Houston Defender: September 17, 2015

HS ZONE

STERLING HIGH SCHOOL’S KEVION HALL STRIVES TO BE IMPACT PLAYER P11

facebook.com/DefenderNetwork twitter.com/DefenderNetwork

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 84 | Number 33 SEPTEMBER 17, 2015 |FREE

www.defendernetwork.com

NEWSTALK DR. TERRY GRIER resigns as HISD superintendent

HEALTH SPECIAL

JOINT

P2 NATIONAL JAMES BLAKE wants police officer fired

PAIN

P4

TOP TO BOTTOM

SPORTS MOSES MALONE dead at the age of 60

H PAGE 1B

P10 TOP EVENTS

Robbie Tolan

settles case

Following a long legal battle, police shooting victim Robbie Tolan and his family reached a settlement with Bellaire. Find out about the monetary amount. Hear Tolan’s message about young Black men. See what attorney Benjamin Crump has to say.

Rev. William Lawson, Clarence Miller and Dr. Marcus Cosby at Wheeler Avenue Boy Scout celebration

P12

Meagan Good

plays detective Meagan Good is one of Hollywood’s busiest actresses. Read about her role on the sci-fi series that debuts this fall, and see why it was the answer to a prayer. Discover why she has a personal connection to her character.

Learn what makes her content.

H PAGE 2

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

H PAGE 6

2

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

newstalk

Two HISD students killed in bus crash Two students were killed and two students and their bus driver were seriously injured on Sept. 15 when an HISD school bus traveling to Furr High School plunged from the 610 Loop at Telephone Road.

Mariya Johnson, 17, died at the scene, and Janecia Chatman, 14, was pronounced dead at the hospital. Injured in the crash were 17-year-olds Brandon and Lakeshia Williams and driver Louisa Pacheco.

An attorney representing Johnson’s family, Peyman Momeni, said they plan to file a wrongful death lawsuit against both drivers involved in the accident, and may sue other parties, including the manufacturer of the guardrail.

Momeni said they would also “investigate HISD’s role in all of this – their hiring practice, training, retention, maintenance of vehicles.”

According to HPD, the driver of a Buick LeSabre was traveling eastbound on the South Loop when she made an unsafe lane change and struck the school bus. The impact caused the bus to veer to the right and strike the guardrail. The bus then went off the overpass and onto the roadway below.

HPD said the driver of the Buick, who was not injured, showed no signs of impairment.

She was questioned and released at the scene. No charges have been filed as the investigation continues.

According to HISD, the bus driver has been with the district for about three years and has a clean driving record.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy,” said HISD Superintendent Terry Grier. “I ask all of the HISD community to join me in praying for all of those involved.”

Tolans settle case with Bellaire Robbie Tolan and his family reached a settlement with the City of Bellaire just as jury selection was about to begin in the case. Bellaire will pay the family $110,000 for the 2008 shooting of Tolan by Officer Jeffrey Cotton.

“I’m satisfied that I get to move on and tell my story,” Tolan said. “We need to continue to work to affect change. Until that happens, it’s going to keep happening. Young Black men, unarmed, are going to keep getting shot until we do something about it.”

Noted attorney Benjamin Crump, who represented the Tolans, said the shooting should never have occurred.

“Nobody can call [Tolan] a thug,” Crump said. “No police union can try to defame his

name or character. He has no criminal history.

He comes from a good family.”

Tolan, an aspiring Major League Baseball player, was shot and seriously injured outside his parents’ Bellaire home. Cotton said he thought Tolan was armed and driving a stolen car.

Cotton’s bullet travelled through Tolan’s lung and punctured his liver, where it remains today. The shooting ended his dream of an MLB career.

“Though I still have my son, I’ve had to watch his dreams and a part of his spirit die,” said Marian Tolan. “We’ve given up so much as a family to get a chance at justice. A chance at peace. A chance at being whole again.”

Robbie Tolan’s settlement with Bellaire ends a long legal battle.

Grier leaving HISD in March Defender Report Card Issue

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

HISD Superintendent Terry Grier said he announced his decision to resign now so the Board of Education will have enough time to identify and prepare his successor. His resignation takes effect March 1, 2016.

Grier, who became superintendent six years ago, thanked “Team HISD” for its support during his tenure.

“I’ve never been one to look backward, but as I consider all that we on Team HISD – our students, parents, teachers, principals, staff, and community – accomplished these past six years, I am very humbled and honored to have been part of it,” Grier said.

Grier also expressed his love for the city.

“My wife Nancy and I absolutely love Houston,” he said. “Without question it’s been our favorite place. We just believe that the time is right, and I think in life many times, it’s all about timing.”

HISD said the district has made numerous improvements under Grier’s leadership, including: • The dropout rate has dropped 3.2 percentage points, and the graduation rate is up 8.6 points.

• The number of students scoring at the college-ready level on the SAT is up 19 percent in reading and 31 percent in math.

• Scholarship offers to graduating seniors hit a record $265 million in 2015 • Out-of-school disciplinary suspensions are down 14 percent.

Grier, 64, said he has not decided on his next career move, but is not retiring.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee said Grier’s announcement presents the HISD board with both a significant challenge and an opportunity.

“In selecting the next superintendent, I call upon the board to undertake a thorough national search to identify and select the very best candidate to lead the largest school district in Texas and the seventh largest in the nation,” she said.

“This is not the time to settle for any candidate or to rush the process and shortchange our children.”

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Terry Grier Report Card. The Defender received positive feedback regarding the idea of a community report card grading the HISD superintendent.

However, due to some unforeseen technical difficulties, the data was compromised and the glitch produced inaccurate information. We tried to salvage the content but in all fairness, we could not do a disservice to our community of reporting erroneous facts knowing there were technical difficulties.

We apologize to our readers and participants for the problem.

But this does not mean we will give up on the Defender Report Cards. It just means we will work harder at getting a system that is more reliable and better serves our community.

If you have suggestions of who we should grade next, please let the Defender know by sending an email to communityspeaks@ defendermediagroup.com.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

T:9.75”

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

3

On top of our game We are a straight-up, no joke, can’t-get-enough sports family. If it’s on, we’ll watch it.

And if it’s going to be on, we’ll know about it with personalized recommendations.

We even have 24/7 sports coverage on all major networks and exclusive local-team coverage with XFINITY On Demand.™ XFINITY on the X1 Entertainment Operating System® is perfect for fanatic families with rival teams.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. ©2015 Comcast. All rights reserved.

T:13”

The most live sports on the most devices with XFINITY® TV

4

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

national

U.S.briefs

NAACP ends historic Journey for Justice The NAACP recently concluded its 1,000mile Journey for Justice in Washington, D.C. Led

by NAACP President Cornell William Brooks, the march was designed to focus attention on the criminal justice system, equal access to the ballot, and equity in employment and education.

“We have marched a thousand miles, we have had thousands of people participate in this march,” Brooks said.

The journey began Aug. 1 at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma in remembrance of the events of Bloody Sunday, where civil rights marchers advocating for voting rights were severely beaten by Alabama State Troopers in 1965.

Organizations involved in the march included the National Bar Association, Common Cause, Sierra Club, Communications Workers of America and Black Women’s Roundtable.

The march traveled through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. Participants traveled roughly 20 miles per day for 40 days and nights.

Brooks said the journey was needed.

“We find ourselves at a perilous point in his-

tory, what some call a third reconstruction,” he said as the march began. “We are facing opposition by adversaries of change, those determined to turn back the clock on progress and stop the momentum of a changing tide of American demographics, those who chose to stand in the way of achieving a fairer, more just America.”

He added that the NAACP is joining with other organizations to find solutions to “fundamental issues” such as threats to voting rights, criminal justice reform, unemployment, underemployment, and the school-to-prison pipeline.

In addition to its high points, the march had its low points. In Virginia, a 68-year-old marcher named Middle Passage became ill and died.

“I watched a brave man die beside me holding our American flag,” Brooks said. “His name was Middle Passage, a name that both invokes a historical legacy of suffering while suggesting the aspirations of freedom by African-Americans. It was my forever-to-be-cherished honor to walk beside Middle Passage for hundreds of miles on America’s Journey for Justice.”

Blake says NY officer doesn’t deserve badge Former tennis pro James Blake said the New York City police officer who tackled him in a case of mistaken identity should be fired.

“It’s really infuriating to know that I was in such a vulnerable position, and I was taken advantage of by someone that wears the NYPD badge, and in my opinion tarnishes that badge,” he said.

Blake, who was misidentified as a suspect in a fraudulent credit card ring, was tackled and handcuffed outside a hotel while waiting for a car to the U.S. Open. The incident was caught on surveillance video and prompted personal apologies

to Blake from New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and Police Commissioner Bill Bratton.

The officer, James Frascatore, was in plain clothes, and Blake said he never identified himself. The incident has brought to light past complaints against Frascatore, who is the defendant in four earlier lawsuits alleging excessive use of force.

Blake, 35, spent five or 10 minutes with his hands cuffed behind his back before police realized he was the wrong suspect and let him go.

Blake is biracial and Frascatore is white. Bratton said race was not a factor in the incident.

BMW HAS BEEN ORDERED TO PAY $1.6 million and provide job opportunities to alleged victims of race discrimination as part of a lawsuit filed by the EEOC. The lawsuit, filed by the EEOC’s Charlotte, S.C., District Office, alleged that BMW excluded African-American logistics workers from employment at a disproportionate rate when the company’s new logistics contractor in Spartanburg, S.C., applied BMW’s criminal conviction records guidelines to incumbent employees. EEOC said Blacks were disproportionately disqualified from employment as a result of the criminal conviction records guidelines, and sought relief for 56 African-Americans who were discharged.

BMW has since voluntarily changed its guidelines……..BALTIMORE MAYOR Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announced that she will not seek re-election, nearly five months after the city erupted in rioting following the death of Freddie Gray, who was injured in police custody. Rawlings-Blake made the announcement days after officials said the city would pay Gray’s family $6.4 million to settle civil claims over his spinal injury. Rawlings-Blake said she believes she could have won re-election, but not running again was the best decision for the city and her family. “I’m focused right now on governing, rather than campaigning for mayor at this critical time in our history,” she said…….. AS THE 2016 ELECTION CYCLE gears up, the Black Women’s Roundtable and Essence Magazine have teamed up to mobilize Black women voters. The partnership hopes to raise the profile of the powerful Black women’s vote. In the 2008 and 2012 elections, Black women had the highest turnout of any group. “It’s to the benefit of our communities to make sure our communities are respected in 2016, and that our issues are elevated and addressed,” said Melanie Campbell of the Black Women’s Roundtable. The partnership recently conducted a Power of the Sister Vote poll, which Essence launched with its readers last month.

VOLUME 84 • NUMBER 33 SEPTEMBER 17, 2015

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Print Editor Marilyn Marshall

Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison

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).

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

Plenti is a new way to get rewards at Macy’s and lots of other places! Join for free to earn points at one place and use them at another, all with a single rewards card. See a Sales Associate or visit macys.com/plenti to sign up and get more details.

OFF WITH YOUR % MA -2O WOW! PASS CY % ON SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL O EXTRA SAVINGS (EXCEPT SPECIALS & SUPER BUYS)

EXTRA 2O% OFF

ASS OR P RD CA

EX TR A

1

Plenti points cannot be earned or used on fees and services or on some purchases, such as at certain food establishments and leased departments within Macy’s stores. To be eligible to join Plenti, you must be at least 13 years of age and have a residence in the United States or its territories, or Canada. Plenti is only available in the United States and its territories. For complete terms and conditions, including a complete list of exclusions, see Sales Associate or visit macys.com/plentiinfo

’S

U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy recently issued a call to action to promote the health benefits of walking while addressing the fact that many communities lack safe and convenient places for individuals to walk or wheelchair roll.

“Everyone deserves to have a safe place to walk or wheelchair roll,” Murthy said. “But in too many of our communities, that is not the reality.

“We know that an active lifestyle is critical to achieving good overall health. And walking is a simple, effective and affordable way to build physical activity into our lives. That is why we need to step it up as a country ensuring that everyone can choose to walk in their own communities.”

Murthy encouraged communities to create more areas for walking and wheelchair rolling and to prioritize the development of safe routes for children to get to and from schools.

He also called on city managers, law enforcement and community and public health leaders to address safety concerns by better maintaining public spaces, working with residents to promote a shared sense of community ownership, ensuring proper street lighting and fostering neighborhood watch programs.

Murthy urged individuals to make walking a priority in their lives. Fewer than half of all U.S. adults get enough physical activity to reduce their risk of chronic disease, and only a quarter of high school students get the recommended amount.

Physical inactivity contributes to heart and lung disease, diabetes and cancer, which account for 86 percent of U.S. health care costs.

“We know that an average of 22 minutes a day of physical activity – such as brisk walking – can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes,” added Murthy.

“The key is to get started because even a small first effort can make a big difference in improving the personal health of an individual and the public health of the nation.”

5

Join Plenti for free and start earning points today!

TAKE AN

Americans urged to walk more

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL FOR HIM, HER & KIDS, PLUS FINE & FASHION JEWELRY EXTRA 15% OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE SHOES, COATS, SUITS, DRESSES, INTIMATES, SWIM FOR HER; SUIT SEPARATES & SPORTCOATS FOR HIM & HOME ITEMS EXTRA 10% OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE ELECTRICS/ELECTRONICS & WATCHES MACYS.COM PROMO CODE: FIVE EXCLUSIONS MAY DIFFER ON MACYS.COM Excludes: Deals of the Day, Doorbusters, Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, cosmetics/ fragrances, men’s store electronics, multi-handbag purchases for her, floor coverings, furniture, mattresses, rugs. Also excludes: athletic apparel, shoes & accessories; Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, Macy’s Backstage merchandise/locations, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, selected licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. EXTRA SAVINGS % APPLIED TO REDUCED PRICES. TEXT “CPN” TO 62297 TO GET COUPONS, SALES ALERTS & MORE!

Max 3 msgs/wk. Msg & data rates may apply. By texting CPN from my mobile number, I agree to receive marketing text messages generated by an automated dialer from Macy’s to this number. I understand that consent is not required to make a purchase. Text STOP to 62297 to cancel. Text HELP to 62297 for help. Terms & conditions at macys.com/mobilehelp Privacy policy at macys.com/privacypolicy

VALID 9/16-9/20/2015

NOW-SUN, SEPT. 2O

5-DAY SUPER SALE

3O%-75% OFF BUY ONLINE, PICK UP IN-STORE

NEED IT IN A HURRY? NOW YOU CAN SHOP AHEAD ON MACYS.COM AND PICK IT UP THE SAME DAY AT YOUR NEAREST MACY’S STORE. IT’S FAST, FREE AND EASY! DETAILS AT MACYS.COM/STOREPICKUP

FREE SHIPPING + FREE RETURNS AT MACYS.COM! FREE SHIPPING WITH $99 PURCHASE. FREE RETURNS BY MAIL OR IN-STORE. U.S. ONLY. EXCLUSIONS APPLY; DETAILS AT MACYS.COM/FREERETURNS

5-DAY SUPER SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 9/16-9/20/2015, EXCEPT AS NOTED. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 15% 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.

50717_N5080114J.indd 1

9/11/15 5:21 PM

6

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 defendernetwork.com

entertainment

Meagan Good

plays detective on ‘Minority Report’

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

Meagan Good has blossomed into one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actresses for both big screen and television projects. She was recently seen in “A Girl Like Grace,” a coming-of-age film that she also co-produced.

Last year, Good reprised the role of Mya in “Think Like a Man Too,” the sequel to the smash hit based on the best-selling book by Steve Harvey. She was also featured in “Anchorman: The Legend Continues,” the sequel starring Will Ferrell.

In 1998, Good landed her first NAACP Image Award nomination for one of her earliest roles in the drama “Eve’s Bayou.” Her additional film credits include “Jumping the Broom,” “Stomp the Yard,” “You Got Served” and “Deliver Us From Eva.” Here, she talks about playing Detective Lara Vega on the new TV series “Minority Report,” which premieres Sept. 21 at 8 p.m. on Fox. It is based on Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film.

KW: Is “Minority Report” your first sci-fi?

MG: Yeah. It’s funny, because my prayer last year was that I really wanted to do some comedy and some scifi. I was trying to be patient and wait for the right project.

The pilot season was ending, and I had some other opportunities I passed on which weren’t quite right. And then, just at the last minute, “Minority Report” came through. Of course, I was already a fan of the film.

Now, the story’s being told from the perspective of the twin brothers [played by Stark Sands and Nick Zano].

So, it’s new and fresh, yet staying true to the original for

the fan base already familiar with the film. Also, I just fell in love with my character. Vega is the type of woman who lives for her business like the air that she breathes. She really cares, but she’s also strong and knows that she can take care of herself and make a difference, and that’s what drives her.

KW: Is there anyone that you’re basing Detective Vega on?

MG: My stepmother, actually. My father was in the LAPD for 26 years, and his wife is also in law enforcement.

She started very young, when she was about 23. So, I called her up and asked, “What was your motivation to get into such a hardcore profession where you know your life is potentially in danger on a daily basis?” For her, it was a matter of wanting to make the world a better place…

KW: To what extent is Steven Spielberg involved in this TV project?

MG: He’s the producer. Once he saw the finished product, he came aboard as executive producer. He’s been handson with the scripts. He literally handpicked every actor. He had to sign off on everybody they brought to the table. And he’s involved with the creation of the inventions.

He’s very much a part of every aspect of the process.

For me, that’s crazy exciting. Before I was signed, they said, “Steven Spielberg’s watching your tape. We’ll let you know what he thinks.” When I got the job, I went, “What? Steven Spielberg thinks I’m a good actress?”

KW: When do you feel the most content?

MG: Either while I’m listening to music in the car, or when I’m praying, or when I’m at home relaxing on the couch, totally unplugged and watching a show with a glass of wine.

what’sup The thriller “The Perfect Guy” ruled the box office its first week in theaters, earning nearly $26 million. It stars SANAA LATHAN, MORRIS CHESTNUT and MICHAEL EALY. “The War Room” came in third place, and has grossed nearly $40 million in three weeks. “Straight Outta Compton” was in sixth place, and has earned $155 million in five weeks……..PATTI LaBELLE will host a special on the Cooking Channel titled “Patti LaBelle’s Place.” It airs Sunday, Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. Celebrity guests include WHOOPI GOLDBERG and MICHELLE WILLIAMS. LaBelle will prepare such dishes as crab cakes, roasted lamb, mashed sweet pota-

toes, sautéed kale with garlic and macaroni and cheese with eight different types of cheese........

VANESSA WILLIAMS recently returned to the Miss America stage as a judge, three decades after she became the first Black woman to win the crown but resigned after a nude photo scandal.

Pageant CEO Sam Haskell apologized to Williams on stage for the way the scandal was handled. “I have been a close friend to this beautiful and talented lady for 32 years,” Haskell told Williams. “You have lived your life in grace and dignity, and never was it more evident than during the events of 1984 when you resigned,” he said……..NBC has renewed its hit summer

comedy “The Carmichael Show,” and will bring it back to the schedule later this season. It was the most-watched summer comedy on the big four networks in eight years, and stars JERROD CARMICHAEL, LORETTA DEVINE, DAVID ALAN GRIER, AMBER STEVENS WEST and LIL REL HOWERY……..RLJ Entertainment, the company established by BET founder ROBERT L. JOHNSON, has acquired North American rights to the film “Nina,” based on the life of legendary singer-songwriter NINA SIMONE. The film stars ZOE SALDANA and DAVID OYELOWO and will hit theaters in December.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

health

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

Defender Special Edition

JOINT PAIN: ABOUT ARTHRITIS

By AMBER VERNON Defender

system attacks one’s own joints by mistake. It is characterized by stiff and possibly swollen joints, usually worse in the morning and relieved by f you have arthritis, you are one of 53 million Americans movement. Symptoms also include with the joint disease. According to the Arthritis numbness and swollen feet.

Foundation, it is the number one cause of disability in the “There are some genetic risk factors country. involved, but the biggest risk is an Arthritis is the painful inflammation and stiffness of the environmental one derived from smoking joints, and there are more than 100 different types of arthritis which increases the risk of getting arthritis and related conditions. Though minorities have lower rates of by 20 times,” Johnston said. arthritis compared to whites, they experience greater severity of “Untreated, RA can cause major disability pain and more activity limitations than whites. as well as significantly increased risk of heart Rheumatologist Dr. Kirkwood Johnston of Kelseyattack and stroke.

Fortunately there are effective Seybold Clinic said the cause of severity of arthritis and safe medications available these days such that among Blacks and Hispanics is unknown. severe complications are quite rare.

Rheumatologists “It may be related to background genetics, are experts in using these medications, which would health care access, use of health care services, almost never be prescribed by a family doctor.” and willingness to report limitation and pain,” Fibromyalgia can cause fatigue, insomnia, muscle Johnston said. pain, and tenderness in places on the neck, shoulders, “The prevalence of risk factors for back, hips, arms and legs that hurt when touched. arthritis, such as obesity and physically “Fibromyalgia is better classified as a pain disorder demanding jobs, could also be a with whole-body sensitivity to pain, or a feeling of muscle/ factor. More research is needed.” bone pain without any actual painful stimulus,” Johnston Studies support the link to said. obesity and certain diseases. The “The main causes are lack of restorative sleep, due Arthritis Foundation says arthritis to sleep apnea, psychological disorders, other underlying can be found in 57 percent of diseases, thyroid disorders, and low vitamin D. Treatment is adults with heart disease, 52 percent geared toward the underlying causes and can include various of adults with diabetes, 44 percent medications, sleep therapy, and exercises/physical therapy.” of adults with high blood pressure and 36 Gout is caused by uric acid that builds up to form hard percent of adults who are obese. needle-shaped crystals that go to the joints. “The crystals The risk of arthritis increases with age. Almost half cause an intense inflammatory reaction involving severe of adults 65 years old or older have arthritis. pain, redness, and swelling of affected joint,” Johnston said.

Johnston offered insight on the four most common types of “Family history, kidney dysfunction, and excess beer arthritis. consumption are big risk factors.

Gout typically presents Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and as incredibly painful and swollen big toe joint occurring becomes more likely as people age. This disease occurs when all of a sudden, often in the early morning hours. cartilage breaks down and wears away, leaving bones to rub “Treatments involve joint injections and against each other. medications to control inflammation and decrease uric Symptoms include pain, stiffness or swelling in joints, and a acid in the body.

Untreated, gout can cause bone and crunch feeling that sounds like bone rubbing against bone. joint destruction in addition to the repeated painful “It can be aggravated by family history and previous attacks,” he said. injuries,” Johnston said. “Treatments In order to maintain control over include various types of medication from arthritis, research shows exercise acetaminophen and ibuprofen to other pain “Treatments include various types of medication from and maintaining a healthy weight is pills, exercises and physical therapy, braces, needed to improve the function of acetaminophen and ibuprofen to other pain pills, medicated ointments, and joint replacement joints and decrease pain. At least two surgery.” exercises and physical therapy, braces, medicated and a half hours of physical activity Rheumatoid arthritis is an ointments, and joint replacement surgery.” each week is recommended to help inflammatory arthritis where the immune Dr. Kirkwood Johnston manage the disease.

I

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

1B

2B

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

health Caring for kids with

arthritis

Inside Lupus more prevalent in Black women 3B MD Anderson Cancer Center

Looking back on a life-changing year 4B Joint pain: Know causes, symptoms & treatment 6B Know the facts about bone cancer 6B Memorial Hermann

Keeping students healthy, ready to learn 8B Texas Children’s Hospital

Supporting children after accidental injury 10B Kelsey-Seybold Clinic

Cholesterol: The good, bad & ugly 12B

defendernetwork.com

J

By AMBER VERNON Defender

uvenile arthritis, also known as childhood arthritis, mostly affects children 16 and under and can begin as early as six months. Among the different types of childhood arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common.

Dr. Marietta DeGuzman, clinic chief of the Pediatric Rheumatology Center at Texas Children’s Hospital, said JIA is a different disease from the one seen in adults.

“JIA is an autoimmune disease,” DeGuzman said. “Like other autoimmune diseases, there is a malfunctioning of the body’s immune system, which in JIA causes inflammation of the joints.”

DeGuzman said more research is still being conducted on JIA as the causes are not known. “It is not considered hereditary and rarely involves more than one family member,” she said. “Because the causes of JIA are unknown, no one knows how to prevent these conditions.”

Diagnosis of JIA depends on physical findings, medical history and the exclusion of other diagnoses. Other conditions that can look like JIA, including infections, childhood cancer, bone disorders and lupus must be ruled out before a diagnosis of JIA can be confirmed.

“JIA may be difficult to diagnose because some children may not complain of pain at first, and joint swelling may not be obvious,” she said. “There is no blood test that can be used to diagnose the condition in children.”

PHYSICAL SIGNS/SYMPTOMS

Signs include stiffness when awakening (in the morning or after

a nap), limping, reluctance to use the joint involved, reduced activity level, joint swelling, persistent fever, and redness around joint

TYPES OF JIA

DeGuzman said it is important for parents to understand the characteristics of each type of JIA and the best treatment.

• Systemic JIA includes fevers, rash, and joint pain; usually affects the whole body.

• Oligoarthritis affects four or fewer joints.

• Polyarticular arthritis, rheumatoid factor negative, causes swelling or pain in five or more joints, usually affects the hands, knees, hips, ankles, feet, and neck • Polyarticular arthritis, rheumatoid factor positive, is similar to adult rheumatoid arthritis and puts kids at higher risk for joint damage.

• Psoriatic arthritis is a rash that forms red, bumpy patches on infected areas.

• Enthesitis-related arthritis affects the spine and lower body from the hip to the toes, inflammation may also occur where tendons join bone.

TREATMENT/SOLUTIONS

DeGuzman shared tips to help ease the symptoms of JIA. • Children should maintain an active, productive lifestyle with a nutritious, well-balanced diet.

• A warm bath or shower can help with pain and stiffness.

• Activities and exercises in the water help the soreness and stiffness of the arthritis joints.

• Physical and occupational therapy can increase joint motion, reduce pain, improve function and increase strength and endurance.

Message from the Publisher

A

Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

nyone who has ever experienced joint pain knows how agonizing it can be, from arthritis to gout to carpal tunnel syndrome.

In this health edition, we provide you with information that addresses your pain from head to toe.

We begin with an in-depth look at arthritis, the severity of which disproportionately impacts African-Americans. Next, we explore juvenile arthritis, because joint problems can strike at any age.

Our story on lupus sheds light on an ailment that can impact joints and other parts of the body. We also take an overall look at joint pain, and give you

important facts about bone cancer.

In addition to reading about joint pain, we urge you to take steps to lessen it. Regular exercise, a healthy weight and a balanced, bone-healthy diet can help in many instances.

Because your overall health is important, this special edition includes vital information from our partners – Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Hermann Health System and Texas Children’s Hospital.

The Defender is proud to be Houston’s Leading Black Information Source, and we are dedicated to providing news you can use.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

health Lupus more prevalent in Black women

F

3B

By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender

requently known as the “invisible disease,” lupus is an unpredictable and often misunderstood chronic autoimmune disease that can damage many different parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels and brain.

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, Lupus can strike both men and women, but 90 percent of those diagnosed with the disease are women between the ages of 15 and 44.

African-American women are three times more likely to get lupus than white women. They also develop lupus at a much younger age, and are more prone to suffer from the complications of the disease.

“For unknown reasons, lupus causes the immune system to attack the body’s own tissue and organs,” said Dr. Gary Sheppard, an internist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital.

A healthy immune system protects the body against bacteria, germs, viruses, and other foreign materials. With an autoimmune disease like lupus, “the immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between those foreign substances and its own cells and tissue,” Sheppard said.

The immune system then makes antibodies directed against “self” and begins attacking the body’s healthy tissue.

There are three main types of lupus, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form. Discoid-induced lupus erythematosus mainly affects the skin, causing red rashes to appear on the skin of the face, scalp, or elsewhere, and could change color.

Drug-induced lupus is triggered by certain medicines and is more common in men. It’s much like SLE, but symptoms are usually milder.

Lupus is an incurable disease, and it is not to be confused with cancer, even though having lupus could increase your risk of developing cancer. “lupus is closer to something like rheumatoid arthritis,” Sheppard said.

He said lupus is difficult to diagnose because there is no single test. It may take months before an individual finds out they have it and even more months or years for a doctor to diagnose the disease. Doctors use various tools to make a diagnosis, such as medical history, blood tests or biopsies.

One person with lupus may have swollen toes and mouth sores. Another person may be tired all the time and lose hair. Someone else may experience chest pain and rashes. If you have lupus, it may affect two or three parts of your body.

Fact: African-American women are three times more likely to get lupus than white women.

Usually, one person doesn’t have all the possible symptoms such as extreme fatigue, kidney issues, unexplained fever, hair and weight loss, painful and swollen joints, mouth sores, sensitivity to the sun, chest pain, skin rash, abdominal pain, seizures, strokes, and in some cases, depression.

The aforementioned symptoms are often associated with other illnesses besides lupus, which also makes it difficult to diagnose. In fact, lupus is sometimes also called “the great imitator” because its symptoms are often like the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, blood disorders, fibromyalgia, diabetes, thyroid problems, Lyme disease, and a number of heart, lung, muscle, brain, and bone diseases.

Sheppard said researchers are still studying why

African-American women are more inclined to develop lupus, what causes it to start, and why it is mild in some and more severe in others. “There are many factors that lead doctors to believe why African-American women are more prone to lupus.

It’s not one thing that causes it,” he said.

“Possible reasons could be late diagnosis, less access to health care, and poor compliance to recommended treatments,” Sheppard said. “Researchers also believe the environment, along with genetics, socioeconomic, and demographic factors,” play a tremendous role in who gets lupus. Another factor could be lack of knowledge about lupus.

There is currently no way to prevent lupus, “but people who smoke may be more likely to develop lupus,” Sheppard said. Avoiding smoking and other tobacco products may decrease your risk of developing lupus.

Though there is no way to prevent lupus, it is treatable. Treatment is tailored to the patient’s conditions, such as age, symptoms, general health, and lifestyle. Treatment could be anything from taking certain medications to undergoing chemotherapy in some severe cases.

With the correct medication and taking care of themselves, most lupus patients can hold a job, have children, and lead a fulfilling life.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

4B

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

health

Looking back on a year fighting breast cancer

“

By MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER

If you keep waking me up, I will do whatever you need me to do.” That’s the pact that Jamie Bernard made with God when she was diagnosed with cancer in 2013 at age 32. She knew she was going to do whatever it took in order to be around to watch her daughter, Caydin, grow up.

“My biggest thing was I needed to be alive,” she says.

An unexpected breast cancer diagnosis

Before her diagnosis, Jamie was a healthy, active mom, running 5Ks and reveling in a 45-pound weight loss. She never thought that she’d be diagnosed with breast cancer.

When Jamie went for her annual well woman exam in January 2013, her doctor asked if she’d been checking for changes in her breasts.

“I lied and said yes,” she admits. But the guilt of lying led her to start looking for changes that November. And on December 3, she discovered a lump in her left breast.

A few weeks later, Jamie made an appointment to have the lump checked. That’s when she got her breast cancer diagnosis, which led her to MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she already worked in organizational development.

Jamie’s breast cancer treatment

At MD Anderson, Jamie’s doctors discovered her cancer was growing as a result of the estrogen produced by her body, making her chances of cancer recurrence higher.

Jamie worked with her doctors to customize a treatment plan. Her treatment plan included a mastectomy and 16 rounds of chemotherapy. Once her treatment was complete, she began a prescription for tamoxifen, a drug that is used to prevent breast cancer recurrence.

A difficult choice made simple

Jamie did her best to prepare for the rapid changes and confront her cancer head on.

“I didn’t have time to process. I got diagnosed and in less than 30 days I had a mastectomy,” she says.

Because scans revealed the cancer was isolated to her left breast and she has no family history, Jamie opted not to have a double mastectomy. At times, the thought of cancer returning lurks in her mind, but she’s confident she made the right choice.

She also doesn’t harp on her age.

“Yeah, I’m young, but it happens,” she says with a shrug and a smile. “I got over the ‘you’re young’ comments really quickly.”

After waiting the required 30 days after her final chemotherapy session, she underwent breast reconstruction surgery in October 2014. But the process didn’t end there.

She still has additional decisions to make before her transformation is complete. Jamie is putting a lot of thought into her new appearance to ensure she’s satisfied with the end result.

“You can never be too picky,” she tells others. “This is

your life, and this is how you’re going to view yourself.”

Celebrating new beginnings after breast cancer

Jamie recently celebrated her one-year anniversary of being declared cancer-free with a trip to New Orleans with her girlfriends.

But that’s not all she had to celebrate. In December, she received a promotion to a new role as a human resources recruiter.

“Last year started off with a bang and ended with a bang,” Jamie says of the full-circle feeling of receiving a cancer diagnosis and a promotion within the same year. “Life is really precious -- you realize what is really important.”

What matters most is her support system comprised of her immediate and extended family, close friends and coworkers who have helped her adjust to the physical and emotional changes of the past year.

And while the full impact of Jamie’s cancer battle may not be realized for quite some time, it has already influenced 5-year-old Caydin, despite her limited understanding of her mom’s illness.

“My daughter used to say she wanted to be a veterinarian. Now she says she wants to be a doctor like the ones who helped me get better,” Jamie says, misty-eyed. “That’s the best thing I’ve heard this year.”

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

“My team will get you, cancer�

Dr. Sapna Patel | Cancer Physician & Researcher Every day, we at MD Anderson are making new discoveries in immunotherapy to end cancer. For good.

To help fight, call 1-855-894-0145 or visit MakingCancerHistory.com.

Ranked number one in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report.

5B

6B

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

cente

K

JOINT

PAIN TOP TO BOTTOM

J

oints for inside of to help y or injury pain, aff Dr. William ated with Memo having joint pain can be treated. H body.

SHOULDER

The shoulde man body and is grees. This wide to deterioration Causes of sh ry to the rotator that help you mo tions. Tendinitis tendon that occu Symptoms i stiffness. Treatm physical therapy

BACK

Back pain c quickly if not tre strains or injurie Symptoms i tingly feeling. T the seriousness. physical therapy stretch exercises

ELBOW

r e c n a c e n o b t u o b a s t c a f e Fiv

erou s a (typ e of ca nc ncer is a sa rcom ncers ca ca e er on B e bo ne. O th e th in ts ar st Accordi ng to th ntu m or ) th at g se co nd ar y ca ce r bo ne s, in cl ud in e A m er ic an Can . th dy ct bo fe e af th ay m rt s of from ot he r pa So ci ety, ca ncer ad re ’s sp in at gk th od rs H ce d er in cl ud e no nof th e bo ne s an er ty pe s of ca nc th O up e ak ti pl e mye lo m a. jo ints m a is ph om a an d m ul m ly l al of og en ic sa rcom t .2 pe rcen rcom a or oste sa rs eo cu st O oc ca ncer. It ca ncers in th e n ty pe of bo ne d it ai m an e s, th nt ol es ce U.S . H ere are ch ild re n an d ad in er n nc te ca of t ne os m of bo ou t on e- fo ur th so m e fa ct s from ab e r th fo in ts un lly co ua ac lls , us so n gi ns in bo ne ce th e M D A nd er be nd It ou . ar ts ul ea ad ar in th e Can ce r Cente r. le gs , es pe ci al ly pe lv is , ar m s or

1

2

at io n vi si t m .m Fo r m ore info rm

th e kn ee. ca rt ila ge ce lls , a is ca ncer of om rc sa ro nd ncer in C ho eval ent bo ne ca pr t os m e th is an d e in pati ents ent of ca se s ar rc pe y nt ve Se m ors are ad ul ts . dros arco m a tu on ch y an M . over 40 be ni gn . an d m ay m ptom s va ry, B on e ca ncer sy ne ss in or nd el lin g or te er sw , in pa e ud in cl m ovem ent, ty w it h no rm al ul ic ff di t, in jo or fractu re s. ne ar a t lo ss , an em ia gh ei w r, ve fe eatm ent fo r fati gu e, th e pr im ar y tr n te of is y er Su rg sa rcom a.

3

4

5

er-typ es /b fo rm at io n/ca nc -in er nc ca g/ or da nd er so n.

on e- ca ncer/.

Elbow pain elbow is used in definitely have a fractured elbow the elbow, or a t osteoarthritis or may come and g Symptoms i ness, and tender Treating ten pain/inflammato requires surgery treated through p

WRIST, HAND

Whether it i suddenly stoppin ground, the hand and injury at all Causes of pa drome, which is and arm caused

defendernetwork.com • Servin

erfold

defender network.com

7B

Know the causes, symptoms, treatment in some cases, surgery as well.

By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender

HIP

Your hips allow you to walk, run, and jump; support the body’s weight and propel the motion of the legs.

The causes of hip pain vary but include osteoarthritis and bursitis/tendinitis from wear and tear of key muscles to running, cycling and other sports.

A fractured hip bone is a serious injury and can be life-threatening. Older people are more prone to a broken hip bone because bones tend to weaken as they get older. It could also occur from falling or a car accident.

Hip dislocation is a result of a large trauma like an athletic sport accident or a motor vehicle accident.

Symptoms include inability to move, severe pain in the groin area, swelling, stiffness, inability to put weight on the leg of the affected side and tenderness.

For treatment, physical therapy helps hip pain, as does anti-inflammatory medication. A fractured or dislocated hip would require surgery or total hip replacement depending on the seriousness of the affected area.

rm the connection between your bones f your body. They also provide support you move. Any damage from disease y could alter your movement and cause ecting your quality of life.

Hadnott, an orthopedic surgeon affiliorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, said n “is not the end of the world,” and it Here’s a look at different parts of the

er is the most complex joint in the hus designed to rotate at a full 360 dee range of mobility also makes it prone or injury. houlder pain include arthritis or an injucuff, which is a group of four muscles ove your shoulder in all different direcs is a result of the wearing down of the urs slowly over time. include pain, tenderness, swelling, and ment includes medication, surgery or y.

KNEES

an range from mild to severe very eated. Causes include arthritis, muscle es, or degenerative disc disease. include pain weakness, numbness and Treating back pain varies depending on For the most part, one must undergo y, take medication, and practice gentle s.

usually isn’t serious, but because the n many different ways, the pain can an effect. Causes include tendinitis, a resulting from a fall, a direct impact to twisting injury to the arm. A bad case of rheumatoid arthritis can also be a cause and go. include discoloration, bruising, pain, stiffness ndinitis in the elbow includes ice, rest, and ory medication. Repairing a fractured elbow y or the wearing of a cast. Arthritis can be physical therapy and medication.

D, FINGERS

is from performing minor repetitive tasks, to ng the force of the body during a fall to the d, wrist, and fingers are vulnerable to pain stages of life. ain include: arthritis; carpal tunnel syna numbness and tingling feeling in the hand by a pinched nerve in the wrist; sprains and

Back pain can range from mild to severe very quickly if not treated. Causes include arthritis, muscle strains or injuries, or degenerative disc disease. strains which are common in athletes; and a fracture within the wrist, hand, and finger caused by a break in one or more bones due to an injury.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, loss of function, weakness and numbness.

Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medicine, splinting the wrist, or in some severe cases, surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment for a sprained, strained, or fractured bone, would require a cast, pain medication, and

ng the Houston area for over 80 years

There are a lot of different things that could cause knee pain, including osteoarthritis, a dislocated knee cap, a torn meniscus caused by the twisting of the knee in an accident or from playing sports, or an ACL injury, which is the tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament and is common in basketball players.

Symptoms include popping or crunching noises, swelling, tenderness, severe pain, weakness, and inability to walk.

In the area of treatment, an ACL, dislocated kneecap or a torn meniscus are treated through surgery or total knee replacement depending on how serious the affected area is. Anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy also helps.

ANKLE

The ankle is composed of bones, muscles, and tendons that support the weight of your body and allows your foot to move.

Causes of ankle pain include arthritis, strains and sprains. Symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, and redness.

Treatment includes ice, rest, physical therapy, and the wearing of a cast .

HEEL, TOE, FOOT

One cause of pain is gout, which occurs when toxins within the body develop tiny crystals that release into the big toe. Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs occur through the tightness in the tissue of your foot from being overweight.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, tightness, tenderness, redness, and the feeling that the arch in the foot is tearing apart.

Treatment includes medications, therapy and exercises.

8B

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

health

Memorial Hermann’s Health Centers for Schools

Keeping students healthy, ready to learn

A

By MEMORIAL HERMANN

nother school year is off and running with thousands of students returning to greater Houston region schools to learn reading, writing and math. Many returned to school happy, healthy and fed, but many others have a different and unfortunate reality. For those students, Memorial Hermann’s Health Centers for Schools program is a beacon of light.

The good news for students in need of access to health care is that Memorial Hermann added three new health centers and a third mobile dental van to its list of clinics where uninsured and underserved students can access medical, mental health, nutritional and dental care.

New clinics were opened on the shared campuses of Hastings and Elsik High Schools in Alief ISD, at Kruse Elementary in Pasadena ISD and at Dunn Elementary in Aldine ISD. Launched in 1996, the program now has 10 school clinics in five districts, including Houston and Lamar Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools nurse practitioner examines student.

Consolidated ISDs. With school feeder patterns served, the clinics are available to more than 65,000 barriers to health care,” explained Deborah Ganelin, underserved children at 68 schools.

Associate Vice President, Community Benefit Corporation The program’s recent expansion was due largely for Memorial Hermann Health System. to funds received through the Center for Medicaid and “Barriers to health care for many of the students who Medicare Services (CMS) 1115-Waiver program. The access our clinics include low income, lack of knowledge 1115-Waiver has been a great benefit as it has helped about available health care, lack of transportation and Memorial Hermann expand medical, mental health, parents’ inability to take time away from low-paying hourly nutritional and dental care to 22 additional schools in three jobs.” school districts and opened access to nearly 15,000 more The services offered at the Health Centers for Schools students and close to 9,500 more visits. clinics have made a difference to students’ health as well The Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools as their academic lives, Ganelin said. The general profile program has a primary goal: Keep students healthy and in of children being served by Memorial Hermann’s Health school so they can learn and impact their chance of success. Centers for Schools program is: The program accomplishes that by providing a medical n 93% are on the free/reduced lunch program, a home for uninsured students from prekindergarten through nationally accepted indicator of poverty 12th grade. n 34% of students have limited English proficiency The 10 clinics in the greater Houston region are staffed n 44% of the students served are without any kind of by a nurse practitioner, social worker, licensed vocational health insurance coverage nurse (LVN) and receptionist with physician oversight n 27% have some form of Medicaid provided. Certified Community Health Workers (CHW) The outcomes for students who have accessed the or navigators rotate among centers and assists parents with school health clinics have been exceptional. For instance: applications and social service, medical and dental referrals. n Grade point averages increased Two dietitians provide nutritional counseling. n Absenteeism decreased Open five days a week, year round, the program serves n Suspensions/detentions decreased students in the schools’ designated school feeder patterns. n 92% of students served returned to class on the same Services includes sick and injury care, general and sports day (after a clinic visit) physicals, immunizations, chronic care (asthma, obesity and n Asthma exacerbations, ER visits and cholesterol), mental health therapy, social service referrals, hospitalizations have been reduced by 92% nutritional guidance and other care to meet students’ needs.

“The clinics are making a difference because these Dental services offered include periodic oral children are lacking in the most basic of primary care and examinations, diagnostic x-rays, prophylaxis, fluoride illnesses and chronic conditions left untreated can grow treatments, oral hygiene instructions, sealants, composite increasingly serious,” Ganelin said. fillings, extractions, stainless steel crowns and pulpotomies.

“Memorial Hermann is committed to exploring “The idea behind the program is to break down innovative ways to address the healthcare access

issues experienced by the medically disadvantaged. We see school-based healthcare as an avenue to address these issues for children and, collaboratively with the school districts prepare them for a healthier, brighter future.”

For more information on Memorial Hermann’s Health Centers for Schools program, visit http://communitybenefit.memorialhermann. org/locations/school-based-health-centers/

Memorial Hermann School-Based Health Centers locations: n Burbank Health Center (HISD) 315 Berry Rd. Houston, TX 77022 (713) 742-8151 n Elrod Health Center (HISD) 6230 Dumfries Dr. Houston, TX 77096 (713) 771-1805 n Hogg Health Center (HISD) 1100 Merrill St. Houston, TX 77009 (713) 864-7614 n Sharpstown Health Center (HISD) 7504 Bissonet St. Houston, TX 77074 (832) 658-5260 n Lamar Health Center (Lamar Consolidated ISD) 1002 E. Stadium Dr. Rosenberg, TX 77471 (281) 762-8383 n Terry Health Center (Lamar Consolidated ISD) 5500 Avenue N. Rosenberg, TX 77471 (281) 238-0852 n WAVE Health Center (Pasadena ISD) 1500 Main St. South Houston, TX 77587 (713) 946-7461 n Alief Health Center (Alief ISD) 12360 Bear Ram Rd. # T-1 Houston, TX 77072 n Kruse Health Center (Pasadena ISD) 400 Park Ln. Pasadena, TX 77506 n Nimitz Health Center (Aldine ISD) 2003 W. W. Thorne Blvd., # TM-01 Houston, TX 77073

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

FEELING SICK BUT NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? SPEAK WITH A REGISTERED NURSE FOR ANSWERS TO YOUR HEALTH QUESTIONS. When you or a family member is feeling sick, but you’re not sure if you need to see your doctor or go to the hospital, call the free Nurse Health Line. Experienced nurses will help you decide when and where to go for medical care. These trained nurses are available around the clock, seven days a week to answer your health questions by phone. Anyone living in Harris or the surrounding counties can use this free service.

Funded through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Free 24/7 Nurse Health Line 713.338.7979 (Toll-Free) 1.855.577.7979 Individuals with life-threatening conditions and emergencies should call 9-1-1.

sponsored by Memorial Hermann Community Benefits Corporation

9B

10B

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

health

healthnotes

Supporting your child after accidental injury

Identifying post-traumatic stress symptoms after accidents

By DR. GINGER CLINE Psychologist at Texas Children’s Hospital

Unfortunately, accidental injuries happen more often than we like. Did you know as many as 25 percent of all children require emergency room visits each year? It’s not uncommon that an injury will require some sort of hospital treatment, especially amongst children and adolescents.

Parents and family members play an important role in supporting children through these situations. Whether they are visiting the hospital for a minor injury or a more traumatic injury, many children may respond with anxiety, sadness and irritability as they interact with unfamiliar providers or are separated from their family at times during their care.

While most children adjust well, here are some general recommendations for supporting your child/adolescent following an injury that requires hospital treatment: • Be an active listener! Hear your child’s concerns. Talking about the accident/injury may actually be helpful for processing what has happened. Should significant concerns occur, children/adolescents may benefit from having a consultation with a psychologist and/or social worker. At times, inpatient or outpatient therapeutic intervention can be helpful for supporting positive adjustment.

• Acknowledge and normalize symptoms. Let your child/ adolescent know what they are experiencing and feeling is normal.

Provide them with hope for improvement and reinforce the fact that the child is now safe.

• Provide explanations of procedures to allow for expectations. By doing so you can help reduce the anxiety your child may feel as they are in an unfamiliar situation. Use of multisensory considerations is encouraged (i.e., what will the procedure feel like, what will he or she hear, what will he or she smell, how long the procedure will last). Frequently, many children’s hospitals have child life specialists who are skilled in these explanations.

• Provide active distraction before, during and after any procedures. Parents are encouraged to direct the child/adolescent’s attention away from the procedure and to actively lead in the distraction. Examples could include talking about prior family stories, playing an interactive game (technology examples included), and asking questions about the child/adolescent’s favorite topics. Parents

are encouraged to provide specific praise for instances of bravery and engagement with positive coping techniques (i.e., deep breathing, distraction). As noted above, child life departments can also play a role in this.

• Normalize your schedule. Families are encouraged to attempt to get back to their typical routines or activities as soon as possible to return to a sense of normalcy. This may include maintaining prior expectations for behavior, continuing typical routines (i.e., brushing teeth, bedtime story) and remaining connected with family members and friends.

• Remember individuals may respond very differently.

Providing siblings with developmentally appropriate updates regarding his or her sibling will be helpful for reducing worry and helping the sibling to remain integrated in the family system. Having a trusted family member/friend who can assist with maintaining a sibling’s typical schedule/activities is also important and will support positive adjustment.

• Engage in self-care. To optimally care for your child, parents also need opportunities to express their own distress, emotions and/or concerns with other adults and to engage in positive coping strategies to ultimately be able to provide optimal support for their child/siblings.

Parents are encouraged to take breaks, rely on social support to assist with caring for your injured child and his/her siblings. Social workers can be instrumental in assisting with any needed community resources and to provide parental support.

Most children/adolescents adjust well after an accidental injury, however, one in five children have been found to experience post-traumatic stress symptoms. These may include: • Avoidance of stimuli that remind him or her of the accident • Repetitive thinking about the accident (dreams, flashbacks, memories, play) • Having an altered sense of safety in the world (i.e., feeling the world is now a scary place) • Physiological symptoms (i.e., hyperarousal, exaggerated startle response, difficulty with concentration, sleep difficulties, irritability) • Having persistent negative emotions and a lack of interest in typically enjoyed activities • For the younger child, there may be regression related to adaptive skills (i.e., sleep, toileting), increased separation anxiety, or increased irritability/anger If you are concerned your child may be experiencing traumatic stress following an accidental injury, the experts at Texas Children’s Hospital can assist in the assessment of symptoms and in making appropriate referrals for support.

One potential level of support for children/adolescents who have experienced a traumatic injury resulting in persistent symptoms of traumatic stress could be TraumaFocused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

This short-term therapeutic intervention (12 to 20 sessions) is widely considered to be effective in reducing symptoms of traumatic stress and can be effective for children/adolescents ages 3 to18 years of age.

What parents need to know about dog bites complications can occur.

For many children, petting and playing with For minor scrapes and abrasions, parents dogs can be fun and exciting! Even though many dogs appear friendly and harmless, it is important should thoroughly clean their child’s wound with warm water and soap and keep it covered for parents to be aware of the risk for dog bites with an antibiotic ointment and bandage. and other injuries!

Immediate medical care should be sought Approximately 1 percent of for more serious wounds and injuries, such emergency department visits are as bites that: prompted by bite wounds, and dog • Have broken through the skin bites account for the overwhelming majority of these injuries. Most dog • Do not stop bleeding after applying bites are caused by animals known to direct pressure for 15 minutes the child, and in 15 to 30 percent of all • May have injured bones, joints or cases, the dog belongs to the patient’s tendons Dr. Katherine family. Fortunately, many dog bites • Are located on the head, face, neck, Leaming-Van Zandt are minor, but more severe injuries and hands or feet

• Appear infected • Occur in children with a weakened immune system Remember, although dogs can be great companions, they are still animals and can bite!

Keep your children safe by remembering these important tips: • Never leave infants or children alone with a dog • Never allow children to pet or play with a dog while he or she is eating or sleeping • Teach children to be careful around pets • Teach children not to approach strange dogs or try to pet dogs by reaching through fences • Educate children to ask permission from a dog’s owner before petting a dog

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

Quality health care for $50 or less a year.

What a relief.

Texas Children’s Health Plan covers children from newborns to teenagers. We even cover adults and pregnant moms through STAR Medicaid.

Families with children who qualify for CHIP pay $50 or less a year. Those who qualify for Medicaid pay nothing. CHIP and STAR Medicaid offer a wide range of benefits including checkups and shots, dental services, medications, and more.

With Texas Children’s Health Plan you also get: ■ Over 2,100 doctors.

■ A 24-hour nurse hotline.

■ Transportation to doctor visits at no cost.

■ Pregnancy support program and classes.

■ Help losing weight through the Keep Fit Program.

■ Learn how to play soccer from the Houston Dynamo coaches.

■ Fun member events!

For more information, to receive an application, or to find an event in your area, visit us online or call today.

MK-1208-007

1-800-990-8247 | TexasChildrensHealthPlan.org

11B

12B

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

health

Cholesterol: The good, the bad, the ugly tion. However, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) can float around in your blood, build up on artery walls and harden into eart disease is the leading plaque that restricts blood flow. This can cause of death for Africanlead to peripheral artery disease, heart American men and women. attacks and strokes.

There is hope, however. By The only way to know if your living a healthy lifestyle, you can help cholesterol is unhealthy is to see your reduce your likelihood of developing doctor and get screened. In the early heart disease. Monitoring (and reducstages, unhealthy cholesterol levels ing if necessary) your cholesterol is an may not cause any symptoms. Thereimportant part of “living healthy.” fore, all adults age 20 or older should A common cause of heart disease have a fasting lipoprotein profile once is a blockage of the coronary (heart) every five years. This test includes total arteries due to the accumulation of cho- Toicha Vincent, M.D. cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind), HDL lesterol deposits. These cholesterol deposits narrow the cholesterol (the “good” kind) and triglycerides. The arteries and slow blood flow. risk factors related to cholesterol levels are related to Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that resides in the cell membranes of your body. It comes from the balance or ratios between these different kinds of cholesterol. foods such as meat, dairy products and eggs. Your body The problems begin when the bad cholesterol needs cholesterol to function properly. What you need builds up in your arteries. If this is not reversed, your to understand is there are two types: one good, one bad. arteries can start to “harden” or become less elastic.

Two types of cholesterol High-density lipoproteins (HDL) help your body by This is a disease known as arteriosclerosis. Eventually, the diseased arteries become narrowed and the blood producing nutrients and hormones and aiding in digesBy TOICHA VINCENT, M.D.

H

M O R E

W A Y S

T O

C O N Q U E R

flow to the heart and other organs is either slowed down or blocked.

Some people mistakenly think they can’t have unhealthy cholesterol levels if they are young, thin, active or leading a healthy lifestyle. The truth is you might have inherited a tendency to have unhealthy cholesterol.

Your age and gender may also impact your cholesterol number. Cholesterol levels increase with age.

Women’s cholesterol may also increase after menopause. High blood sugar also contributes to higher LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol.

The cholesterol challenge

Keeping cholesterol at healthy levels can be challenging. The preferred way is to commit to a healthy lifestyle. This usually entails: Eating foods that are low in saturated fat, staying active and having regular medical checkups. Lastly, don’t go it alone. A physician is your best source to advise you on what you need to do and, if necessary, prescribe medications.

Dr. Toicha Vincent is board-certified in Internal Medicine. She cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Tanglewood Clinic. To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

C A N C E R

Exceptional Cancer Care Just Got Even Better In our beautiful new facility, everything is under one roof – from our connected team of experts to state-of-the-art technology for radiation therapy.

Kelsey-Seybold’s nationally accredited Cancer Center is focused on not only treating patients, but on providing personal, coordinated care that encourages healing.

Now, with state-of-the-art technology for radiation therapy and our beautiful and spacious facilities, we’re better equipped than ever to help our patients be victorious over cancer. It’s just one more way our exceptional cancer care has gotten even better.

Kelsey-Seybold.com/CancerCenter | 713-442-1080

Defender-Cancer Center-June2015_SP.indd 1

8/6/15 8:47 AM

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

7

Decide if your business is ready to export

A

s U.S. exports continue to grow, the federal government is pressing to provide programs and resources that help U.S. companies succeed internationally.

Making the decision to export, however, is significant. Is your product marketable overseas?

Can your business tolerate the benefits versus the trade-offs of exporting? Here is some advice from the SBA. 1. Determine the benefits and trade-offs of international market expansion. One benefit might be a reduced dependence on domestic markets.

Trade-offs? You may need additional financing, or be willing to use short-term profits to ensure long-term goals, or hire additional staff.

2. Perform an in-depth analysis of your business to determine the feasibility of growth. This entails evaluating your company and its attributes.

3. Conduct an industry analysis. How is your industry currently involved in the global marketplace? This review will help you to capture key aspects of your industry that will affect your exporting decisions.

4. Identify products with export potential. Many small businesses make 100 percent of their sales in foreign markets. Start by listing the strengths and weaknesses of products/services you believe might have potential.

5. Match your product/service with a global trend or need and identify the most profitable foreign markets for those products. This means gather-

ing foreign market research. Ask yourself which foreign markets will be easiest to penetrate, is your price competitive and who could your major customers be? Also, how does the quality of your product compare with competing in-market goods?

6. Define which markets to pursue. Once your research has revealed the largest, fastest-growing and simplest markets to penetrate for your product or service, the next step is to define which markets to pursue. Tips to bear in mind include: • It’s best to test one market and then move on to secondary markets as your expertise develops. SBA data shows that new-to-export businesses often tend

to choose too many markets at first. For most small businesses, choosing one to three foreign markets initially is recommended.

• Focusing on regional, geographic clusters of countries is more cost effective than choosing markets scattered around the globe, especially when you undertake trips or marketing events.

• Once you’ve determined your export readiness and investigated foreign market options, refer to the SBA’s Export Planning Guide for more tips and worksheets to help you plan, finance and execute your small business exporting strategy. Visit www. sba.gov.

8

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 defendernetwork.com

Survey reveals attitudes about race relations A survey conducted by the National Bar Association (NBA) shows that substantial majorities of Americans – both Black and white – agree that race relations are better today than they were 50 years ago. However, most respondents from each race believe relations are worse than a decade ago, the survey found.

The NBA said the results show the need for local, state and national dialogue and action on race and community relations.

“Our national conversation about race has been going on for a long time, and it’s encouraging to see signs of progress, said NBA President Benjamin Crump.

“However, 50 years of conversation is too long without seeing more movement and, to a certain extent, regression.

This survey shows that

ment and African- Americans, a majority of both Blacks (88 percent) and whites (59 percent) surveyed agree that Blacks are treated unfairly by police – but they also say police are misunderstood by Blacks.

“These findings should concern all citizens and public officials who still see the need to build a greater sense

of community after so many years of policy progress,” said Clarence Anthony, executive director of the National League of Cities, who joined in the announcement.

“There is significant work to be done – especially among young adults who don’t see positive change around them.”

classified Harris County Community Services Department Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and Pre-Qualification Submittals to provide Home Repairs

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS clearly there remains work to be done.”

The survey also found wide disagreement between the races,

and among different age groups of each race, about what the term “racism” means and what actions are

required to demonstrate racism.

In the aftermath of inflammatory incidents between law enforce-

REQUEST FOR BIDS HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT Downtown Public Safety Guide Program Request for Proposal

Key survey results • Blacks and whites express equal degrees of curiosity (17 percent) when interacting with strangers who are not members of their own racial group, but Blacks also feel caution, mistrust, fear and hatred at much higher rates in those circumstances.

• While fewer than one-fourth of Americans believe the nation is close to achieving racial equality, older whites are the most optimistic (27 percent of those age 50-64 and 24 percent of those age 65 and older). Only one in five millennial Blacks (20 percent) has an optimistic view.

• Asked how recently they had experienced racial discrimination, 69 percent of blacks and 51 percent of whites said it had been within the last five years.

• Almost two-thirds of white respondents (64 percent) said racism does not require prejudicial feelings to be acted on, but more than half of blacks (55 percent) defined racism as attitude combined with action.

• Among Blacks, 54 percent said they are “very often” or “sometimes” treated negatively or judged unfairly because of their race, while just 15 percent of whites gave similar responses.

September 10, 2015 The Harris County Community Services Department seeks to prequalify responsible contractors for participation in the Harris County Home Repair Program for the following categories: 1) Neighborhood Stabilization Repair; 2) Minor Repair; 3) Major Rehabilitation; and 4) Health & Safety Improvements. The mission of the Harris County Home Repair program is to provide assistance to low-to- moderate income homeowners for the purpose of providing decent, safe and sanitary housing conditions as well as improving their quality of life.

The Harris County Home Repair Program will provide assistance under the following home repair categories: 

Neighborhood Stabilization Repair: Provide up to $20,000 to make County acquired vacant foreclosed homes decent, safe and habitable and to prepare the home for sale or occupancy. Goal: 10 units/year



Minor Repair: Provide up to $20,000 assistance in the form of a grant for minor home repairs to owner occupied homes, including but not limited to roof repair/replacement, handicap accessibility improvements, mechanical, electrical and plumbing improvements.

Goal: 40 units/year



Major Rehabilitation/Reconstruction: Provide up to $135,000* assistance in the form of a grant or deferred loan for major home rehabilitation/reconstruction for housing structures deemed unsafe or severely defective. Goal: 10-15 units/year in targeted geographic areas. *Procured through the Harris County Purchasing Department and subject to Commissioners Court approval.



Health & Safety Improvements: Provide assistance up to $40,000 in the form of a grant for the purpose of repairing / replacing water wells and septic systems that are not functioning and/or have received a citation for health and safety violations.

Goal: 10 units/year.

PROCUREMENT # 2016-818.200 The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for the Downtown Public Safety Guide Program performed in downtown Houston, Texas. Bids will be received until 1:00pm, local time on Wednesday, October 7, 2015, at the Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids will be opened and read at 1:05pm on the same day in the Downtown District Board Room. There will be a mandatory pre -proposal meeting at 10:00 AM on September 15, 2015 at the office of the Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. For those who are outside the Greater Houston area and cannot attend contact Scott Finke at: sfinke@downtowndistrict.org for teleconference information.

Questions concerning bids must be submitted prior to 5:00 PM on Tuesday, September 22, 2015, by email to: gcook@downtowndistrict.org or mailed to: Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010.

Answers to questions will be sent to all vendors who attended the Pre-proposal meeting. Bid packages can be picked up at Downtown District beginning on September 1, 2015 or by contacting Sr. Director of Operations, Gary Cook at gcook@downtowndistrict.org.

REQUEST FOR BIDS HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT Downtown Street Team Program PROCUREMENT # 2016-821.200 The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for the Downtown Public Street Team Program performed in downtown Houston, Texas. Bids will be received until 2:00pm, local time on Thursday, October 15, 2015, at the Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids will be opened and read at 1:05pm on the same day in the Downtown District Board Room. There will be a mandatory pre-proposal meeting at 10:00 AM on September 22, 2015 at the office of the Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. For those who are outside the Greater Houston area and cannot attend contact Scott Finke at: sfinke@downtowndistrict.org for teleconference information.

Questions concerning bids must be submitted prior to 5:00 PM on Wednesday, September 30, 2015, by email to: gcook@downtowndistrict.org or mailed to: Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010.

Answers to questions will be sent to all vendors who attended the Preproposal meeting. Bid packages can be picked up at Downtown District beginning on September 8, 2015 or by contacting Sr. Director of Operations, Gary Cook at gcook@downtowndistrict.org.

The program will operate on a continuous annual basis using multiple contractors. This project will be federally funded by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Department through the Harris County Community Services Department (HCCSD).

Applicable requirements include, but are not limited to, Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968, and contracting with small, minority, and disadvantaged firms.

All Contractors who are interested in participating in the Home Repair Program must complete a pre-qualification submittal, provide all documentation requested, and be approved by the Harris County Community Services Department to be on the Qualified Contractors List for the Home Repair Program. A meeting to review program rules, requirements and qualifications will be held on Friday, September 25, 2015 10:00 AM at the Harris County Community Services Department 8410 Lantern Point, Houston, TX, 77054 Filing of Submittals All applications must be filed with the Harris County Community Services Department, Attention: Housing Construction and Inspection Services, 8410 Lantern Point, Houston, Texas, 77054, on or before 4:30 p.m., October 9, 2015.

Pre-qualification packages may be obtained by contacting Adriana Villuendas at (713) 578-2000, via Email at adriana.villuendas@csd.hctx.net, or may be downloaded from the Harris County Community Services Department’s Website at www.csd.hctx.net.

defendernetwork.com

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

9

Texas Legislative Internship registration open Local undergraduate and graduate students are invited to apply for the spring 2016 class of the Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP), sponsored by State Sen. Rodney Ellis and administered by Texas Southern University.

TLIP provides opportunities for college students to serve as interns in the Texas Legislature, various state agencies, and local government. Applications must be submitted by Oct. 30.

“The Texas Legislative Internship Program is my pride and joy,” Ellis said. “It provides an opportunity to gain valuable, firsthand knowledge into how government works and insight into the critical

issues facing Texas.”

Ellis was inspired to create TLIP in 1990 because his mentor, the late Congressman Mickey Leland, stressed the importance of using one’s individual success to provide opportunities for others.

As Leland’s chief of staff, Ellis established an internship program in Leland’s office and carried on that tradition when elected to public office.

What began as a small group of students 25 years ago has blossomed into one of the most successful legislative internship programs in the nation. TLIP has provided more than 670 students valuable experiences in the Texas

Legislature; the offices of the Texas governor and lieutenant governor; the chief justice of the Supreme Court, and city and county offices.

Three TLIPers – Ana Hernandez, Armando Walle and Ron Reynolds – are current members of the Texas House of Representatives.

Students receive a minimum of

six and a maximum of 15 academic credit hours for participating in the program, which combines academic study and research with supervised practical training. The internship lasts for one academic semester and provides a $7,500 stipend.

For information visit www. rodneyellis.com/tlip or call 713236-0306.

READY. SET. GROW. When you’re a small to medium size business,

State Sen. Rodney Ellis

you can’t wait to get things moving. You also can’t wait around for your bank to respond.

That’s why we pledge to get you the answers you need right away. Quick response means you can take decisive action to get your business on the fast track to success.

Home Instruction for Parents Of Preschool Youngsters   

HIPPY and all of its materials and books are free.

Learn easy and proven ways to support your child’s learning every day, on your own.

You never have to leave your home-we’ll come to you!

281-894-3200 AllegianceBank.com/def

Call 713-967-5298 or visit HoustonISD.org/HIPPY for more details ABTCO-033 September Defender Ad 4.79x6.5 MECH.indd 1

9/10/15 4:22 PM

10

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

sports

defendernetwork.com

The late Moses Malone is remembered as a great basketball player and true gentleman.

Houston sports legend Moses Malone dead

By Max EDISON Defender

M

oses Malone, an iconic NBA legend, Hall of Famer and three-time MVP, died Sept. 13 at the age of 60. He was found dead in a Norfolk, Va., hotel. The cause of death was listed as hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Malone, a former Houston Rocket, was the poster boy for hardcore, blue collar, down and dirty basketball. His relentless work ethic was his signature.

A 6-foot-10 center from Petersburg, Va., Malone was the first player to go directly Malone played from high school to the pros. against such greats as Kareem AbdulHe signed with the ABA’s Utah Jabbar during his Stars in 1974. He played the illustrious career. following year for the Spirits of St. Louis, before going to the Buffalo Braves in the NBAABA merger in 1976.

“We are deeply stunned and saddened by the passing of Hall of Famer Moses Malone, an NBA legend gone far too soon,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “Known to his legions of fans as the ‘Chairman of the Boards,’ Moses competed with intensity every time he stepped on the court.

“With three MVPs and an NBA championship, he was among the most dominant centers ever to play the game and one of the best players in the history of the NBA and the ABA.” “Even more than his prodigious talent, we will miss his friendship, his generosity, his exuberant personality, and the extraordinary work ethic he brought to the game throughout his 21-year pro career,” Silver continued.

“Our thoughts are with Moses’ family and friends during this difficult time.”

Malone was traded to the Rockets in 1976 where he played until 1982. He was voted NBA MVP as a Rocket in 1979 and 1982. His number 24 was retired by the franchise in 1998.

Rocket team owner Leslie Alexander expressed the sentiments of his franchise.

“Everyone in the organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Moses Malone,” Alexander said. “Moses

Career highlights • ABA All-Star (1975) • 1976-95, played for NBA teams Rockets, 76ers, Bullets, Hawks, Bucks, Spurs • NBA champion (1983) • NBA Finals MVP (1983) • Three-time NBA MVP (1979, 1982, 1983) • 12-time NBA All-Star (1978-1989) • NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team member was a true gentleman and one of the great Rockets and greatest NBA players of all time. He will be forever missed. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.”

KCOH-Radio sportscaster Ralph Cooper recalled Malone’s early years as a Rocket.

“I will never forget his first press conference at Houston Baptist University where the Rockets practiced when he first joined the team,” Cooper said.

“He had a big Afro and was shy but you could feel the confidence.”

Cooper added that one of Malone’s teammates, forward John Johnson, summed up his talent one day after practice.

“He said, ‘Moses Malone will be one of the greatest big men in the history of the NBA before he finishes playing. He has it all – instincts, tenacity, unlimited rebounding skills plus he can score. He is a baby now [22] but wait until he matures into a man.’ “ Malone was one of just four players in NBA history to amass more than 25,000 points and 15,000 rebounds, alongside fellow legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain and Elvin Hayes. From 1979 to 1987 Malone averaged 25.5 points and 14.1 rebounds per game. Since then no player has accomplished that feat.

Malone was a “professor” on the court as well.

Malone mentored a young man from Lagos, Nigeria named Hakeem Olajuwon, who at the time was a student at the University of Houston. The hardwood at the downtown Fonde Recreation center was Malone’s classroom where he taught young guys to refine their craft.

Malone won a world championship as a Philadelphia 76er in 1983 and during his six-year stint with the 76ers he was teammates with a young Charles Barkley. According to Sir Charles, Malone explained why he was not getting the playing time he thought he deserved.

“You’re fat and you’re lazy, that’s why. You can’t play basketball if you’re not in shape,” Malone told him. Barkley took Malone’s advice. He lost weight, changed his training habits and the rest is history.

Malone’s survivors include his sons Michael and Moses Jr.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

h.s.zone

SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015 | DEFENDER

11

sportsbriefs Is Mayweather done?

Sterling’s Hall aims to be impact player Facts about Kevion Hall

move to elude two defenders that appeared to have cornered against the sideline. evion Hall’s goal “My coach is always Birth date – Jan. 23, 1997 coming into the telling me to run downhill so 2015 high school Birth sign – Aquarius I’m constantly working on my football season was footwork,” Hall said. “When Favorite subject – Math to be a difference I’m running up hills during Favorite color – Blue maker and a record breaker for the training, I pick my legs up and Sterling Raiders. never stop.

Favorite meal – Pizza The senior running back and “That’s what I like about If he could solve a probthree-year varsity letterman is well Tavon Austin. He gives good on his way to accomplishing both lem – Improve the comeffort when he’s on the field goals following a four touchdown and never gives up,” Hall said. munity around him effort in Sterling’s 64-0 victory “He’s constantly looking to get over Lee at Barnett Stadium. better and I look up to him.”

Hall capped off four consecuHall shares that trait and tive Sterling scoring drives in the first and that has endeared him to his head coach. second quarters with touchdown receptions “Kevion always sees that there is of 24 and 31 yards from quarterback Darius room to improve for the next week,” Weathers followed by TD runs of one and McGhee said. “We’re hoping he can two yards. In addition, he scored on three keep that up for the rest of the seatwo-point conversion runs in the game. son.”

“I’m glad everyone is getting a chance After a season-opening loss to Jeff to see what he can do athletically,” said Davis, Sterling has strung together vicSterling first-year head coach Kanavis Mctories over Westbury and Lee with ScarGhee. “He’s putting up some pretty borough on tap at Delmar Stadium. good numbers right now in the “To get some wins in the first few games. The guys told early part of the schedule is me about Kevion during the for the school, the kids and summer and he’s beginning the community,” McGhee to show what he can do. said. “These guys have “What I like the most fought some obstacles and about him is the intangiit’s good for them to come bles he brings to the team out here and get this kind in terms of leadership for of reward. It makes them the other kids,” McGhee feel good about themselves said. “The kids look up to and gives them some confihim because he not only dence moving ahead.” speaks a good game, he Hall says McGhee plays a good game. It’s represents more than just good to have someone playing the game of footlike that when you have a ball. group of young guys that “He’s brought a lot like to listen to him.” to the team. He’s making Hall’s favorite NFL us become young men,” player is St. Louis Hall said. He’s got a good Rams wide receiver program and it’s not just and kick return specialabout the team. Coach ist Tavon Austin. On his McGhee is making us play second TD against Lee, together and it’s like a famFind out what Coach Sumlin did to a 31-yard reception, Hall ily.

We’ve become a family impress recruit utilized an Austin type now.”

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

K

defendernetwork.com

Floyd “Money” Mayweather” says he’s retiring from the sport that made him the world’s wealthiest athlete. The question on everyone’s mind now is will Mayweather stay retired? Mayweather easily outclassed Andre Berto recently in Las Vegas to drive his professional record to a perfect 49-0.

That mark of perfection ties him with heavyweight legend Rocky Marciano. The final margins on the scorecards were 117-111, 118-110 and 120-108 as Berto’s record dropped to 30-4. “My career’s over,” Mayweather announced during the post-fight ring interview. “It’s official. You got to know when to hang it up. I’m knocking at the door now. I’m close to 40 years old. There’s nothing else to prove in the sport of boxing,” he said.

UH’s Ward honored University of Houston quarterback Greg Ward Jr. and cornerback Brandon Wilson were named the American Athletic Conference’s Offensive Player of the Week and Co-Special Teams Player of the Week, respectively, after UH’s 34-31 win at Louisville. Ward’s passing stats were 23-33 for 236 yards and three touchdowns with one interception.

He also rushed 21 times for 111 yards. In addition to the two accolades, UH senior safety Trevon Stewart was also named to the league’s weekly honor roll.

The win drives the Cougars’ record to 2-0 under first year head coach Tom Herman. The Cougars’ next game is Sept. 26 at home against Texas State University.

Worthing impressive The Worthing High School varsity football team has opened the 2015 season in impressive fashion.

Not only have the Colts sprinted out to an undefeated 3-0 mark, Worthing has scored 50 or more points in victories over Milby (66), Sharpstown (50) and Aldine Nimitz (54). Quarterback Alfred Robertson compiled 556 yards of total offense in the 54-32 win over Nimitz. The senior four-year starter threw for 219 yards and two scores while contributing 337 rushing yards, including TD runs of 73 and 83 yards. The Colts will host Kinkaid on Sept. 19 at Butler Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.

Next week (Sept. 25) Worthing will face Concordia Lutheran at Butler Stadium with a 7 p.m. kickoff.

High school highlights After snapping a 59-game losing streak with an 18-14 victory over Kipp Sunnyside two weeks ago, Scarborough was unable to string together consecutive wins last week in a 29-0 setback to Huntington……..It took nearly nine full quarters before Katy allowed its first points of the 2015 season. The Tigers recorded shutouts over Kingwood and Fort Bend Travis. The Woodlands actually led Katy 7-0 in the first quarter following a four-yard TD run by Jordan Talford. However, Katy running back Kyle Porter would answer with first-half scoring runs of 50 and two yards as the Tigers prevailed 14-7……..

The San Antonio Jay Mustangs returned to the field for the first time since the infamous “blindsiding an official” game on Sept. 4 without incident.

Jay lost 37-14 to Del Rio recently in a game marred only by bad weather.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

16

DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 17 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

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

topevents

#JUSTVIBING WITH OUTSPOKEN BEAN………..Emanuelee Outspoken and those who lost their battle against any form of cancer. Those who participated Bean hosted a live event called ‘Converse’ at Deans Downtown that engaged the included Dr. Grace Butler, Earnest Goodridge, Crystal Dillard, Cassandra audience through his poetry, stories as well as unrehearsed conversation. At the Harris, Marjorie Millender, Wanda Polk, Dr. Greg Shannon, Althea Washington, beginning of the show, buckets are set up, where the audience can place questions for Ida Hobdy, Frankie Watson, Wandalyn Shanklin, Juliette Simmons, Outlar Bean in one bucket and jokes in the other. Bean chooses people from the audience to Simmons, Linda Watson and Dr. Everett Sandles……….WHEELER AVENUE pick from the buckets randomly and from there conversations begin. The event will CELEBRATES TROOP 242………… Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Troop be held every Wednesday night. Guests included Mark 242 recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The Boy Scout troop was Williams, Elexia DaCosta, Danielle Tillman, Shayla Hill, the first youth organization established by Rev. William and Audrey Defender TOP EVENTS Pearlie Gault, Dionne Moore and other supporters and Lawson in the early days of the church. Since its creation in 1965, More photos on defendernetwork.com poetry enthusiasts ……….HOPE THROUGH GRACE over 1,000 boys and young men have gone through the church’s See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ WALK………...Hope Through Grace Inc. held its 10th scouting program. More than 170 of Troop 242’s participants have with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Annual 5K Run/Walk-A-Thon at the Tom Bass Regional attained the rank of Eagle Scout, one of the largest number to come Park. The walk aligns with the organization’s mission of out of an African-American troop in the country. Those in attendance eliminating colon cancer through prevention, early detection and awareness. Hope included Dr. Marcus Cosby, Melanie Lawson, Jerome Gray, Clarence Miller, Through Grace envisions a community and a society in which the incidence and Harold Mullins, Jonathan Howard, Ronald Thomas, Myles Woodfork, Grant the mortality rates of colorectal cancer are diminished and ultimately eradicated.

Valentine, Marion Edwards, Christina Griffin, Samuel Massie and other members The Memory Walk path is lined with the names of those celebrating survivorship of Troop 242.

Emanuelee Outspoken Bean

Dr. Greg Shannon, Dr. Olethia Chisolm

Myles Woodfork, Grant Valentine

Elexia DaCosta, Mark Williams

Frankie Watson, Wandalyn Shanklin, Juliette Simmons, Outlar Simmons, Linda Watson

Ronald Thomas, Jerome Gray, Jonathan Howard, Harold Mullins

Pearlie Gault, Dionne Moore

Ida Hobdy, Althea Washington, Dr. Grace Butler

. Rev. William Lawson, Clarence Miller, Dr. Marcus Cosby

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years