Houston Defender: October 01, 2015

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HOUSTON TARGETED FOR OBAMACARE ENROLLMENT OUTREACH P2

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Volume 84 | Number 47 OCTOBER 1, 2015 | FREE

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FEATURE VICE PRESIDENT BIDEN speaks to HBCU gathering

P12 SPORTS JOHN GIBBS JR. seeks another SWAC title

P16 HS ZONE NEIKO HOLLINS plays QB for Hightower

DEBATE: PROS & CONS Houston Equal Rights Ordinance

P17 TOP EVENTS

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Gerald McElvy

Gladys Knight

University of Houston alumnus Gerald McElvy is the UH system’s newest regent. Read about his impressive professional profile.

Find out about his educational background, and his commitment to community service.

At the age of 71, legendary singer Gladys Knight is as busy as ever and isn’t slowing down. Read about her newest single and quest for independence. See why she’s critical of big record labels. Learn about her tribulations and faith in God.

named UH regent

Monroe Brown, Patricia Brown and Khambrel Marshall at Texas Spring Cypress Links ball

P19

still singing

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DEFENDER |OCTOBER 1 | 2015

newstalk

Houston targeted for Obamacare Open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act – also known as Obamacare – begins Nov. 1, and Houston is one of five areas across the country targeted for outreach.

According to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia M. Burwell, the five areas are home to the highest numbers of uninsured Americans who are eligible for marketplace coverage. The other four target areas are Dallas, northern New Jersey, Chicago and Miami.

Texas leads the nation with an uninsured rate of 20.8 percent, down from 27 percent in 2013.

Obamacare was signed into law in 2010. Burwell said that about 17.6 million uninsured Americans have gained health coverage as the law’s coverage provisions have taken effect.

“Five years in, millions of people have new coverage and the percentage of the uninsured has been reduced to the lowest level on record,” Burwell said.

“We now have a new opportunity before us to build on this progress.

“We know current Marketplace customers are satisfied with their coverage, and we expect most to continue with it. We also believe we can continue to connect people with the coverage they need and further decrease the number of Americans without health insurance.”

About 10.5 million uninsured Americans – 14 percent of which are African-American – are eligible for marketplace coverage in the upcoming open en-

rollment, which runs through Jan. 31, 2016.

“Overall, this open enrollment is going to be tougher than last year,” Burwell said. “But while those remaining uninsured may be harder to reach, we’re working smarter to reach them. We know Americans are depending on us, and we’re doing everything we can to help them find the coverage they need.”

For more information visit www.healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596.

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Register to vote

by Oct. 5 The last day to register to vote for the Nov. 3 election is Monday, Oct. 5.

Residents can visit any Harris County Tax Office location from 8 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. to register and submit a completed, signed form. Voter registration applications can also be obtained at any public library or U.S. post office.

If a registered voter has moved within Harris County or had their name changed, they can update their voter registration information by visiting www.hctax.net and clicking on the “name/address change” button under the “voter registration” tab.

“With the deadline to register to vote around the corner, we’ve been working very hard to increase voter registration in Harris County,” said Tax Assessor-Collector Mike Sullivan.

“Just this year, we’ve ramped up our outreach effort, hosting more than 15 voter registration drives, training more than 1,622 volunteer deputy voter registrars, registering voters at the U.S. Naturalization Ceremony and visiting local schools and assisting high school seniors to register to vote.

These efforts have led to more than 100,517 voters added to the voter roll this year, with Harris County leading the state with 2,054,215 registered voters.”

“This November’s election is incredibly important, as we will be deciding on many races, from the next mayor of Houston to ballot initiatives like the property tax homestead exemption increase,” Sullivan added.

For more information visit www.hctax. net or call 713-274-VOTE.

localbriefs HISD WILL BEGIN its second year with Read Houston Read, a program designed to improve literacy among Houston students by having a volunteer read to them once a week throughout the school year. It is part of the district’s Literacy by 3 movement, which aims to end the literacy crisis in Houston through its mission to have all students reading on grade level by the end of third grade. Volunteers are asked to read to their assigned first-graders for 30 to 60 minutes once a week, either in person or over the Internet via online conferencing.

Volunteers are required to pass a background check and attend an online training session. For information visit

www.readhoustonread.com........CULLEN CLINIC, now known as Poindexter Dental at 7703 Cullen, has been designated as the First Historically Protected Landmark in Sunnyside by the City of Houston and the Harris County Historical Commission. The honor is a tribute to the late Dr. Zeb F. Poindexter Jr., who was the first African-American to graduate from University of Texas School of Dentistry in 1956. That same year he opened a dental practice in the Chocolate Bayou neighborhood of Southeast Houston. Around 1960, he moved the office to Sunnyside and served the community for 50 years before retiring in 2000. The

Sunnyside building was designed by the late Houston architect John S. Chase……..THE HOUSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT is informing citizens how to file an online police report for theft and criminal mischief incidents using the HPD website. Houstonians can use the service if the incident is not an emergency, is not a burglary, is not over $5,000 in value, is non-vehicle related and occurred inside the city limits of Houston.

The service can also be used if there is no evidence, no suspects or witnesses, and no injuries occurred. For information visit www.houstontx.gov/police/online_ report.htm.

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Millennials optimistic about money Americans feel optimistic about their finances and the future, according to the third “How America Buys and Borrows” survey by Wells Fargo & Company and Ipsos.

The findings show millennials, ages 18-35, are the most optimistic about their finances and report being most likely to buy a home in the next three years. This optimism is a shift from last year when generations were more united than divided in their outlook.

In June 2015, the “How America Buys and Borrows” survey asked nearly 2,000 American adults ages 18 to 65 about their attitudes and perceptions of the current economy, financial situations and understanding of credit.

Weighting on age, gender, education, diverse segments and income were applied to the results to achieve a nationally representative population.

Data from the 2015 survey shows millennial optimism is strong in several key areas: • Twenty-eight percent of millennials rate their current financial situation favorably, compared to 24 percent of the general population.

• Looking ahead, 66 percent of millennials feel their personal financial situation will improve, compared to 48 percent of the general population – an 18 percent divide.

• Millennials are most likely to be in the process of refinancing their mortgage or buying an investment property, vacation home or new home for themselves.

• Nearly a third of millennials say they plan to buy a new home in the next three years, compared to 19 percent of their general population counterparts.

When asked how they feel about their current financial situations and expectations for the future, respondents are optimistic.

Eighty-two percent of respondents report their financial situation today is stable to strong and 90 percent say that they expect their personal financial situation will stay the same or get better a year from now.

OCTOBER 1 | 2015 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

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national

U.S.briefs

Voting facts & figures • In 2012, 26 million eligible voters of color did not vote, and, among eligible voters earning less than $50,000, 47 million did not vote.

• Forty percent of Blacks turned out to vote in 2014, compared to 46 percent of whites. While, voter turnout among Blacks dropped 40 percent between 2012 and 2014, white voter turnout decreased less than 30 percent • In 2012, Census data showed that Black voter turnout was higher than white turnout, with white turnout at 64 percent and Black turnout at 66 percent. In 2014, however, Black turnout was 5 points lower than white turnout.”

Increasing number of voters alters public policy NNPA News Service

The key to changing public policy in key areas is increasing the number of people who vote, according to a recent report by Demos, a public policy group that supports economic and social equality.

When compared to white voters, non-white voters were more likely to support policies that increased government spending on the poor, guaranteed jobs and a standard of living and reduced inequality.

“White affluent voters, who have the highest voter turnout rate, tend to oppose many policies that a majority of Americans, including nonvoters and non-affluent voters, either support or do not oppose, which suggests that such policies could be much more

winnable if nonvoters voted,” said the report.

When it comes to public policy, voting patterns and voter “turnout gaps” have serious far-ranging implications.

“First, those who vote have more representation than those who do not. Second, those who do not vote tend to have views that are more economically progressive than those who do vote,” the report said.

“And third, voting plays a significant role in the distribution of government resources as well as the size of government and who benefits from public policies.”

Millions of ex-offenders, disproportionately Black and Latino, also face significant voting restrictions upon release, if they are allowed to vote at all.

Black women facing increased violence NNPA News Service

Black women were murdered at more than double the rate of white women in 2012 and almost all (92 percent) of these women knew their assailant, according an annual report titled “When Men Murder Women” by the Violence Policy Center.

According to the report, 11 times as many Black women were killed by a man they knew. More than half (56 percent) were married to or in relationships with the men who murdered them.

Avis Jones-DeWeever, a gender, race and class researcher and former director of the National Council

of Negro Women, said certain conditions make gender violence more severe for Black women.

Living in such areas of concentrated poverty means Black women have less access to services, or poor-quality versions of those services.

“It’s a huge problem, because we have particular cultural challenges that maybe are not addressed in other programs that are aimed at women in general,” she said.

For example, Black women, who are among the most religious of all Americans according to data from the Pew Research Center, may be receiving messages from the pulpit that encourage them to keep their families together, no matter the cost.

FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA offered some advice to teenage girls: Don’t shy away from being the smartest kid in the class and never mind what boys think. Obama spoke to about 1,000 girls and young women at an event in New York City as part of her Let Girls Learn campaign. It is designed to expand girls’ access to education in developing countries and encourage American girls to take advantage of their opportunities. “There is no boy, at this age, that is cute enough or interesting enough to stop you from getting your education. If I had worried about who liked me and who thought I was cute when I was your age, I wouldn’t be married to the president of the United States,” she said……..PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE BEN CARSON said Republicans are more colorblind than Democrats. “I find Black Republicans are treated extremely well in the Republican Party,” Carson said during a stop in Michigan. “In fact, I don’t hear much about being a Black Republican. I think the Republicans have done a far superior job of getting over racism.” Carson was formerly a Democrat, but said he found the Republican Party to be more welcoming.

“When you look at the philosophies of the two parties now, what I have noticed as a Black Republican is that Republicans tend to look more at the character of people. And Democrats tend to look more at the color of their skin,” he said……..ACCUSATIONS AGAINST BILL COSBY continue to have an impact. Fordham and Marquette universities have withdrawn honorary degrees from Cosby amid allegations from women accusing the comedian of sexual assault. Both Jesuit schools said it is the first time they have rescinded an honorary degree. Cosby admitted having extramarital relationships with several women, including some who now accuse him of assault.

VOLUME 84 • NUMBER 47 OCTOBER 1, 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 Contributing writers Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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University of Houston alumnus Gerald McElvy has been appointed as the UH system’s newest regent by Gov. Greg Abbott. He replaces outgoing board member Jarvis Hollingsworth.

Abbott also reappointed Tilman J. Fertitta and Beth Madison to the UHS Board of Regents. Fertitta is the current board chair and Madison is the board secretary.

McElvy, a native of Ft. Worth, earned a bachleor’s degree in economics and accounting from UH, and is an ardent supporter of the university and higher education. He is a member of the Bauer College Board, which supports UH’s C.T. Bauer College of Business.

He previously served on the board for UH’s Houston Alumni Association. He also was a supporter of the University’s “Drive to Tier One” initiative. He is a member of the advisory board of the Texas Academy of Math and Science at the University of North Texas and previously served on the boards for numerous organizations dedicated to education and community service.

McElvy worked for the Exxon Mobil Corp. for 33 years. During his final six years with the company, he served as president of its philanthropic arm, the Exxon Mobil Foundation. In addition to his UH degree, McElvy received an MBA from the University of California, Los Angeles.

The UHS Board of Regents is comprised of nine regular members and a student regent. Every two years, the Texas governor appoints three members to the board. Each regular member serves a six-year term, and student regents serve for one year.

In addition to Fertitta, Madison and McElvy, board members include Welcome W. Wilson Jr., Spencer D. Armour III, Roger F. Welder, Durga D. Agrawal, Paula M. Mendoza, Peter K. Taaffe and student regent Garrett H. Hughey.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

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business

Black chamber hosts annual Pinnacle Awards The Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce presents the 21st annual Pinnacle Awards, its salute to entrepreneurism and business achievement. The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at 6 p.m. at the Power Center, 12401 S. Post Oak. KPRC-TV’s Khambrel Marshall will serve as the master of ceremonies. The event chairman is James Donatto II and honorary co-chairs are Theldon Branch III and James Donatto Sr. “In a year filled with history making highlights, the Pinnacle Awards will indeed be the pinnacle of the chamber’s 80th anniversary celebration,” said Award finalists are joined by GHBC board members and officials.

GHBC board chair Vernita Harris.

“Once again, we have a stellar lineup of worthy finalists and we have planned an extraordinary salute to them, along with the recognition of other award-winning enterprises and business leaders.”

Businesses nominated for the Pinnacle Award must have positively impacted the communities and industries they serve and exemplify Mario Diaz Councilman Larry Green Sonny Messiah Jiles a high-quality business operation worthy of recognition amongst its peers.

The 2015 Pinnacle Award finalists are Centerpointe These for-profit businesses must be at least 51 percent Hotel Partners, Fleur Jolie Design and Events, NightLight African-American owned, in operation for a minimum Pediatric Urgent Care, One World Strategy Group, of three years, headquartered in the greater Houston Sapphire Properties, Sowells Construction, Tristen Sutton Metropolitan Area and members of the GHBC. State Farm Agency and Twice Media Productions

The Mack H. Hannah, Jr. Upstart Business Award, which includes a $2,500 cash prize, recognizes a growing business on the path to entrepreneurial greatness that has been in operation less than two years.

Finalists for the Award are Fade Media, LegendsDoLive, TV IMAGE Productions and Soaps, Washes, and Grooming Essentials.

Special recognition will be extended to honorees in other award categories as well. They include: Advocate Award: Houston Airport System, Mario Diaz; Endurance Award: Houston Defender, Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah Jiles; Excellence Award: Brigance Enterprises, Marcus Brigance; Public Gerald Smith Service Award: District K, City Councilman Larry V. Green; and Lifetime Achievement Award: Gerald Smith, Smith Graham & Co. For awards tickets and reservations visit www.21stPinnacle.eventbrite.com.

Program provides Houstonians path to homeownership Capital One Bank and Avenue Community Development Corporation (Avenue CDC) announced the citywide launch of the Homebuyer Club. The free program is designed to help potential homebuyers by equipping them with the skills to manage their finances, establish good credit, decrease debt and increase savings.

Program registration is now open. The Homebuyer Club is available at no cost to individuals interested in becoming a homeowner and provides premium personal financial education. It features: • Financial skills workshops (which include child care during class), light breakfast and lunch • An opportunity to open a no-fee savings account with Capital One Bank • A free homebuyer education class certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development required for many homebuyer down-pay-

ment assistance programs • Personal homebuyer advisors who provide one-on-one advice sessions and monthly progress check-ins • Referral resources, including job training, health and family counseling, credit counseling and more • Supplemental training throughout the year In addition to helping participants strengthen their financial knowledge, the program provides eligible homebuyers the opportunity to obtain matching funds for down payments on homes through Covenant Community Capital’s Individual Development Account Program.

“Homeownership provides great benefits for families and communities,” said Mary Lawler, executive director for Avenue CDC. “The Homebuyer Club offers a terrific array of services for those who

want to buy a home of their own.”

“Capital One Bank is proud to sponsor the Homebuyers Club,” said Jim Nicholas, Houston market president for Capital One Bank. “We are proud to play a key role in developing quality, low-cost housing and a stable living environment in Houston.”

The classes will be held at the Leonel Castillo Community Center, located at 2101 South St., every third Saturday of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Through the Homebuyer Club, Capital One Bank supports Avenue CDC’s mission to strengthen communities and local economy through quality affordable homes.

An orientation session will be held Nov. 14 at 10 a.m. at the Castillo Community Center. To register for the Homebuyer Club call 713-864-9099 or email rosag@avenuecdc.org.

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Houstonian stars in ‘Vet School’ reality show Aziza Glass of Houston is among the students featured on “Vet School,” a new series filmed at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. It airs Saturday at 9 p.m. on Nat Geo WILD, a sister network of the National Geographic Channel.

Glass and three other fourth-year students, along with three first-year students, were followed by the cameras through an academic year at Cornell.

As the first-year students wrestle sheep for a blood sample and the fourth-year students learn how to handle Aziza Glass works with animals such as horses and donkeys in “Vet School.” life-and-death surgeries and For the students, seeing cases ranging from emergencies, the camera fracture repair in a horse, inserting a pacemaker into a captures the pressures, rewards and occasional dog and removing an abscess from a pet turkey are all sadness of life as an aspiring veterinarian. in a day’s work. What motivates them is their love for “We viewed this show as a fantastic opportunity animals, medicine and science, and a desire to make a to raise the profile of the veterinary profession and difference. to help the public understand the rigorous education Glass has chosen one of the hardest career leading to a veterinary degree,” said Interim Dean courses offered, a mixed animal practice. She wants to Lorin Warnick. treat companion pets (such as cats and dogs) as well “We were honored to be asked to participate as farm animals (such as cows, pigs, sheep and goats). in the production and happy to showcase the Glass nurtured her love of animals by watching experience of our students as they work to become television documentaries and performing her own veterinarians.”

Sylvester Turner was born and raised on Stallings Drive in the Acres Homes neighborhood of Houston.

animal behavior experiments.

Beyond clinical medicine, she has molecular biology research experience in the areas of animal science, synthetic biology, animal behavior and space biomedicine. She has studied extensively at top research institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the NASA Johnson Space Center.

Glass graduated from Prairie View A&M University, summa cum laude, with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and a concentration in animal science.

SylveSter turner

for Mayor:

a Safer city, better roadS and More econoMic opportunity—for all of us.

SylveSter turner’S Story iS HouSton’S Story. His dad was a painter and his mom worked as a maid in the old Rice Hotel. With the help of his pastors, teachers and parents, Sylvester went from the once-segregated neighborhood of Acres Homes to the University of Houston and Harvard and then on to become a champion for Houston’s middle class families.

SylveSter alwayS StandS up for tHe middle claSS. As our state representative, Sylvester stopped utility companies from unfairly raising gas and electricity rates, worked to make health care more affordable for children and families and helped restore billions of dollars in funding for public schools. aS our next mayor, SylveSter will figHt for:

 vote early

starting oct. 19. election day is nov. 3.

www.SylvesterTurner.com



A living wage and more economic opportunity



Community policing, improved training and body cameras for all police officers



Better roads and a 24-hour turnaround for pothole repairs



Criminal justice reforms that prioritize mental health over incarceration



Stronger neighborhood schools and expanded after-school programs



Responsible city budgets

Join firefighters, teachers, police, deputy sheriffs and community groups in supporting Sylvester turner for Mayor!

Latino Labor

Leadership

CounCiL of southeast tx

Pol. adv. SylveSter turner CamPaign. david minCberg, treaSurer

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

entertainment

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Gladys Knight

There’s still music in the air

By MARY L. DATCHER Special to NNPA from the Chicago Defender

G

ladys Knight and the Pips were part of Motown Records’ golden era in the 1960s and ‘70s. The quartet contributed to the record company’s illustrious line-up of catalog hits with “Neither One of Us,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “If I Were Your Woman,” among other songs.

In 1976, the group left Motown and joined Buddah Records where they continued to create a string of classic hits such as “Midnight Train to Georgia.” After much success, Knight moved on to embark on a successful solo career with Columbia Records and MCA Records reuniting with the Pips in the 1980s.

The lead vocals on each song belonged to Knight, now 71, and her smooth and timeless voice still rings strong today The seven-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee recently engaged in a candid con- Knight and the Pips released their first single in 1957. versation while in Chicago for a concert and to promote as rising singer and vocal arranger Avehre, one of the preher latest single, “Just A Little.” miere artists on her independent label.

The independent release was produced by Grammy “Avehre is an amazing, talented and respectful young winner S1. Knight is no stranger to overseeing her own man,” Knight said. “My husband has taken him under his music company, but this time it’s with the help of her huswing. They are in the studio right now. This man can write, band and manager, William McDowell. produce and do his “I told my crew, please don’t sign me to another own thing.” record label,” Knight said. “You can give people chance, Knight after chance, after chance but it hasn’t changed.

“Why do you think there aren’t any record labels left? has experienced challenges over the People got tired of not being paid while these mega comyears, including the panies are at the top with executives living in big houses, death of her 37-year-old son and manager owning luxury cars and taking our money sending their James Newman in 1999. She said her relationship kids to college. I have kids in college as well and I need with God has kept her going. my money.”

Knight is a grandmother and great-grandmother and With her new company comes new talent, and she’s has been married four times. She and McDowell, her happy to bring on young and fresh ears to the camp, such

husband of 15 years, are happily married and reside in Canton, N.C., where they recently purchased the schoolhouse where McDowell attended elementary school.

The building has been abandoned for a number of decades and they are seeking to transform it into a state-of-art performing arts facility for students. It’s a labor of love. She is looking forward to reaching out to her industry friends for assistance in bringing more opportunities to the community.

Gladys Knight continues to make music after all these years.

what’sup THE OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK broke records with the recent season finale of the drama series “The Haves and the Have Nots” and the season premiere of “If Loving You is Wrong.” Both series are produced by TYLER PERRY. “The Haves and the Have Nots” delivered 3.7 million viewers and “If Loving You is Wrong” was seen by 2.9 million viewers…….. CHIWETEL EJIOFOR of “12 Years a Slave” fame plays the director of a Mars mission in the new film “The Martian.”

Ejiofor enjoyed the scientific aspects of the film and said, “What I’m excited about is people seeing this movie, young people especially, and going [to

school] on Monday morning and being like, ‘How does this stuff work again?’ ” The film stars MATT DAMON as a stranded astronaut and hits theaters on Oct. 2……..ANTHONY ANDERSON’S wife Alvina has filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. A spokesperson for the “black-ish” star said they have been separated for some time.

They married in 1999 and have two children. ……..Oscar-winner FOREST WHITAKER has joined the cast of “Roots,” which will air next year on A&E. Whitaker will play Fiddler, a role which won LOU GOSSETT an Emmy in 1977.

British actor MALACHI KIRBY has been cast

as Kunta Kinte in the remake. Whitaker and Kirby will join LAURENCE FISHBURNE as ALEX HALEY, ANIKA NONI ROSE as Kizzy and DEREK LUKE as Silla Ba Dabba……… Carolina Panthers quarterback CAM NEWTON will host Nickelodeon’s new adventure docu-series “I Wanna Be.” Newton will take real kids on the “ride of their lives” to help make their dreams come true. “I’m very passionate about mentoring young people, and this show will be the perfect opportunity to help talented kids get the chance to pursue their dreams,” Newton said. The 20-episode series is slated to air in 2016.

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Carli Lloyd

2015 Women’s World Cup Champion

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108110_NPA171037-0001 ad 9.75x13 HoustonDefender.indd 1

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

Vote YES

Mayor Annise Parker supports HERO Since proposing the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance, Mayor Annise Parker has consistently defended it, noting that Houston is the only major U.S. city without civil rights protections for its residents.

Parker first cited the need for HERO in her 2014 State of the City address. She said the Houston she knows is accepting, tolerant, diverse, understanding, inclusive, open-minded and unbiased.

“We don’t care where you come from, the color of your skin, your age, gender, what physical limitations you may have or who you choose to love,” she said. “It’s time the laws on our books reflect this.”

“The Houston I know does not discriminate, treats everyone equally and allows full participation by everyone in civic and business life,” she added.

Parker said there is a good reason why the Black community should support HERO. “Discrimination has no place in our city,” Parker said. “HERO ensures that all Houstonians, regardless of race, age, gender, orientation, pregnancy, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or military status – are protected from discrimination in employment, housing and public spaces like restaurants and clubs.

“It ensures that everyone has equal access to earning a living, taking care of their families, having housing, and being served by businesses and government. [Recently] we saw Black men turned away from a Midtown nightclub, apparently, because they are Black. If the HERO were in effect right now, they could file a complaint with the City and receive a speedy investigation.”

Parker said why HERO is needed when anti-discrimination laws already exist.

“The Houston Equal Rights Ordinance provides simple, local recourse for Houstonians who believe they have been treated unfairly, without making them jump through the hoops of filing a federal lawsuit or bearing the burden of a costly, drawn-out legal battle,” Parker said.

“Houston is the last major city in

Texas to enact these protections. Other cities like Austin, Dallas, and Ft. Worth have had nondiscrimination protections like this on the books for over a decade.”

Parker also noted what she believes is the biggest misconception about HERO. “Unfortunately, there are those who are exploiting HERO for their own political purposes or personal gain by making this about public safety and bathrooms,” she said.

“That’s just a lie, repeatedly disproven by law enforcement and child and women’s advocates. Nothing in the equal rights ordinance changes the fact that it is – and always will be – illegal to enter a restroom to harm or harass other people.”

Parker has a response to opposition to HERO that is based on religious beliefs.

“Religious organizations are explicitly exempted from the ordinance,” she said. “And certainly voters can cast their votes for or against HERO in a way that is consistent with their religious beliefs. The past, however, teaches us that we must be careful not to use religion to justify discrimination.

“Many segregationists justified racial bigotry on religious grounds, including Mississippi’s infamous governor and senator Theodore Bilbo,” Parker said. “I would encourage fellow Houstonians to follow the Golden Rule, some form of which is found in every religious tradition: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

DEBATE: PR

Houston Equal Ri

By MARILY De Local residents will go to the polls on Nov. 3 to vote for or against the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO), and controversy has surrounded the ordinance from the beginning.

There have been lawsuits, subpoenas, petitions and court decisions, and debates about public restrooms and the rights of gay and transgender citizens.

The religious community in particular has been divided on the issue, with some members of the clergy supporting HERO and others opposing it. The ordinance has also become an issue in the race for mayor and City Council.

Organizations such as the Greater Houston Partnership, the Houston NAACP and the Houston Association of Realtors endorse HERO. The Harris County Republican Party and the Houston Area Pastor Council renounce it.

What the ballot says City of Houston, Proposition No. 1

(Relating to the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance.)

Are you in favor of the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance, Ord. No. 2014-530, which prohibits discrimination in city employment and city services, city contracts, public accommodations, private employment, and housing based on an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, familial status, marital status, military status, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or pregnancy?

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

erfold

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11

Vote NO

Pastor F.N. Williams opposes HERO

OS & CONS

ights Ordinance

YN MARSHALL efender HERO, which was proposed by outgoing Mayor Annise Parker, prohibits discrimination in employment, public accommodation and housing on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, familial status, marital status, military status, religion, disability, sexual orientation and other factors.

Some critics question why the ordinance is needed if civil rights/anti-discrimination laws already exist. Supporters say such laws aren’t enough.

Houston City Council passed the ordinance in May 2014 by an 11-6 vote.

Following a legal battle between the city and opponents, the Texas Supreme Court ruled that the City Council had to repeal the ordinance or place it on the November ballot.

Here, the Defender looks at opposition to HERO and support for it.

HERO pen

a l ty

The Houst o n Eq u a l R ights Ordin businesses ance appli that serve es to the public, ers, housin private em g, city emp ployloyment an ing. Religio d city cont us institutio ractns are exem can be fine pt. Violato d up to $5 rs ,000.

he Houston area for over 80 years

Opponents of the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance have fought the law for more than a year.

Members of a pastors’ coalition are among the most vocal opponents, and contend that HERO is a threat to religious freedom and will allow men in women’s restrooms, showers and lockers throughout Houston.

Coalition member F.N. Williams, pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, is one of the opposition leaders, and has been involved in the legal battle against HERO. He said his disapproval is Biblically-based, especially with the ordinance’s mention of sexual orientation and gender identity.

“It goes against scripture,” Williams said. “The Bible says man that sleeps with a man or woman who sleeps with a woman is an abomination to God.” Williams used the example of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. “God came down himself to see what was going on and he killed the whole city,” Williams said.

“God didn’t make Adam and Steve,” he continued. “God made man and woman for reproduction.

There is no reproduction in samesex marriage.”

Though supporters of HERO say opponents’ emphasis on restrooms and public safety is a misconception, Williams disagrees.

“If a woman thinks she’s a man she can go to the men’s restroom,” he said. “If a man thinks he’s a woman he can go to the women’s restroom.”

Williams and other coalition members have opposed the ordinance since it was approved by City Council. The coalition collected more than 50,000 signatures on a petition to strike down HERO, though they only needed 17,000 signatures. The city said less than 17,000 signatures were valid.

After a lawsuit was filed requesting the ordinance be suspended, the City of Houston subpoenaed five clergy members for speeches, presentations and sermons related to HERO. The city later narrowed the scope of the subpoenas.

Now that HERO is finally on the ballot, Williams continues to speak out against the ordinance with the hope that it will be defeated. He said the entire community, not just the Black community, should oppose it.

“This is against religious freedom,” Williams said. “We didn’t bother [gays]. We have them in our families we have them in our churches. We never tried to disrespect them but they want to take our rights away and damn us. But we didn’t damn them. None of our churches have criticized homosexuals. If I tell two men I’m not going to marry you they put me in jail.

They say we’re haters. They’re haters.”

He added that regardless of the outcome, he will oppose what the ordinance stands for.

“I’m going to be with Jesus until He comes,” Williams said. “I don’t care what the Supreme Court says, or what the president says or what the mayor says. I’ve been preaching 70 years and I’m not going to change now. The Bible says it’s sinful, the Bible says it’s an abomination. An abomination is sin and the wages of sin is death.

“It’s an affront to the Christian faith for anybody to support that ordinance,” Williams said. “God is love but God also hates sin. The Bible does not endorse homosexuality.”

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

Vice President Biden tries to calm HBCU fears

I

important to our country and how competitive we’ll be in another five, 10, 20 years.”

Most of Biden’s time onstage was spent praising HBCUs or invoking the Black experience. He shared how much of the grassroots support and volunteer help he received during his Senate campaign came from Delaware State University. And he lauded audience members for their role in uplifting Black youth.

“It’s more than just academics and leaderships. What’s built into HBCUs…is this sense that you educate, but you mentor the whole time. You constantly embrace these young women and men. You let them know, you can do this, too,” he said.

By JAZELLE HUNT NNPA Washington Correspondent

n a speech at the 2015 National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week Conference in Washington, D.C., Vice President Joe Biden praised the nation’s HBCUs and announced an additional $10 billion in funding.

Despite enthusiastic applause and shouts of “Run, Joe, Run,” Biden did not allude to whether he has made up his mind to challenge Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination for president in 2016.

Instead, he took the opportunity to address a sore spot between the Obama administration and the HBCU comVice President Joe Biden munity: the America’s College Promise proposal, which, if enacted, will offer – STEM innovation, partnerships, and entrepretwo free years of community college for responneurship – and thanked the HBCU administrators, sible students. partners, and students present for their strides in HBCU administrators and leaders, whose inthis area. stitutions are already underfunded, are concerned In January, Biden visited Norfolk State Unithey’ll be unable to compete if funding is limited versity in Virginia to unveil a $25 million grant to community colleges. Many had suggested that over five years for a cybersecurity consortium two year assistance be extended to four-year colconsisting of 13 HBCUs, two national labs, and a leges as well as two-year community colleges.

K-12 school district. Norfolk State, which already “I’ll be straight with you. I know a lot of you offers an online cybersecurity master’s degree were a little bit upset when we called for two program, will lead the initiative. years of free community college,” Biden said.

“It’s an economic imperative…that the num“Some of you are my friends, heads of universiber of African-Americans in STEM increase,” ties, and you called me and said, ‘Joe, is that Biden said. “HBCUs are only 3 percent of the going to undercut us? We’re having financial difnation’s schools. And you produce 27 percent of ficulties now.’ The answer is it will not.”

African-American graduates with STEM degrees.

Biden also highlighted the conference’s theme The human capital that you husband is critically

Democratic convention taps Morehouse alum Democrats will select their nominee for president and vice president, as well as adopt an official party platform and create rules and procedures for the nomination process for the 2020 elections.

NNPA News Service

Theater District Structural Repairs (Bid) Houston First Corporation requests bids from experienced entities to make minor structural repairs in its underground Theater District garages.

Bid documents are available online at: www.houstonfirst.com/do-business.

Questions should be submitted by e-mail to: bids@houstonfirst.com.

Application for New Housing Projects Pursuant to the FY2015 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 a Request for Applications (RFA) for new permanent housing projects (either Rapid Re-housing [RRH] or Permanent Supportive Housing [PSH]). Funding for new permanent housing projects in the 2015 CoC competition is limited. All reallocated funds will be available for new permanent housing (RRH or PSH). New permanent housing projects must follow a Housing First model, accept all admissions through the CoC’s Coordinated Access system, follow the CoC’s established priorities for admitting homeless individuals and families, and make maximum use of mainstream resources for supportive services. 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., CST, Friday, October 16, 2015, and should be sent electronically to Concetta Scerbo at cscerbo@homelesshouston.org.

T:4.79”

LEGAL NOTICE Lee Whack

said. “I am confident his background and experience will help us achieve our goal of being the most engaging, inclusive and forward-looking convention in history.”

Whack is the former communications director for U.S. Rep. Jan Scha-

kowsky D-Ill. He worked as a public relations manager for the D.C. Housing Finance Agency and as a communications staffer for Democrats in the Illinois State Senate. He is a former reporter with the Chicago Tribune.

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A graduate of the nation’s only predominantly African-American men’s private college has been appointed to a top position for next year’s Democratic convention.

Lee Whack, a 2006 graduate of Morehouse College and a 2011 recipient of a master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University, was named as press secretary for the 2016 Democratic National Convention. It will take place at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia from July 25-28, 2016.

Convention CEO Leah D. Daughtry said Whack is the right person for the job. “We are pleased that Lee is joining the convention team,” she

classified

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 1 | 2015 | DEFENDER

13

Houston area gets lead-based paint grants Two new federal grants totaling $6 million will ensure more than 350 area homes are free of health hazards posed to young children by lead-based paint.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded a $2.9 million grant to the Houston Health Department (HHD) and a $3.1 million grant to the Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES).

HHD’s total project value will rise to $3.6 million with an additional $750,000 in matching city bond funds from the City of Houston’s Housing and Community Development Department.

“Every family deserves to live in a safe and healthy home where their children can live and thrive,” said Michelle Miller, deputy director of HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes.

“We know that housing conditions directly affect the health of occupants, and today’s grants will protect families in Houston from lead exposure and other health and safety hazards such as mold and moisture, radon, pests and asthma triggers.”

Homes of families with lead-poisoned children will receive priority for the lead-hazard remediation. HHD will remediate about 200 homes and HCPHES more than 150 homes.

HHD has eliminated lead hazards in 2,789 homes since 1996 with previous federal grants.

HHD targets inner-city neighborhoods, areas more likely to contain older homes with lead-based paint, the most common source of lead exposure in children.

Every year nearly 300 Houston children under

the age of 6 are confirmed with elevated blood lead levels. The figure could be higher as only about 20 percent of Houston’s 210,474 children are screened for lead poisoning.

Lead can harm virtually every system in the human body, but it is especially damaging to the developing brain and nervous system of fetuses and young children. It can damage the kidneys and the reproductive system and cause high blood pressure.

Elevated blood lead levels in children can also result in learning difficulties, behavioral problems, mental retardation and speech and language handicaps. Seizures, coma and even death are possible at extremely high levels.

As lead-based paint in older homes deteriorates,

it creates contaminated dust as well as paint chips that can be eaten by young children, especially those between 1 and 3 years of age who frequently pick up objects and put them in their mouths.

Home renovation or remodeling can disturb lead paint. Also, a young child can easily chew on painted surfaces such as window sills and door frames in a lead-exposed home.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 80 percent of all homes built before 1978 in the U.S. contain lead-based paint.

Houston residents interested in qualifying in the program can call 832-393-5141. Harris County residents can call 713-274-6374.

Make your flu shot make a world of difference Your immunization helps provide a lifesaving vaccine to a child in a developing country.

From July 1, 2015 to August 31, 2016, for every immunization administered, Walgreens will donate $0.18 to the United Nations Foundation, up to a maximum donation of $2,000,000. For more information, go to Walgreens. com/GetaShot. Vaccines subject to availability. State-, age- and health-related restrictions may apply. ©2015 Walgreen Co. All rights reserved.

14

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

defendernetwork.com

health

Know facts about breast cancer October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to increase awareness of the disease. Here are 10 facts from the American Cancer Society.

1. Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the breast. A malignant tumor is a group of cancer cells that can grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body.

2. The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass. A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous, but breast cancers can be tender, soft or rounded. They can even be painful.

3. It is important to have any new breast mass or lump or breast change checked by a health care professional experienced in diagnosing breast diseases.

4. Women age 40 and older should have a mammogram (X-ray of the breast) every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.

5. Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer; it is about 100 times more common among women than men. This is probably because men have less of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which can promote breast cancer cell growth.

6. White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer

than African-American women, but African-American women are more likely to die of this cancer. However, in women under 45 years of age, breast cancer is more common in African-American women.

7. Your risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older. About 1 out of 8 invasive breast cancers are found in women younger than 45, while about 2 of 3 invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older.

8. About 5 percent to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene defects (called mutations) inherited from a parent.

9. The use of alcohol is linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Compared with non-drinkers, women who consume one alcoholic drink a day have a very small increase in risk. Those who have two to five drinks daily have about one and a half times the risk of women who don’t drink alcohol.

10. Evidence is growing that exercise reduces breast cancer risk.

In one study as little as 1.25 to 2.5 hours per week of brisk walking reduced a woman’s risk by 18 percent.

For more information visit www.cancer.org.

About mammograms A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for changes that are not normal.

The results are recorded on x-ray film or directly into a computer for a doctor to examine.

A mammogram allows the doctor to have a closer look for changes in breast tissue that cannot be felt during a breast exam.

It is used for women who have no breast complaints and for women who have breast symptoms, such as a change in the shape or size of a breast, a lump, nipple discharge or pain.

A high-quality mammogram plus a clinical breast exam, an exam done by your doctor, is the most effective way to detect breast cancer early and improves a woman’s chances for successful treatment.

Your doctor, local medical clinic, or local or state health department can tell you where to get no-cost or low-cost mammograms.

You can also call the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service toll free at 800-4226237.

Source: womenshealth.gov

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 1 | 2015 | DEFENDER

15

Researchers test prostate cancer detection Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy and second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in the U.S. The challenge with prostate cancer is that the standard treatment methods in the advanced stage of the disease lose effectiveness after about one to two years, leading to recurrence and, ultimately, death. A University of Houston researcher and his team are working to change that.

With the assistance of nearly $2.3 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health’s National Cancer Institute, assistant professor Daniel Frigo is investigating two new avenues for detection and treatment.

Frigo is targeting two different mechanisms that play a role in prostate cancer.

Both focus on biochemical reactions inside

cells, downstream of a protein called the androgen receptor (AR).

Androgens, such as testosterone, are a class of hormones that control the development and maintenance of male characteristics. These hormones bind to AR molecules, which regulate a variety of different processes and parts of a cell.

While it is needed for basic male development, like puberty, it can become overactive and cause prostate cancer by altering different genes. So, too much of it can be a bad thing.

While the bulk of work is being conducted at the Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling in UH’s College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, both projects are being done in collaboration with researchers at Baylor College of Medicine.

Kelsey-Seybold Clinic plans Sienna Plantation facility To meet increased demand in the Fort Bend area, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic has begun construction of a new $9 million medical office building near the Sienna Plantation and Riverstone communities.

The 23,800-square-foot, one-story clinic, scheduled to open in August of 2016, will be located at 7010 Highway 6 in Missouri City.

“As one of the fastest growing counties in the country, Fort Bend’s medical needs are changing and growing,” said Dr. Spencer R. Berthelsen, chairman and managing director, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.

“Having lived and worked in Fort Bend for many years, I have personally seen this community transform over the last 35 years. Patients want ac-

cess to their doctors near their homes, schools and places of work. This is why we are expanding our footprint in the Fort Bend area.”

The clinic will offer services in eight medical specialties and accommodate 12 physicians and their staff. Patients will have the convenience of onsite pharmacy, lab, X-ray and diagnostics.

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16

DEFENDER | October 1 | 2015

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sports

Alcorn, QB Gibbs want to repeat as champions

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By MAX EDISON Defender

he Alcorn State Braves are the defending SWAC football champion, and the key to their title run has been the outstanding play of quarterback John Gibbs Jr. of Houston. The former Booker T. Washington standout has only one thing on his mind – ending his college career as a back-to-back champion at Alcorn.

Last season Gibbs was the ultimate weapon, a dual threat QB. He led the Braves in rushing yards with a career-high of 874 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. He also completed 169-of-294 passes for a total of 2,237 yards, 18 touchdowns and was intercepted only six times.

The Braves finished the 2014 season 10-3 overall with 7-2 conference record en route to the championship. Gibbs was named the Most Outstanding Offensive player in the SWAC title game and he is preseason Offensive Player of the Year.

He knows that there is a bullseye on Alcorn’s back as they defend the crown.

“We love the fact that the target is on our back,” Gibbs said.

“That’s a sign of what we’ve accomplished as a program, where we’ve come from. Most of the guys who were in my class three years ago remember the time when there were very low expectations for the program. We know how far the program has evolved and we’re proud of it.”

Head coach Jay Hobson is the architect who has built the Alcorn championship program in just three years. Gibbs explained Hopson’s influence.

“It’s indescribable what Coach Hopson has meant to the program,” Gibbs said. “He has done a tremendous job. From the players to the coaching staff his influence is there. He has inspired, challenged and motivated us all.”

The Braves are 3-1 on the young season, 2-0 in SWAC competition. The only blemish on their record is a loss to Georgia Tech, at the time a top 10-ranked team.

Gibbs believes even though they were clearly overmatched in the Tech game, the loss will be a motivator for the remainder of the season.

“It was a tough game to lose,” he said. “That loss just made us hungry to get to our next game. It’s actually a motivator for us now. We know our ultimate goal is defending our SWAC championship, but we’ve got to take it a game at a time.

“It was important for use to regain our confidence going into our second game which happened to be a conference game against Alabama State,” Gibbs continued. “We received a total team effort and collected a big win over Alabama State [31-14].”

With his success so far at the collegiate level, the obvious question for Gibbs is whether his achievements can be duplicated on the NFL level.

“I’m hopeful at some point to get that opportunity” Gibbs said. “Obviously that’s the goal every [young football

player] has growing up and I’m no different. Right now my immediate goal is to defend our championship.

“I don’t want to lose sight of that right now. It was a great feeling to capture the championship at home [in NRG Stadium] in front of family, friends and all of the Alcorn supporters.

That’s our ultimate goal.”

John Gibbs Jr .

About John Gibbs Jr. • Born Nov. 27, 1993 • Son of Lorraine and John Gibbs Sr. • Height: 6-feet-6; weight: 220 pounds • Coached by Nathaniel Jones at Houston’s Booker T. Washington HS • Started in 8 of 11 games as freshman for Alcorn State • Dec. 16, 2014 was declared John Gibbs Jr. Day in Houston • Senior mass communications major

Gibbs is a dual threat rushing skills.

owing and at Alcorn with his thr

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

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h.s.zone

October 1 | 2015 | DEFENDER

17

sportsbriefs Michael Vick gets a shot

Hightower aims for Hurricanes of the past

The Hurricanes’ defense (Clifton Lewis’ 78yard fumble return) and kicking game (Richard

Rodriguez’s three field goals and five PATs) he Hightower Hurricanes are off to closed out the win that disappointed an overa 5-0 start in the 2015 high school flow homecoming crowd for Travis at Mercer football season and appear to be get- Stadium. ting their swagger back.

“We’re seeing a lot more maturity out of Back to the days when players Neiko this year,” McGinnis said. “Last year named Highsmith and Addison had their respec- we had some slipping, but this year I see the tive Hightower squads among the state’s elite maturity in his game and the way he’s playing and competing for state championships. a more complete game. That’s what is different Head coach Padriac McGinnis is reluctant to from last year.” use the term “swagger” just yet. “I want to say Hollins, whose favorite NFL player that we’re getting our swagger back but is New England Patriots quarterback I’m not because I learned my lesson last Tom Brady, believes Hightower’s year,” he said. huge senior class has something to “We lost in the first round of the prove. playoffs to Friendswood and we should “I feel like we’ve been getting have made a deep run. So I don’t want stepped on around Houston and to brag and say that we have our swagaround Texas,” he said. “We don’t ger back,” McGinnis said. “We talk about want to get ahead of ourselves at getting back to old Hightower football. this point. We want to go play-byDominating other teams is our play and week-to-week so that we can goal. If we’re still playbuild on what we’ve done ing on Dec. 19, then so far.” we might be able to In the coming say that we’ve got our weeks, Hightower swagger back.” will face Elsik, One major reason Hastings, Dulles, for the Hurricanes’ Alief Taylor and early success has been Kempner with an the play of senior quaropportunity to once terback Neiko Hollins. again position itself In a 44-6 victory over among Houston’s elite Fort Bend Travis that high school football improved Hightower programs. to 3-0 in District 23Hollins believes 6A and 5-0 overall, he can be the link Hollins served as the to getting the HurHurricanes’ catalyst ricanes where they with a 36-yard touchwant to be. down run to get the “I trust in my scoring started in the teammates more and first quarter.

I trust in my coachThe three-year ing,” he said. “I’ve been starter followed that with working on my footwork a 46-yard touchdown pass and getting stronger. That’s between two Travis defendreally helped me. ers to Kaelin Jackson that “The game has slowed gave Hightower a 14-0 down for me because I’m Quarterback Neiko Hollins advantage heading into more knowledgeable the second quarter. about the game,”

T

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

defendernetwork.com

It’s said that good things come to those who wait. Quarterback Michael Vick certainly hopes that’s the case. Last season he was with the New York Jets backing up Geno Smith.

This season he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers to back up Big Ben Roethlisberger.

Big Ben recently was injured and is expected to be out four to six weeks. Vick now has a tremendous opportunity to seal his legacy as a player if he can keep the Steelers in contention during Roethlisberger’s absence. “I won’t put it all on my shoulders,” Vick said. “I’ll take sole responsibility of everything that happens, but I’m just going to prepare myself and get myself in the position to help this football team.”

Two Cougars honored University of Houston cornerback William Jackson III has been named the American Athletic Conference’s Defensive Player of the Week while quarterback Greg Ward Jr. was named to the league’s weekly Honor Roll for their performances in UH’s 59-14 win over Texas State. Jackson recorded his second career defensive touchdown when he intercepted and returned a pass 35 yards to extend Houston’s lead to 42-7 with 44 seconds left in the first half. Jackson recovered his third career fumble in the first quarter, ending Texas State’s opening drive. Ward accounted for six total touchdowns with a career-high four passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns in 39 minutes of action, leaving the game with six minutes left in the third quarter.

Reagan raises eyebrows It was a signature win for one of HISD’s rising stars. Reagan polished off Bellaire 29-14 to serve notice that in its second year of competing at the Class 6A level, the Bulldogs have arrived. Reagan (4-0 and 1-0 in District 20-6A) scored 17 unanswered points to start the game and never looked back. “Lamar is always going to be the staple program in HISD,” said Reagan head coach Stephen Dixon. “Until somebody knocks them off their seat, you have to always give them respect. Bellaire has been the second best team in this district. For the past two years we’ve been kind of chipping away.”

The Bulldogs won six games during the 2014 season. “We want to first shock HISD and then the Houston area,” said Reagan quarterback Shane Johnson. “We’re going to keep on working.” Reagan takes on Milby next at Barnett Stadium.

Galveston Ball rebounds The Tornadoes of Galveston Ball High School are off to a 4-0 start and have already posted the most wins in a single season since 2009.

Ball defeated Santa Fe 17-0 in the District 235A opener for both schools. The win was the second of back-to-back shutouts for Ball High, which held Wheatley scoreless the week before.

The Tors have an opportunity to register their first winning record since 2006. They were a combined 6-42 from 2010 to 2014. Galveston Ball will be severely tested when Fort Bend Elkins invades the island for a contest at Courville Stadium.

See what showdown could decide district championship

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 1 | 2015

Working out? Why water should be your buddy FAMILY FEATURES

If you think drinking water during a workout is just about keeping your mouth from drying out as you pant your way through each set, think again.

In addition to keeping you comfortable, staying hydrated is a necessary aspect of any healthy workout.

Your body is composed of 60 percent water, but on average, you lose 2-5 percent of your body weight from water loss every time you work out.

Once you get into your workout groove, you may find it hard to stop, even for a water break.

What you may not realize is that water is an essential nutrient that keeps your muscles primed, blood flowing and the nerves in your brain firing. Taking a break to replace what you lose while exercising is actually a good way to keep your workout going.

The evaporation of sweat helps cool the body during exercise, but this diminishing hydration can lead to poor performance and even possible injury. Make the most of your workout and stay fit with these helpful hydration tips from the Army National Guard’s Guard Your Health campaign: • Cool, plain water is the best drink to replace the fluid lost as sweat and help regulate your core body temperature.

• Plan to drink water before, during and after

exercise to prevent dehydration and help enhance performance. Sip a 16-ounce bottle of water every hour while working out.

• Outdoor workouts require extra hydration, even during cooler weather. The water content in your skin helps it perform its protective functions, including limiting damage from the sun. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after any time spent in the sun.

• Learn to recognize signs of dehydration, so you can take steps to reverse it. Early signs include muscle cramps and fatigue, while a dry mouth, headaches, dizziness, slurred speech and confusion all signal advancing dehydration. If your extremities become swollen or you become feverish, medical attention is necessary.

• Another way to check your hydration level is by monitoring your urination. Urine should be clear or light yellow, and you should urinate every two to four hours.

• If you find yourself dehydrated and water isn’t available, a melon, orange, celery, cucumber or bell pepper can help replenish your body’s water content.

• Make it a post-workout practice to replenish electrolytes with a banana, dates or coconut water.

For more health-related information visit www.guardyourhealth.com.

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OCTOBER 1 | 2015 | DEFENDER

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

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AFRICAN AMERICAN LEADERSHIP CIRCLE BRUNCH……...The winning school will be announced in April and will receive a $5,000 cash prize. Those American Heart Association’s African American Leadership Circle held its in attendance included Andrew Houlihan, Paula Harris, Rhea Lawson, Kelvin inaugural First Ladies Brunch at Davis Street Restaurant. The event served as a forum Sampson, Tony Chase, Alicia Lewis, Lucy Bremond, Risa Hall, Wanda Adams, to educate the faith-based community on cardiovascular disease and stroke issues Ronnie Johnson, Damyean Dotson, Danrad Knowles, Rob Gray, Kimberly impacting African- Americans. Those who attended enjoyed a heart healthy meal Phillips, and Leonard August. Good luck!........TEXAS SPRING CYPRESS prepared by executive chef Javani King and also learned life-saving techniques with LINKS BALL……..The Texas Spring Cypress Chapter of the Links, Inc. hosted Hands-Only CPR. The guest list included Audrey Cosby, Kelly their 20th Anniversary Scholarships and Programs “Maskerad” Hodges, Velma Trayham, S. Michelle Thompson, Alexis Defender TOP EVENTS Ball at the Hilton Houston Post Oak. This event celebrated the Green, Cheryl Solomon, Dr. Polly Sparks Turner, Kim Floyd, More photos on defendernetwork.com journey of excellence, a legacy of service and lifetime of friendship Jackie Adams, Kim Roxie, Pastor Bridget Hilliard, Geneva as attendees dressed up in decorative masks and formal attire.

See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ with Melanie Lawson on Sunday Morning DeVaughn, Ebony Fleming and a host of others………NCAA Honorees included: State Rep. Sylvester Turner, Community PROGRAM AT BLACKSHEAR ……..The NCAA Team Partner of the Decade; Chevron, Corporate Partner of the Year, and Works Read to the Final Four Literacy Program visited Blackshear Elementary Education Partner of the Year, Rhonda Skillern-Jones. Those in attendance included School to kick off the HISD bracketed themed reading challenge. Blackshear is one Jacqueline Smith, Beryl Basham, Alane Lillie, Charlene James, Constance of 68 campuses selected to participate in the challenge based on its high enrollment Smith, Patricia Johnson, Cary and Judge Clarease Yates, Patricia Brown, of at-risk students and commitment to the district’s Literacy By 3 Initiative, which Monroe Brown, Gena Knowles, Donnell Williams and a host of members and aims to have every child reading on grade level by the end of the third grade. The supporters. Khambrel Marshall emceed the event.

Dr. Polly Sparks-Turner, Audrey Cosby, S. Michelle Thompson, LaPorsche Morrison, Doris Ratliff, Desireé Eastland

Ronnie Johnson, Damyean Dotson, Danrad Knowles, Rob Gray

Charlene James, Constance Smith, Patricia Johnson

Pastor Bridget Hilliard

Lucy Bremond, Alicia Lewis, Paula Harris, Risa Hall, Wanda Adams

Monroe Brown, Patricia Brown, Khambrel Marshall

Valencia Hines, Tracey Medlock, Cheryl Solomon

Nariah Lee, Janine Cloud

Gena Knowles, Donnell Williams

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DEFENDER | October 1 | 2015

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