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GEORGE ZIMMERMAN MURDER TRIAL TAKES TWISTS AND TURNS P4
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Volume 82 | Number 37
JULY 11, 2013 |FREE
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NEWSTALK DR. CHARLES HINES dies at age 77
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NATIONAL KEVIN JOHNSON challenged by other mayors
Welcome home
Beyoncé
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CHAG’S PLACE OPINION
(Mrs. Carter) Kevin Hart explains things
Actor and comedian Kevin Hart is finding success in all of his endeavors, and the new film based on his “Let Me Explain” comedy tour is no exception. Find out if fame and fortune have changed him. See why Hart is not afraid to cry. Discover his guilty pleasure and surprising wish list. H Page 8
Dwight Howard comes to town The NBA is buzzing because the Houston Rockets have landed the biggest free agent prize of them all – former L.A. Laker center Dwight Howard. Why is Howard excited about joining the team? What do coach Kevin McHale and point guard Patrick Beverley have to say about newest Rocket? H Page 10
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Dr. Vernus Swisher and Aubrey and Gene Locke at Career & Recovery Resources luncheon
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Minorities have different opinions of Perry By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
Dr. Charles Hines was the sixth president of Prairie View A&M.
Former PV President Charles Hines dies Defender News Services
Dr. Charles A. Hines, who served as president of Prairie View A&M University from 1994 to 2002, died July 4 at the age of 77. A memorial mass is Friday, July 12, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 3006 Rosedale. “The life and legacy of Dr. Charles Hines has contributed to the advancement of education and our university in ways that will last for years to come,” said current President Dr. George C. Wright. “Prairie View A&M is fortunate to have had his leadership. Our prayers go out to his family.”
Among Hines’ achievements were the privatization of student housing and the development of several new buildings. He also oversaw the university’s role in the Office of Civil Rights settlement that resulted in funding for four new buildings, additional master’s and doctoral degree programs, development initiatives, student scholarships and endowed chairs. A native of Washington D.C., Hines earned a bachelor’s degree from Howard University. Upon graduation, he entered the United States Army, where he served for more than 38 years, retiring with the rank of major general. He earned two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. from John Hopkins University.
Blacks and Hispanic Texans have varying opinions on the impending departure of Gov. Rick Perry, who will step down after 14 years in office. Perry’s announcement increases speculation that he will run for president in 2016. His departure paves the way for a successor, and state Attorney General Greg Abbott is considered a front-runner for the Republican gubernatorial nomination. Gilberto Hinojosa, chairman of the Texas Democratic Party, said Perry has failed as a leader. “After his three terms as governor, one out of four Texans still Gov. Rick Perry lack health insurance, and our public education system has been gutted,” Hinojosa said. “Hours after his veto of the Texas Continued on Page 9
localbriefs HISD BOARD MEMBER Larry Marshall has withdrawn his request to stop a civil lawsuit that accuses him of participating in a bribery and kickback scheme involving district contracts. Marshall’s new motion does not explain why he changed his mind and wants to go forward with the case. Marshall originally wanted to halt the lawsuit pending the outcome of an ongoing criminal investigation. The lawsuit, filed in 2010, accuses Marshall of taking part in a scheme to help certain construction contractors land contracts with HISD……..MORE THAN 1,700 NEW JOBS will be created due to the expansion of Chevron’s Houston facilities.
The state is providing $12 million through the Texas Enterprise Fund to close the deal on the expansion and job creation. Execution of the state’s agreement is contingent upon finalization of a local incentive offer as required by program criteria. The Legislature created the TEF in 2003 and re-appropriated funding to help ensure the growth of Texas businesses and create more jobs throughout the state. Chevron plans to construct a new 1.7 million-square foot office tower in downtown Houston as part of the expansion. The facility will house professional, technical and administrative personnel…….. YOUNG PEOPLE from Houston and
Galveston participated in a memorial service to honor local youths injured or lost due to gun violence in Houston. The service, held at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, was organized by Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools partners. Sites across the nation held a National Day of Social Action to “Protect Children, Not Guns.” Youths shared stories about how their lives have been impacted by guns. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that more than one-third of American homes contain guns, which are 43 percent more likely to be used to kill a family member or friend than a stranger.
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Black mayors challenge Johnson as president
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NNPA News Service
fter accepting a determination by the attorney for the National Conference of Blacks Mayors that the organization’s May election in Atlanta was invalid, more than half of the board members in good standing have written to Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson directing him to “table all matters” until the board meets again. Johnson was elected president of the NCBM in May, but since the election was declared invalid, the board of directors in place at the time of the election has resumed control of the organization until a new election can be held, probably in September. Efforts to reach Johnson for comment via telephone, text and email were unsuccessful. A board meeting is scheduled in Atlanta. At the meeting, it is expected that the board of directors will set a date for the new elections. Johnson, a native of Sacramento, was elected the city’s first Black mayor in 2008. He was an NBA All-star who played with the Phoenix Suns from 1988-2000. The internal documents obtained by the NNPA, whose authenticity was verified Continued on Page 5
THE BLACK UNEMPLOYMENT rate rose to 13.7 percent in June, up from 13.5 percent in May, despite the fact that the economy added 195,000 jobs. After falling for four straight months, the unemployment rate for Black women 20 years and over rose sharply to 12 percent in June from 11.2 percent in May. The unemployment rate for Black teens (16 to 19 years old) rose to 43.6 percent. More than 2.5 million Blacks are unemployed, according to the Labor Department’s latest jobs report. The 13.7 Black unemployment rate is higher now than when President Obama took office in January 2009……..WILLIAM H. GRAY III, former congressman and president of the UNCF, died July 1 in London at the age of 71. He was in London attending the Wimbledon tennis championships. The cause of death was not immediately known. Gray, who represented Philadelphia in Congress from 1979 to 1991, was the first Black to chair the House Budget Committee and serve as House majority whip. He was a third-generation Baptist minister and succeeded his father as pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Gray was born in Baton Rouge in 1941. He received his bachelor’s degree from Franklin & Marshall College and degrees in divinity from Drew Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary. Survivors include his wife, three sons and several grandchildren……..THE NATION IS FACING a trillion-dollar retirement savings crisis. According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, 38 million Americans – 45 percent of working age households – have no retirement account assets at all. Among all working households, 92 percent do not meet conservative retirement savings targets for their age and income. The primary reasons for the crisis are low retirement savings and lack of access to retirement plans in and out of the workplace, particularly among low-income workers and families.
Mayor Kevin Johnson
Zimmerman trial takes twists and turns Defender News Services
The drama continues in the trial of Trayvon Martin’s accused murderer. In an effort to convince a jury of his innocence, George Zimmerman’s attorneys called witnesses to the stand who included Trayvon’s father, a forensic pathologist, and a parade of Zimmerman’s friends. Tracy Martin testified that he never denied it was his son’s voice screaming for help on a 911 call, contradicting earlier testimony by police. “I never said that wasn’t my son’s voice,” he said. There was conflicting testimony from a parade of Zimmerman’s friends who said they recognized the neighborhood watch volunteer’s voice.
In another twist, a forensic pathologist testified that evidence supports Zimmerman’s claim that Trayvon was on top of him when he fired the fatal shot. Vincent DiMaio’s testimony also supported Zimmerman’s claim that Trayvon was slamming his head into a sidewalk. Under questioning from prosecutors, DiMaio admitted that he did not take into account several witnesses who said Zimmerman was the aggressor in the struggle. When pressed, he said Zimmerman’s injuries could have been caused by rolling around on concrete with Trayvon. Also during the trial, the presiding judge ruled that jurors would be allowed to hear about marijuana found in Trayvon’s system the night he was fatally shot.
VOLUME 82 • NUMBER 37 JULY 11, 2013 Publisher Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Art Director Advertising/Client Relations Tony Fernandez-Davila Selma Dodson Tyler People Editor Strategic Alliance Manager Yvette Chargois Clyde Jiles Sports Editors Multimedia Manager Max Edison Tiffany Williams Darrell K. Ardison Online Editor Contributing Writer ReShonda Billingsley 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).
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by several board members, detail an election that violated at least four provisions of the group’s bylaws and an ongoing clash between Ballard Spahr, a Philadelphia-based law firm brought in by Johnson, and General Counsel Susan “Sue” Winchester of Beverly Hills and Atlanta-based Executive Director Vanessa R. Williams. Moreover, interviews with more than a half-dozen board members revealed a deep split between the board and Johnson, who has used Ballard Spahr and a special task force appointed by him – he serves as its chairman – to carry out many of the duties normally undertaken by the board of directors. In a memo to the NCBM dated June 13, Winchester wrote that the group’s parliamentarian indicated he had received complaints from several mayors about the election process in Atlanta. For example, some mayors voted who were not qualified to vote because they did not pay dues in a timely manner or didn’t pay them at all. There were also complaints that voting by voice and hand were used instead of by secret ballot, and the election was not properly supervised. In addition to the 16 members who signed the letter, at least four other board members are also supportive of the move to void Johnson’s election.
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classified Invitation for Bids Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc. is soliciting bids for subcontractors and vendors for construction of the following project no. Contract 801 on SH 249 from N of Spring Cypress to S of Willow Creek, bid date is July 22, 2013. Quotations may be mailed to Balfour Beatty Infrastructure, Inc., 1701 Directors Blvd, Suite 1010, Austin, Texas 78744 or faxed to (512) 707-0798 or emailed to bbiisw@bbiius.com. DBE/HUB contractors are encouraged to submit bids. Plans and specifications are available to be reviewed at: www.civcastusa.com. E.O.E. For information contact Brian Ficzeri at (512) 707-0797.
ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 7/12 & 7/13/2013. *Intermediate price reductions may have been taken. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible. 46618_N3060157E.indd 1
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things to know about Houston’s superstar
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Defender News Services
eyoncé brings her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour to her hometown of Houston on Monday, July 15. It takes place at the Toyota Center. She will perform there again on Dec.10, when she brings a second show to Houston. In honor of her return to Houston, here are 20 things to know about the superstar.
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Beyoncé has won 17 Grammy Awards, 29 Billboard Awards, 12 MTV Video Music Awards, nine BET Awards and four American Music Awards.
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In 2003 Beyoncé released her first solo album, “Dangerously in Love.” It earned five Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Song for “Crazy In Love” featuring Jay-Z.
Also in 2003, she became the first artist in 20 years, and the first female recording artist ever, to simultaneously reach No. 1 in the U.S and the U.K with both an album and single.
Beyoncé Giselle Knowles was born in Houston on Sept. 4, 1981 to Matthew and Tina Knowles. Beyoncé’s name is derived from her mother’s maiden name, Beyincé. Beyoncé started performing as a child. She and LaTavia Roberson became part of an act known as Girl’s Tyme.
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Beyoncé made history in 2001 when she became the first Black woman and only the second woman to win the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Pop Songwriter of the Year Award.
In January of this year, Beyoncé, Rowland and Williams released “Destiny’s Child Love Songs,” a compilation of the trio’s most romantic songs that includes one new tune titled “Nuclear.”
Welcome hom
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(Mrs. Carter)
As a child, Beyoncé (shown with her father Matthew) won numerous awards for singing and dancing.
Kelly Rowland joined the group in 1992 and LeToya Luckett in 1993. The group’s name was changed to Destiny’s Child. Their first single was “No, No, No.” After several personnel changes, Michelle Williams joined Beyonce and Rowland in 2000.
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Beyoncé starred opposite Mike Myers in the movie “Austin Powers in Goldmember
Hits such as “Survivor,” “Independent Women,” “Bills, Bills, Bills” and “Bootylicious” have made Destiny’s Child one of the most successful girl groups in music history. In the early days of Destiny’s Child, the group was comprised of Kelly Rowland, LaTavia Roberson, LeToya Luckett and Beyoncé.
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In addition to her success in music, Beyoncé made her acting debut in 2001 with a starring role in MTV’s “Carmen: A Hip Hopera.” In 2002 she portrayed Foxxy Cleopatra in the spy parody “Austin Powers in Goldmember.”
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Beyoncé is ranked No. 17 on Forbes’ 2013 list of the World’s Most Powerful Women. She was ranked No. 32 the year before.
In 2012, Beyoncé and Jay-Z were named the world’s highest earning celebrity couple by Forbes. Their combined wealth is estimated at three quarters of a billion dollars.
Beyoncé and her mother Tina have operated the House of Deréon clothing line since 2004. It is a tribute to Beyoncé’s maternal grandmother, Agnèz Deréon After its release in 2010, Beyonce’s fragrance Heat became the No. 1 scent in the U.S.
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Beyoncé’s 2009-2010 world tour grossed $85.6 million and drew nearly 1 million people to 73 shows.
Beyoncé is involved in various humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. She often visits orphanages and children’s hospitals, and has worked extensively with the Make a Wish Foundation.
(AP Photo/Joel Ryan)
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Locally, Beyoncé and her family have been involved in such projects as the Temenos House, a complex designed for Houston’s at-risk Houston population and operated by St. John’s Downtown Church.
Beyoncé and her husband Jay-Z arrive at the 2009 Golden Globe Awards (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)
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The Beyoncé Cosmetology Center at Phoenix House Career Academy opened in 2010 in Brooklyn, NY. It offers cosmetology training to those recovering from addiction.
Beyoncé enjoys a tender moment with her daughter Blue Ivy Carter. (HBO Photo)
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Her other movie roles were in “The Fighting Temptations,” “The Pink Panther,” “Dreamgirls,” “Cadillac Records” and “Obsessed.”
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Beyoncé says being a wife to Jay-Z (who she married in 2008) and a mother to Blue Ivy Carter (born in 2012) is her biggest role. She chose her tour name “because I feel I have grown and I am a married woman. It is my name, it is who I am and I am proud of it. It is my daughter’s name and it feels like who I am right now.”
Beyoncé and her mother Tina attend a press conference to unveil the Beyoncé Cosmetology Center at Phoenix House in Brooklyn. (Photo Ctsy. Phoenix House)
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Kevin Hart has a lot to explain
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By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender
orn in Philadelphia in 1980, Kevin Hart is one of the most versatile comedic actors in television and film. He delivered memorable performances in “Think Like a Man,” which grossed over $90 million dollars in theaters, as well as in “The Five Year Engagement.” He previously appeared in such films as “Little Fockers,” “Death at a Funeral,” Fool’s Gold” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.” Hart’s stand-up DVD “Seriously Funny” went platinum four times, after the Comedy Central presentation of the same name became the highest rated comedy special of 2010. Last summer, fans across America were treated to Hart’s side-splitting comedy in “Let Me Explain,” an international tour of nearly 100 cities. Here, he talks about “Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain,” a concert film shot mostly at his final stop, Madison Square Garden. KW: What inspired this concert tour? KH: I had a helluva year. This tour pretty much exceeded my expectations of what I was going to accomplish. It started off in 5,000-seat venues and eventually escalated to larger arenas with 15,000 seats and more… and began selling out in places like Oslo, Copenhagen and Amsterdam. The support that I received from my
Kevin Hart
fans was unreal. KW: One of the themes of this show was convincing your fans that success hasn’t gone to your head. But isn’t life a lot different for you now? After all, you’re from North Philly and started out as a shoe salesman. KH: Things changed, but only to a certain degree. Just because your environment or living space changes doesn’t mean that your attitude necessarily has to change. By attitude, I mean the way you interact with others. You don’t have to treat people differently. You may be living a different lifestyle, but the person living that different lifestyle still can relate to anybody and has the same amazing personality of the guy from North Philly. The people around me haven’t changed. The people who have been in my life since the beginning are still in my life now. I think that has a lot to do with my staying grounded and humble about the success I’ve achieved. KW: You talk a lot about dating in the movie. Is there a Kevin Hart relationship advice book in the works? KH: I don’t know if I’m at the relationship advice stage yet. I do have a lot of information to share, and a book is definitely in the works, but I don’t know whether it’ll be geared towards relationships. KW: In the film you cried at the end of the concert at Madison Square Garden. What was the emotion that overwhelmed you at that moment? KH: I never thought in a million years that I’d ever Continued on Page 9
what’sup SPIKE LEE’S new film “Oldboy” is one of the fall’s most anticipated features. JOSH BROLIN portrays an advertising executive who is kidnapped and imprisoned for 20 years without explanation. After he is freed, he must figure out why he was captured in the first place. SAMUEL L. JACKSON is one of the co-stars…….. MARIAH CAREY is nursing a dislocated shoulder after injuring herself during a video shoot in New York City. The video was being directed by her husband NICK CANNON, who took a break from “America’s Got Talent,” NBC’s summer reality show now in its eighth season. A rep for Carey said she’s doing fine……..LAURYN HILL recently reported to a Connecticut federal prison where she will serve a three-month sentence for tax evasion. Insiders say the 38-year-old singer won’t receive any special
treatment from prison officials. Hill was sentenced for failing to report $1.8 million she earned between 2005 and 2007……..WILLOW SMITH, the 12-year-old daughter of WILL & JADA PINKETT SMITH, has released a video to go with her new single, “Summer Fling.” In the video, she sings about young love, wears a blonde wig and speaks with a fake British accent. Her big brother JADEN SMITH also appears in the video. Willow’s 2010 single, “Whip My Hair,” reached No. 11 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart…….. OPRAH WINFREY’S network, OWN, is hosting a summer fling for soap opera fans. The network acquired episodes of the OnLine Network’s reprisal of the popular daytime dramas “All My Children” and “One Life to Live” for a 10-week limited engagement. Half-hour episodes of each show will air Monday through Thursday
beginning July 15 at noon and 2 p.m. Long-time series stars include “All My Children’s” DARNELL WILLIAMS (Jesse Hubbard) and DEBBI MORGAN (Dr. Angela Hubbard)…….. 50 CENT was scheduled to perform at Major League Baseball’s upcoming All-Star Bash in New York City, but has been dropped from the program following a dispute with his baby’s mother. The rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, is facing one count of domestic violence and four counts of vandalism for allegedly kicking Daphne Joy and ransacking her bedroom. “It is important to note, Mr. Jackson has not been arrested and there is no warrant outstanding for his arrest,” said his attorney. Jackson’s arraignment is set for July 22 in Los Angeles. If convicted on all five counts, he would face up to five years in jail and $46,000 in fines.
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sell out back-to-back shows at the Garden. That’s not to say, I never expected my career to take off. Still, it was a “Pinch Me, Wake Me Up” moment. I was like, “Wow! I can’t believe this. That I’m actually here, and this is actually happening.” And in that moment when I was about to thank my fans for supporting me I noticed that they were standing up clapping. It was overwhelming for me, and became a very emotional moment when I tried to thank them. KW: When did you know you had made it? KH: The beauty of it is that I don’t think I’ve ever really relaxed. I want to do too much within the business. And there’s so much you can achieve with a launching pad like stand-up comedy. You can literally go from acting to hosting to being a personality to the “Real Husbands of Hollywood.” It all depends on what you’re willing to invest time and effort in and put your mind to. That’s what separates winners from losers. Winners are the ones who want the most out of their opportunities. KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure? KH: Creation, getting behind a project from start to finish, and being able to see it blossom into a success. KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? KH: I can’t cook, but I can make a turkey and cheese sandwich like nobody else. KW: What excites you? KH: Seeing my kids happy. KW: What was your best career decision? KH: Focusing on stand-up comedy 100 percent. KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? KH: I see a man with drive and determination who wants to go down in history. KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be? KH: For a better-looking pair of feet.
Minorities..Continued from page 2 T:13”
version of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, Governor Perry continued his attack on women by limiting access to decisions that should be left to the individual. Rick Perry has made a mockery of our democracy.” Another Perry critic is Houstonian LaToya White, a member of the Texas Organizing Project, which promotes social and economic equality for low to moderate-income Texans. “Governor Perry has been the chief roadblock to helping millions of Texans get access to quality, affordable health insurance,” White said. “His failed leadership on health care has endangered the health of Texas families, so getting him out of the governor’s mansion is the best prescription for Texas’ future.” Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, however, said the state’s residents should be grateful to Perry. “Gov. Perry led the great state of Texas during a period that will forever be etched in history for unprecedented job creation and economic growth – his leadership has helped empower all Texans to pursue and achieve unlimited opportunity,” said Cruz, a Republican. “We should all be grateful to Gov. Perry for the work he has done to keep Texas the most prosperous state in the nation.” State Rep. Mike Villarreal of San Antonio had positive and negative things to say about Perry. “I want to thank Governor Perry and his wife Anita for their service to Texas. I usually disagree with the governor several times per day, but I appreciate his love of Texas and wish him the best of luck,” said Villarreal, a Democrat. “Unfortunately, his legacy will be one of cutting education funding, pushing more testing into our classrooms, and promoting issues that divide Texans rather than bringing us together.” Perry said he will spend the next 18 months working to create more jobs, opportunity and innovation. “I will work to actively lead this great state. And I will also pray, reflect and work to determine my own future path,” he said.
Whether it’s behind the scenes, in the scenes or never before seen, the stories of the African-American experience have enriched all of our lives. Enjoy hit movies, TV shows, videos, interviews and more all highlighting the African-American experience. And it’s all in one spot – visit xfinity.com/celebrateblacktv
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sports
Dwight Howard is coming to town By MAX EDISON Defender
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ouston’s offseason activity is the biggest news in the NBA. The entire league is buzzing because your Rockets have landed the biggest free agent prize of them all – Dwight Howard. Howard, widely regarded as the NBA’s premier center, has been the object of Rocket GM Daryl Morey’s affection for over a year. Morey moved the entire Rockets roster during the offseason last summer to have enough salary cap space to attract the talented big man. But Dwight wasn’t “feeling” Houston and decided he had to be a Laker. He was traded to the Lakers in a fourteam deal involving Orlando, Philadelphia and Denver. A tumultuous season in Lakerland saw a coach being fired less than a week into the season, a coach being hired who never had success with a center, and a rocky relationship with Kobe Bryant. After a less-than-spectacular season in which L.A. barely made the playoffs and was swept by the Spurs in the first round, Howard was willing to explore other options. While it admittedly was not his best season, Howard still averaged 17.1 points, 12.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in 76 games last season, despite a series of nagging injuries. While the Lakers were stumbling, Morey was pulling off the trade of the year by acquiring James
Coach Kevin McHale said Howard dominates the game in different ways.
Harden from the Thunder. Harden has gone from background singer in OKC to prime-time player in Houston, capable of putting a franchise on his shoulders. Because of “the Beard” the Rockets are a feisty, scrappy, youthful bunch and are beginning to look like a franchise with a future, worthy of new consideration by Howard. Thankfully Howard didn’t see the need for a long, drawn out process. There was no need for a travelling road show or an hourlong TV show to announce the move. His decision to come to Houston was first revealed Dwight Howard changed his Twitter avatar to show him in a Rockets uniform.
Point guard Patrick Beverley thinks playing with Howard should be fun.
by USA Today and after a few anxious hours Howard tweeted the following: “I’ve decided to become a member of the Houston Rockets,” Howard tweeted. “I feel it’s the best place for me and I am excited about joining the Rockets and I’m looking forward to a great season. I want to thank the fans in Los Angeles and wish them the best.” For Howard the decision was simple – what team afforded him the greatest opportunity to win a championship? Houston was his choice. “The biggest thing was a championship potential,” he said. “I watched the team after we got out of the playoffs. I looked at their team. I looked at a couple of teams. Their team [Houston] just stood out. I think this is the best fit for me as far as playing basketball. I’m looking forward to it.” Expect Howard to sign a four-year deal worth an estimated $88 million. He could have made an extra $30 million by staying with the Lakers and extending the deal a fifth year, but Howard was ready to go. One new Howard teammate, Rocket point guard Patrick Beverley, is excited about the possibilities. “Everybody knows he’s the premier big man in the league,” Beverley said. “I’m glad it [his decision] wasn’t prolonged. The inside-out [game] with him and James, I think, is going to be perfect. It’s going to be fun. If you add Dwight, it’s going to be a big boost. “But no one has a crystal ball. Everything takes preparation and hard work and dedication, and that’s what we’re going to have to do.” Head coach Kevin McHale, a guy who knows a thing or two about big-man play in the NBA, is excited about Howard joining the Rockets. “When Dwight is right, physically right, he dominates the game in a lot of different ways,” McHale said. “He’s a unique guy. He can score 10 points and totally dominate the game. There are very few players in the NBA that can do that. “He can bolt down the paint, block six or seven shots, get 20 rebounds, roll hard and get people shots without touching the ball. It’s a good situation.”
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Darrell Ardison is on vacation
sportsbriefs Jason Castro an All-Star Astros catcher Jason Castro has been named to the 2013 American League All-Star team as a reserve. Castro, 26, is hitting .269 (74x275) with 23 doubles, 11 home runs, 28 RBI and a .331 on-base percentage in 75 games. He currently leads all AL catchers in extra-base hits with 34, and ranks tied for seventh among all AL players in doubles. Among AL backstops, Castro ranks first in slugging (.473), second in doubles, tied for second in homers, third in OPS (.804) and sixth in hits. Castro, a former Stanford Cardinal, was originally the Astros first-round pick in the 2008 draft, the 10th player selected overall that season. Castro will be making his first career Major League All-Star appearance. He becomes the Astros first American League All-Star. The game will be played on Tuesday, July 16 at Citi Field, home of the New York Mets.
PV selects Brown as coach New Prairie View A&M University AD Ash-
ley Robinson has made his first hire, selecting Dawn Brown as interim head coach of the Lady Panthers basketball team. Brown served as an assistant coach with former head coach Toyelle Wilson, who recently departed to take a job at Baylor. Brown played an integral role in the Lady Panthers winning three-consecutive Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament Championships. She took on the role as recruiting coordinator for the 2012-13 season. Prior to that, Brown recruited 2012 SWAC All-Tournament center Larissa Scott, 2013 SWAC Tournament MVP Kiara Etienne and do-it-all forward JaQuandria Williams, who contributed heavily to PV’s last two SWAC championships. Brown recently recruited and signed National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-American forward Cameron Vaughn. “I am excited to help carry on the tradition of winning at Prairie View A&M,” said Brown, who was named an assistant coach in 2010. “The fans, alumni and supporters are the backbone of our program and that support doesn’t waiver whether we are winning or losing. I am inspired by their support
HOU STO N - GA LV E STO N A R E A C OU N C I L
Notice of Proposed Goal for the Participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation-Assisted Contracts The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) Transportation Department has proposed an overall goal for the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) in its contracts for financial assistance provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT): • 20% for FY 2014 –16 contracts for financial assistance provided through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
The proposed goal and its rationale will be available for review between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday at 3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 120, Houston, Texas 77027 and online at www.h-gac. com/taq/plans_ programs/dbe. The proposed goal will be available for inspection at the H-GAC Offices until August 14, 2013. H-GAC is hosting a workshop for DBEs that provide engineering, planning, advertising and public relations services on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. 3555 Timmons Lane, 2nd Floor in Conference Room B. A public meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 23, 2013, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the same location.
H-GAC and TxDOT will accept written comments on the goal through August 30, 2013. Written comments can be directed to the agencies below: Houston-Galveston Area Council Transportation Department ATTN: Ms. Lydia Abebe Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer (DBELO) P.O. Box 22777 Houston, Texas 77227 dbelo@h-gac.com 12844-HGAC-DBE-HD-071013.indd 1
Texas Department of Transportation Civil Rights Division 125 E. 11th Street Austin, Texas 78701-2409
7/10/13 9:31 AM
and will work hard to make sure that the product they see on the hardwood is one that they will be proud of.”
Cougars host women’s clinic
For all of the ladies out there who want to increase their basic knowledge of football, the University of Houston has just the thing – Football 101. The clinic teaches the X’s and O’s of the game and also includes a preview of the 2013 Houston Cougar football season. Head coach Tony Levine and staff will host the ladies-only clinic. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 24 at 5 p.m. at the Athletics Alumni Center located at 3100 Cullen. The clinic opens with registration and happy hour at 5 p.m. before informational talks from several members of the UH football coaching staff at 6 p.m. and a behind-the-scenes look at UH football, including individual drills stations. The cost for the event is $45, which includes appetizers, drinks, an event T-shirt and a ticket to the Southern game. For more information call 713-743-9388.
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DEFENDER | JULY 11 | 2013
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LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY SERgratulations and continued success!.....COCKTAILS VICE…..Career and Recovery Resources, Inc. AND CULTURE…..Houston Museum of African(CRR) hosted their annual Barrier Breaker luncheon America Culture (HMAAC) chose the theme “Cockrecently by honoring Attorney Gene Locke and his tails and Culture” to showcase the latest happenings lovely wife, Aubrey. This dygoing on at the museum. Due to the namic couple was honored for their remarkable and dedicated work of Join Yvette Chargois leadership and community service its CEO, John Guess, Jr. HMAAC to our city and beyond. CRR is a museum that is unafraid to be Events of the Week More photos on defendernetwork.com also acknowledged several of the contemporary as well as historical, to organization’s star clients who have acknowledge the cultural impact of See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m. overcome personal barriers in order the last twenty years, including hip to achieve success. The proceeds hop, as well as major cultural movefrom the luncheon benefits CRR ments of the past such as the Harlem training and employment services, which include caRenaissance. It’s a museum for all people. The drivreer counseling, job search preparation, intensive case ing force behind the successful reception included management of job placement and retention, computboard members Dennis Hatchett, Melanie Lawson, er classes and substance abuse treatment, prevention Gina Carroll, Drucie Chase, Ursula Hall, Winell and education. Board of directors chairman Mark Herron and Elmer Rogers, to name a few. Other atLee, CEO Dr. Vernus Swisher and the entire CRR tendees included Annette Bracey, Dr. Janice Whitty, organization are to be commended for all of their Dr. Jaine Middleton, Toni Lewis, Kaylan Henderdedicated work to make life better for others. Conson, Dominic Clay, Jasmine Jones, Charles Hunter,
Jeff and De Rose
Dr. Vernus Swisher and honorees Aubrey and Gene Locke
Attorney Cornel Williams and John Guess Jr.
Gala chair Phyllis Williams and honorary chairman Reginald Van Lee
Dr. Jaime Middleton, Toni Lewis and Kaylan Henderson
Dr. Michael Lomax and Juana Collins
Lora Clemmons, Brenda and John Chase, Jr., Saundria and Jerome Gray, Tony Chase, Wendy Middleton and Doug Herron. HMAAC is the talk of Houston and the art world. Continued success to you also!.....KICKOFF RECEPTION…..The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) hosted a kickoff reception at the fabulous family estate of Reginald Van Lee in Wharton, TX. Reginald will also serve as honorary chair for their upcoming UNCF gala. The reception was very well attended and included Kethia and Jeff Webber, Terry Williams, Therese Bardon, Cherina Thomas, Maurice Fleming, Dionte McClendon, Phyllis Bailey, Sharon and Doug Owens, Patricia and Wayne Luckett, Donna Smith, Winell and Doug Herron, Lora Clemmons, Attorney Cornel Williams and LaRence Snowden, to name a few. Other attendees included UNCF president and CEO Dr. Michael Lomax, area development director Juana Collins and gala chair Phyllis Williams. Good luck on the upcoming gala!......From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!
Star client Jennifer Garrett and Martha Brown
Ursula Hall, Elmer Rogers, Melanie Lawson, Dennis Hatchett and Gina Carroll
Maurice Fleming, Dr. Michael Lomax and Dionte McClendon
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