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Volume 83 | Number 46
SEPTEMBER 25, 2014 |FREE
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NATIONAL
OFFICE POLITICS
PRESIDENT OBAMA speaks on air strikes
Playing the game
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FEATURE VERNITA HARRIS prepares for Pinnacle Awards
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SPORTS DUANE BROWN anchors Texans’ O-line
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Black stars, new shows “Black-ish,” an ABC sitcom starring Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross and Laurence Fishburne, is one of the shows making its debut during the 2014 television season. Find out what movie stars have made the transition to the small screen. See what’s new on network TV and cable. Discover who’s portraying the president, a police officer and a pro basketball player. H PAGE 5
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Kay and James Randolph and Lorraine Williams at “Ms. Lorraine’s” 90th birthday party
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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014
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Wheatley/Smith supporters unhappy with HISD
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By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender
ome members of a community coalition to save the Wheatley/E.O. Smith school building are not satisfied with a settlement approved by the HISD Board of Education to allow demolition to continue at the site. As part of the settlement, the Mickey Leland College Preparatory Academy for Young Men to be built on the historic site will have a similar architectural style “befitting and honoring the dignity of the history of the previous school.” HISD is devoting up to $1 million toward construction to implement the agreement. Dr. Jayne McCullough, a member of the Wheatley/E.O. Smith Preservation Coalition, said the agreement was not a true collaboration. “We have not had an opportunity to sit down and have meaningful dialogue with HISD,” McCullough said. “Although there was a confidentiality agreement, it was almost as if we were bullied. It was not a true effort of collaboration and compromise. Everything we offered, they turned down.” The board’s decision came after a heated battle between the coalition and HISD. The coalition went as far to file a lawsuit against the district but it was later dismissed by State District Judge Elizabeth Ray. According to Kathy Blueford-Daniels, another coalition member and community activist, the judge admonished HISD for their lack of communication with Fifth Ward residents, noting how, in comparison, the district actively pursued community opinions when Bellaire High School was being renovated. “It shows how HISD manipulates our
A rendering shows the new Mickey Leland College Preparatory Academy for Young Men with a tribute to Wheatley High School.
money,” she said. “It shows how they strong arm and bully the communities that they should be serving.” McCullough said the coalition will continue to monitor HISD closely through the demolition and construction process. The district has not produced asbestos reports, a cause of concern for
the coalition. “Every time they put a dent in that building asbestos is released,” she said. “So we know they are putting our community and residents at harm. We are going to make sure our residents are aware of the health and environmental safety of this community.”
localbriefs HOUSTONIANS FACING FORECLOSURE are invited to attend a free workshop titled “Foreclosure Prevention: Strategies to Protect and Save Your Home.” It will be held Tuesday, Sept. 30 from 4-7 p.m. at the Third Ward Multipurpose Center, 3611 Ennis St. Topics include overdue mortgage payments, loan modification, fair lending and homeowner protection laws. It is sponsored by the Greater Houston Fair Housing Center, Advocate Legal Senior Center and Indigo Communities of Care. For information call 713-641-3247……..TEXAS CHILD POVERTY rates dropped slightly in 2013, but overall child poverty remains at record high
levels. A Children’s Defense Fund analysis of state data released by the U.S. Census Bureau shows that children are the poorest age group, and the poorest are children of color and those under 6. Poverty is defined as an annual income below $23,834 for an average family of four, or less than $1,986 a month or $458 a week. Extreme poverty is defined as less than half of the annual poverty level, or less than $11,917 for a family of four……..MAYOR ANNISE PARKER, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter are launching the Mayors National Climate Action Agenda. All three cities have dealt with
extreme weather in recent years, including record droughts, flooding and storm surges. The climate agenda is designed to demonstrate that emission reduction projects are not only viable, but essential initiatives that must be embraced and scaled across the country. “Mayors are uniquely compelled and equipped to lead the fight to stem climate change, as well as to adapt to it and prepare for the impacts of global warming,” Parker said. “Houston has proven that it can maintain its title as the energy capital of the world while at the same time pursuing green policies that lift our reputation as a leader in sustainability.”
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national
U.S.briefs THE BLACK-WHITE INCOME GAP narrowed slightly in 2013 with Black men experiencing the greatest gain in earnings among all adult workers, according to the current population reports on income and poverty released by the Census Bureau. Black men who worked full-time, year-round experienced a 1.6 percent gain in median earnings. The median income for Blacks rose $793, an increase second to Hispanic households ($1,391) in 2013. The median income for white households increased $433. Despite the improvements, the median income for Black households was only $34,598, a little more than half the median income earned by white households ($58,270)………THE SECRET SERVICE increased security around the White House after an Iraq war veteran with a knife in his pocket jumped a fence, ran across the lawn and entered an unlocked door before being arrested. The intruder, Omar Gonzalez, reportedly suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder. Authorities searched his car and found more than 800 rounds of ammunition, two hatchets and a machete. Gonzalez told a Secret Service agent he was concerned “that the atmosphere was collapsing and needed to get the information to the president of the United States so that he could get the word out to the people.” President Obama and his family were not home at the time…….. The CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS announced a national partnership with Black churches designed to rally Black voters and increase civic engagement. CBC Chair Marcia Fudge said that by collaborating with thousands of churches across the country, the “Freedom Sunday” campaign hopes to reach 12 million people before the November elections. “While we know that voter turnout significantly decreases during midterm elections, we also know that there is an opportunity to ensure that African-American voters and particularly those where we have highlycontested Senate races know what is at stake in this election,” Fudge said.
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Atlanta’s Spelman College ranked top HBCU again By ZENITHA PRINCE Senior AFRO Correspondent
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pelman College, the liberal arts college for women in Atlanta, was named the nation’s top historically Black college or university for the second year in a row by U.S. News and World Report. The publication’s 30th annual ranking of education institutions in the United States was recently released and included nearly 50 different types of numerical rankings and lists to “help students narrow their college search.” In addition to its ratings of the best national universities and liberal arts colleges, the magazine ranked regional colleges and universities and HBCUs. In ranking the top 50 HBCUs, the schools were compared only with one another. Howard University in Washington, D.C. and Morehouse College in Atlanta ranked second and third best, respectively. The institutions switched spots from last year’s rankings when Morehouse was second and Howard third. In the state of Texas, Prairie View A&M University ranked No. 37 and Texas Southern University ranked No. 49. The ranking of historically Black schools comprised only those institutions currently designated by the U.S. Department of Education as HBCUs. To qualify for the U.S. News ranking, HBCUs also needed to be an undergraduate baccalaureate-granting institution that enrolls primarily first-year, first-time students. The rankings system rests on two “pillars” – quantitative measures that education experts have proposed as reliable indicators of academic quality, and the publication’s “nonpartisan view of what matters in education.” Indicators used to capture academic quality fall into six cat-
Top 10 HBCUs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Spelman College Howard University Morehouse College Hampton University Tuskegee University Xavier University Fisk University Florida A&M University Claflin University North Carolina A&T State University
Texas HBCUs in top 50 37. Prairie View A&M University 49. Texas Southern University
egories: assessment by administrators at peer institutions, retention of students, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving.
Obama fights ISIL with airstrikes in Syria VOLUME 83 • NUMBER 46 SEPTEMBER 25, 2014 Print Editor Publisher Marilyn Marshall Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Sports Editors Advertising/Client Relations Max Edison Selma Dodson Tyler Darrell K. Ardison Multimedia Coordinator Local Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Cierra Duncan Online Editor Interns ReShonda Billingsley Jazzi Black Art Director Michael Roman Tony Fernandez-Davila Velyjha Southern 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).
President Barack Obama ordered American armed forces to begin targeted airstrikes against ISIL (also known as ISIS) targets in Syria. Speaking from the White House, Obama said the strikes are part of a campaign to deliver a message to the terrorist group – they will find no safe-haven. The U.S. military actions also include strikes to disrupt plotting against the U.S. and its allies by the Khorasan Group, seasoned al Qaeda operatives in Syria. Obama stressed that the fight “is not America’s fight alone.” More than 40 nations have offered to take part in the U.S. plan to
“degrade and destroy” ISIL. “The people and governments of the Middle East are rejecting ISIL, and standing up for the peace and security that the people of the world deserve,” he said. “Not since the Gulf War has the United States been joined in direct military action by such a broad coalition of Arab partners. “Meanwhile, we will move forward with our plan – supported by bipartisan majorities in Congress – to ramp up our effort to train and equip the Syrian opposition, who are the best counter-weight to ISIL and the Assad regime.” Obama also thanked Congress for taking a bipartisan stand against ISIL.
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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014 defendernetwork.com
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SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014 | DEFEND-
entertainment
Black stars featured on
new TV shows Some of the biggest names in the business star in TV shows debuting this season. Some shows are already airing and others will debut in October, November and beyond. Here are actors and actresses to watch, including some familiar faces and some newcomers. Laz Alonso is a detective on “The Mysteries of Laura” cop show, which airs at 7 p.m. Wednesday on NBC. Mike Epps, Ronreaco Lee & Jessie T. Usher star in “Survivor’s Remorse, a series about a young pro basketball player. It debuts Oct. 4 at 8 p.m. on Starz. Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross & Laurence Fishburne star in the family sitcom “Black-ish” at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC. Tone Bell portrays a bailiff on “Bad Judge,” which premieres Oct. 2 at 8 p.m. on NBC. Viola Davis plays a no-nonsense law professor on “How to Get Away With Murder,” airing Thursday at 9 p.m. on ABC. CCH Pounder portrays a medical examiner on CSI: New Orleans, which airs Tuesday at 8 p.m. on CBS. David Harewood & DaVine Joy Randolph can be seen in “Selfie,” a sitcom about social media. It debuts Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. on ABC. Jesse L. Martin & Candice Patton appear in the superhero series “The Flash.” It premieres Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. on the CW. Harold Perrineau & Kellita Smith are two stars of the zombie series “Z Nation,” which airs Friday at 9 p.m. on Syfy. Jada Pinkett Smith is dangerous nightclub owner Fish Mooney in “Gotham,” airing at 7 p.m. on Fox. Octavia Spencer & Astro star in the hospital series “Red Band Society” at 8 p.m. Wednesday on Fox. Alfre Woodard is the president of the United States in “State of Affairs,” which debuts Nov. 17 at 9 p.m. on NBC.
Viola Davis stars in “How to Get Away With Murder.”
Anthony Ellis Ross, er, Tracee , Miles Brown and n ib cr S s i Martin r.) Marcu (top, l. to to r.) Marsa ” includes . At bottom are (l. sh -i ck la e “B f rn The cast o d Laurence Fishbu an Anderson idi. Yara Shah Laz Alonso joins Debra Messing in “The Mysteries of Laura.”
Jada Pinkett Smith is featured in “Gotham.”
Jesse L. M
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Octavia Spencer stars in “The Red Band Society.”
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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014
Take steps to ‘win’ at work
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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
f you have a job, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with office politics. Though the term often has a negative connotation, it is a fact of life. “It is unlikely that there is any workplace where office politics does not exist,” said Brian K. Dickens, associate vice president for Human Resources and Payroll Services at Texas Southern University. “However, there may be varying degrees of its pervasiveness in the workplace.” Dickens is a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources with extensive experience in HR development and management. He said simply put, “Office politics is a struggle for power or advancement in a particular office culture.” Effectively playing the office politics game can be crucial to your career success. Here is some advice on what to do – and what not to do – in four key areas:
Getting a raise or promotion
If you want more money, a better title or both, make sure that you are being a positive contributor to the organization’s business objectives and bottom line. Brian Dickens “Employees must be able to demonstrate his/her historical record and value proposition for an organization to increase their investment in them individually,” Dickens said. “Raises are generally reserved for high performers and engaged employees who consistently make both tangible and meaningful contributions to the bottom line. Never base your request for a raise to your personal needs without connecting your needs to the business objectives.” According to monster.com, other tips for getting a promotion include: 1. Earn it – Learn as much as you can about your company and industry and stay up to date, be willing to take on jobs others won’t, accumulate a list of accomplishments, showcase the abilities you’ll bring to the new position and dress the part. 2. Pick out a promoter – Identify the person in position to promote you and cultivate a relationship with that person.
3. Be seen – Participate in company training and skills workshops, take an interest in company initiatives and participate in company community service efforts.
Difficult co-workers
Dickens said difficult co-workers must be dealt with very methodically. “An employee must be prepared to have a ‘crucial confrontation,’ that is a conversation grounded in professionalism,” he said. “It is sometimes helpful to stage a mock conflict in your mind and work through the possible scenarios. During this process allow yourself to act immaturely in order to listen to how foolish you sound. Next, play the part of the professional and aim to resolve the conflict. Don’t fuel the fire. Be calm, unflappable and utterly polite. Kill them with kindness.” Dickens added that sometimes, difficult people have other issues that may be contributing to their unprofessional or difficult disposition and may just need someone to reach out to them to lend a helping hand. “If your attempts at resolution are not successful,” he said, “you must move on and operate within your circle of influence. Move to a different department, request that he/she be moved to a different department, find a new job, or let him/her go – if you have that kind of power over the situation.”
cente
OFFICE PO
Playing the g
Difficult bosses
Dickens said dealing with a difficult boss is a common HR issue. “First, work at improving the working relationship,” he said. “If at all possible, raise the issue as a discussion point with your boss to gain insight on their management style or preference. Do your best to work with your boss and not against him/her. Remember, you cannot change your boss but rather your own behaviors and work habits to match theirs. “It is also important to document conversations with your boss in order to ensure that you have a complete understanding of what was discussed and their expectations. This will allow you to gain clarity when necessary as well.” Do not become emotional during conversations with your boss. “This may be the appro-
priate place for a mental pause in order to keep your cool when you find yourself in an emotional mindset,” he said. Avoid going over your boss’ head when there’s a problem, Dickens added. “In the event that you cannot find ways to build trust and improve the relationship with a difficult boss it may be time for you to explore other employment options.”
Office romances
If you’re thinking about dating someone you work with, Dickens said think again.
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“Office romances are never a good idea especially when reporting lines [how people in a company are organized] may be compromised,” he said. “My advice is to avoid office romances at all costs. However, when involved, be sure to keep the reporting lines clear and don’t allow your office romance to become a distraction to your job performance or create additional employment issues for you and others involved. “Above all, review and understand your company policies regarding consensual relationships as this is often prohibited and/or strongly discouraged.”
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good employee workplace habits
There are other ways to increase your chances of winning the office politics game. “I believe employees must understand the nature of the office politics in their respective organizations and consider seven good habits,” said TSU’s Brian Dickens. Here are the habits, which are adapted from Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits for Highly Effective People” and cited on www.lifehack.org. 1. Be aware that you have a choice. No matter how bad the circumstances might be, you have a choice in choosing how you feel or react. 2. Know what you are trying to achieve. Keep your focus on the desired business objectives and goals rather than on personal gain or petty differences. If the company or organization wins you ultimately win as well. 3. Focus on your circle of influence. Instead of feeling victimized and angry about a situation, focus on the things that you can do to positively influence the situation – your circle of influence. You may not be able to change an eventual outcome, but you can walk away knowing you have done the best within the given circumstances. 4. Don’t take sides. Focus on the business objectives and don’t take sides with either party involved in an office dispute – even if you like one better
than the other. By not taking sides, you’ll help to direct conflict resolution in an objective manner, build trust with both parties and help to keep the engagements constructive and focus on business objectives. 5. Don’t get personal. Your ability to build allies vs. enemies largely depends on the manner in which you handle situations without negatively charged emotions that may lead to personal attacks. This is your career and professional reputation at stake. You should emerge as a consummate professional at all times. 6. Seek to understand, before being understood. Once the other party feels that you understand where he/she is coming from, they will feel less defensive and be open to understand you in return. This is the art of active empathic listening, and sets the stage for open communication to arrive at a solution that both parties can accept. 7. Think win-win. Learn to think in terms of “how can we both win out of this situation?” This strategy involves seeking a third alternative, which is an opportunity for both parties to walk away from the exchange feeling that they have achieved mutual benefit. Thinking win-win is an enduring strategy that builds allies and helps you win in the long term.
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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014
feature
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Judges nominated to Texas district courts before state and federal courts. President Obama recently nominated Hanks has served as a U.S. magistrate judge Texas Judges Alfred H. Bennett, George C. in the Southern District of Texas since 2010. Hanks Jr. and Jose Rolando Olvera Jr. to serve From 2003 to 2010, he served as a justice on the on the United States District Court for the First Court of Appeals of Texas and from 2001 to Southern District of Texas. 2002, he served as a district judge for the 157th The U.S. district courts are trial courts of Civil District Court of Texas. the federal court system. Olvera has been the presiding judge of the The candidates were recommended Fifth Administrative Judicial Region of Texas by Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Alfred H. Bennett George C. Hanks Jr. Jose Rolando Olvera Jr. since 2011. He also worked as a solo practitioner Cruz to the president after being screened excellent reviews from their colleagues as well as and served as a part-time Brownsville Municipal by the bipartisan Federal Judicial Evaluation their peers. Court judge from 2007 to 2008. Committee. “I trust that the Senate will give these three well“We are hopeful that the members on the Senate “The nominations of Bennett, Hanks and Olvera, qualified nominees fair and expeditious hearings. I Judiciary Committee will focus as we have on the two African-Americans and one Hispanic American, thank Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz for their strong credentials of these nominees and swiftly for Texas Southern District judgeships, once again support of the three nominees,” Green said. move them through the confirmation process,” said shows the Obama Administration’s continued Bennett is presiding judge for the 61st Civil Houston Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. commitment to diversity within our judiciary,” said District Court of Texas, a position he has held “We look forward to the leadership of Senator Houston Congressman Al Green. since 2009. He was previously a solo practitioner, Cornyn and Senator Cruz during the Senate “All three nominees have extensive representing individuals and companies in litigation confirmation hearings.” jurisprudential experience and have received
20th Annual Pinnacle Awards presented Oct. 11 The Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce will recognize African-American entrepreneurs during its 20th Annual Pinnacle Awards. The black-tie event will be held Saturday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. at the Power Center. Eight businesses are vying for the Pinnacle Award. Nominees must have positively impacted the communities and industries they serve, as well as exemplify a highquality business operation worthy of recognition among their peers. The for-profit businesses must be at least 51 percent AfricanAmerican owned, in operation for a minimum of three years, headquartered in the greater Houston area and members of the GHBC. The finalists are Affirmative Biosolutions, Autos R Us Collision Center, Elite Change, Facility Interiors, Industrial Welding Academy, Award finalists are (l. to r.) Tristen Sutton, Frederick Barksdale, Andre Horn, Felicia Taylor, Jerry Sowells, La Tanya Walker and Dallas Jones. Far right Jolt, Sowell Construction Manage- Pinnacle is GHBC Board Chair Vernita Harris. ment & Inspection and Tristen Sutton Achievement Award will be awarded to Earl Graves “This gala is a celebration of entrepreneurism and the State Farm Agency. Sr., and the Public Leadership Award will be given to success that accompanies it,” Harris said. “Our winners are The Mack H. Hannah Jr. Upstart Business Award, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. the best and brightest and this evening will showcase their which includes a $2,500 cash prize, will recognize a The recipient of the Advocate Award will be Scott stature and achievements.” growing business on the path to entrepreneurial greatness Minnix, of the City of Houston’s Office of General Services. GHBC (formerly the Greater Houston Citizens that has been in operation less than two years. The four James Davis, president of Gulfgate Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Chamber of Commerce)\ has served as an advocate for finalists are Click It Clinic, Jessiica Howell Fashion, Super has been selected to receive the Excellence Award. African-American business owners and professionals in the Weave Xpress and Sweet Dreams Gourmet. GHBC Board Chair Vernita Harris said the 20th Houston area since 1935. In addition, a number of other area businesses and anniversary gala will feature a streamlined agenda, with a For information on the awards gala visit www. community leaders will be recognized. Unity Bank focus on the entrepreneurs and an accent on fun. GHBCC.com. will receive the GHBC’s Endurance Award, a Lifetime
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SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014 | DEFENDER
Conroe honors legendary coach, team During the halftime celebration at a recent Conroe High School football game, the school district and area residents recognized former coach Charles Brown and his 1960 and 1965 Booker T. Washington High School state champion football teams. The Washington Bulldogs, who played during segregation, were members of the Prairie View Interscholastic League (PVIL). In addition to the two state championships, from 1960 to 1965, the Conroe team compiled a record of 68 wins and 9 losses, along with three state runner-up titles and one state semi-final title. “Never before has the greater Conroe community, a highly segregated and racially charged area in the 1960s, recognized his state championships in football or baseball,” said Brown’s daughter, Daphne Brown Pradia. “Coach Brown won championships while working with fewer resources, building on raw talent, and inspiring young AfricanAmerican boys to believe that they could accomplish anything.” According to the UIL, the PVIL played a leading role in developing Black students from the 1920s through 1967, and served as the governing body
for extra-curricular activities for the state’s Black high schools. Coach Brown, now 86, went on to produce
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Charles Brown coached the Washington Bulldogs to a state championship.
a “winning record” in the cattle industry as the owner of the Lazy B5 Ranch in Benchley, Texas.
classifieds MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY
will be accepting responses to a Request for Information for the following: Agency-Wide Access Control System Scope: MHMRA of Harris County is requesting information to help implement an Agency-wide Access Control System. The Agency is looking to implement a proximity style Access Control System that replaces all of our current field panels, card swipes, badges, and badging software. Specifications may be secured from MHMRA, Harris County, Purchasing Services, 1st floor, located at 7011 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7300 and/or via MHMRA website http://www.mhmraharris.org or the Electronic State Business Dailey Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Tuesday, September 30, 2014. Responses to the Request for Information (RFI) must be submitted to Purchasing Department by 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, October 16, 2014, at 7011 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 in a sealed envelope marked "REQUEST FOR INFORMATION - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2014 “AGENCY-WIDE ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM”. Any questions pertaining to this request for information should be addressed in writing attn: Sharon Brauner, Buyer III via fax at (713) 970-7682 or E-mail questions to Attn: sharon.brauner@mhmraharris.org cc: nina.cook@mhmraharris.org MHMRA reserves the rights to reject any and/or all responses, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept any response(s) to this solicitation for requested services.
Houston/Harris County Continuum of Care 2014 Application for New Housing Projects Pursuant to the FY 2014 Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Continuum of Care (CoC), the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/ Harris County, acting as lead agency on behalf of the Houston/Harris County CoC is seeking Request for Applications (RFA) for new permanent supportive housing projects. Funding for new permanent supportive housing projects in the 2014 CoC competition is limited. Up to 15% of our pro-rata need is eligible for a new PSH bonus project that specifically targets chronically homeless households. All re-allocated funds will be available for new permanent housing (either Rapid Re-Housing [RRH] or Permanent Supportive Housing [PSH]). New PSH projects must serve 100% chronically homeless individuals. New RRH projects must serve families with children who are leaving streets or emergency shelters. Applications are available for download at: http://www.homelesshouston.org. Please contact Concetta Scerbo at cscerbo@homelesshouston.org for any questions or additional information. APPLICATIONS ARE DUE by 5:00 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2014, and should be sent electronically to Concetta Scerbo at cscerbo@homelesshouston.org.
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER-AT-RISK Sterling Aviation High School HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT (HISD) Cadence McShane Construction as Construction Manager-at-Risk for HISD, in accordance with Texas Government Code 2269, will receive bids or proposals from all qualified subcontractors for the All-Trade Packages. A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held 10:00am Friday, October 3, 2014, at Sterling High School Cafeteria located at 11625 Martindale, Houston, TX 77048. A Site-Visit walkthrough of the project will be held immediately following the pre-proposal conference. Bids or proposals are due Wednesday, October 22, at 2:00pm, and bids or proposals should be emailed to houstonbids@cadencemcshane.com or mailed/delivered to the Cadence McShane Construction, 7701 W. Little York, Suite 400, Houston, TX 77040. Late bids will not be accepted. There will be no public opening of bids or proposals. All bids or proposals shall be available after award of contract, or the 7th day after final selection of bids or proposals, whichever is later. After receipt of bids or proposals, Cadence McShane, will conduct its evaluation of the subcontractor bids or proposals in relation to the project requirements and will select the bid(s) or proposal(s) that offers the best value to HISD. Cadence McShane, is committed to meeting the M/WBE goals set for this project. M/WBE forms, schedules and statements, as required by the package documents, shall accompany each bid or proposal that is submitted. Bids or proposals submitted without all required information, and in the order and manner specified, may result in the bid or proposal being considered non-responsive. HISD, the Owner, reserves the right to waive any informality and/or to reject any, or all bids, or proposals. Contact Eddie Smith at esmith@cadencemcshane.com or Wm. Earl Finley, C.P.M., A.P.P. at wfinley@houstonisd.org for additional information on this project. Drawings and specifications are available on iSQFT (www.isqft.com) and in the Cadence McShane office located at 7701 W. Little York, Suite 400, Houston, TX 77040. Drawings and Specifications may also be reviewed at: Associated General Contractors, 3825 Dacoma Street, Houston, TX 77092, (713) 843-3700 McGraw Hill Construction/Dodge, www.construction.com Virtual Builders Exchange, 3910 Kirby, #131, Houston, TX 77098, (832) 613-0201
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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014 defendernetwork.com
sports
Derek Ne w improvem ton’s e key to th nt has been e line’s p lay.
Texans’ offensive line dominating once again
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By MAX EDISON Defender
espite a disappointing loss to the New York Giants, the Houston Texans are a surprising 2-1 on the young season. A major key to the team’s early success has been their ability to control the offensive line of scrimmage. Running back Arian Foster has regained his Pro Bowl swagger after missing the better part of 2013 with back surgery. He currently ranks among the league’s top rushers, despite missing the Giants game. The Texans’ offense is getting out to early leads and wearing teams down with a punishing rushing attack in the fourth quarter. The key to the strategy is a rebuilt and improved offensive line that has imposed its will on opposition defenses. The 2014 O-line is anchored by Pro Bowlers Duane Brown (LT) and Chris Myers (center). The interior portion of the line has been solidified by a pair of third-year starters, Ben Jones (LG) and Brandon Brooks (RG). Derek Newton has solidified his hold on the right tackle position. As a unit they have given up only 1 sack, while ranking No. 4 in the league in rushing. A prime example of how dominant the Texan O-line Members of the Texans’ offensive line include Chris Meyers (55) and Ben Jones (60). has been this season is the fourth quarter of the Raiders game. Houston ran 16 consecutive running plays to tohas made a marked improvement so far this season. tally demoralize the Raider defense in the fourth quarter. Line mate Brown has seen the change up close Head coach Bill O’Brien is pleased with play of his and in person. offensive line. “He’s a big athletic guy. I’ve watched him “I think those guys have improved,” O’Brien said. since he’s got here,” Brown said. “He works hard. “I think they’ve really worked hard to learn our scheme, He really works hard to try to be great and master his learn our system and they’re getting better every day, craft. He has great hands and great footwork, and like which is good to see.” I said, he’s only getting Left tackle Duane better.” Brown reiterates that hard Veteran center work has been a staple for Chris Myers also credits the unit’s improvement. Texas Southern enjoys 4-0 start Newton’s improvement “Everyone’s worked as a key to the offentheir tails off individually sive line’s performance. and as a group to just get that chemistry going and to “I think Derek’s improvement has been keep improving every time we hit the field.” unbelievable,” Myers said. “I think what he’s “I think week in and week out we just go out every been doing speaks for itself. I said it since day day and really go over the game plan quite a bit and we one when walked in the door; I think he’s a really work together, talk among each other about tendentalented player. He’s got tremendous versatilcies we’re seeing and just making sure we communicate ity. For a guy that big to move as quick as he and are in sync whenever we get out there,” Brown does and have the work ethic that he has is a continued. testament to himself.” “That’s what it’s all about, being in sync, also a great The bulk of the Texan season is yet to job by the running backs. Arian has done a great job of come, but with the type of improvement they’ve finding the holes and getting those tough yards as well.” made in their offensive line, expect brighter days to One reason the unit has improved is the play of right be right around the corner. tackle Derek Newton. He struggled throughout 2013, but
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Duane Brow
Brandon Brooks
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h.s.zone Durst helps Crosby remain unbeaten protect the ball, execute and make more plays that the other team,” Riordan said. “But we also have to be the most physical team on the field. rosby linebacker Darius Durst “That’s what we preach to them and it always wondered what it felt like showed up tonight,” said Riordan. “If we to be the hero. hadn’t been the most physical team on the field, With the unbeaten Cougars Humble probably would have walked away with fighting against themselves (13 a victory and not us.” penalties for 118 yards) and a game Humble With a seemingly safe 17-3 advantage Wildcats squad that was within striking distance heading into the fourth quarter, Humble closed in the fourth quarter (17-10), Durst became a to within seven points on a Terio Brown 27game changer. yard TD scamper with 11 minutes, 20 seconds His late interception as Humble appeared remaining in regulation. to be gaining momentum sealed the Cougars’ Then with Humble threatening again late in fourth consecutive victory to open the 2014 the final stanza, Durst high school football came to the Cougars’ season and helped rescue. improve Crosby to 2-0 in “Our defense Find out more about Darius Durst District 21-5A. It marked made great plays all Crosby’s first close game night and Durst made (less than double-digit a huge play at a big advantage) of the season. moment of the game,” Riordan said. “I’ve been in the community since I was “We almost gave them the game little so I grew up watching Crosby football back with our mistakes on offense. players,” Durst said. “I wondered I and the offensive staff will take what it was like to make the the blame for that. The biggest play on the field and defense definitely gets the Lord blessed me the credit for to do it. this victory.” “Our coach talked “If you had told about fighting me we would be adversity and we 4-0 at this point fought through back in the spring it,” Durst said. when we were “He told us the rebuilding the defense had to offense, I would make a play have taken it. and we had This feels great.” to stand out. As one of the seniors, That’s what we Durst says that’s all part of the did. He always plan when you play football for stresses that Crosby High School. he wants us to be “We just go out there and try the most physical to make our coaches happy along team on the field.” with our fans and our moms and Crosby head coach Jeff dads,” he said. “It was a team Riordan said that on a night effort and thanks to coach putting when his offense struggled, it us through all our off-season was the Cougars’ defense that workouts because that’s what did rose to the occasion. Humble it for us in the end.” (3-1, 1-1) could only muster seven yards in the first half and Darius Durst and the Crosby Cougars have 90 in the game. gotten off to a 4-0 start, 2-0 in district play. “I tell the kids every week that the keys to victory are to
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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
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SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014 DEFENDER
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sportsbriefs C.E. King mounts comeback Following consecutive 3-7 seasons, C.E. King has opened the 2014 high school football season with four consecutive victories and none of the games have been close. The Panthers have rolled over Tomball (66-29), Magnolia (59-3), Dayton (6217) and last week enjoyed a 49-20 homecoming victory over New Caney. “You have to understand that where we are coming from, every win is a good win,” said C.E. King head coach Don Price. “People don’t understand how hard it is to win. It’s a real challenge every Friday night.” C.E. King will go on the road this week (Sept. 25) for a District 21-5A encounter with Porter. Darien Campbell got the Panthers off to a good start against New Caney with an 80-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the first quarter. “It was a big win for us,” he said. “Last year we didn’t come out on top for homecoming. C.E. King doesn’t have a history of winning, but we’re trying to be remembered.”
N. Shore losing streak rare After beginning the 2014 season with a victory over Clear Springs, North Shore has suffered three consecutive losses at the hands of Manvel, Spring Westfield and Euless Trinity. Don’t shed any tears for the Mustangs. Two of those schools are stateranked and the other is a perennial powerhouse. The last time North Shore lost three games in a row was 1997 when they rallied to finish 5-5 for the season and advanced to the postseason. The 1-3 Mustangs open their District 21-6A ledger at Beaumont West Brook.
TSU 4-0, leads division For the first since the 2000 season Texas Southern University football is 4-0. The Tigers recently defeated Alabama A&M University 45-23. TSU relied on the explosive rushing of senior running back Daveonn Porter to get them over the hump. The Memphis native ran for 123 yards on 18 carries, including an electrifying 70-run in the third quarter that helped clinch the victory for the Tigers. “Porter has really helped give us an edge in the last few game we’ve played,” head coach Darrell Asberry said. “Offensively, establishing the run is something that we want to do each time we take the field. He has been a big part of the process.” The win puts the Tiger atop of the SWAC’s Western division. They are 2-0 in conference play.
Aggies, Bears rise in polls The Texas A&M Aggies and Baylor Bears both are undefeated, putting up big numbers and ranked among the top 10 teams in college football. The Aggies are 4-0 after hammering SMU 58-6 recently. The Bears are 3-0 after dismantling Buffalo 63-21 in a recent non-conference contest. The Aggies are rated No. 6, followed by Baylor at No. 7 in the AP Top 25 poll. The numbers are just the opposite in the USA Today poll, with the Bears coming in No. 6 spot and A&M No. 7. Next on the schedule: A&M faces Arkansas in a heated SEC matchup, while Baylor travels to Iowa State for a Big 12 contest.
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DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 25 | 2014
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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
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LUNCHEON DISCUSSION…..The Community Artists’ Collective luncheon at the tal archives and display artifacts. Some of the center’s projects include a Climate Education Junior League featured a panel discussion on “The Creative Process: The Role of Art in Community University Partnership, green jobs training and the TSU-Jack Yates High School Education” and gave special recognition to honorees H.J. “Harvey” Bott, Joseph Dixon, Healthy Food Sustainability Project. TSU Public Affairs Dean Robert Bullard has created Dr. Reagan Flowers, Ann Johnson and Tim Walker. The organization was conceived by an outstanding institution, which is building community capacity while educating students. Michelle Barnes and Dr. Sarah Trotty over 25 years ago and focuses on expanding the Our compliments. Enjoying the reception were LaRence Snowden, Jew Don Boney, market for the original work of African-American artists and making arts education more Brenda Billips Square, David Funchess, Student Regent Marshaun Williams, Damien accessible to children and adults. Barnes and her fabulous team show that today more than Thaddeus, Alvia Wardlaw, Rhonda Arnold, Carolyn Oliver and many others…..90TH ever, young people need the arts as a forum for safe expression, exploraBIRTHDAY…..For those who remember the Groovey Grill restaurant, tion and authentic connection to the world around them. Present at the a Third Ward hot spot where political figures and dignitaries congreDefender TOP EVENTS gated luncheon were mistress of ceremonies Courtney Gilmore of KPRCfor decades, there was a dynamic trio: owners Faurice and Jessie More photos on defendernetwork.com TV, Pastor Jasmine Quinerly, Barry Barnes, State Rep. Sylvester Prince along with waitress Lorraine M. Williams. Ms. Lorraine (as See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Turner, Jewel McGowen, Carolyn Farb and a host of others…….. she is affectionately called) worked for 40 years at the Groovey. A with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m. TSU FOUNDERS DAY…..The Texas Southern University Founders surprise 90th birthday brunch was held for Ms. Lorraine by her daughter Day reception honoring the Legacy of George Thomas “Mickey” Patricia Daigre and son-in-law Tenoa Daigre Sr. Friends and family Leland showcased a six-room exhibition on the first floor of the Barbara Jordan – Mickey joined in the celebration and Ms. Lorraine was all smiles as she arrived in a stretch limo at the Leland School of Public Affairs. The Mickey Leland Center for Environment, Justice and Brentwood Life Center. Joining the celebration were Bill and Earlene Lewis, Robert and Sustainability, formerly known as the Leland Center on World Hunger and Peace, built the Lorraine Chambers, Rev. and Sister William C. Jackson Sr., James and Kay Randolph, exhibit on the topics of apartheid, hunger, legislative initiatives, international initiatives, digiDr. Dru Mays and Ada Bolden to name a few.
Penelope Gonzalez Marks and Lester Marks, Michelle and Barry Barnes, Martha Barrera
TSU Dean Robert Bullard
Dr. Reagan Flowers and Valerie Leveret
David Funchess and LaRence Snowden
Kay and James Randolph with Lorraine Williams
Tenoa and Patricia Daigre, Dr. Dru Mays and “Ms Lorraine.”
Courtney Gilmore and April Frazier
Marshaun Williams and Damien Thaddeus
Bill and Earlene Lewis
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