as “Beloved,” “Mission Impossible II,” “Crash” and “The Pursuit of Happyness.”

Glover and Newton were among “Solo” cast members who gathered in Los Angeles to talk about creating new characters, share insights from the set, Thandie Newton portrays Val. and discuss honoring the original film and its characters.

In the film, Han Solo meets his future copilot Chewbacca and encounters Calrissian years before joining the Rebellion.

Glover said growing up, his father was a huge Calris-

Donald Glover is Lando Calrissian in “Solo: A Star Wars Story.”

sian fan, and he also admired the character. When he first heard about the film, Glover knew he wanted to be a part of it. He called his agent and said, “If they’re making anything with Lando in it, I have to be Lando.”

Glover noted Calrissian’s signature cape. He wasn’t able to take a costume home after the film wrapped but he did get

a memento.

“The fur cape I had, they had extra material, and they made a pillow out of it for me,” Glover said. “Now I have a pillow that I try and wear as a cape.”

Thandie Newton recalled that shooting could get messy,

especially during muddy battle sequences.

“We would have fun, we’d be in really extreme situations sometimes,” she said. “Mud in places you didn’t even know you had places.”

She added that the cast always kept each other laughing.

Newton brought her young son to the set on her first day, and he immediately gravitated toward an R2-D2 puppet on set.

“It ended, I kid you not, with my son hugging R2-D2,” Newton said. “This is the stuff that dreams are made of…

These characters have a kind of magnetism that is unparalleled.”

Newton remembered seeing “Star Wars” for the first time.

“This stuff like imprints on your psyche. I think it goes so far beyond even us as filmmakers,” she said.

what’sup RIHANNA portrays a hacker named Nine Ball in the new film “Oceans 8,” which comes to theaters on June 8. Rihanna is one of eight female thieves attempting to pull off the heist of the century at New York City’s annual Met Gala. The nine-time Grammy winner joins Oscar-winning actresses SANDRA BULLOCK, ANNE HATHAWAY and CATE BLANCHETT, among others. Bullock portrays the estranged sister of Danny Ocean, the main character in the “Ocean’s 11” franchise. Rihanna’s other film credits include “Battleship,” “This is the End” and “Home.” She is considered a triple threat with her music, film and beauty/fashion

careers……..“Madea” creator TYLER PERRY sold his massive mansion in the mountains between Beverly Hills and Sherman Oaks for $15.6 million. The new owner of the mansion is reportedly multi-talented musician PHARRELL WILLIAMS. Perry purchased the property as an investment in August of 2017 for $14.5 million and flipped it back on the market five months later. The more than 17,000-square-foot white stucco and green-glass mansion has an angular glass-walled front façade. It sits on a 4.25-acre hilltop spread with 10 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms. The house is located in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Beverly Hills and was built in 1992. Williams

also owns a $7 million house in the Hollywood Hills.……..OWN is debuting a new romantic drama titled “Love Is__” The premiere is Tuesday, June 19 at 9 p.m. It stars MICHELE WEAVER (“Illicit”) and WILL CATLETT (“Black Lightning”) and is the creation of award-winning producers MARA BROCK AKIL (“Girlfriends,” Being Mary Jane,” “The Game”) and SALIM AKIL (“Black Lightning”). Set primarily in Los Angeles, it follows a couple from seemingly opposite worlds as they chase their dreams and learn to follow their hearts.

VANESSA BELL CALLOWAY, TIM REID and native Houstonian LORETTA DEVINE have recurring roles.

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Summer

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By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

here’s no shortage of things to do in Houston this summer. From free outdoor concerts to story times for kids to theater performances and more, there’s ample summer fun for the whole family.

Here are the Defender’s picks for kid and family friendly activities in Houston this summer.

Adventure

If you’re looking for fun for the whole family, there are plenty of places to get out and take on a new adventure.

Galveston beach is great to go hang out, and have fun. And with the Pleasure Pier, families can enjoy the beach or take in the amusements on the boardwalk. Other activities include fishing, golf, shopping, sightseeing and performing arts. Visit www.galveston.com Moody Gardens in Galveston is ideal for families and groups alike. Delve into the oceans depths at the Aquarium Pyramid, explore the world of science at Discovery Museum, experience the action of MAX and enjoy gulf breezes aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat. Visit www.moodygardens.com Kemah Boardwalk -- This coastal getaway features themed restaurants, retail shops, and amusements for the whole family. This 35-acre carnival-like atmosphere has a 36-foot carousel, a 65-foot Ferris wheel and rides like the Aviator, the Inverter and the Boardwalk Tower. Visit www.kemahboardwalk.com The Crocodile Encounter in Angleton allows you to follow the activities of Houston’s largest wildlife show and find out what it’s really like to live and work with the nation’s largest group of Nile crocodiles. Visit www. crocodileencounter.com Space Center Houston: Kids can experience the rich history and the awe of space at Space Center Houston. From the popular Build-A-Rocket to Mission Kidtrol, children will explore and learn the concepts of space.

For a real behind-the-scenes look at NASA, take your kids on the exclusive Level Nine Tour. Visit www.spacecenter.org

Entertainment

There’s no shortage of places to go to keep your kids entertained this summer.

Miller Outdoor Theater is a tradition for countless residents. Families can bring picnic baskets, blankets and lawn chairs. Upcoming events include Children’s Hilltop Festival performances of “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “My BFF the Dragon” and “The Great Switcheroo.” Visit www.MillerOutdoorTheater.com UpStage Theatre is a non-profit organization and group of talented volunteers

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dedicated to providing the highest quality, yet affordable and family friendly theatrical experience for both the young and the young at heart. Visit www.upstagetheatre.org Theater Under the Stars is a non-profit based in Houston, which offers a world-class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. Visit www.Tuts.com.

Educational

Summer Storytime Tours at Rienzi take place Wednesdays in June and July, 10 am. Introduce kids to magic of art and literature through fun and interactive activities for ages 3+. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the garden after the event. Rienzi is in the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Visit www.mfah.org.

Read with Pawsitive Pups at Levy Park. Kids can practice reading to trained therapy dogs the 2nd Sunday each month at 1 pm: June 10, July 8, August 12.

Nature Story Time at Discovery Center take place Wednesdays, 4 pm. Free story time for kids with a variety of fun: live animals, puppets, short nature walks, crafts or songs and nature stories. Located at 7112 Newcastle.

Check out Houston Library locations throughout the city this summer for weekly story times and fun activities for kids.

Miscellaneous

Get a CityPASS and see the city. For families looking to stretch their vacation budget, the Houston CityPass offers tickets to five of Houston’s top attractions and museums at a fraction of the cost. Visit www.citypass. com/houston Since 2012, the Sugar Land Skeeters baseball team has provided affordable, familyfun entertainment at Constellation Field in Sugar Land. The 360-degree ballpark includes a carousel, inflatable kids’ zone, splash pad, playground and much more. Visit www.sugarlandskeeters.com

The Children’s Museum of Houston

Houston Astros – Get single game tickets to watch Houston’s professional baseball team in action at Minute Maid Park. Special activities include Family Sundays, $1 Hot Dog Tuesdays and Big & Bright Friday Nights. There are also daily tours and gameday tours. Visit www.houston.astros.mlb.com

Museums/Cultural

Spend your day exploring Houston’s museums, without breaking the bank.

The Children’s Museum of Houston is packed with 90,000 square feet of innovative, interactive bilingual exhibits for kids. Free Family Nights are

offered every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. Visit www. cmhouston.org The Houston Museum of Natural Science, one of the most heavily attended museums in the U.S., features the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, Burke Baker Planetarium, Cockrell Butterfly Center, permanent exhibit halls and traveling exhibitions. The permanent exhibit halls are free on Thursdays from 2-5 p.m. during normal hours and on Thursdays from 3-6pm during the summer and holidays. http://www. hmns.org The Houston Museum of African American Culture is one of the city’s newest museum institutions and is dedicated to telling the story of Africans and African Americans in Houston and beyond. Opened in 2012 inside the Houston Museum District, HMAAC offers programming, lectures and exhibitions that involve people of color. There are also film series and educational classes. Visit hmaac.org Set in Houston’s Third Ward, Project Row Houses is a nonprofit art initiative aimed at creating

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a positive place for local artists to work. Some of the shotgun-style houses are dedicated to art and photography, while others are devoted to the literary and performing arts. Visit projectrowhouses.org.

The Houston Symphony at the Pavilion offers free mezzanine and lawn seating at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. June 7, 8 pm, Jaws-In Concert, July 3, 8 pm, StarSpangled Salute, July 16, 8 pm, The Music of David Bowie, August 30, 8 pm, Blue Suede Tunes, September 4, 8 pm, Rebels, Raiders & Superman: A Tribute to John Williams, October 12, 8 pm, Hocus Pocus Pops.

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated primarily to preserving the legacy and honor of the African-American soldier. The 23,000-square-foot historic armory space allows for reenactments, exhibits and lectures.

Visitors will see artifacts from the Revolution-

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ary War through both world wars to present day conflicts. Visit www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature sanctuary with total of 5 miles of walking trails that wind through forest, meadow and wetland habitats.

Visit www.houstonarboretum.org

Recreational

A limited budget is no reason not to have fun. Houston has a number of parks and activities for the whole family.

The Houston Parks & Recreation Department also offers something for everyone, including 370 parks, 225 playgrounds, 23 water spraygrounds, 60 community centers, seven golf courses, 180 basketball courts and 206 tennis courts, and many activities are free.

Memorial Park, part of HPARD, is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Grab

the bikes, a picnic basket and enjoy the day. Or, take advantage of the 18-hole golf course, tennis, softball, swimming, volleyball, skating, cycling or running. Visit www.houstontx.gov/parks.

Discovery Green’s downtown 12acre park features a model boat pond, children’s playground, interactive water features and fantastic yearlong programming geared toward families. The park also offers live music, films and story time readings. Visit www.discoverygreen.com.

Every Thursday from 7-9 pm throughout May and June, UHD has partnered with Discovery Green to host free concerts in the park, featuring top acts from the region.

With Houston’s blistering heat, it’s no surprise that water parks are high on the list of places to go this summer. Grab the kids and plenty of towels…oh, and a good book, because they’re going to want to stay all day.

SplashTown: The area’s largest and most diverse waterpark located just 20 minutes from downtown. Get adventurous on the Tornado or chill out in the lazy river. Tips: Save money by buying your tickets online. Save $5 by going Mon-Fri. Lots of local retailers offer discount coupons, check with Fiesta or online at RetailmeNot.com.

Visit www.Wetnwildsplashtown.com Typhoon Texas. One of the best-kept secrets is just up the road.

The state-of-the-art waterpark in Katy offers something for the whole family. Tips: Save $5 by going Mon-Fri. Lots of local retailers offer discount coupons. Visit www.

TyphoonTexas.com Schlitterbahn Water Park. Hot or cold, rain or shine, Schlitterbahn – located on Galveston Island – has your family covered with climate-controlled rivers, slides and pools that will put you in a tropical mood. Tips: Save money by buying your tickets online. Save $10 by going Mon-Fri. Lots of local retailers offer discount coupons. Parking, life jackets and tubes are free.

Visit www.Schlitterbahn.com/Galveston

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DEFENDER | MAY 31 | 2018

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‘Roseanne’ strikes out

ABC, led by Black woman, cancels show Defender News Service

Stellar ratings and an apology weren’t enough to mitigate Roseanne Barr’s racist comments, and now ABC is pulling the plug on “Roseanne.” ABC Entertainment president Channing Dungey said the network has decided to cancel the “Roseanne” reboot.

“Roseanne’s Twitter statement is abhorrent, repugnant and inconsistent with our values, and we have decided to cancel her show,” Dungey said.

In 2016, Dungey made headlines when she became the first African-American to run the entertainment division of a major broadcast television network.

Barr apologized for the racist tweet about Valerie Jarrett, a former senior advisor to President Barack Obama. Barr compared Jarrett, who is Black, to an ape in a tweet. After initially pushing back against criticism of the comment, Barr admitted her “joke” was in “bad taste” and said she was leaving Twitter.

Barr’s tweet about Jarrett said, “muslim brotherhood & planet of the apes had a baby=vj.” Barr later deleted it and said she was sorry.

“I apologize to Valerie Jarrett and to all Americans. I am truly sorry for making a bad joke about her politics and her looks. I should have known better. Forgive me – my joke was in bad taste.” But the apology was clearly not enough for ABC. Earlier, Barr had rebuffed accusations of racism by insisting that “Islam is not a race.” But her eventual admission that the joke was about Jarrett’s “looks” seemed to confirm that the ape com-

Channing Dungey runs ABC’s entertainment divison.

ment was indeed about Jarrett’s appearance.

The offending tweet came amidst a series of tweets referring to Hungarian-born billionaire George Soros as a Nazi and Chelsea Clinton as a Soros family member (Barr apologized and took it back, then attacked the family of Clinton’s husband, Marc Mezvinsky, instead).

Barr is a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump, as is her character on the “Roseanne” revival on ABC. Trump called Barr to congratulate her after the first episode of the reboot scored record ratings.

Comedian Wanda Sykes, a consulting producer on the show, tweeted that she will not be returning in wake of Barr’s comments.

Black-owned coffee shops see opportunity Defender News Services

At Franny Lou’s, named in honor of the abolitionist Frances E.W. Harper and the civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, shelves are stacked with books on African folktales, on the speeches of Malcolm X and on Black women’s hairstyles.

As video of the Starbucks arrest went viral last month, cafes from Durham, N.C. to Oakland, Calif. reportedly benefited from a jump in sales.

At Tiferet Coffee House, which has three stores in Sacramento, owners Sabrina and Makeda Berhane, who are sisters, said they saw a “trickledown effect” of new customers last month that turned into repeat business.

After Starbucks closed more than 8,000 locations across the country recently for “racial-bias education” for the staff – which could cost the Seattle-based coffee chain an estimated $12 million in revenue –- owners of small coffee shops across the country see both a financial opportunity and a chance to emphasize their value to the community.

Kaffeine Coffee, a Black-owned coffee shop in Houston’s Third Ward has received an unexpected boost in sales of nearly 40 percent thanks to the attention surrounding the Starbucks incident in Philadelphia.

Owner Orgena Keener strives to foster community and coffee culture, where food and drink are key parts of social interactions — something she feels a corporate entity like Starbucks is missing.

Blew Kind, owner of the Philadelphia coffee shop Franny Lou’s Porch, said the arrests at the Starbucks in Rittenhouse Square, a high-income area downtown, got her employees and customers talking. Many were indignant but not surprised that it had happened in Philadelphia, where police have been criticized for disproportionately stopping and frisking Black residents. Jayson McCoy, a barista at Quaker City Coffee, tends to a customer.

Sabrina Berhane said the recent community support for Tiferet didn’t happen only as a result of it being Black-owned, but also because she and her sister are serious about “treating people with kindness and respect,” she said.

Among the staff at Quaker City Coffee, a mile away from Rittenhouse Square, the arrests last month at Starbucks were a big topic of conversation. The coffee shop is a for-profit venture that aims to hire workers who are recently out of prison.

Jayson McCoy, 21, who grew up around drugs and gangs in West Philadelphia, spent a year in jail for charges including aggravated assault. At Quaker City Coffee, he’s learned to distinguish coffee roasts and to top lattes with the perfect milky heart.

Because of his criminal record, McCoy is certain that if he wanted to become a barista elsewhere, he would not be given the chance. When he learned about the arrests of two black men at Starbucks, it was a moment of clarity about his job at Quaker City — this is a place where he is accepted.

“My hair the way it is. Tattoos,” McCoy said, showing off the ink on his arm. “But you can’t judge a book by its cover.”

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MAY 31 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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Rockets fall short in quest for NBA title James Harden scored 32 points while Stephen Curry scored 14 of Golden State’s 33 points in the third quarter of the game.

Associated Press

Stephen Curry and Golden State turned all those Houston bricks into a road back to the NBA Finals.

Needing not only all their firepower but also 27 straight misses by the Rockets during an epic cold streak from 3-point range, the Warriors rallied to keep alive their hopes for a repeat.

Kevin Durant scored 34 points, Curry sparked another third-quarter turnaround, and the Warriors earned a fourth straight trip to the NBA Finals by beating the Rockets 101-92 in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals.

The defending champions trailed by as many as 15 in the first half after falling behind 17 in Game 6.

The Warriors will host LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the fourth straight matchup between the teams.

James Harden had 32 points as the top-seeded Rockets’ bid to return to the finals for the first time since 1995 fell short without Chris Paul, who was nursing a hamstring injury.

“We just didn’t have that extra juice that we needed,” Harden said.

The Rockets fell apart in the second half again after doing so in Game 6. The Warriors outscored Houston 122-63 in the second half of the final two games.

The Rockets finished 7 of 44 on 3-pointers, with Trevor Ariza missing all nine of his attempts, Eric Gordon going 2 for 12 and Harden making just 2 of 13.

Harden made two free throws before Curry scored eight points in a row, highlighted by a 3-pointer which bounced high off the rim before falling back in, to make it 72-63 with just over two minutes left in the quarter.

Blacks sound off on NFL anthem policy Defender News Services

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T:3.25”

Some African-Americans oppose the NFL’s new policy regarding the national anthem. Under the policy outlined by Commissioner Roger Goodell, all players and personnel on the field must stand and “show respect” for the anthem. Those who choose not to stand must stay in the locker room or in a similar location off the field.

“A club will be fined by the League if its personnel are on the field and do not stand and show respect The NFL kneeling protests began with former quarterback for the flag and the anthem,” Colin Kaepernick (right). said the policy. “The commisdon’t have to see it or deal with your sioner will impose appropriate claimed injustices.” discipline on league personnel who do DeMaurice Smith, NFL Players not stand and show respect for the flag Association executive director – “It and the anthem.” smacks as more of a desire to exert Here are some comments from control rather than a desire to stand up African-American individuals and orgaand support the rights and freedoms nizations: that our country was founded on…It Jeffery Robinson, ACLU deputy doesn’t appear to have the full support legal director – “Telling players to stay of all of the CEOs who own teams. It in the locker room rings familiar – get punishes not only players who wish to to the back of the bus. Get to the other protest but also could punish players water fountain. Do not appear in public who want to come out and stand and in ways that will threaten or displease salute the flag.” white people in America. If you want to Torrey Smith, Carolina Panthers protest, do it in a way that white folks wide receiver – “I think it could stir

things up, which is the problem because cowardly and idiotic kneeling ban.”

NAACP – “Protest is an American you’re stirring things up because you’ve tradition; by protesting we work to hold been told to be quiet. It could’ve been our country accountable to its highest idedone together to figure out what we can als. Instead of coming together to address do to move forward and what would be best for the players. The whole reason an issue disproportionately plaguing the guys were protesting was to draw awareAfrican-American, the NFL owners have ness to something. To take that away and chosen to bury their heads and silence be, ‘Hey, don’t do that anymore,’ like players. Players cannot disconnect from you’re anti-American or something like the aggression African-Americans face people try to paint – it is very frustrating every day…The NAACP supports and to continue to see that false narrative.” commends the athletes in the NFL, NBA, Congressman Keith Ellison, Minand WNBA who refuse to stay quiet and nesota – “Friends who know me, know just play ball – they stand strong with all that I love football. But I won’t be watch- people who continue to fight for social T:4.79” ing this NFL season because of the unfair justice.”

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DEFENDER | MAY 31 | 2018

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sports

Texans mini-camp lays foundation for success

By MAX EDISON Defender

Many football experts believe the foundation for a team’s success is laid early in the offseason, specifically mini-camp.

Veteran free agents and players, rookie free agents and draft picks are all together for the first time on one field. For coaches and players alike, it’s the first interaction this group has had as a team.

The Texans recently began mini-camp and the preliminary reports are good according to head coach Bill O’Brien.

“It’s been fantastic,” O’Brien said.

“We’ve had 100 percent participation…I think that’s great because this is the time of the year where you can really lay a good foundation. You have new players that you’ve added to the mix that get to know each other. It’s been a great group to work with. No doubt about it.”

O’Brien outlined what the team hopes to accomplish.

“The true test will be when pads go on.

It’s a contact sport…You put in your base systems in all three phases and try to get a little bit better. It’s mainly a passing camp.

It’s a teaching camp. It’s a non-contact camp, but you’re trying to do as good of a job as you can to teach everybody what your culture is, your philosophy, things like that.”

If the Texans are to have a chance for success in 2018 their fortunes will rely on the shoulders and knees of explosive second-year quarterback Deshaun Watson.

In 2017 fans received a six-game glimpse of Watson’s playmaking ability. What they saw made them yearn for more. Unfortunately Safety Tyrann Mathieu for Watson and the team, an injury in practice (ACL) caused him to miss the remaining “It’s really just understanding the basic core of the 10 weeks of the season. offense – getting those guys adapted to the new system Watson has been participating in a limited role in that they are in and making sure that they’re comfortmini-camp and has looked sharp throwing the ball. able, so whenever they go out there and step on the “My knee feels well,” he said. “I’m comfortable to field, they’re confident and they can play fast and be be able to go out there and throw and do some things on free,” Watson said. air and get the timing down with the receivers. I’ve been Defensively, the prize off-season free agent acquisithrowing on the field for a while now. tion was Pro Bowl safety Tyrann Mathieu. A versatile “It’s just one of these days to actually get back out player in the secondary, Mathieu has the ability to play here with the group, with the team, with the whole ofin the box to stop the run and blitz. He also has the fense and being able to get back to the basics of football speed to cover slot receivers and be a ballhawk in the and build that chemistry and just build that leadership secondary. and that trust within each other.”

“I take great pride in every aspect of my game,” Watson shared his mini-camp goals. said the former LSU All American. “Then, the physical-

Quarterback Deshaun Watson

ity. I have this little man syndrome so being physical is part of my nature. It’s definitely a part of how I play.”

Mathieu discussed his transition to the Texans.

“I’m still settling in, just jelling with the guys,” he said. “It’s never too early to kind of start building some camaraderie and just getting a feel for your guys, especially on the football field,” Mathieu said.

“I’d say the first couple of days, it’s been fun, it’s been smooth. I’m just trying to handle my business. I wake up every day just trying to go to work and do what I need to get done. I’ve been around some great guys, some good dudes in the locker room. The coaches and the upper management that I’ve had to deal with, they’ve all been pleasant people. I’d say my transition has been rather smooth.”

One reason Mathieu chose to come to Houston was the opportunity to be coached by assistant head coach and defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel.

“He’s a player’s coach for sure but he does a lot of his talking in the classroom,” Mathieu said. “Once we get on the football field he kind of lets us handle our business. Learning from a guy like that I think is going to help me out a lot.”

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h.s.zone Foster vs. Angleton:

Softball rivalry renewed with the big hit that gave the Lady Falcons a lead they never relinquished.

“C.C. kind of sets the tone for the game,” Shuler his is an updated version of the Hatfields said. “It’s been that way throughout the season and versus the McCoys. Call it a friendly rivalry even more so in the playoffs. Her speed and aggresthat pits familiar foes against one another and siveness at the plate spreads all the way down our extends beyond the county lines. lineup and the energy just goes up from there.”

The latest chapter unfolded at the University of For the past two years Foster and Angleton have Houston in the midst of the 2018 Memorial Day week- shared a district that includes Terry and Lamar Conend when District 27-5A rivals Richmond Foster and solidated along with Port Lavaca Calhoun, Victoria Angleton met to decide the University Interscholastic East and Victoria West.

League (UIL) Class 5A Region IV girls’ high school The road to state in Region IV goes primarily softball championship. through schools located in the San Antonio and CorA school year that began with Angleton and pus Christi areas.

Foster colliding in a With the football regional title abundance of high game culminated with schools in Texas the same two schools centered around the dueling on the softball Houston/Gulf Coast diamond. and Dallas-Fort “We knew that Worth communiif they kept winning ties, some schools like we were winning, from the Metroplex we would match up in have to compete the fifth round of the in Region I while playoffs,” said Foster some Houston area head softball coach schools have to Keely Shuler. compete in Region The two teams IV to balance out the had already met three regions. times prior to the best The road trips two-of-three regional for Angleton and final series at UH Foster will shorten with all three games next year due to UIL decided by one run re-alignment when and Foster winning they join a district the last two to take that takes in Shadow the outright district Creek, Hightower, championship.

Fort Bend Marshall, Foster (32-9-1) Willowridge, Manmade it three straight vel, Terry and Lamar Foster softball coach Keely Shuler (left) meets with Angleton coach Cindy in game one with a Rubio in the latest chapter of the storied rivalry Consolidated. come-from-behind 4-2 While the road to victory. Two Angleton the playoffs figures to miscues in the middle of a three-run fourth-inning become more difficult, at least the schools are located Foster rally proved to be the difference in the contest. within 40 minutes of each other.

“The confidence that we showed up with today No longer will coaches and student-athletes have will hopefully set the tone for the entire series,” Shuler to depart at 2 p.m. on a mid-week school day for a said. “We came out ready to go and play our game. It’s 6:30 p.m. game in Port Lavaca. a huge advantage to have the momentum from game “Last year I think it took a little bit of a toll on one moving forward. We’re going to come back even us,” said Angleton softball coach Cindy Rubio. “This harder next time.” year the girls got used to it and adjusted a lot better.

Senior pitcher Kacie Pryor went the distance for “We’re looking forward to playing against our old the win and leadoff hitter Ciarra (C.C.) Mata came up friends in the Houston area again,” she said.

T

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

MAY 31 | 2018 | DEFENDER

11

sportsbriefs PVAMU athletes excel Student-athletes at Prairie View A&M University are putting emphasis on the “student” component according to the NCAA Academic Progress Report (APR) released recently. In the 2016-17 report, seven PVAMU teams had perfect scores of 1000 – baseball, men’s track & field, men’s cross country, men’s tennis, softball, women’s bowling and women’s cross country. It is the second consecutive year seven Panther athletic teams earned a perfect score. All 18 PVAMU athletics teams are above the NCAA mandated multi-year score of 930, and all 18 teams are again postseason eligible in the upcoming 2018-19 athletic year.

“Our student-athletes continue to win academically,” said PVAMU Vice President and Director of Athletics Ashley Robinson. “Our department motto of ‘All Out All Game All Season’ begins with classroom success, which lays the foundation for competitive success as well as the foundation for professional success in life.”

UH championship-bound The University of Houston will send 13 individuals (the regional qualifiers as well as Nathaniel Mechler, who automatically qualified for the decathlon) and two relays to the NCAA Championships, to be held June 6-9 in Eugene, Ore. Eight Cougar men and five women will make the trek for the Outdoor Championships. All eyes will be on the foursome of John Lewis III, Mario Burke, Nicholas Alexander and Cameron Burrell, the defending national champions in the hotly contested 4x100 meter relay.

Magnolia golfer repeats Magnolia High School sophomore Halle Whitney is a state champion for the second year in a row.

Whitney drained a 15-foot birdie putt on the 18th green at White Wing Golf Club in Georgetown to seal her second UIL Class 5A individual golf title with a two-day total of 143. She shot rounds of 71 and 72 to beat out Jasmine Zhang of Midlothian by one stroke in regulation and become the first player since Lisa McCloskey of Montgomery (2007-2009) to win consecutive 5A titles.

Magnolia has three straight individual medalists following Ava Schwienteck’s crown in 2016. “I’m really honored to have this opportunity to come out here and win again,” Whitney said. “I’m so happy and it makes me even more excited for next year.” Whitney won her first title as a 14-year-old freshman by defeating Caitlyn Lindell of Mansfield Lake Ridge in a playoff. No extra holes were needed this year.

Katy suffers rare loss Even the No. 1-ranked girls’ high school softball team in Texas can have a bad day. A seven-run sixth inning proved to be Katy’s undoing as Atascocita took game one of a best-of-three Class 6A regional championship series 11-1 at Tompkins High School. Pitcher Jenika Lombrana tossed a four-hitter while teammates Macie Pampell, Katie Cimusz and London Marder added two-run doubles. Marder also had a solo home run in the fourth inning. “I thought we were ready to play at the beginning of the game but as things progressed, they were a lot more ready,” said Katy coach Kalum Haack. “Therefore, we got it handed to us.”

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12

DEFENDER | MAY 31 | 2018

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

topevents

BISHOP JAMES DIXON HOODING CEREMONY…….The pastor part to a $100,000 grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation. The Third Ward of The Community of Faith church is now “Dr.” James Dixon II after Neighborhood Consortium leads the effort to achieve a healthy, diverse and the Virginia University of Lynchburg Doctorial hooding ceremony held at sustainable community. Attendees included Rev. Leslie Smith, Pastor Linda the church. Along with Dixon’s dissertation, “The Future of the Church: Davis, Dr. Elwyn Lee, Gayle Waden, Tom DeBesse, Darryl Montgomery, Attracting, Developing, and Deploying Millennials for Social Impact,” the Blynthia Scott, Munirah Olabisi, Maia Shelby, Hughdell Young, Ty event featured Houston ministry icons Wheeler Avenue BC Pastor Emeritus Morrison, Imarogbe Stokes, Rev. Preston Allen, Carl Davis, Trinell Dr. William Lawson, Mt. Horem BC Pastor Thomas Freeman, and Davis and many more……..HMAAC LEE P. BROWN AWARDS GALA Mt. Sinai MBC Pastor Emeritus Dr. Samuel Jackson 2018……..The Houston Museum of African American Gilbert Sr. Emcee Calvary Christian Church pastor Dr. Defender TOP EVENTS Culture held its “party with a purpose,” the HMAAC Lee Jamale Kempt hosted guests Dr. Hebert Fain, Bishop P. Brown Awards Gala at the Ensemble Theatre. Awardees More photos on defendernetwork.com Johnny Tates, Dr. Ross Cullin, Virginia University of included ballet legend Lauren Anderson, Tony AwardLynchburg Dean Dr. Marshall Mays, VUL Advisor Dr. winner Sarah Jones and philanthropist Eileen Lawal.

James Coleman, Dr. Virgil Wood, Dr. Samuel Gilbert II, Deacon James Attendees mixed and mingled, enjoying fine food and sounds provided by DJ Russell Guess and Renaissance Suite featuring Alycia Miles. Attendees Dixon Sr. (father), Dorita Hachett and James W.E. Dixon III (son)……..

NORTHERN THIRD WARD PROJECT KICKOFF……..The Third included John Guess Jr., Melanie Lawson, Michelle and Barry Barnes, Ward Neighborhood Implementation Project was introduced to the public Shannon Buggs, Gina and Jonathan Carroll, Cary and Judge Clarease Yates, Zina Garrison, Lee Carrier, Dre Forgotten, Kandyace and recently amid community members, residents and elected officials. The Kimberly Mayberry, Dominic Clay and many, many more. resident-driven plan seeks to revitalize the Northern Third Ward thanks in

Dr. James Dixon, Dr. Thomas Freeman

Rev. Preston Allen, Pastor Linda Davis

Lauren Anderson, Chris Stanaway

State Sen. John Whitmire, Vandetta Levingston

Blynthia Scott, Munirah Olabisi, Maia Shelby

Paula Wilder, Dominic Clay, Abi Shitta-Bey

Judson Robinson III, Bishop Johnny Tates

Ty Morrison, Tom DeBesse

Gina Carroll, Jonathan Carroll

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