BET AWARDS: Can we do better?
You only understand the value once something is gone. That’s precisely what I said about the writer’s strike in Hollywood, but you can feel it in the production quality of some shows, especially the BET Awards.
The BET Awards is an annual celebration of Black excellence in music, entertainment, and culture, and what was supposed to be an unforgettable night ended up in a lonnnngggg show of lackluster performances, no host, and disjointed transitions between acts. The usual wit, humor, and thought-provoking commentary that writers bring were sorely missed, leaving the presenters and performers needing help to maintain the event’s momentum. Black Twitter was cuttin’ up renaming the award show the “EBT Awards.” I’m at a loss for words so I will end here. In the meantime! We need these writers back NOWWWWW! We can’t go down hard like this.
Give it up for Afrobeats!
I have to give a shout-out to Mama Africa one time! Davido joined Fireboy DML as the only Afrobeats artist to perform on the BET Award stage. This news carries significant weight because there was a point in time when African acts received international awards backstage or before the main event. Even though the award ceremony highlights Black excellence, international acts didn’t receive the same love as American artists. In the past, BET had received Blacklash from African artists because of this. Afrobeats
has been around for a long time, even though mainstream is just now catching up. Guess what? It’s not going anywhere! It’s not a trend, and it’s here to stay. I hope that these artists continue to get the airtime they deserve. Shout out to the OGs 2Face, D’Banj, Ice Prince, Sarkodie, and others who walked so today’s stars can run.
Dennis Rodman shows out for Pride Month
Houston knows how to bring out the celebrities, and once again, the city welcomes yet another legendary figure, NBA Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman. He made an appearance at Houston’s Pride parade, and he did it in proper Rodman form. He greeted parade-goers wearing a green plaid skirt, Black T-shirt, and shades to match. He received several negative remarks on social media, mostly on his flamboyant personality and gender-fluid style. However, if you are an avid follower of NBA history, you would know that during his prime, Rodman wore outfits that were deemed controversial. He attended gay and drag clubs in his career and was inspired by those people who chose to live on their terms. In the name of Pride Month, I need all the bigots to research the man before coming for him. PLEASE!
CORRECTION: Last week, in our Houston Urban League Story, Judson Robinson was incorrectly identified as Executive Director. He should’ve been identified as President.
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis is hoping Commissioners Court will add an additional $7.7 million to a buyout program to provide repeat food victim with more money for relocation.
“Tis is the frst mandatory buyout program in the country,” Commissioner Rodney Ellis said. “With this program, we are trying to keep families safe from increasingly severe fooding. But the county can’t accomplish its goals if residents aren’t compensated appropriately.”
Commissioner Ellis proposed to increase the allocation for benefts to $7.7 million to achieve parity with federal funding levels.
The Project Recovery Post Disaster Relocation and Buyout Program’s SAFE initiative is a mandatory buyout program designed to reduce the risk of future fooding and increase the safety of residents and businesses in areas that have experienced
By Tannistha Sinha
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, alongside local elected ofcials, the Acres Homes Community, public and private sector community partners, and numerous supporters, recently celebrated the completion of Phase One and the commencement of Phase Two of the transformation of the Bethune Academy campus, now called the Bethune Empowerment Center (BEC).
“Te Bethune Empowerment Center represents so much more than brick and mortar. It is a testament to what collaboration, support, commitment, dedication, resiliency, and public, private and community partnerships can achieve,” Turner said.
Te BEC project has three phases - cultivation, growth and ultimately, the creation of a self-sustaining ecosystem. Although the center is in its second phase, it already welcomed its frst tenants, Lone Star College, and Communities for Better Health.
Phase one includes an AT&T-funded renovation of three buildings, comprising administrative ofces, a classroom, a community event space, purchase of a new electric control panel and a computer lab.
Phase two includes the renovation of four more buildings, including a commercial kitchen, a workforce development training center with EV charging stations, a community garden, and a child care facility.
While the Houston Business Development, Inc. is the developer, manager and operator for BEC, Key HTX is the general contractor and Moody Nolan is the architectural frm.
Te project also received $4 million in community development block grant funds from the City of Houston for phase one and $1.5 million for phase two. Other sponsors included Reliant, which provided a $500,000 donation, North Houston Pole Line Company, and the Amerigroup/ Anthem. CenterPoint Energy donated $1 million to fasttrack phase two renovations.
Meanwhile, congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee secured $2 million in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding for phase two.
“Tis is just the latest example of the importance of direct federal funding to communities,” Jackson Lee said. “I was pleased to champion, and work with my Colleagues in the House to provide $3 million dollars in funding to the
repetitive fooding.
Property owners in targeted areas will be ofered fair market appraised value for their property – residential, commercial, or vacant. Relocation assistance could include advisory services, moving and related expenses, business re-establishment services, replacement housing payments, rental assistance payments, and down payment assistance for replacement homes.
Te program is one of the frst mandatory buyouts in response to the climate crisis. Low-income families who had no choice but to participate were not being ofered enough money to do so. Undocumented families in Precinct One were not being treated the same as those with citizenship.
“Immigration status should have no bearing on one’s ability to recover from a climate disaster or to live in a healthy home less vulnerable to fooding,” Commissioner Ellis said.
Complete Communities initiative through a Community Project Funding request made by the City of Houston to restore the Bethune Empowerment Center as a place of historic and social signifcance.”
Te BEC, upon its completion, has been envisioned to become a business incubator and a vocational training hub for the Acres Homes community. It is the latest addition to innovation centers like the East End Maker Hub and the Ion in Midtown.
Te idea originated from the Acres Homes Complete Community Action Plan, when the need to transform the Bethune Academy arose.
“Tis Center is a commitment to the betterment of the Acres Homes Community,” added Turner.
By Laura Onyeneho
Residents in Fifth Ward are leading an open dialogue about the recent HISD takeover and its impact on local schools.
A meeting led by Janice Thomas, founder and CEO of Discovering U, and hosted by Greater Fifth Ward Go Neighborhoods at the Restoration Square Full Gospel Church, aimed to give parents, educators and community members the chance to discuss school district updates, challenges and opportunities for collective action to improve student outcomes.
“I believe that all children can succeed. Our children deserve a quality education. All they need is an opportunity and resources that will help them get there,” said Thomas. “Their economic background has no bearing on what they are capable of learning and doing.”
Thomas, a Wheatley High School alumna (Class of 1986), pointed to seven key pillars for changes that the state expects from public schools. She believes the school district fell short in terms of the academic success of
Black and Brown students in the district, which include:
• Ensuring all students graduate with essential knowledge and skills for life, career and/or military
• Equipping all schools with strong visionary leaders
• Staffing each campus with effective educators
• Directing schools to welcome community members, parents, and teachers as partners in the decision-making for schools in their neighborhoods
• Equitably funding all schools to meet the unique needs of their student populations
• Maintaining a safe and supportive environment for students
• Providing schools with curriculums, programs, activities and services that provide opportunities for student achievement and growth
Several parents actively addressed challenges from an HISD parent’s perspective including, lack of school funding, discipline disparities, a lack of meaningful engagement with educators, and lack of college prep for students to excel at low-performing schools.
With summer’s unique dangers approaching and June being Public Safety Month, District F Councilmember Tiffany D. Thomas launched the “Summer of Safety” initiative, a series of events and citywide campaigns focused on the health and safety of District F residents.
With an overarching goal of improving the quality of life for all District F constituents and Houstonians across the city, the initiative recently kicked off with a Town Hall Meeting hosted by Thomas, Houston’s Chief of Police Troy Finner, Harris County District Attorney Special Prosecutor C. O. Bradford, and representatives from the Mayor’s Office of Gang Prevention and Intervention.
“This year’s focus centers on our young people. School is out and the summer can create space and opportunity for young people to find themselves in trouble. I want to offer communities and families the resources to help them prepare and safeguard themselves from potential dangers,” said Thomas.
“Summer of Safety” remaining elements include:
• Swim & Water Safety Seminar: July 15 at 10a.m. at The Alief Neighborhood Center Beginners swimming class and water safety tips for the pool and/or the lake
• Carbon monoxide/Smoke Detector Distribution: Friday, June 30 at 9a.m. in District F Distribution of home fire safety tips and recommendations
WHAT RESIDENTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE INITIATIVE.
VOLUME 92, NUMBER 32 - JUNE 29, 2023
Member of Restoration Square Full Gospel Church
“I have a granddaughter and ever since she finished school, every day I pick her up, get her something to eat and we hit the books, and she’s sitting right here next to me because I need to know what’s going on while her parents are working. I want her to know that I am interested, I’m willing to be here with you.”
DANIELLE FLANAGAN Operations and Research Manager of the Coalition of Community Organizations
“Houston ISD has been chosen as the model district to set the example for how all school boards should operate and how the members should be focused on the outcomes of our children.”
BARBARA JONES
Fifth Ward resident
“I would say the problem we have with parent communication in schools is that we don’t feel welcome. We feel dumb or you’re not taking me seriously enough because I have a bad child. So, when I walk in and have a serious case and I want to get to what we can do to solve this problem to help my child succeed, but you’ve already had this idea in your head that the parent must be bad because the child is terrible… and their address defies what type of mother I am.”
Publisher | CEO
Sonceria Messiah-Jiles
Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles
Digital Content Manager Get Current Studios
Managing Editor ReShonda Tate
Associate Editor Aswad Walker
Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho
Special Assignments Reporter Tannistha Sinha
Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles
Photographer Jimmie Aggison
Social Media Manager
Tia Alphonse
Jordan Hockett The
With a melodic repertoire that spans over two decades, Earnest Pugh has captivated audiences worldwide with his soul-stirring songs that have garnered an impressive 50 million digital streams and secured a multitude of Billboard Gospel Airplay chart hits. Earnest Pugh just released a new album last week that is currently #1 on iTunes Christian and Gospel chart, “Te Very Best Of Earnest Pugh.”
As an Emmy Award winner, Dove and Stellar Award nominee, and three-time Billboard no. 1 artist, Pugh has etched his name in the annals of gospel music history.
Hailing from Memphis, TN, his lifelong passion for music was nurtured within the walls of the church, where his soaring vocals found solace and purpose.
Afer serving in the military for 20 years, Pugh embarked on his recording career, carving a path that would lead him to release 12 Gospel albums to date.
Fueling his musical prowess is an unyielding commitment to education, holding a B.A. and M.A. from Howard University and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Theology and Christian Counseling from Dallas Teological Seminary, slated for completion in 2023.
Formerly serving as the Pastor of Worship at Houston’s Lighthouse Church and now the esteemed Artist-in-Residence at Te Church Without Walls, Pugh’s unwavering dedication to his craft is paralleled by his vision to make a lasting impact.
As he sets his sights on growing VetsRock, a
non-proft organization aimed at empowering underserved women combat veterans, Pugh’s heart beats with a deep desire to support those who have served their country. Inspired by the plight of a female veteran he encountered living in a Houston shelter, Pugh’s dream of providing assistance to the most underserved population of U.S. veterans fuels his tireless commitment to making a diference.
Join us as the Defender delves into the remarkable journey of Dr. Earnest Pugh, a musical maestro, advocate, and beacon of hope, who continues to inspire through his artistry and unwavering compassion.
DEFENDER: What interested you in entering in the music business? What about it drew you to gospel music?
EARNEST PUGH: I’m a Pastor’s Kid. My parents were involved in ministry, so we really didn’t have a choice. I found myself working around drums, keys, and then ultimately in music. When I got older and went to the military, I just had this thing that we are in bad times, and people need good news. So, I knew I was going to use my voice to do anything I wanted to do, and that’s empowering and encouraging people spiritually.
DEFENDER: Your music ofen carries powerful messages of faith, hope, and inspiration. How do you approach the process of selecting songs that resonate with listeners and convey the intended message?
Pugh: I try to have an ear to the ground, just to see what God is saying every season. Singers are a dime a dozen, but the
ones that really make an impact are the ones that know how to really move our culture forward. For example, Marvin Gaye sang ‘What’s Going On?” He was talking about the culture, and what’s happening in politics and society in general. When you are aforded that platform, you have to utilize that platform to also inform and inspire.
DEFENDER: You are from Memphis, but you’ve made Houston your home and have accomplished many things here.Talk about that.
PUGH: Prior to coming to Houston, I was in the Washington D.C area for about 12 years. I wasn’t about to move here at frst. I came here to be a worship leader for a particular church, and I stayed there for a while. What was diferent about that assignment was my focus was more on young adults. Ten with young adults you’ve got to use their language. I had to fnd a way to relate to people. It really challenged me because all of my time as a worship leader, I had been ministering with older people, or should I say more seasoned people. As an artist-in-residence, it has helped me dig deeper as a believer. Although I’m there in a musical capacity, it’s challenging me to have more background and more substance and history concerning lyric content that I put with songs.
DEFENDER: How do you navigate the industry as a multi-talented artist, from being a singer and songwriter to a producer and label executive?
PUGH: I’ve tried to be very intentional about my songs. When I first came into the industry, one of my biggest songs was “Rain on Us,” and I wanted to release that song in the midst of an economic downturn. People were losing houses, losing cars, the stock market was going crazy. Just coming in with normal conversations wasn’t going to grab the people. Speak to the current reality of people. Even with “Keeper of My Soul,” the album that just released, it’s an anti-fear antidote because we’ve got a lot of shootings happening. It puts a lot of fear and doubt and unbelief in the hearts of people. I want to remind people that God is still your protector. He will cover you.
Pride month is a time to commemorate the relentless struggle for LGBTQ rights and the triumphs achieved along the way. It is a powerful reminder that the fight for equality and acceptance is far from over.
This annual observation began in 1970 in New York in response to the 1969 Stonewall protests. Individuals fought against widespread discrimination, harassment and unlawful arrests due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
While Pride has become synonymous with rainbow flags, parties, and parades, its roots lie in the legacy of resistance, protest, and the unwavering demand for equal rights.
In Houston, there are Black LGBTQ advocates who continue to defy social expectations and proudly assert their right to exist authentically. The community is under attack from new anti-LGBTQ laws, limiting protections for transgender people, roadblocking gender-affirming care and censoring discussion of sexual orientations and gender identity in schools.
Here are a few of the city’s Black leaders, their advocacy work, and the issues that impact the Black LGBTQ community.
IAN HADDOCK - Founder and executive director of The Normal Anomaly Initiative, a non-profit dedicated to assist Black, Queer+ people overcome barriers and end stigma
and problematic narratives.
Haddock faced the challenges of growing up in poverty. Despite the challenges, he excelled academically and was involved in church and community. However, everything changed when he came out as gay. His family presented him with an ultimatum: deny his sexuality, keep his home and family, or embrace his identity and face homelessness.
Forced to make a choice, Haddock bravely embraced his truth, which led to his family disowning him. Instead of succumbing to despair, his refuge in Houston’s LGBTQ+ community inspired Haddock to help others.
“We live in a system that continues to take away personal and bodily autonomy and the ability to make choices away,” Haddock said. “My passion is centered around freedom. None of us are free until we are all free.”
The state’s current political landscape is detrimental to the livelihoods of Black LGBTQ+ people.
“Many bills are being passed that are overly exaggerated in a way. For example, legislators are against drag entertainment and consider it a sexually oriented business,” he said. “How did we get here? It’s not the same, and that’s dangerous, especially for non-LGBTQ folks who are more conservative around social issues.”
The Normal Anomaly Initiative has several programs to protect and support LGBTQ+
don’t need to understand – or even agree with – their actions, but respecting their decisions is essential.”
people with its business directory, archiving a list of more than 100 LGBTQ-affirming companies and allies. They are working on expanding training for ally organizations to trans people and community outreach to high school graduates and college students.
FRAN WATSON - Houston-based attorney. Not only does she identify as lesbian, but she represents LGBTQ clients through her firm F. Watson Law, PLLC. She publicly came out as a lesbian in her late 20s and has since dedicated her career to amplifying the voices of people with similar experiences.
She was the first African-American woman to serve as the president of the Houston GLBT Political Caucus, but she was also voted as the 2016 Female Pride Marshal, was part of a collaborative fight for the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance in 2014, one of the founding attorneys for the transgender legal aid clinic, and offer the services at her firm at 40% pro bono.
“This legislature was very brutal session, and living in Texas is tough for LGBTQ folk, especially Black people,” she said. “So many communities need assistance. That’s why you see me helping out with homelessness or in the legal community. People need basic quality care.”
Watson says one issue that should be discussed is protecting trans people with preventative care.
“If you don’t have the right identification documentation, the safety to take care of yourself and navigate in your authentic self, it’s going to impact your quality of life,” she said. “HIV also needs to be discussed more in the Black community.”
ASHTON WOODS - Prominent LGBTQ activist and the co-founder of Black Lives Matter Houston. He has been a vocal advocate for racial justice, LGBTQ rights and social equality.
Woods has worked tirelessly to uplift the voices of marginalized communities and has been instrumental in organizing protests and campaigns for change. Woods openly identifies as an HIV-positive, gay atheist who is unapologetically Black, highlighting the intersectionality and diversity of what it means to be Black.
146 again. In 2019, he previously contested for the same seat but lost. However, that never stopped his mission to amplify the voices of Black LGBTQ+ people.
“I’ve worked very hard to maintain the ideology and the mentality that I’m of service to my community,” he said. “If we don’t take of us, who the hell gonna do it? Remember, Pride Month started as a riot. Y’all better be prepared to throw a rock, whether physically or metaphorically. Black people started this movement, and we’re going to finish it.”
770,000 LGBTQ Adults
158,500 LGBTQ Youth
“Our quality of life is an issue, our safety, he said. “Harris County is being taken over by a bunch of Republican and Christian fascists who are passing bills that police our bodies, police women’s wombs, especially females who transition to male.”
That is why he decided to run for the state representative seat for Texas House District
48% Gen-Z (13-20) 65% Millennials (21-34)
By ReShonda TateJune is PRIDE month and as many hit the streets to celebrate during this summer month, many still lack knowledge of understanding people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ).
“Understanding the diverse identities is so important,” said Lou Weaver, transgender programs coordinator with Equality Texas, a statewide political advocacy organization that advocates for LGBT rights. Learning how to lead with respect when it comes to understanding pronouns and slang terminology, is what will keep us united as a people.
“It shows respect for other humans to use the language they are comfortable with. You
While deep-rooted religious beliefs can hamper tolerance of LGBTQ issues, acceptance is increasing in communities of faith. Though data from the institute shows African-Americans overall still lag in support of the LGBTQ community, acceptance is on the rise. Weaver acknowledged that understanding can prove challenging, especially when many equate LGBTQ to an individual’s sexual orientation.
“A lot people don’t understand that it’s not about sex with us,” said Weaver, a transgender male. “Gender identity is who I go to bed as–in my case, a transgender male. My sexual orientation is who I want to go to bed with.”
A survey from the J. Walter Thompson Innovation Group found that young
Americans are far more open-minded and permissive than their older millennial counterparts when it comes to issues of gender and sexuality.
LGBTQ advocates urge people to move past ideology of what a “normal” relationship is supposed to look like to better understand the changing landscape. In fact, a host of other categories have been added, broadening the scope of how people identify themselves. In addition to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, there’s also pansexual, gender fluid, binary, non-binary, asexual and intersex.
“It’s important to learn the language in order to join the discussion – the LGBTQ community has a long and sordid history of people using language against them. Whether
you’re queer yourself or just want to be a better ally, it’s crucial to get your terminology straight,” said Simone Waters, who identifies as pansexual (attraction based on emotions).
“We’re just not monolithic anymore,” she said. “There are many of us whose emotional attraction is more important than sexual attraction. That’s me. I don’t care about the sex part or what they identify as. If you like me, I can like you. It’s not that complicated. Everyone wants to make it about sex and it’s not.”
Waters said taking the time to understand can help stop jaded mindsets and hurtful questions.
There are a number of commonly used words in the LGBTQIA+ community. Over time, language and terminology may shift but Waters says it’s important to understand the terms people use to identify.
Agender - A person without gender. An agender individual’s body does not necessarily correspond with their lack of gender identity. Often, agender individuals are not concerned with their physical sex, but some may seek to look androgynous.
Ally - A person who supports and respects sexual diversity, acts accordingly to challenge homophobic and heterosexist remarks and behaviors, and is willing to explore and understand these forms of bias within themselves.
Asexual - Someone who does not experience sexual attraction toward others, and who identifies as asexual. May or may not experience romantic, emotional, or physical attractions to other people
Bicurious - An individual who identifies as gay or straight while showing some curiosity for a relationship or sexual activity
with a person of the sex they do not favor.
Bisexual - A person who is emotionally, romantically, sexually, affectionately, or relationally attracted to both men and women.
Cisgender - A person who feels as if their biological sex matches their gender identity.
Demiromantic - A person who does not experience a romantic attraction unless they have formed a strong emotional bond.
Fluid - A sexual or gender identity that exists beyond a binary system of either gay or straight, man or woman.
Gender Identity - How one perceives oneself – as a man, a woman, or otherwise
Lesbian - A woman who is emotionally, romantically, sexually, affectionately, or relationally attracted to other women, or someone who identifies as a member of the lesbian community.
LGBTQ - A common abbreviation for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning community.
Omnisexual - A person who is sexually attracted to all sexes/genders. Similar to bisexual, except omnisexual’s attractions are not constrained by the gender binary.
Pansexual - A person who is emotionally, romantically, sexually, affectionately, or relationally attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex.
Pronouns - One class of words that an individual would like others to use when talking to or about that individual (for example: he/him/his, she/her/hers, or ze/hir/hirs).
Queer - Term describing people who have a non-normative gender identity, sexual orientation, or sexual anatomy—includes lesbians, gay men, bisexual people, and transgender people and allies.
Same-Gender Loving (SGL) -A term used by some African-American individuals to describe their sexual orientation, as a result of the perception that “gay” and “lesbian” are primarily white terms. “Samesex loving” is also in use.
Sapiosexual - A person who is emotionally, romantically, sexually, affectionately, or relationally attracted to intelligence and its use.
Transgender - An umbrella term for those individuals whose gender identity does not match with that assigned for their physical sex.
Transsexual - A term that is specific to trans people who have transitioned their sex through hormones and/or surgery.
Ze/Hir - A gender-neutral pronoun used by some transgender individuals (Pronounced Zee) in lieu of he or she.
Te Houston Independent School District has been in upheaval since the Texas Education Agency intervened on June 1. While opinions on that move varied, TEA ofcials opined the district has long been in need of change.
“Te goal is obviously to get the district back on track and make sure that the district meets the three established exit criteria as quickly as possible, so that the locally elected board can resume their role as the leadership team at the district,” said Jake Kobersky, director of media relations at TEA. “Tis isn’t Austin running HISD; it’s still Houston ISD, a Houston-run school system.”
Kobersky iterated that the TEA, under no circumstance, is a “takeover” but rather, a “temporary intervention.” He believes a takeover denotes the agency is running HISD, which is not the case. According to the TEA, the new management team and superintendent will aim to get “the district pointed in the right direction to make progress very quickly, to address some of the resource and educational disparities that have persisted in the district and to allow an equal playing feld for students in the district.”
Te agency will aim to ensure that the district reaches a point when the elected board of trustees can transition back to their position, Kobersky added.
The Defender took a look at the numbers to see the reason for the TEA “intervention,” if HISD had it coming and how Black majority schools were faring for the last two decades.
Here is what we found:
• High schools like Kashmere, Worthing and Wheatley have been underperforming, according to TEA data, with multiple negative ratings like “academically unacceptable” and “improvement required” and grades below “C” since 2019,
mandatory action,
• In 2012, no accountability ratings were assigned and in 2018, the ratings changed to either “Met Standard” or “Rated: Harvey Provision,”
• In 2020, the district and schools did not receive a rating due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in 2021, the ratings were withheld, with all reports stating “Not Rated: Declared State of Disaster,”
• In 2021, the eight Black majority schools received the same rating - “Not Rated: Declared State of Disaster,”
• In 2022, institutions like Yates and Kashmere High School received the “Not Rated: Senate Bill 1365” status, which is under the Accountability System Impact, and
The
RFTP No. 4023000155: Roof Replacement for METRO Central Stores Warehouse. Solicitation is expected to be available on or about 06/20/2023.
RFTP No. 4023000156: Roof Replacement for METRO Headquarters Building at 1900 Main Street. Solicitation is expected to be available on or about 06/20/2023. Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO’s website at https://webapps.ridemetro.org/procurement/solicitations.aspx. If you are unable to download the documents or are having diffculty, please contact 713-615-6125 or email propertyservices@ridemetro.org.
THE HARRIS CENTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND IDD REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL
6168 SOUTH LOOP EAST APARTMENTS
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD is requesting Competitive Sealed Proposals pursuant to Chapter 2269 of the Texas Government Code and 2 CFR Part 200 from qualifed construction frms for construction of an apartment complex for consumers served by The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD. Federal labor standards provisions including but not limited to HUD Section 3, Davis Bacon and Related Acts, and City of Houston’s MWBE and Pay or Play will be enforced. The site will be 6168 South Loop East, Houston, 77087, Project Number: PUR-FY23-262.
Specifcations may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Services located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7279, The HARRIS CENTER website www.theharriscenter.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Monday, July 3, 2023. A mandatory in-person Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 10:00 a.m. CST at 9401 Southwest Frwy, Room 104, Houston, TX 77074.
• In 2019, Kashmere received acceptable rating for frst time in 11 years with conservator, while Wheatley reached seven consecutive unacceptable ratings that triggered
• Te Senate Bill 1365 gives the commissioner the power to give a “Not Rated” designation to some schools subject to disaster declaration or an insufcient number of students, adopt solutions to evaluate the performance of the school in an academic year, and require the annual reportage of underperforming schools, among other criteria.
Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this CSP is Monday, July 17, 2023, 5:00 p.m. CSP responses must be submitted to Purchasing, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 11:00 a.m. July 26, 2023, in a sealed envelope marked “CSP - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL–11:00 a.m. July 26, 2023 “6168 South Loop East Apartments”. A public opening of the proposals will occur immediately following the proposal submission deadline at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Sharon Brauner, C.P.M., Purchasing Manager, Sharon.brauner@theharriscenter.org, James Blunt, C.P.M., James.Blunt@theharriscenter.org, and Nina Cook, MBA, CTCM, CTCD, Director of Purchasing, Nina.cook@theharriscenter.org or fax to (713) 9707682. Minority-Owned Businesses and Women-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to postpone, accept or reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal. This solicitation (CSP) is subject to addenda, including but not limited to, an extension of the submission deadline, communicated through www.theharriscenter.org.
HISD Board of Managers are taking steps to implement signifcant cuts to central ofce staf and vendor contracts with the latest unanimous budget plan approval of $2.2 billion for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year.
During the previous board meeting, Miles said he intends to save $30 million with “a central ofce rightsizing” and to leave vacancies unflled, $50 million by eliminating contractors for services and $25 million by ending some staff funding through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER), due to run out by September 2024. Miles did not provide a specifc number of positions to be cut, but he expressed his intention to notify employees by the end of June if they will fall into that unfortunate category.
“Tere are schools and districts where we
have not treated teachers like true professionals,” Miles said during his presentation. “We have given them so many extra things to do that they can’t focus on the main job, which is the quality of instruction in the classroom.”
He stressed on calling it a “hospital model” as a metaphor to treat teachers like doctors. “We can’t pay them like they’re doctors but we can raise their salaries, right?” he added.
Miles will implement a new stafng model in C, D, and F schools, where new staf members will be added as needed as well as employ teachers from reconstituted schools, he presented.
Alongside this model is his intention to implement a new educator evaluation system, that will train instructors on the principal evaluation system.
Miles also highlighted his goals during the Tursday meeting, including:
-Expanding leadership density
-Improving the quality of instruction in HISD schools, pre-K through fourth grade
During the meeting, Miles listed the issues he has observed with the HISD.
Miles cited the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which analyzed the fourth grade reading level of the nation, Texas, urban areas and Houston. In comparison to the national average of 32%, Texas is a close 30%, urban areas are at 26%, while Houston is at 19%. Based on this, he concluded that profciency is low and has continued this way for the last decade.
In 2022, white students read at 60% profciency, he read of of a graph on the screen, while Black students read at 11% profciency and Hispanic students at 14% profciency.
“Te gap is too large, it’s 49% for African Americans, it’s 46% for Hispanic students in HISD,” he said. “I think it is an equity issue.”
He also compared the 2022 State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) scores, where bar graphs revealed NES eighth graders were reading and doing math at a lower level than HISD and Texas schools.
The advent of AI (Artificial Intelligence) will also pose a problem for these students, he predicted, and stressed on their need to work in teams and with AI communications to be ready for the job market in 2035.
In a media press conference, Miles outlined his plans to expand the programming at NES schools, including standardized curricula, pre-prepared lesson plans, and support for teachers, to encompass 150 campuses by 2030.
Additionally, Miles emphasized that certain aspects of New Education System (NES) schools will be made on campuses that voluntarily opt into the program, without the need for reconstitution. He mentioned that the decision to enroll will rest with the principals following discussions with their staf, and deadlines for enrollment is the end of next week.
The HISD Board meeting started off yet again in the absence of Miles.
This time, students spoke alongside teachers and community members.
A high schooler called it “unfair” to make all teachers in the 28 schools Miles has identifed to need immediate reform. Meanwhile, a fourthgrader said while TEA’s focus is on test scores, she begs to difer.
“I am more than a test score. My friend and I are more than a test score,” she
said. “Teachers and principals are more than a school’s test scores.”
One of the speakers addressed last week’s meeting when some speakers were placed in an “overfow room.”
“You put me in a room with a camera and a screen,” she said. “I sat and looked around and all I saw was black and brown faces. I realized that you used the zoom room discipline strategy on me and my community. I’ve never felt so discriminated.”
More seats were available for the speakers this week. A few members from the audience stood with their backs turned against him and held thumbs down signs as a way of protesting against his measures.
Mike Miles is expected to host eight family events to share more information about his vision for HISD, and to meet families from schools across the district. Te community events will be held at various locations throughout the district. Families are encouraged to attend the event closest to them but may attend any event they choose.
Here are the locations below:
TUESDAY, JULY 11
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Pugh Elementary, 1147 Kress St., 77020
THURSDAY, JULY 13
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Marshall Middle, 1115 Noble St., 77009
TUESDAY, JULY 18
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center, 4400 W. 18th St., 77092
THURSDAY, JULY 20
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Virtual
THURSDAY, JULY 27
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Sugar Grove Middle, 8405 Bonhomme Rd., 77074
SATURDAY, JULY 29
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. West Briar Middle, 13733 Brimhurst Dr., 77077
TUESDAY, AUG. 1
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Stevenson Middle, 9595 Winkler Dr., 77017
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 2
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Attucks Middle, 4330 Bellfort St., 77051
The next board meeting is scheduled for August 10th.
When the Rockets drafted Amen Thompson with the No.4 pick of last week’s NBA Draft and the Detroit Pistons followed up the very next pick and took his twin brother Ausar with the No.5 overall selection, they became the first brothers taken in the top five of the same draft. “I think it’s kind of cool going first. It means a lot to my family,” Amen said. “Me and Ausar, we were going to be happy whoever went first. But it means a lot to my family seeing all the hard work pay off. Us go back to back, be the first twins in the same draft to go top five, it means a lot.”
Amen Thompson
Nick Anderson began last week on a 12-hour bus trip from Lincoln, Neb. across the Canadian border to Winnipeg, followed by another long trip over to Sioux Falls for a weekend of games.
Such is life in minor league baseball.
Jon SingletonThe Astros have signed their former first-round pick Jon Singleton to a minor league deal. Singleton, who was a free agent, has been assigned to Triple-A Sugar Land to play first base. Singleton was at one time the Astros top prospect at first base, signing a five-year, $10 million contract with the club before he ever played in Major League Baseball. Singleton had three failed drug tests and served a 100-game suspension and was released by the Astros in 2018.
Rookie forward
Anderson, a former baseball standout at Fort Bend Kempner and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, has learned to embrace the long and grueling seven-to-15-hour road trips. It’s a means to an end when the ultimate end game is an eventual shot at Major League Baseball.
“I kind of enjoy that part of the game,” Anderson said from his hotel room in Winnipeg. “One day somebody is not going to ask you to get on the bus to go play for them and you will wish that they were. So, I’m happy to enjoy all of the little moments and not take it for granted.”
field, you have to be in the game. You can train or do whatever in the offseason but like any sport, you have to go out there and play it to get better.”
Anderson has been the power hitter the Saltdogs have needed all season long, while also holding down centerfield.
“He knew if he got a chance to be an everyday player that he could be really really good and he has been exactly that,” said Michael Dixon, who is the director of broadcasting for the Saltdogs. “This league is full of guys who have played at the very high levels of minor league baseball, some played in the major league and some have played overseas. So he is doing what he is doing in a very tough league and I seriously don’t think it’s an overstatement to say he has been one of the best players in the league.
Cam WhitmoreCam Whitmore, who was drafted 20th overall by the Rockets in last week’s NBA Draft, easily had the biggest fall of any first-round selection. Whitmore was a possibility for the Rockets with their fourth-overall pick, but he slid more than 16 spots. There has been speculation that the Villanova standout had an undisclosed medical issue, which has been refuted, and now there are rumors of character issues. Either way, the Rockets seem to have a steal with their No.20 selection.
Anderson, a centerfielder with the Lincoln Saltdogs of the independent American Association, is certainly leaving nothing to chance as he works toward another major league affiliate opportunity hopefully at some point this season. He just needs one scout in the stands from any one of the MLB clubs to be impressed enough to sign him to an affiliate minor league deal.
The fourth-year pro has been impressive so far in his first season with the Saltdogs. Through the first 38 games of the season, he hit .280, while leading his team with 12 home runs and 33 RBI.
Showing unusual power for a centerfielder, Anderson has easily been among the top three or four players in the American Association this season. He is second in the
league in home runs, and he has quickly become a problem for pitchers who are also looking to make a name for themselves.
Earlier this month, Anderson was named the American Association Player of the Week after a five-day stretch in which he hit .438 with four home runs and nine RBI.
Anderson’s increased production has coincided with his first real opportunity to play every day during his professional career. His previous season-high for home-runs was four and he is well on his way to obliterating that mark.
“I feel like this is the biggest peak baseball performance I’ve ever had,” said Anderson, who spent time in the Minnesota Twins organization two years ago. “It’s a constant learning process and you have to be in the
“Hopefully he gets picked up, but if he is here all year he would have a chance to win league MVP.”
Playing in the American Association for Kane County in 2021, it happened rather quickly for Anderson. His contract was bought out by the Twins organization just seven games into the season and a little over a week after he was working as a wine salesman at Krogers in Houston.
While Anderson’s resolve has certainly been tested, the uncertainty and the possibilities are what continues to drive him.
“I went from selling wine in Kroger to a week later being in the Twins organization,” he said. “So there has definitely been a lot of unpredictability. I believe in my abilities. It’s just going to take the right situation and right opportunity for me to get seen.”
When it comes to basketball, there’s no secret that there are far more opportunities available for boys than girls. Most basketball camps are organized and run by retired or former male players. However, the Legends Skills Clinic aims to bridge the opportunity gap for aspiring female basketball players.
In its inaugural season, WNBA Hall of Famers, Cynthia Cooper and Sheryl Swoopes, showed up to inspire and motivate players to continue honing their skills during the ofseason.
“I think it’s something that’s needed and for me to have that opportunity to come out and be a part of it along with Coop, it’s way overdue and I’m thrilled for the opportunity that we have to teach these young girls,” said Swoopes.
“You don’t become a great player by just playing games. You must be willing to learn, work hard, be determined, and be disciplined in your sport,” said Cooper.
Te visionary behind the clinic is coach Tee Barefeld, former player and owner of Crossover Athletics, whose own journey in basketball fueled her desire to give back to rising female athletes.
Coach Barefeld began playing basketball when she was 8 years old. She played her high school years at Stroman High School in Victoria, Texas, and later receive a scholarship to McLennan Community College. Afer leaving MCC, she had the privilege of playing under coach Cynthia Cooper at Prairie View A&M University. Witnessing the immense potential basketball held for her, Barefeld was determined to empower other young female players striving to improve their game.
Coach Dominique Williams also played a huge part in helping put together the clinic. She serves as president of the Lady Nets organization and sees the need for of-season work.
“Of-season means everything. You get better when you take the time to get in the gym when nobody’s watching. Working on things that you’re uncomfortable with during the ofseason allows you to become comfortable enough to add it to your game later,” said Williams.
Among the talented participants at the Legends Skills Clinic were Kaliyah Nance and Natika Tomas, who represented Lady Drive Nation CTX 2029. Nance is an exceptional all-around player, who showcased her versatility on both the perimeter and in the post. Defensively, she excelled in running the court and blocking shots.
Thomas, on the other hand, is a true
point guard with outstanding court vision and playmaking abilities. Both players have dedicated their summer to refning their ball handling and mid-range shooting.
Houston Lady Nets 2025 had several stand-out athletes in the clinic.
Madison Mayes, a sophomore at Summer Creek High School, possessed a wide range of skills and played impressively in the post while displaying a sof touch around the rim. Trinity Powell, who is an exceptional defender and point guard is known for her leadership and ability to handle the ball with fnesse.
“Trinity is one person the team can depend on. Her energy gets everyone riled up,” said Houston Lady Nets 16U coach Niki Smalls.
Kennedy Simpson and Kyndall Roberts also came from the Lady Nets organization. These two hardworking freshmen have earned their place on their high school’s varsity teams. Simpson was named defensive player of the year at Summer Creek High School and has several D1 offers. Being lef-handed, she has continued to work on improving her right-hand dribbling during the of-season. Roberts attends Nimitz High School and showed incredible crafiness, speed, and precise shooting.
“Kyndall has one of the best mid-range jump shots I’ve seen as a female athlete,” said Williams.
Another promising talent at the Legends Skills Clinic was Ogechi Okeke, a 6-feet-2
eighth-grader who began playing basketball when she was 6 years old. Her recent move from Sweden has generated interest from various national teams eager to have her join their ranks.
“I was happy, but at the same time I was shocked because I’m only 13 and they’re all in their 20s and 30s. But ever since I was little, I’ve always played up in age,” said Okeke.
Te Legends Skills Clinic allows female athletes the opportunity to work on their game during the of-season. Participants were encouraged to grasp the signifcance of their surroundings, and recognize the esteemed individuals who stood with and beside them in the gym. Tis unique experience will undoubtedly inspire and motivate these rising stars to pursue their dreams on and of the basketball court.
The 2023 Street Olympics are in full swing now that the Street Olympic torch has lit the flame for the events that will kick of this Summer and conclude Aug. 4 at NRG Arena.
The Street Olympics were founded 35 years ago by the late Commissioner El Franco Lee as a summer program for underserved youth ages six to 17, to provide a safe, nurturing place to strengthen their academic and athletic abilities. Despite a brief stoppage of the Street Olympics events due to COVID-19, current Commissioner Rodney Ellis has been consistently keeping the Olympic ball rolling with new events for inner city kids since 2017.
About 30 youth athletes were on hand to help Ellis kick of the games, which provides equitable access to quality recreation and enrichment programs to keep children safe, active, and learning.
“As with all sports, the benefts run deeper than what you see on the feld or on the court,” Commissioner Ellis said. “Tis free program lays the groundwork for a healthy life. And that benefts not only the children but their families, neighborhoods and communities. Te Street Olympics represents our commitment to improving the quality of life of our residents by lifing our youths, no matter their family resources.”
Troughout the summer, about 2,000 Houston-area youth, ages
six-17, at about 50 youth-serving agencies are participating in the Summer Games, Discovery Camp, 3-on-3 Basketball and Harris County Aquatics Program’s Learn-to-Swim sessions. A 3-on-3 Basketball Championship Tournament will be held July 13-14 at Fonde Recreation Center. Te Summer Games culminates with the Final Event/Bright Futures Fair and the closing ceremonies’ “Parade of Champions” on Aug. 4 at NRG Arena.
Summer Games activities
include softball throw, kickball, football-passing accuracy, basketball (dribble and free throw), hopscotch, shuttle relay, jump rope marathon, 3-point shootout, spelling bee, art competition, 50- and 100-yard dash, chess and Hula Hoop.
In addition, Ellis’ Environmental Education Program hosts a
Discovery Camp, which teaches children ages six to 13 to investigate the constant changes in our environment, food chain and climate. It gives youth hands-on experience with animals while also teaching them about animal habitats.
The nonprofit Street Olympics, which operates year-round
programs, implements and sustains programs that provide training, support and resources that lead to healthy and productive lives for youth.
Commissioner Ellis said the Street Olympics represents the Precinct’s commitment to improving residents’ quality of life by lifing our youths, no matter their family resources.
“Tis is how we advance economic opportunity in an exciting, innovative and inclusive way,” Ellis said. “We make it fun. We make it meaningful. We connect it to civic education, empowering them to have a say in their future. And most importantly, we stay close and connected to the communities we serve.”
Jose Rivera, the director of this year’s Street Olympics said the event is important to the city.
“We have served 70,000 youth throughout this time,” Rivera said. “And that impact and legacy of summer programming is safe, equitable and available for everyone is really important.”
Street Olympics board member Wendy Montoya Cloonan added, “How our children spend summer hours is not fairly distributed across income levels. And as you know Harris County is a special place and we will not accept this inequity.”
If you would like to register your children in this year’s summer games visit your nearest Harris County park for more information.