Houston Defender: June 20, 2013

NATIONAL

DISCRIMINATION DRIVES EEOC TO SUE COMPANIES OVER BACKGROUND CHECKS P3

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Volume 82 | Number 34

JUNE 20, 2013 |FREE

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ENTERTAINMENT

health special

WESLEY JONATHAN enjoys television role

Obesity

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epidemic

HS SPORTS

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ERIC JOHNSON keeps it all in perspective

P9 CHAG’S PLACE OPINION

Erin Prestage, Commissioner Grady Prestage and Fheryl Prestage at Juneteenth celebration

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Visit faces

Victor Glover chosen by NASA

Serena Williams plays to win

Lt. Cmdr. Victor J. Glover is part of an elite group. He and seven other accomplished Americans were chosen as new astronaut candidates

by NASA, and the sky really is the limit. Read about Glover’s Texas roots and impressive resume.

Discover what else makes the group stand out.

Tennis star Serena Williams leaves little doubt that she is the No. 1 rated women’s player, and she’s dominating the game at age 31.

Why does she believe age is only a number? What is the next stop on her history-making journey? What does another tennis great have to say about her?

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

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NFISD suit dismissed; HISD hosting meetings

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Defender News Services

orth Forest ISD is putting its hopes in the U.S. Department of Justice after a state district court judge in Austin dismissed its lawsuit against the Texas Education Agency, saying the court “lacks jurisdiction” in the matter.

Supporters of the district, which is scheduled to merge with HISD effective July 1, had been optimistic after winning a temporary restraining order to halt the merger. They wanted the state district court to issue a preliminary injunction and traveled by bus to Austin to attend the hearing.

“We are disappointed that the state district court judge declined to stop the closure of North Forest ISD,” said Superintendent Edna Forté .

“We will continue to fight for our children and our community. We have still not received word from the U.S. Department of Justice on whether it approves the merger.

The trustees and our attorneys will continue to explore other options.”

The DOJ put the annexation on hold pending its review of the matter. The department said it would not rule on NFISD’s closure or annexation until TEA’s or HISD’s plan regarding future changes related to the Voting Rights Act of 1965 are presented.

In the meantime, HISD is hosting a series of public meetings for NFISD and HISD parents to discuss the impending annexation.

During the meetings, HISD administrators will discuss proposed changes to school attendance zones, introduce new principals for the annexed schools, and answer questions regarding the annexation ordered by TEA Commissioner Michael Williams.

The proposed changes to the attendance zones would impact six current HISD schools: Kashmere High School, Key Middle School and Cook, Kashmere Gardens, McGowen and Paige elementary schools.

The meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25 and Thursday, June 27 at Eden Event Center, 7540 N. Wayside.

Activist Ayanna Adé remembered

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

“Houston has not begun to realize what we’ve lost,” said former Houston City Councilmember, Ada Edwards of Ayanna Adé, the late global activist.

Known by many for her contributions as a midwife, Adé became an icon in the field after earning her master’s degree in midwifery from the Columbia University School of Nursing and personally delivering over 2,000 babies.

Adé’s impact in the field extended to the legions of Black midwives she mentored as co-founder of Continued on Page 4

Lt. Cmdr. Victor J. Glover

New astronauts named Defender News Services

After an extensive search, NASA has a new group of astronaut candidates. They will begin training at Johnson Space Center in Houston in August.

The eight candidates include Victor J. Glover, 37, a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy from Pomona, Calif., and Prosper, Texas.

Glover is an F/A-18 pilot and graduate of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. He holds degrees from California Polytechnic State University and Air University and Naval Postgraduate School. He currently serves as a Navy legislative fellow in the U.S. Congress.

The 2013 astronaut candidate class comes from the second largest number of applications NASA ever has received – more than 6,100.

“These new space explorers asked to join NASA because they know we’re doing big, bold things here – developing missions to go farther into space than ever before,” said NASA Administrator Charles Bolden.

The other astronaut candidates – including four women – are Josh A. Cassada, Lt. Col. Tyler N. Hague, Christina M. Hammock, Maj. Nicole Aunapu Mann, Maj. Anne C. McClain, Jessica U. Meir and Maj. Andrew R. Morgan, M.D.

localbriefs THE SENTENCING OF former Houston police officer Drew Ryser is being hailed by the Houston Branch of the NAACP. Ryser was convicted for his role in the infamous videotaped beating of teenage burglary suspect Chad Holley.

A jury convicted Ryser of official oppression, a misdemeanor. He will serve two years’ probation and pay a $1,000 fine.” [The] conviction of the former officer involved in the horrific beating of then 15-year-old Chad Holley in March 2010, provides a glimmer of hope for our Harris County criminal justice system that far too often turns a blind eye to justice by acquitting rogue law enforcement officers and issuing

disproportioned sentences to minorities,” said the NAACP. Police Chief Clarence McClelland also spoke about Ryser’s sentence. “I respect the judicial process and would like to thank the jurors for their diligence and hard work. I have consistently maintained that the actions taken by the individuals involved in this incident do not reflect the values of the Houston Police Department,” McClelland said……..FREE LUNCHES FOR YOUTH ages 1 to 18 are being offered at 450 sites by the Houston Parks and Recreation Department as part of the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program. Lunches and snacks are served Monday through Friday through

Aug. 23. Meals include milk, vegetables or fruit, grains or bread, meat or a meat alternative. Sites include community centers, churches, apartment complexes, schools and nonprofit agencies.

No registration is required. Call 713-6766832 or 211……..STATE REP. SENFRONIA THOMPSON said she is disappointed by the veto of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Bill, which would make it easier for Texas women to sue employers over pay discrimination. “I am deeply disappointed and heart-broken that women will still have to struggle to receive their equal pay for their equal work because of the governor’s actions,” she said.

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JUNE 20 | 2013 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs VOTING RIGHTS ADVOCATES are applauding a recent Supreme Court ruling determining that states can’t demand proof of citizenship from people registering to vote in federal elections unless they get federal or court approval to do so. The 7-2 ruling stems from an Arizona requirement which bars voting by people who are in the country illegally. “State government should encourage voting, not discourage it,” said NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous.

“The Supreme Court made the right decision to strike down Arizona’s proof-of-citizenship law. We need to find innovative ways to make voting easier and more accessible for Americans, rather than coming up with new ways to suppress it,” he said…….. THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION released a new report detailing the progress on 21 of the 23 executive actions President Obama laid out in January to help reduce gun violence. Vice President Joe Biden highlighted the progress made on such issues as strengthening the existing background check system, empowering law enforcement and making schools safer.

As a result of two executive actions, the Departments of Education, Justice, Homeland Security and Health and Human Services are jointly releasing guidance to schools, colleges and churches on how to work with community partners to plan and prepare for emergencies…….. BLACKS ARE MORE WILLING than whites to have their privacy rights invaded if it will help investigate possible terrorists. A recent poll by the Pew Research Center and the Washington Post showed that a majority of Americans support the National Security Agency’s tracking of telephone and Internet records of millions of Americans in an effort to make them safe from terrorists. Of whites polled, 60 percent said the government should be able to monitor everyone’s email and online activities. But among registered AfricanAmerican voters, 75 percent – 15 percent more than whites – replied that such invasions were fine with them.

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EEOC sues BMW, Dollar General

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NNPA News Service

he Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed lawsuits against BMW and the discount retailer Dollar General alleging that the companies’ broad use of criminal background checks discriminates against Black applicants and

employees.

According to the EEOC, BMW fired dozens of Black employees at one of its plants in South Carolina during “a transitional period” that required employees to re-apply for their jobs. A BMW contractor performed criminal background checks that exposed criminal convictions that prevented the employees from getting rehired.

Continued on Page 4

Minorities face subtle housing bias VOLUME 82 • NUMBER 34 JUNE 20, 2013

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley

Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila People Editor Yvette Chargois Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writer Aswad Walker

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).

Defender News Services Blatant acts of housing discrimination faced by minority home seekers continue to decline in the U.S., yet more subtle forms of housing denial stubbornly persist. That’s one of the findings in a study released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Urban Institute.

Twenty-eight metropolitan areas were sampled in the study, including Houston/Brazoria County, Dallas, Fort Worth/Arlington and San Antonio.

The report, “Housing Discrimination Against Racial and Ethnic Minorities 2012,” finds Blacks, Hispanics and Asians learn about fewer housing options than equally qualified whites.

Real estate agents and rental housing providers recom-

mend and show fewer available homes and apartments to minority families, thereby restricting their housing options.

“Fewer minorities today may be getting the door slammed in their faces, but we continue to see evidence of housing discrimination that can limit a family’s housing, economic and educational opportunities,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan.

Key findings include: • Black renters who contact agents about recently advertised housing units learn about 11 percent fewer available units and are shown roughly 4 percent fewer units.

• Black homebuyers who contact agents about recently advertised homes for sale learn about 17 percent fewer available homes and are shown about 18 percent fewer units.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

Activist Ayanna ...Continued from page 2 .. aaadad consumers..

Childbirth Providers of African Descent.

She died on May 23 from breast cancer complications at age 62. SHAPE Community Center and the National Black United Front (NBUF) hosted standing-room only memorials after her passing.

“She was so much more than a midwife, fighting to empower sisters to have control over their own bodies,” said Akua Holt, host of KPFT’s “Pan African Journal.”

Earning degrees in science and nursing from Texas Southern University and Texas Woman’s University, Adé also taught science to 5th and 6th graders in the Oakland Community School in California, operated by the Black Panther Party.

Additionally, Adé was instrumental in running the Black Panther’s signature free breakfast program.

“Ayanna was a tireless revolutionary and a great humanitarian who cared immensely about children, assisted in campus activities, helped disseminate the Black Panther newspaper weekly, and worked with the sickle cell anemia program,” said James Aaron, fellow Panther member.

A Sunnyside native and graduate of Worthing High School, Adé left Houston in 1974 bound for Oakland to give more time to the Panthers’ community-building efforts. Prior to the move, Adé was an active member of Houston’s

EEOC...Continued from page 3 ....

The Washington Post reported that 70 Black employees lost their jobs through the process.

Dollar General withdrew job offers to two Black women after running criminal background checks. One woman had a six-yearold drug conviction, but Dollar General disqualifies applicants for that type of conviction for 10 years.

Dollar General showed little consideration for the fact that the woman also listed experience working at another discount retailer for four years on her application. The other woman said that her criminal history report contained errors, including a felony conviction.

Even after Dollar General management learned of the errors on the report, the retailer still refused to change its decision.

Fair employment advocates say that errors on reports and incomplete records make it difficult for companies that rely heavily on background checks to make informed decisions.

Black Panther branch, led by the martyred Carl Hampton.

Upon returning to Houston in 1978, Adé collaborated on various justice issues with the NBUF, SHAPE, and Pastors for Peace Cuban Caravan, among others.

“Sister Ayanna was right in there and part and parcel of our party members who made that organization work,” said Black Panther Party co-founder Bobby Seale.

She is survived by her four children, Roshi Johnson, Samora Edwards, Yedidah Rose and Nyameke Brown.

The late Ayanna Adé is remembered for her compassion and activism.

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JUNE 20 | 2013 | DEFENDER

entertainment Wesley Jonathan enjoys ‘The Soul Man’ B

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

orn in Los Angeles in 1978, Wesley Jonathan entered show biz at an early age. He made his television debut at just 8, appearing on “21 Jump Street.”

He was a series regular on the WB’s “What I Like about You” and on the teen series “City Guys.”

Since then, he has guest-starred on such shows as “NCIS,” “Cold Case,” “90210” and “CSI: Miami.”

He currently plays Burrell “Stamps” Ballentine on TV Land’s “The Soul Man,” which recently began its second season. The sitcom revolves around Rev. Boyce “The Voice” Ballentine (Cedric the Entertainer), an R&B superstar-turned-minister.

Jonathan recently completed the feature film “Cobu 3D.” He is also a producer and star of the feature “Dysfunctional Friends” starring Stacey Dash and Terrell Owens.

He always finds time to give back to the community and has participated in numerous charity events. At the time of our interview, he was in Houston for a Juneteenth appearance.

KW: What interested you in attending a Juneteenth celebration in Texas?

WJ: It was only natural, being African-American, since it was the actual day on which the slaves were freed in Texas. I had never been here for Juneteenth, so I feel grateful for this opportunity to learn all about its history.

KW: How would you describe “The Soul Man?” WJ: The show is about a former R&B singer of

very risqué songs who gets the calling to become a minister. And in doing so, he uproots his family from Sin City – Las Vegas – and moves to St. Louis to take over his father’s church.

In the process, his family has to make the

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adjustment from a celebrity’s lifestyle to an uncompromisingly holy lifestyle. It’s a funny show about family, about change, and about making adjustments in your life.

KW: What’s it like acting opposite a couple of very charismatic, veteran comedians in Cedric the Entertainer and Niecy Nash?

WJ: The greatest thing to me about Cedric is that he’s extremely down-to-earth. He’s a really a nice guy on top of the fact that he’s funny. So, working with him is great because you get paid to laugh all day. And Niecy is just as funny and cool and crazy as he is. Having both of them together is kind of explosive.

KW: Tell me a little about your character, Stamps.

WJ: Stamps is Cedric’s younger brother. He’s a wacky, wise-cracking character, and you never know what’s going to come out of his mouth. He doesn’t take life seriously, doesn’t have a job, and is always saying whatever random thoughts come to mind.

KW: How did you manage to avoid the pitfalls of fame that have ensnared so many other child actors?

WJ: There’s a big difference between being a child actor and being a child star. I was a child actor…Secondly, my mother is from a rough area of East St. Louis, and she just wasn’t having any craziness. Third, I was raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, which was a strict upbringing that helped me stay in line.

KW: How do you want to be remembered?

WJ: As talented, real and loving.

what’sup 50 CENT is pleased with his new role as an executive producer of “Power,” an hour-long original drama which will air on Starz next year. “This is a passion project for me and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have found a home with Starz,” said the rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson. “I look forward to working with this incredibly talented team on making ‘Power’ a hit show.”

The show tells the story of James “Ghost” St. Patrick, a wealthy, ambitious New York City nightclub owner who caters to the city’s elite. He lives a double life, and when he is not at the club, he is the kingpin of the most lucrative drug network in New York. The show’s cast is yet to be announced……..KANYE WEST celebrated Father’s Day with his new baby girl, reportedly named KAI GEORGIA DONDA WEST, and the baby’s

mother, KIM KARDASHIAN. The baby was born in Los Angeles five weeks early and weighed less than five pounds……..WHITNEY HOUSTON was voted the top female R&B singer in a poll of listeners on the “Tom Joyner Morning Show.” ARETHA FRANKLIN was selected as No. 2 and PATTI LABELLE was voted No. 3……..RIHANNA’s new single “Stay” has jumped to No. 9 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary Chart. It’s a first for the singer, whose hits have previously been limited to the pop charts and its younger demographic.

“Stay” is featured on the multi-platinum-selling album “Unapologetic,” and the video shows Rihanna singing in a bathtub. The singer is in the middle of her Diamonds World Tour, which includes performances in Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Poland and

Austria……..CHAKA KAHN was inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame in celebration of her 40th anniversary in the music business. During the ceremony, JENNIFER HOLIDAY sang her rendition of “Through the Fire.” LaBelle also performed. Kahn was born Yvette Stevens. She first earned fame in the 1970s as lead singer of the band Rufus. Her signature hits include “Tell Me Something Good,” “Sweet Thing” and “I’m Every Woman.” She has released 22 albums and won 10 Grammy Awards……..The recent Tony Awards have given “Motown the Musical” a boost. The show didn’t win a Tony but received valuable screen time with a Motown medley. As a result, it set a new box office record at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. The show has grossed more than $1 million a week since March.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

Obamas journey to African countries

By AFRO Staff

The first couple’s summer vacation will include a trip back to the Motherland. According to the White House, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama embark on a three-country tour of Africa from June 26 to July 3.

They are preparing for visits to Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania, where they will meet with leaders, government officials, locals and youth.

The tour is aimed at reinforcing ties between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa. The trip will focus on strengthening economic growth, democratic institutions and African leadership, according to a White House statement.

Surgeon General Benjamin retiring

By AFRO Staff

Obama met with leaders from four African nations in March to discuss trade issues and ways to strengthen the African democracy.

Obama has a special tie to Africa, as his father is from Kenya.

This will be his first trip to South Africa as president.

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U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin has announced plans to resign from her post as “America’s doctor” in July.

During her four-year tenure, Benjamin focused her attention on disease prevention and the promotion of healthy lifestyles, particularly among minorities.

Like many other surgeon generals, she preached on the ills of smoking.

President Obama praised her for her selfless work on behalf of poorer, rural communities, and her advocacy on prevention and wellness as a weapon against serious diseases and conditions.

Benjamin has been widely lauded for founding a rural clinic in her home state of Alabama,

and for keeping it afloat after it was destroyed three times by hurricanes and a fire.

The physician said her dedication to public health issues came from a personal place.

“My father died with diabetes and hypertension,” Benjamin said in 2009.

“My older brother, and only sibling, died at age 44 of HIV-related illness. My mother died of lung cancer, because as a young girl, she wanted to smoke just like her twin brother could.

“My Uncle Buddy, my mother’s twin, who’s one of the few surviving Black World War II prisoners of war, is at home right now, on oxygen, struggling for each breath because of the years of smoking…

“While I can’t change my family’s past, I can be a voice in the movement to improve our nation’s health care and our nation’s health for the future.”

No cost to you ● All grant funded No insurance necessary Transportation can be provided

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health

JUNE 20 | 2013 | DEFENDER

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Defender Special Edition

Obesity problem

plagues

Blacks

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By TIFFANY L. WILLIAMS Defender

besity is one of the most serious health problems impacting African-Americans today.

Risks related to obesity range from sleep apnea to infertility to depression. Obese people can drive up health insurance costs and face job discrimination from employers who view them as undisciplined and

lazy.

Facts and figures tell the story: • The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) cites poor nutrition coupled with a lack of physical activity as the leading cause of preventable death, coming in second to tobacco use.

• The Office of Minority Health reports that four out of five African-American women are overweight or obese.

• According to 2010 data, 71.7 percent of African American residents in the Houston-Baytown-Sugarland MSA areas were overweight or obese, compared to 77.8 percent of Hispanics and 62.5 percent of whites.

Proper nutrition and physical health are fundamental parts of life that if not properly maintained can have fatal health consequences, as well as detrimental effects on other areas of life, including education,

finances and mental health.

“Obesity is associated with multiple poor health outcomes such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer,” said Lorna McNeill, associate professor at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

McNeill said diet and exercise are essentially “energy in and energy out” of the body.

“If you’re not physically active as a young person or young adult, as you get older and you gain weight, you’re not engaging in physical activity at rates to compensate for your energy intake,” she said.

Other health concerns related to obesity include hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis and respiratory problems.

Poor health can also reduce worker performance, resulting in more missed days from work and leading to higher medical costs.

A CDC report titled “Vital Signs: State-Specific Obesity Prevalence Among Adults,” found that people who are obese incurred $1,429 per person extra in medical costs compared to people of normal weight.

The report also summed up the consequences of being overweight: “Obesity is a costly condition that can reduce quality of life and increases the risk for many serious chronic diseases and premature death.”

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

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Inside AIDS Foundation Houston 3B Memorial Hermann Health System 4B Obesity causes & solutions 6B Kids battle obesity too 7B Texas Children’s Hospital 8B MD Anderson Cancer Center 10B

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Message from the Publisher

frican-Americans are in health seriously. According to the midst of a health crisis the U.S. Department of Health that threatens our welland Human Services Office of being and our future, and that’s Minority Health: the bad news.

• Death rates for all major However, the good news is causes of death are higher for we can all do something about it, African-Americans than for starting right now. whites, contributing in part to a As Houston’s Leading Black lower life expectancy for both Information Source, the Defender African-American men and is committed to providing you, the women. reader, with information that will • In 2009, the average improve the quality of your life.

American could expect to live Reading this special health 78.5 years, but the average edition is a step in the right direc- Sonceria Messiah-Jiles African- American could only tion. We begin with our cover expect to live 74.5 years. story on obesity, which sheds light on the problem, • African-Americans have the highest mortalithe causes and the solutions. ty rate of any racial and ethnic group for all cancers We also feature an article on what one local combined. organization is doing to combat AIDS/HIV and • African Americans are twice as likely to be how you can do your part by getting tested. diagnosed with diabetes as whites. In addition, In addition, our health partners are spotlightthey are more likely to suffer complications from ing their efforts to improve the well-being of our diabetes, such as end-stage renal disease and lower community. They are MD Anderson Cancer Center, extremity amputations.

Memorial Hermann Health System and Texas • Although African-American adults are 40 Children’s Hospital. percent more likely to have high blood pressure, Facts and figures show that we must take our they are 10 percent less likely than their white

counterparts to have their blood pressure under control.

• African-American males have almost 7.6 times the AIDS rate as white males. African-American females have 20 times the AIDS rate as white females.

• African-Americans have 2.3 times the infant mortality rate as whites. They are three times as likely to die as infants due to complications related to low birth weight as compared to white infants.

We should all make a commitment to take better care of ourselves and our children. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Drink more water. Lay off the junk food and unhealthy fast food. Start exercising. Get enough sleep. Don’t smoke or abuse drugs or alcohol. Take your meds. Get regular check-ups. Follow your doctor’s orders. Feed your kids healthy, balanced meals.

For those who argue that it costs more to eat healthy, consider this: An apple and a tuna sandwich are no more expensive than a greasy box of fried chicken. A bag of salad and a rotisserie chicken costs less than hamburgers and French fries for four.

So make some health changes that will contribute to a better life for you and your family.

Live well and enjoy life!

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JUNE 20 | 2013 | DEFENDER

health

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AIDS Foundation Houston reaches out

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

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IDS Foundation Houston has a long history of striving to prevent new HIV infections and empower those affected by the disease.

Founded in 1982, AFH was the first AIDS service organization established in Texas. It serves area residents in 10 counties, and most of those residents are minorities – 61 percent of the agency’s clients are AfricanAmerican and 21 percent are Hispanic.

Ninety-nine percent of AFH clients have incomes below $20,000 and 68 percent are HIVpositive. The agency finds that the dual effects of HIV and poverty cause many HIV-positive persons to fall into the cycle of homelessness.

AFH offers permanent and transitional housing programs for individuals and families impacted by HIV. Supportive service planning addresses such areas as basic needs, family issues, financial stability and mental health and substance treatment.

The agency also provides HIV-positive children and youth with various programs to help them lead productive lives and cope with the effects of illness and stigma.

Here, AFH Director of Prevention Nike Blue discusses HIV and how the agency reaches out to area residents.

Defender: How is AFH preparing for National HIV Testing Day on June 27th?

Blue: We are gearing up to start our seventh year of testing thousands of young adults through the medium of hip hop music. Hip Hop for HIV Awareness is a locally grown and nationally known awareness and testing event that targets those at most risk of HIV transmission.

AFH in partnership with the Houston Department of Health and Human Services have tested over 50,000 youth and young adults since 2007.

This year we are launching our first day of testing at a local Walgreens (9200 Cullen at Reed Road) in

Get tested on June 27 Thursday, June 27, is National HIV Testing Day, and Americans are encouraged to “Take the test. Take control.”

Nearly 1.2 million people are living with AIDS in the U.S., and one in five is unaware that they have the disease.

In 2010, African-Americans accounted for an estimated 44 percent of all new HIV infections among adults and adolescents, despite representing only 14 percent of the U.S. population.

For information on getting tested call AIDS Foundation Houston at 713-6236796 or visit aidshelp.org. the Sunnyside area. Testing will be from 12-7 p.m. on that day.

Defender: What advice do you have for those who are hesitant to get tested?

Blue: HIV is no longer a death sentence IF you test early and access care soon after finding out you are HIV-positive. A recent study gives evidence that HIV therapy works when people are actively engaged in their own health and well-being. The first step toward doing that is getting an HIV test – that is the only way to know whether you have the disease. People doing well on HIV therapy have a mortality risk identical to that of HIV-negative peers.

Also, for those who aren’t moved by knowing their own personal status, think about your partner, your family and your community when it comes to HIV. Not knowing your HIV status hurts everyone and does affect entire communities. HIV is 100 percent preventable if we are all aware of our status.

Defender: How does the AFH reach out to Houston’s African-American community?

Blue: AFH reaches out through the develop-

ment of innovative events like Hip Hop for HIV and by providing life-saving supportive services like food and housing for people living with the disease.

What have you found to be the biggest misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS? Blue: That people with HIV can’t be married to someone who does not have HIV, can’t have babies, can’t live a long full life. That you can get HIV from casual contact like hugging, sharing a drinking glass or kissing someone with HIV. Simply not true.

How can the community help AFH? Blue: Donate. Support for the vital services we provide is needed all the time. Get the facts about HIV from our website and other reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and spread the facts and not misconceptions.

Get tested at least annually; if you have a private doctor don’t assume they are automatically testing you for HIV. You have to ask for it. Show compassion, support, and love toward people who are HIV-positive.

The more we continue to stigmatize HIV and people with the disease the more this disease will spread.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

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Memorial Hermann Community Benefit Corporation

Making a Difference in Our Community

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or more than 100 years, Memorial Hermann Health System has worked to advance and improve the health of the communities we serve in Southeast Texas. In 2007, Memorial Hermann established the Community Benefit Corporation to work with other healthcare providers, government agencies, business leaders and community stakeholders to ensure that all residents of the Greater Houston area have access to the care they need.

Since its inception, the Community Benefit Corporation has made much progress towards establishing programs that are saving lives and helping us to better manage our community’s healthcare resources. The highlights of MHCBC programs include: • Improving access to care for Houstonarea children through school-based clinics and mobile dental vans.

• Helping patients with chronic diseases manage their illnesses more effectively.

• Educating area residents on how and when to access care.

• Demonstrating why people should establish medical homes that help ensure more continuous and coordinated care and eliminate duplicate testing and waste.

• Establishing partnerships with providers and agencies to arrange specialty services that provide life-saving surgeries and treatments to patients.

• Financially supporting community-based health clinics.

These innovative programs are keeping children healthy and in school and extending care to parents so they can continue to provide for their families.

They also are showing the uninsured how to access available resources and ensuring emergency and

trauma resources are used appropriately and accessible for the critically ill and injured.

Memorial Hermann has worked very hard over the past years to create high quality, safe and coordinated care for our patients and this community. Delivering healthcare more efficiently will be even more important with the advent of Affordable Care Act. A critical component of the Memorial Hermann CBC is helping to encourage and facilitate community education around how best to use healthcare resources. An example of that effort is helping the community understand the necessity of establishing a medical home.

“Educating the public is a key to reducing healthcare costs,” says Carol Paret, Chief Community Benefit Officer at Memorial Hermann. “It isn’t just the uninsured and immigrant populations who need help in getting healthcare for their families, the problem cuts right across the broad populace of our community. A lot of people with health insurance still don’t have a family physician and a medical home. The ER is the logical choice when you get sick, but most times, that is not an appropriate use of our healthcare resources.”

What is a Medical Home?

A question often raised by the savviest of healthcare consumers is “What is a medical home?” Equally important is “Why establish one?”

Defined, a “medical home,” provides comprehensive, patient-centered, preventive primary care. Establishing one is essential to keeping families healthy and managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease. When health is managed in a primary care setting, inappropriate use of the ER decreases, and the costs of healthcare are reduced.

The “Houston Hospitals Emergency Department Use Study, prepared by UT Health School of Public Health, revealed that nearly 50 percent of emergency room visits in Harris County are primary care related. Such eye-opening data clearly shows that a broad spectrum of people from all walks of life, both the insured and uninsured, need help in learning how to use medical resources appropriately, including how to establish a medical home.

Here’s a medical home primer:

What is a medical home?

A medical home is a way to provide high quality health care services that best meet the needs of patients and families. It is not a building, house, or hospital. In a medical home, you have one provider who is your primary health care provider and who works with you in partnership to assure that all of your medical care is coordinated.

Why establish a medical home?

People may work with many doctors, nurses, and other health care providers. Often people must also work with school, employers, insurance, and social service professionals. Therefore, you can benefit from the team work provided by a medical home…

Who is the primary health care provider?

The primary health care provider is an internist, a family doctor, pediatrician, a nurse practitioner, a physician’s assistant, or sometimes a specialist. The primary health care provider is the person who provides you with comprehensive medical care. It should be someone you trust and who will partner with you to (among

other things): • Answer questions; • Share decision making; • Coordinate your care; • Provide resources and find out how well they worked; • Develop comprehensive plans of care that address your individual needs; • Build bridges among families and health, education, and social services; • Respect your values and culture; and • Promote health and quality of life for you and your family.

In a medical home you will feel comfortable to: • Discuss questions or concerns; • Share information about your health; • Communicate with your doctor, clinic staff, and partners; • Ask for things to be explained differently when you don’t understand; and • Seek solutions in a mutually respectful way.

When you and your primary care provider talk, build trust, and work well together, you will receive the best health care possible.

Source: New York State Department of Health – http://www. health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization/having_a_medical_home.ht m

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Introducing Your Neighborhood Health Center Affordable, convenient, quality medical care for you and your family.

Memorial Hermann offers affordable and fast healthcare to meet your urgent care needs. At our affiliated Neighborhood Health Centers, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to take care of basic health issues. Visits are only $48. Appointments are available, but walk-ins are welcome. For your convenience, we have three locations around Houston to serve you.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

Being overweight Causes & solutions

By TIFFANY L. WILLIAMS Defender

O

besity is an epidemic in the African-American community. What is causing the problem? What are the solutions?

Lorna McNeill, associate professor at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, said higher obesity rates are linked to individual behaviors, social and cultural norms, environmental factors and policies that prevent AfricanAmericans from living healthy lifestyles. “[Obesity] stems from our diets,” she said.

“For the most part, it’s not genetic, it’s determined by behavior. For instance, having preferences for southern cooking and fried food.

“African-Americans are also more likely to live in neighborhoods that have higher locations of fast food restaurants and [less] full-service supermarkets and physical activity resources,” McNeill said.

“If we do have parks, they’re usually not well-maintained. Then, there is sometimes more crime, so people have fear of walking outdoors.”

Rebecca Lee, director of the Texas Obesity Research Center at University of Houston, said Houston in general can contribute to obesity.

“Some specific characteristics about Houston that make it easy to put on weight are our ‘eating out’ culture and many, many restaurants, good and bad; the intense heat and humidity in the summertime that make physical activities outdoors difficult, and lack of infrastructure for active commuting.”

Solving the problem

Lee said steps are being taken to help heavy Houstonians out.

“Healthy strategies that are underway in

10 tips for

fighting fat

Houston include improving walking and bicycling infrastructure to help people move more and drive less, community gardening initiatives, and restaurants that are offering more food options that are healthy and lower in calories.”

Aside from efforts around the city, there are also steps individuals can take to help combat or prevent weight gain and obesity.

McNeill suggests reducing fat intake, monitoring oils and saturated fats and including more fruits and vegetables in one’s diet.

“Most people eat about twice as much as they should at any given restaurant meal,” Lee said. “[People should] eat fresh food and avoid heavily preserved, pre-prepared and packaged food.”

Lee also said simple steps such as staying physically active and avoiding sitting or lounging around too much – particularly in front of the television or computer – are ways to fight obesity.

“The average person can probably just adjust their diet and increase their physical activity, and they can be successful at losing weight,” McNeill said. “For those who need more specialized help, there are different medically supervised programs.

“We would recommend those types of approaches over more extreme ways, such as trying to fast your way through it.”

Lee also warns against unhealthy weight-loss plans.

“Some not-so-healthy strategies are anything that causes dramatic and rapid changes,” Lee said.

“These are almost never sustainable and may injure the body, one’s spirit, and motivation to live a more healthful life.”

McNeill said dieters must be patient.

“Losing one pound a week is a healthy way to lose weight,” she said. “It took time to get the weight on; it’s going to take time to get it off.

There is no miracle drug.”

There are more than 72 million obese or overweight Americans, with the highest rates among African-Americans.

Individuals are considered overweight if their body mass index (BMI), a correlate of body fat, is between 25.0-29.9, and obese if their BMI is 30.0 or above. (To calculate your BMI visit cdc.gov/ healthyweight/assessing/bmi/).

Below are quick tips from the CDC and other experts to combat obesity.

1. Make a commitment to stay healthy. It’s a lifestyle change.

2. Avoid diet plans or fads that promise rapid weight loss. It takes time.

cover

Obes

epide

3. Try losing one pound per week. Since one pound equals 3,500 calories, you need to reduce your caloric intake by at least 500 calories per day. Invest in a good scale and weigh yourself regularly.

4. Consume five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, along with low-fat dairy, lean meats and whole grains. Limit starchy vegetables such as corn and potatoes.

5. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar such as soda and juice.

6 Limit fried foods and fatty meats. Try foods low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium) and added sugars. Always read nutrition labels.

7. Reduce your portion size when consuming high-

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Kids battle excess weight

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calorie foods and try a lower-calorie version of your favorite less healthy foods.

8. Begin with moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes one or two days a week. Try walking, water aerobics, bike-riding, doubles tennis or pushing a lawn mower. Work your way up to jogging, running, swimming laps, singles tennis or basketball.

9. Take the stairs instead of the elevator and park further away at the mall or grocery store.

10. Strengthen your muscles at least two days a week with activities that work all the major muscle groups of your body (legs, hips, back, chest, abdomen, shoulders, and arms).

ng the Houston area for over 80 years

ike overweight adults, overweight kids tend to eat too much, exercise too little, and suffer the consequences.

Statistics show that more than 9 million children and teens are considered overweight in the U.S. In Houston, one in three children is overweight or obese.

Beverly Gor, a registered dietitian who conducts community research at MD Anderson, said, obesity typically affects children in minority communities at higher rates, with Hispanic boys and African-American girls most at risk.

According to the 2012 State of Health Report for Houston and Harris County: • 34 percent of Houston high school students are overweight or obese.

• Only 18 percent of Harris county 4th graders engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least five days a week.

• 79 percent of Texas high school students eat fewer than five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

• 60 percent of Harris County 8th graders view more than two hours of television per day.

Obesity can lead to serious health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. And most children who are obese or overweight tend to become obese or overweight adults.

Gor added that obese youth tend to be bullied more than “children with normalized weight,” leading to issues with mental health and low self-esteem.

For some children, obesity is linked to socioeconomic factors. According to the Children’s Defense Fund, kids in predominantly minority and low-income neighborhoods have reduced access to supermarkets and fresh produce.

One study found that only 8 percent of Black residents lived in areas with one or more supermarkets, compared with 31 percent of white residents.

In addition, children living in neighborhoods with limited access to walking paths, parks, playgrounds or recreation centers are significantly more likely to be overweight or obese.

What can be done

There are ways to help prevent childhood obesity.

Gor is also program director for Can Do Houston, a non-profit that works to fight obesity in underserved communities (candohouston.org).

Some of the services they provide include

teaching cooking classes, building community and school gardens and educating parents about the importance of physical activity and reducing screen time – the number of hours children spend in front of TV, computer and videogame screens.

Rebecca Lee, director for the Texas Obesity Research Center at the University of Houston, said there are other steps parents can take.

“Parents can actively promote their children’s understanding of healthier habits by [explaining] why nutrition and physical activity are important, providing fresh fruits and vegetables that are prepared and ready in the fridge as a snack, and helping children to sample a diverse range of fruits and vegetables multiple times.

“Helping kids learn active games, sports and activities and maintaining a healthful lifestyle themselves while the children are watching can all help with preventing and treating obesity in children,” she said.

Gor said breastfeeding also helps to prevent obesity.

“A lot mothers are using formula and may tend to overfeed their babies,” she said.

“Breastfeeding is more baby-driven. When the baby is full they quit nursing. When a mother is feeding her child from a bottle and there are a few more ounces, she may encourage her baby to take more formula.”

In addition to better nutrition and increased physical activity, Gor also said parents should support and encourage their children.

“You don’t want to stigmatize the child and make them feel bad,” she said. “If you have only one child who is overweight and others who aren’t, then the whole family needs to change the eating habits, not just the overweight child.

“And this won’t hurt because everybody will be improving their eating habits, ” she said.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

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health

Vaccines: Facts and myths

healthnotes Traveling internationally with children

By The Center for Vaccine Awareness and Research at Texas Children’s Hospital

Myth: Healthy children do not need to be immunized.

Fact: Vaccines are given to prevent infectious diseases in healthy children who were the victims before vaccines were available.

Even healthy children can get sick and be admitted to the hospital or even die from a vaccine-preventable disease.

Vaccinations are an important way of helping your child stay healthy.

Myth: Since most vaccines are not 100 percent effective, there’s really no need to get them.

Fact: It’s true that vaccines are not effective 100 percent of the time, but that doesn’t mean that you should skip any recommended vaccination.

Most vaccines protect against disease 85 percent to 99 percent of the time, making vaccination the best way to avoid these diseases. In addition, for some vaccine-preventable diseases, the seriousness of the disease may be less for someone who has received the vaccine. Finally, the more people who get the vaccine, the less likely the disease will be present in the community where it can spread to people who are unable to get the vaccine either because they

are too young or have certain medical conditions.

Myth: It’s not safe to get more than one vaccine at a time.

Fact: When parents first read the child-and-adolescent vaccine schedule, it’s not unusual for them to be concerned about how many vaccines

are given at one time. However, research has shown it is safe for healthy individuals to receive more than one vaccine at a time. Not only is it safe, but it also protects the person as quickly as possible.

Myth: Vaccines cause the illnesses they’re supposed to prevent.

Fact: This myth almost always surfaces during flu season because other respiratory illnesses are common at this time. In regards to the influenza vaccines, neither the inactivated influenza vaccine (the flu shot) nor the live attenuated influenza vaccine (nasal spray) can cause a person to develop influenza.

In regards to the other vaccines on the schedule approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, the chance of contracting the disease a vaccine has been proven to protect against is minimal to impossible.

Visit www.vaccine.texaschildrens.org to learn most information about vaccines.

What are the main risks children face when traveling internationally?

“The risks associated with travel vary depending on where one is going, for how long, the age of the person and any other medical issues,” Dr. Heidi Schwarzwald, director of the Travel Medicine Clinic at Texas Children’s Hospital, said.

Infants and toddlers, sometimes they need their vaccines early to make sure they are fully protected from endemic diseases when they travel.

For any child, there may be additional vaccines needed to protect them prior to traveling.

There are some recommended medications for travel: Malaria prophylaxis, medication for diarrheal illness, etc.

Texas Children’s has a special Travel Medicine Clinic to help the Houston community prepare children who will be traveling overseas. Whether going for a week or a year, travel brings unique risks for children, many of which can be prevented by seeking the services of a specialist prior to the trip.

Ideally, you and your child should seek medical care related to your trip six weeks or more prior to traveling. Many of the vaccine series take a month to complete.

Then, it takes time for the vaccine to be fully effective. By seeking care and advice early, you can make sure your family receives all the necessary protections prior to travel.

.

.

.

Measles: An important lesson for parents A young mother sits in the pediatrician’s office with her child. As the doctor begins to explain the immunizations the child will receive, the mother interrupts and says, “Ok, but not the MMR vaccine. I’ve heard it causes autism.” Despite numerous reassurances and 30 minutes of discussion, the child leaves without receiving the vaccine that protects against measles, mumps and rubella.

It’s a scene that has played out in countless numbers of pediatric offices across the globe. After all, it’s just one vaccine, right?

Wrong.

Before the MMR vaccine was available, almost every child suffered from measles.

“Each year, approximately 500,000 Americans contracted measles and 500 people died. Fortunately, the MMR vaccine brought much needed relief to American families and reduced measles incidence by more than 98 percent,” said Rachel Cunningham, immunization registry and educational specialist at Texas Children’s Hospital.

Six out of the seven children were not immunized because of parental concerns about the MMR vaccine. In short, parents today often find themselves more concerned about the vaccine than the disease.

Parental concern is understandable given the conflicting and frightening information on the internet and in the media.

When the question was first raised whether vaccines, in

particular the MMR vaccine, caused autism, scientists answered loud and clear. Study after study found no link whatsoever between the MMR vaccine, or any other vaccine, to autism.

Many parents consider measles a harmless childhood illness and decide that the perceived risk of autism is greater than the real risk of measles. Subsequently, they forgo the MMR vaccine, leaving their child vulnerable to this dangerous vaccine-preventable disease.

Measles should not be taken lightly. It can cause persistent fever, dehydration, diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia and death. Pneumonia, in particular, is concerning given that is causes 60 percent of deaths from measles.

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Healthy, happy kids make for healthy, happy communities.

Every child deserves a chance to grow up healthy and strong – and every parent deserves to know their child’s health is in the hands of someone they trust. That’s what it means to have a medical home – a relationship with a trusted physician who follows your child’s health throughout childhood. We offer access to health care that’s convenient and affordable, right in your neighborhood.

• Affordable health care from birth to age 18 • Well visits, sick visits, immunizations and much more • Low-cost, flexible options regardless of your ability to pay for services • Medicaid and CHIP accepted

Call us today to schedule your child’s appointment.

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• All information is kept confidential • Spanish-speaking doctors and staff • Convenient hours and late appointments

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health Boost your walking workout to prevent cancer

By MD Anderson Cancer Center

W

Recipe

alking can be a great way to get the daily activity your body needs to prevent cancer.

But, a casual stroll won’t do the trick. For walking to count as exercise, you should be a little out of breath and feel your heart beating a little faster. You should be able to talk in short sentences, but not sing.

Follow these tips to get the most health benefits from your walking workout.

New Orleans Red Beans

Wear the right shoes

Injuries are one of the most common reasons people stop an exercise routine.

So if you want to make a habit of walking, start by wearing sturdy athletic shoes that provide good support.

Select shoes with a toe box wide enough for your feet and with good flexibility around your toes. And, choose a rounded heel that will allow a rolling motion from toe to heel.

Remember to stretch

Before and after you walk, take a couple of minutes to stretch, focusing on your calves and hamstrings.

Stretching before you walk helps warm up and prepare your muscles. And, stretching after you walk will help relax your muscles — and make them ready for your next walk.

Check your form

Walking with your head down or leaning back could hurt your lower back.

So, stand straight with your head up and shoulders back.

Take quicker steps, not longer

The best way to achieve a brisk pace isn’t taking longer steps — it’s taking quicker ones. Power your walk by bending your elbows and pushing off your toes as you take each step.

Increase your intensity

As you get into the habit of walking, aim to increase your intensity. This will boost your fitness level, which can help build muscle mass, speed up your metabolism, strengthen your heart and burn more calories.

‘Comfort food’ that’s guilt-free

Southern food is meant to soothe your soul. But, cooking “comfort foods” with fatty ingredients can harm your health.

Eating too many high-calorie foods can lead to weight gain. And, being overweight increases your chances of getting cancer.

But, “comfort food” can be healthy food! If you do it right, you can balance down-home taste with health.

Easy, Healthy Food Substitutions Try some of these food substitutions when you cook your next meal.

INSTEAD OF THIS: USE THIS: White rice Brown rice, bulgur, kasha, quinoa or whole wheat couscous Eggs (1 egg) 2 egg whites or ¼ cup of egg substitute Butter, margarine or vegetable oil Cooking spray, chicken or vegetable

broth or olive oil Pork bacon Turkey bacon, lean ham, Canadian bacon Regular bouillons and broths Low sodium bouillon and broths Cream Evaporated skim milk Regular cheese Low fat or lite cheese To up your intensity, gradually include hilly areas in your route. Or, try interval training. Walk at your standard brisk pace for five minutes, speed up for two minutes, slow down, then speed up again and repeat.

Break up walks into short intervals

Just starting a walking routine? Break your walking workout into three 10-minute segments or two 15-minute segments until you get stronger.

Black, red and pinto beans, as well as lentils and peas, are packed with nutrients that protect our cells from cancer. Beans also are a healthy, low-fat source of protein and a rich source of fiber. And, eating more fiber may reduce your risk for colorectal cancer.

Try this healthy recipe for New Orleans Red Beans. It goes perfectly with a side of rice. Remember to cook brown rice instead of white.

That way you’ll sneak in a serving of whole grains, which is another great way to get fiber.

Ingredients 1 lb dry red beans 2 quarts water 1½ cups chopped onion 1 cup chopped celery 4 bay leaves 1 cup chopped sweet green pepper 3 tablespoons chopped garlic 3 tablespoons chopped parsley 2 teaspoons dried thyme, crushed 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper Directions Pick through beans to remove bad beans; rinse thoroughly. In a 5-quart pot, combine beans, water, onion, celery, and bay leaves.

Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and cook over low heat for about 1½ hours or until beans are tender. Stir and mash some of the beans against side of the pan to thicken the mixture.

Add green pepper, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt and black pepper. Cook, uncovered, over low heat until creamy, about 30 minutes.

Remove bay leaves.

Serve over hot, cooked brown rice, if desired.

1

2

3

Nutrition Content Makes 8 servings Calories: 171 Total fat: 0.5g Saturated fat: 0.1g Carbohydrates: 32g Protein: 10g Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 285mg Dietary fiber: 7.2g Recipe from National Cancer Institute Down Home Healthy Cooking

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Your dad’s Lungs are Worth Fighting For MoM’s grandMa’s uncLe’s

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with lung cancer, insist on MD Anderson, the nation’s top-ranked cancer hospital.

Our world-renowned cancer experts are at the forefront of lung cancer discoveries and have pioneered the most advanced life-saving treatments available today. We create customized treatment plans with options such as minimally invasive surgery and innovative radiotherapy techniques. When your loved one is fighting lung cancer, you can never give up. We’re here to help.

Contact us today.

appointments available 1-877-632-6789 LungsWorthFightingFor.com

Scan to hear from some of our lung cancer survivors.

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opinion

7

Trying to secure justice for Trayvon “

By Marc Morial NNPA Columnist

I believe that’s Trayvon Martin, that’s my baby’s voice. Every mother knows their child, and that’s his voice.” – Sybrina Fulton, mother of Trayvon Martin

The trial of George Zimmerman, charged in the second-degree murder of Trayvon Martin, has finally gotten underway. The surface facts of the case are not in dispute.

On February 26, 2012, Zimmerman, in his role as a neighborhood watch volunteer, followed, shot and killed the unarmed 17-year-old Martin who was walking back to a home in a Sanford, Fla. gated community after buying a bag of Skittles and a can of ice tea from a nearby convenience store.

Everything else about this case is complicated by the issues of race, the unsuccessful attempt by Zimmerman’s defense to put Trayvon’s background on trial, and Zimmerman’s claim of self-defense that is rooted in Florida’s questionable stand-your-ground law. Widespread public attention generated by the case has complicated the selection of an impartial jury.

As of this writing, Judge Debra Nelson has yet to rule on whether testimony from voice analysis experts Jeff Parker, Florida Today and the Fort Myers News-Press can be used to argue whose voice – Trayvon’s school records, past history of fighting or Trayvon’s or Zimmerman’s – is heard screaming for help just before the sound of a gunshot on photos and text messages on his cell phone. The judge rightfully decided that none of this has anything to do a taped 911 call. with why Zimmerman shot Trayvon.

This is a crucial point that could buttress ZimmerIt should also be noted that Zimmerman, a white man’s claim of self-defense or the prosecution’s contenHispanic, was a particularly zealous neighborhood tion that Zimmerman was the aggressor. It should be watch volunteer.

In the months leading up to that fateful noted that Trayvon’s mother, Sybrina Fulton, has heard February day, he had made dozens of 911 calls. In a the tape and has no doubt that the screaming voice is number of those calls, he reported spotting “suspicious” that of her son. persons in the neighborhood, almost all of whom were As a lawyer, I appreciate the role of experts in triBlack. als, but as a parent, I agree with Sybrina Fulton that in In his confrontation with Trayvon Martin, not only this case there is no more reliable expert than the mother did Zimmerman disregard the police dispatcher’s order of the victim. not to follow the so-called suspicious person, he vioPrior to the start of the trial, Judge Nelson ruled lated local neighborhood watch rules against carrying a against the defense’s attempt to introduce as evidence,

weapon and making pursuit.

We will leave it up to a jury to decide whether George Zimmerman is guilty of second-degree murder in the killing of Trayvon Martin.

But, as champions of civil rights and equal justice under the law, we believe this case will shed needed light on the issues of racial profiling and the stereotyping of young Black males. We also join Trayvon’s parents, Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin, in calling for a repeal of Florida’s troubling stand your ground law that states that anyone in fear of his or her life could be justified in using lethal force against a potential or perceived attacker.

We will be closely following the case and will keep you abreast of developments.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013 defendernetwork.com

sports

Serena Williams sets sights on Wimbledon

A

By MAX EDISON Defender

fter a convincing win in the French Open, Serena Williams left little doubt that she is the game’s No. 1 rated women’s player.

Williams now sets her sights upon defending the women’s title at Wimbledon and solidifying her place in history as one of the greatest female tennis players the world has ever seen.

Wimbledon, the world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, begins June 24.

Entering the 2013 tourney, Serena has won the event five previous times and amazingly usually wins the tourney in back-to-back years – 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, and 2012.

She has won the sixth most major titles in the history of tennis (16), which dates back to the 1880s. Add two more, and she’ll equal Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert with 18. It would not be a stretch if Serena hit that milestone by the end of this year.

Her French Open victory was her 31st in a row, the longest single-season streak in 13 years.

Williams is 43-2 with six titles this season.

At age 31 she is the oldest female to ever be ranked No. 1 by the WTA. She is the oldest woman to win a Grand Slam since Virginia Wade at Wimbledon in 1977. She battled back from illness and injury in 2010 that at one time not only threatened her career, but her life as well.

Houstonian Zina Garrison, a Wimbledon finalist in 1990, has observed the career of Serena from the beginning. She has coached her in Olympic competition and believes her recent accomplishments are nothing short of incredible.

“It’s just amazing how well she is playing as the No. 1 player in the world,” Garrison said. “She’s been playing for around 15 years.

She’s 31 and actually coming into her own.

To see what she has done is amazing and I’m extremely proud of her.”

Garrison is quick to acknowledge the maturity in Serena’s game that has allowed her to continue her reign of dominance.

“You see the wisdom, the commitment, the confidence all come into play,” Garrison said. She’s in the best shape of her life. As a result she is playing the best tennis of her career and defying

Serena Williams won the prestigious Wimbledon title last year and hopes to repeat.

the odds of history at 31. What she’s doing is totally amazing “She is a very smart player who constantly sets high goals for herself. She is the not the type to rest on her laurels. She is always looking to learn more to improve her game,” Garrison said.

“A lot of young players feel they know everything and have all the answers, not Serena. When I coached her in the Olympics she was eager to learn and accept my coaching; that’s rare for a person who has accomplished what she has.”

At the age of 31, Williams continues to dominate the game and her opponents.

Garrison also recognizes the role that outstanding parental decisions had in helping Serena avoid the early flameout that befalls so many tennis prodigies and helped her maintain

her edge at an advanced age.

“The age factor really is not as big of a deal because of the way she has been allowed to develop as a player,” Garrison said. “I think that the fact her parents didn’t allow her or Venus to play in too many tournaments when they were young has helped her to avoid the burnout at a young age that affects so many in the game.

“She’s also very well-rounded with many interests beyond tennis that I think in a way has helped her be successful.”

While we ponder the secret to Williams’s longevity and are amazed at her ability, she takes a very simple approach.

“I really believe age is a number at this point, because I have never felt so fit,” Serena said. “I feel great.

I look great. If I see someone that’s 31, I’m like, ‘You’re old.’ Then I’m like, ‘I’m 31.’ But I don’t feel it at all.”

For those wondering about how much longer the Serena’s period of dominance will last, she’s got an answer.

“I want to [retire] at my peak,” she said. “That’s my goal. But have I peaked yet?”

Only time will tell.

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Dulles’ Johnson keeps things in perspective

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

ROUND ROCK – Even through a dark cloud, Eric Johnson managed to see a silver lining.

The starting right fielder and leadoff man for the Dulles Vikings kept his composure under trying circumstances. The Woodlands defeated Dulles 9-5 in the 2013 Class 5A state championship baseball game. Although charged with only two errors, the Vikings made several costly mental errors that ultimately led to their demise.

Johnson held his head high as he accepted the runner-up silver medal from Gov. Rick Perry as some of his teammates were reduced to tears.

“This was a great experience for us [Dulles] because we’ve been working real hard as a unit to get to this point,” Johnson said. “To get here you have to come in hot and play with confidence. Of course your goal is to win, but sometimes you come up short.”

Dulles jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning over The Woodlands as Johnson coaxed a leadoff walk and eventually came around to score. Johnson scored two of the Vikings’ five runs in the contest.

Yet The Woodlands answered with a four spot Eric Johnson in the bottom of the first and scored four more in the third inning. Both big innings were fueled by Dulles’ miscues.

“Sometimes it’s just like that,” Johnson said. “You try to be calm and collected out there. We got a couple of pitches up and they strung some hits together. We didn’t play our best today and it just happens.”

A day earlier in the Class 5A state semifinals, Johnson gave Dulles ace pitcher Dakota Mills all the run support he would need with an RBI single in the fifth inning that broke a scoreless tie. The Vikings improved to 32-7 on the season as Mills went the distance, striking out 11 and giving up just two hits.

Dulles’ playoff run began with a 4-3 setback to Clear Creek. The Vikings closed out the best-two-of-three series with 1-0 and 10-1 victories. Dulles won one-game playoffs against both North Shore (4-1) and Deer Park (7-4) before knocking off defending 5A state champion Cypress Ranch (6-1, 6-5) in a best-two-of-three series.

In order to advance to the state tournament for the first time since winning the title in 1989, Dulles defeated Jersey Village 5-2 in the regional final.

Johnson committed to attend McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La. on a baseball scholarship this fall. He began playing organized baseball when he was 4 years old and considers the Vikings’ run to the 2013 Class 5A state title game the highlight.

“This was definitely the highlight of my baseball career so far,” Johnson said. “Years before we got knocked out of the playoffs in the second round one year and in the third round another year.

“It’s really tough to get here no matter how good your individual players are or how good your team is,” Johnson said. “You still have to work as a unit harder than anybody else to get here.”

On the collegiate level, Johnson says he wants to become a better leader and knows what he does best.

“My strength is definitely playing defense,” said the former catcher who converted to the outfield. “I know defense wins games.”

classified LEGAL NOTICE Neighborhood Centers Inc. (AGENCY), a non-profit human services organization, announces a Request for Proposal (RFP) #13-08 for Appreciative Inquiry Consulting Services. Interested Vendors can submit a proposal for Appreciative Inquiry Consulting Services. The deadline for submitting a proposal is July 22, 2013 by 12:00 PM (CST)*. To receive RFP #13-08, e-mail Ashia Brown, Supply Chain Manager, at abrown@neighborhood-centers.org.

NEIGHBORHOOD CENTERS INC. ENCOURAGES SMALL AND HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES TO APPLY.

Notice of Proposed Goal for the Participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Federal Transit Administration Assisted Contracts As required by Section 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 26, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County has determined a proposed overall goal of 16% for the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE’s) in its FY14 – FY16 contracts which are funded by U.S. Department of Transportation.

The proposed goal and its rationale are available for inspection during normal business hours at the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s Headquarters, 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002; in Room 2023.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County and the Federal Transit Administration will accept written comments on the proposed goal through July 30, 2013.

Written comments may be directed to Metropolitan Transit Authority Office of Small Business, Attention: Karen Hudson, P.O. Box 61429, Houston, Texas 77208-1429 or Federal Transit Administration: Attention: Rebecca Ubando Tanrath, 12300 West Dakota Ave., Suite 310, Lakewood, CO 80228

HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE TO PROPOSERS The Houston Independent School District located in the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center at 4400 West 18 th Street Houston, Texas 77092 will accept proposals, until the stated date and time deadlines, in the Board Services Office, Level C1 

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Project 13-06-04 RFP – Tree Pruning / Removal with a deadline of 10 A.M., July 9, 2013. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 2C10 at the above stated address on July 2, 2013 at 10:00 AM.

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Project 13-06-06 – RFP/Migrant Uniforms & Prepackaged School Supplies – with a deadline of 3 P.M.; July 17, 2013. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be held in room 2NE51 on July 10, 2013 at 10:00 A.M.

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Project 13-06-07 – RFP – Temporary Personnel Services – with a deadline of 10 A.M., Tuesday, July 9, 2013. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 3C12 at the above stated address on Tuesday, July 2, 2013, at 10 A.M.

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Project 13-07-01 – Excess Workers Compensation Insurance with a deadline of July 9, 2013 at 2 P.M. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at 11 A.M. in Room 2W26 at the above stated address.

Proposals are available on the HISD web-site at www.houstonisd.org.

The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or, to accept the proposal that is most advantageous to the District.

The District sells obsolete assets on-line at www.PublicSuprlus.com.

Bayou Bowl goes to Texas The Texas High School All-Stars were definitely in need of a lift. They got it from unheralded kicker Juan Ramirez of Lamar Consolidated. Ramirez converted three clutch field goals, including a 51-yarder late in the fourth quarter to secure a 22-14 victory over the Louisiana All-Stars in the 11th annual Bayou Bowl at Baytown’s Stallworth Stadium.

Ramirez was one of eight players on the Texas roster who doesn’t have a college scholarship. “I knew a few colleges would be watching out there and I just did my thing,” Ramirez said. “Hopefully, I will get a chance to play at the next level.” Trailing 14-6 to start the second half, the Texas All-Stars received key contributions from Cinco Ranch running back Adam Johnson and Dulles quarterback Robert Harris. Johnson scored two touchdowns in the contest.

Texas improved to 6-4-1 in the rivalry game.

Kashmere’s Jacobs shines The stage was the first Greater Houston Football Coaches Association Bowl played at Huffman Hargrave Stadium. Kashmere’s Joshua Jacobs stole the show in the second half with two takeaways, a long fumble return for a touchdown and a 38-yard TD reception to lead the Public-School All-Stars to a 28-7 win over the Private-School All-Stars. “This means a lot to me because I’ve never really had an opportunity to put on a show like that,” he said.

With the score tied 7-7 to begin the third quarter, Jacobs scooped up a fumble and returned it 70 yards for a score. His 29-yard interception return set up his TD reception. Jacobs is headed to Tyler Junior College.

UH trainer receives award University of Houston head athletics trainer Mike O’Shea will receive the Excellence in Athletic Training Award from the Southwest Athletic Trainers Association at its annual meeting and clinical symposia in Houston in mid-July. O’Shea and his sports medicine staff received national attention in November following cornerback D.J. Hayden’s freak injury during football practice. Following a collision on the field, Hayden’s inferior vena cava – a major blood vessel that brings blood from the lower extremities back to the heart – had almost been completely torn off his heart. With his quick thinking and action, O’Shea helped save Hayden’s life from an injury that is 95 percent fatal and more often seen in explosions or war casualties and never in athletics competition.

D-League Vipers champs The Rio Grande Valley Vipers, who are the single affiliate of the Houston Rockets, were recently named the 2013 NBA Development League Development Champions, becoming the second team to earn the annual award, which was established prior to the 2011-12 season. The award recognizes the team that best embodies the D-League’s goals of developing NBA-caliber basketball talent via call-ups and assignments. The champion is determined based on a scoring system established by the D-League’s Basketball Rules Committee. It awards points for assignments from an NBA parent club to an DLeague team as well as call-ups earned by players and coaching, training, and basketball operations staff from a D-League team to the NBA.

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013 defendernetwork.com

business

Debt Boot Camp registration open Defender News Services

Houstonians with a desire to be debt-free and financially sound can register for a free, innovative program sponsored

by Capital One Bank and Windsor Village United Methodist Church.

The next class of “Debt Boot Camp: How to Get Out, Stay Out and Become Financially Fit!” begins in September and will be held once a month on Saturdays for nine months at Kingdom Builders’ Center, 6011 W. Orem.

The program is centered on a course study designed to help individuals and families eliminate debt long-term.

Participants learn the importance of establishing savings while improving their credit.

“Capital One Bank continuously invests in programs that help children, teens and adults to increase their money management skills through participation in innovative, interactive learning opportunities,” said Annella Metoyer, Houston Market president for Capital One. “Our goal with the Debt Boot Camp and programs like it is to take the mystery out of managing money wisely and to set individuals of all ages on the path to a life of fiscal responsibility and economic self-reliance.”

“The Windsor Village Church Family in partnership with Capital One Bank is pleased to offer a top notch, first-of-its-kind program to persons interested in improving their financial situations,” said Windsor Village Senior Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell.

Forty-seven par-

ticipants in the 12-month program recently graduated and were honored at the Kingdom Builders’ Center.

“Our students have gone from a position of only being able to qualify for payday loans to being able to get credit to buy homes, cars and start businesses,” said Laurie Vignaud, senior vice president of community development banking for Capital One. “This has a very positive impact on the Houston economy.”

For registration information call 713-435-5317.

HOUSTON DEFENDERRecent Debt Boot Camp graduates are honored at a celebration held at Kingdom Builders Center.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, TX (METRO) Public Hearing for the State Performance Audit The State Performance Audit of METRO’s fiscal years 2009 thru 2012 will be presented at a public hearing to be held on June 27, 2013, at 9:00 a.m. in the METRO Boardroom on the 2nd floor at 1900 Main in Houston, Texas.

The performance audit reports and METRO management’s responses to the audit will be available for public review beginning June 13, 2013, at METRO headquarters at 1900 Main Street on the 14th Floor by contacting Rosa Diaz at 713-739-4840. Also, you are urged to visit METRO’s website RideMETRO.org to view all documents and make comments.

JUNE 20 | 2013 DEFENDER

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For Event Coverage...visit

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Missouri City Councilmember Don Smith and State. Rep. Ron Reynolds

Honorees Atty. Jarvis Hollingsworth, Judge Debra Champagne, Cynthia Turner and Atty. Harry Johnson

Honoree Rev. Dr. Marcus Cosby and professor Alvin Wardlaw

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chag’splace

Erin Prestage, Commissioner Grady Prestage and Fheryl Prestage

The Williams family, Nikkholaus, Joseph and Jacquie

Honoree Rev. Dr. Marcus Cosby and Professor Alvin Wardlaw

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION…..The Missouri City success!......HONORING OUR FATHERS….. The Houston Metropolitan Chapter of the Morehouse College Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (MCJCF) is a nonNational Alumni Association presented the winners profit organization and the largest of its kind in the nation. of its annual Father’s Day Brunch, For the 11th year, they celebrated with honoring Houston-area men who have weeklong Texas-sized family events Join Yvette Chargois and activities. One facet of their made a significant contribution in celebration is the Community Service the areas of mentorship, service and Events of the Week Awards Gala that was established leadership. The honorees included More photos on defendernetwork.com in 2006 to bring recognition to area Rev. Dr. Marcus Cosby, senior See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m. community leaders. This year’s gala pastor at Wheeler Avenue Baptist was held at the beautiful City CentreChurch, Alvin Wardlaw Mentorship Quail Valley facility and the honorees Award; State Sen. Rodney Ellis, included attorney Jarvis V. Hollingsworth, partner in the Texas Senate, District 13, Albert Price Sr. Community Houston law firm of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP; Judge Service Award; Gerald Smith, chairman and CEO of Debra Champagne, presiding judge for City of Missouri Smith, Graham & Co., Investment Advisors, L.P., Dezra City and Stafford; attorney Harry E. Johnson, partner at White Leadership Award, and Dr. Harold Mullins Sr., the law office of Glenn and Johnson, and Cynthia Turner, Distinguished Alumni Award. The Maroon Tiger “Father national laboratory professional. We salute MCJCF of the Year” Award was presented to Danny Dunn, a founder and Missouri City Councilman Don Smith father who struggles with diabetes and suffered multiple for an exceptional Juneteenth celebration. Continued heart attacks and strokes, yet despite it all, still says “God

Fort Bend Constable Ruben Davis and Sharon Davis

Solomon Ajai, Malaki Sims and Alston Johnson

Adam White and Father of the Year Danny Dunn

is good.” The scholarship recipients are Alston Johnson and Solomon Ajai and both will attend Morehouse in the fall. Kudos to chapter president Malaki Sims and all chapter members for an outstanding brunch.

Congrats!....OTHER CELEBRATIONS…...Volunteer Houston honored several outstanding volunteers at their 2013 Greater Houston Service award luncheon. The honorees included Deijah Bordenave, Beryle Faier, Kylie Fichter, John Hardesty, Mandy Kao, Mary Lacurio, Edgar Mediana, Carol Rone and Neeta Sane. The Lifetime Achievement award honorees are Naomi Dempsey and Dale Martin and the Corporate Citizenship award was presented to Bank of America and CenterPoint Energy……Juneteenth celebrations included parades in Houston, Missouri City and Galveston, special events sponsored by the Friends of Emancipation Park and a Miller Outdoor Theatre’s celebration featuring CJ Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band……From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!

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DEFENDER | JUNE 20 | 2013

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