Houston Defender: October 1, 2020

DO WHITE SUPREMACISTS EXIST WITHIN THE POLICE FORCE?

There is a long history of police brutality against African Americans. The Defender explores whether white supremacy is on the rise among the rank and ďŹ le.

FEATURE

NEWS

JUANITA RASMUS

EDWARD POLLARD

The popular pastor shines a light on her battle - and victory - with depression in her new book.

The council member launches a new community policing program in District J. Volume 89, issue 49 October 1, 2020

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DN On the web

FIT & FINE Tiffany Brown Age: 26 Occupation: HR Specialist Education: University of North Carolina at Greensboro Major: Kinesiology Motto: “Life will never be perfect.

Make it work.”

Dillard University students in New Orleans march to the polls I LOVE… Helping women gain a new lifestyle through fitness.

@only1tiffbrown_ @beautiffullgainz Read more on Friday about Tiffany at defendernetwork.com If you are Fit & Fine email: fitnfine@defendernetwork.com

Message from the Associate Editor NOT JUST KNEE DEEP

But also wake up to the fact that this Folk who watched the first presidennational mad dash to reopen everything is tial debate were sickened by the bully tactics just GOP governors’ attempts to lull folk of the Conniver-in-Chief, including his call to sleep on COVID-19 so they think it’s a to domestic terrorist group the Proud Boys non-issue come voting time, and don’t hold to “stand by.” The fact that this race for the 45 accountable. Wake up to the fact that White House is still close says something Trump’s “Platinum Plan” is nothing but Fool’s about America—something we have always Gold. Wake up to the threats of violence from known.

Trump and his words letting us know up front Whites supremacist shenanigans and that he’s not leaving the Oval Office without beliefs have never just been the sole propa fight, no matter what voters say. erty of a few racist individuals or organiSo, while we’re all enjoying the return of ASWAD WALKER zations. Naw. When it comes to America, sports—NBA playoffs, MLB playoffs, NFL, white supremacy is “not just knee deep, it is totally deep.” college and high school football—let’s not be lulled into a I mean, how else do you explain the millions who still false sense of security, and sleep on the medical professionals support 45 even after he paid relatively no taxes while scam- who are predicting Houston will experience a third spike ming the IRS out of millions of taxpayer dollars; owes $421 in COVID cases; or the fact that Trump’s cult members are million to God knows who; snatched children from their heading to the polls like rabid dogs. parents’ arms and put those babies in cages; supported white We need to show up to the polls to save this country like supremacist mobs while criminalizing Black Lives Matter AKAs showing up to save HBCUs. advocates; called military servicepersons and vets suckers and losers; and downplayed the coronavirus pandemic while IN THIS WEEK’S DEFENDER over 200,000 Americas died and are still dying because of it? • Texas’ religion, high school football, is back. Check out the Dr. Funkenstein isn’t coming to save us. We all need to get spotlight of North Shore CB Denver Harris on the Mothership and go vote out the one who is devoid of • AKAs to the rescue, raise $1mil for HBCUs funk so we can make this land “One Nation Under a Groove.” • Are white supremacists infiltrating police forces? Duh. • “Say Their Names” exhibit coming to H-town WAKE UP

The invasion of white supremacists in the White House probably explains why we haven’t heard much about the invasion of those same “alt-right” racist types into police forces across the country. The crazy thing is, the FBI has been quietly shouting since 2006 about the growing danger of these folk who absolutely hate Black lives wielding guns and badges and being let loose in our neighborhoods. This week’s Defender has something to say about that. As Spike Lee would say, “Wake up!”

ON THE WEB

• Trump’s “Platinum Plan” is Fool’s Gold • Judge blocks Texas Republicans from banning straightticket voting.

• Vandalized South Park church keeps helping others • GCCSA distributes Chromebooks to COVID-impacted families • New York judge orders renewed inquiry into death of Eric Garner

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DN News Janette Cosley is retiring as executive director of The Ensemble Theatre, ending a tenure that spanned 17 years of continuous service.

Danielle Davis has been named Senior Vice President of Cadence Bank’s mortgage division, bringing more than 23 years of housing industry experience at commercial, community and internationally based banks.

‘Say Their Names’ memorial comes to Houston Defender News Service

A new art exhibit has made its way to Houston and can now be viewed in the Third Ward.

The Say Their Names Memorial honors Black Americans whose lives have been lost due to social injustice.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and others recently joined rapper Trae Tha Truth to unveil the exhibit .

“You simply cannot take that walk without feeling their spirit and in so many ways they are very much alive,” said Turner.

As part of the memorial, there are around 230 photos displayed … all of them no longer alive. Names such as Atatiana Jefferson, Sandra Bland and George Floyd.

The point is to “say their name”, maybe learn a little about them or spark a conversation.

The memorial comes by way of Portland, Oregon, a

Trae tha Truth. -Jimmi Aggison

small part of the social injustice movement that has swept

BRIEFS MAYOR SIGNS CITE-AND-RELEASE ORDER FOR SOME LOW-LEVEL OFFENSES Houston Police officers will be able to issue citations instead of arresting individuals for certain Class A and Class B misdemeanors.

Mayor Sylvester Turner signed an executive order, authorizing the City of Houston to join Harris County’s Cite and Release Program.

The Cite and Release policy is expected to help reduce the jail population for non-violent offenders, reduce the amount of time police officers spend on jail processing procedures and improve response times by getting officers back into service more quickly. Among the Class A and B misdemeanors that are eligible for tickets instead of jail time: Possession of a controlled substance less than four ounces, theft of service less than $750 and driving with an invalid license.

the nation.

For Allison Jean, the mother

HOUSTON LAUNCHES COVID-19 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT PROGRAM Defender News Service

of Botham Jean, the 26-yearold African American man who was killed in his apartment by an off Dallas police officer Amber Guyger back in 2018, the memorial touches home.

“Botham never deserved to die that way. We are still trying after two years to come to grips with the pain and the grief of his loss,” said ... But according to a recent report by the Pew Research Center, participation in these protests are declining.

A notion that Trae Tha Truth says won’t stop him from continuing his work.

“I believe you have to show people the reality of a situation and I think that this is something that needs to be seen.. even for those who may not be impacted, if they come here they may feel a little love and compassion,” said Trae.

The exhibit will open to the public in Emancipation Park Tuesday at 10 a.m. and will go through October 6. For more information, go to www.saytheirnamesmemorials.com.

Houston is launching a new mental health support program aimed at providing resources to people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program — called “Let’s Beat COVID-19: Health Education, and Support Services,” or HESS — includes a support hotline, virtual support groups, and other resources, according to the city’s health department.

“There is nothing wrong with seeking mental help,” said Mayor Sylvestor Turner. “Until COVID is gone, whatever help you need, there’s nothing wrong with just getting the help you need to get past this day. Emotional, mental, spiritual, the good news is that there are people available to do it.”

In total, the program will cost $340,326 in federal CARES Act funding, the health department said. The announcement comes as children return to school amid the COVID-19 pandemic. While the program is for everyone, Turner said it will particularly focus on families with children who have switched to virtual learning during the pandemic, as well as zip codes with high positivity rates, as well as city staffers.

“As city officials, we have a responsibility for being responsive to the mental health needs of our communities,” Turner said.

HISD LAUNCHES ONLINE DASHBOARD TO TRACK COVID CASES

KENTUCKY TO RELEASE BREONNA TAYLOR GRAND JURY DETAILS AFTER JUROR SUES

As HISD prepares for a return to in-person instruction on Oct. 19, the district is launching a COVID-19 dashboard to keep the community informed about the impact of the pandemic.

Designed to ensure transparency, the online dashboard will track the number of confirmed COVID-19 students and staff cases on campuses.

“As we navigate this pandemic together, we want to ensure that we are transparent as we provide crucial updates,” HISD Interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan said. “This new dashboard will give our staff members and families the information they need in an accessible and easy-to-use way to make informed decisions.” The dashboard will be updated daily, allowing users to review student and staff data by location and districtwide. It also includes a map to show where cases are throughout the district. View at https://www. houstonisd.org/COVID19Dashboard.

A juror in the Breonna Taylor case contends that the Kentucky attorney general misrepresented the grand jury’s deliberations and failed to offer the panel the option of indicting the two officers who fatally shot the young woman, according to the juror’s lawyer.

The unnamed juror filed a court motion seeking the release of last week’s transcripts and permission from a judge to speak publicly to set the record straight. Hours later, the office of Attorney General Daniel Cameron granted both requests, saying that the juror is free to speak and that recordings of the session will be made public.

Dr. Grenita Lathan

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DN News Trump tries to win over Black voters with $500B ‘platinum plan’ Sen. Kamala Harris, D-CaDonald Trump has rolled lif. introduced legislation out his “Platinum Plan” for over the summer to make Black Americans, which aims Juneteenth a national holito invest $500 billion in Black day. Harris’ lynching legiscommunities. Trump did not lation has been repeatedly disclose how the plan stalled by Trump loyalist will be funded but Sen. Rand Paul. he vows to create Meanwhile, news 500,000 new Blackof Trump’s “Platiowned businesses, 3 num Plan” is being million new jobs for met with the sidethe Black community, eye by many.

President and designate the Filmmaker Tariq KKK and Antifa as Donald Trump Nasheed pointterrorist organizaed out in a Twitter tions. post that the “Trump PlatiTrump, who won 8% of the num Plan for Black America, Black vote in 2016, aims to where he wants to designate woo Black voters ahead of the the ‘KKK and Antifa’ as ‘terelection with his “Platinum rorist groups,’ is filled with Plan,” which states that it bait & switch trick bag lanwill “prosecute the KKK and guage. It starts off using the ANTIFA as terrorist organi- word Black…And when you zations and make lynching a get to the fine print, it switchnational hate crime.” es to ‘minority’ (i.e. white The plan also calls for Con- women).” gress to make “Juneteenth” a In a separate tweet he wrote, holiday and prioritize crimi- “Unfortunately Trump’s Platnal justice reform. inum Plan for Black people Critics have noted that law- has the same trick bag ‘mimakers have already intro- nority’ language when you duced much of Trump’s plan, start reading the fine print. and that it has been opposed So this is yet another nothing by his own officials. burger.”

Defender News Service

Judy Phillips, wipes her eyes as U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee hands her back her eviction letter during a press conference outside Phillips apartment. Phillips, who has cancer, was scheduled to be evicted, but was able to stay with the help of Rep. Jackson Lee, who is calling on congress to pass the Heroes Act to help support people in need and keep them from being evicted. AP/Elizabeth Conley

Texas to spend $171m to help renters avoid evictions Texas Tribune

Texas is using $171 million in federal coronavirus relief funds to provide financial and legal aid to renters facing eviction, according to Gov. Greg Abbott.

The vast majority of that money — $167 million — will go toward rental assistance. Another $4.2 million will be used to fund legal services for Texans.

Abbott’s office also said that the state is creating the Texas Eviction Diversion Program, which will coordinate state agencies, local governments and nonprofits to help renters avoid evictions and catch up with missed rent payments.

It wasn’t immediately clear how the money would be divvied up, but Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs spokesperson Kristina Tirloni explained that cities, counties and nonprofits will manage the application process. Al-

though the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development needs to approve the funding, the state estimates that the money will be available by the winter holidays in communities with existing rental assistance programs, and by the start of 2021 in the rest of Texas.

“The Texas Eviction Diversion Program is crucial to our state’s response to COVID-19, and it will help many families recover from the impact of the pandemic without the looming threat of eviction,” Abbott said in the release. “This innovative partnership, coupled with the renters assistance provided through CARES Act funding, will strengthen our economic recovery efforts and provide a lifeline to renters and property owners alike.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced a new nationwide eviction moratorium earlier this month that will last until Dec. 31.

Pelosi: New COVID-19 relief coming soon “What we will be putting forth is a House Speaker Nancy Pelosi thinks a proffer to say: Now, let us negotideal can be reached with the White House ate within a time frame and a dollar on another COVID-19 relief package. amount to get the job done to put Pelosi, Senate Democratic leader Chuck money in people’s pockets, to honor Schumer, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin our heroes and to crush the virus,” Peand White House Chief of Staff Mark House Speaker losi said.

Nancy Pelosi Meadows, are all working to pass the relief “I think we have a chance to get package that fell apart in early August. something done.”

Pelosi and Mnuchin have since spoken by phone.

Originally, Pelosi and Schumer proposed a $3.4 “We are having our conversations. And when I trillion relief package, but they scaled back their have a conversation with the administration, it is in demands in order to find common ground with the good faith,” Pelosi said. “I trust Secretary Mnuchin Trump administration. to represent something that can reach a solution.

Meadows said that Trump would be willing to And I believe we can come to an agreement.” sign a $1.3 trillion bill.

Defender News Service

VOLUME 89 - NUMBER 49 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Creative Director Michael Grant

Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Billingsley

Photographers Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2020 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, Tx 77288

T:9.75"

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T:13"

HBCUs are more than an education.

They are a legacy.

It's the place you become; where you're uplifted by past generations. It's your family's history and newfound family's future. It's your HBCU. That’s why Xfinity recognizes the legacy, community, and importance of HBCUs. And, now that gatherings are a little different, it's time to reconnect to the culture. Just say, "HBCU," into your Xfinity Voice Remote to experience more HBCU.

Visit xfinity.com/discovermore to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Requires Xfinity TV with X1. Š 2020 Comcast. All Rights Reserved.

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DN News Judge extends Census deadline to Oct. 31. Get counted at www.MyCensus2020.com

29,000 Houstonians applied to be poll workers

Voter Registration Deadline: Oct. 5

Judge allows straightticket voting in Texas Texas Tribune

Less than three weeks before early voting begins in Texas, a U.S. district judge has blocked the state from eliminating straight-ticket voting as an option for people who go to the polls this November.

In the recent ruling, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo cited the coronavirus pandemic, saying the elimination of the voting practice would “cause irreparable injury” to voters “by creating mass lines at the polls and in-

creasing the amount of time voters are exposed to COVID-19.”

Marmolejo also found that the GOP-backed law would “impose a discriminatory burden” on Black and Hispanic voters and “create comparatively less opportunities for these voters to participate in the political process.”

She acknowledged the burden the decision could put on local and state election officials, who will have to recalibrate voting machines or reprint ballots. But she

Defender News Service

Voters wait for hours to cast their votes at Texas Southern University. Officials are preparing for an unprecedented turnout in this election.

AP/Jon Shapley

reasoned that the potential harm for those suing, including the Texas Alliance for Retired Americans, was “outweighed by the inconveniences resulting.”

The day after the rul-

ing, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton released a statement saying that his office filed a motion to stop the judge’s order and intends to file an immediate appeal of the district court’s ruling.

The deadline to register to vote in Texas in the presidential election is quickly approaching. Voter registration applications must be postmarked by Mon., Oct. 5, 2020 to be eligible in this year’s election.

You can register to vote in person at your local Voter Registrar’s office. Voter registration applications are also available at VoteTexas. gov; they can be filled out and mailed to the Voter Registrar’s office in your county.

Registrants can also request to have a postage-paid

Deadline to request a vote-by-mail application: Oct. 23.

Check voter registration status at: teamrv-mvp. sos.texas.gov/MVP/mvp.do

application mailed to their home to facilitate the registration process.

Registered voters who need to update their information should contact their local Voter Registrar.

In order to vote, Texas residents must complete their voter registration at least 30 days prior to the election date.

October 1, 2020 |

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Hope.

It’s our greatest feature.

It all started in 1998 when a group of Hyundai dealers wanted to make a difference for kids facing cancer.

Their idea blossomed into Hyundai Hope On Wheels®. Now, every time a new Hyundai is sold a portion goes to Hyundai Hope On Wheels to help fight childhood cancer. To date, over $172 million and 1,000 grants have gone to support research at children’s hospitals with the hope of finding a cure. And during the COVID-19 crisis, Hyundai has also donated $4.4 million for drive-thru testing to help expedite diagnosis for health-compromised and at-risk children. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a good time to remember that hope is our greatest feature. And it comes standard on every Hyundai.

Model pictured for illustrative purposes only. For every new Hyundai vehicle purchased, $14 is donated by Hyundai to Hyundai Hope On Wheels. Funds are used for pediatric cancer research grants and to raise public awareness.

For more info visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org. Hyundai is a registered trademark of Hyundai Motor Company. All rights reserved. ©2020 Hyundai Motor America.

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DN News

Strong US economy failed to narrow racial gaps Associated Press

The solid growth that the United States enjoyed before the viral pandemic paralyzed the economy this spring failed to reduce racial disparities in Americans’ income and wealth from 2016 through 2019, according to a new Federal Reserve report.

Though Black and Hispanic households reported sharper gains in wealth than white households did, those increases weren’t enough to noticeably narrow the racial gaps.

The typical white family possessed eight times the wealth of Black families and five times the wealth of Hispanic families in 2019, the Fed said.

The Fed’s Survey of Consumer Finances, released every three years, analyzed incomes and wealth in 2019. The survey found that income for the typical U.S. family rose 5%, adjusted for inflation, from 2016 to 2019 to $58,600. That was weaker than the 9% income

The Wall Street street sign is framed by a giant American flag hanging on the New York Stock Exchange. AP/Mary Altaffer

gain the typical family received from 2013 through 2016.

The survey provides a trove of information on family finances in the United States, from the percentage of households that own stock (53%) to the proportion that have a retirement account (50%).

While the report shows increases

in income and wealth for lower-income and Black families, many economists worry that the pandemic has reversed those gains. Job losses this year have been concentrated among lower-income workers in the restaurant, hotel, retail and travel industries. Those workers are disproportionately non-white.

While average incomes for all families fell 3% from 2016 through 2019, excluding the richest 1%, average incomes rose 3.1%. Income for the richest Americans can fluctuate more sharply year-to-year than income for lower-income earners, Fed economists said, and likely fell because of smaller gains from stock, bond and property sales.

The median family income for whites grew 6%. For Black households, it was slightly better at 7%.

For Hispanic families, incomes fell 1%. Median income for white families last year was $69,000, compared with $40,300 for Black families and $40,700 for Hispanics.

Poorer Americans and Black and Hispanic households did gain wealth from 2016 through 2019, mostly from an increase in home ownership and home values. But those increases came from such low levels that they didn’t much narrow overall income disparities, the Fed said.

BY THE NUMBERS 2019 Median Family Income Whites:

$69,000 Blacks:

$40,300 Hispanics:

$40,700 2019 Median Family Wealth Whites:

$188,200 Blacks:

$24,100 Hispanics:

$36,200

PAID FOR BY AARP

Texas

Your Vote. Your Voice.

Our Fight.

As our nation battles a pandemic and economic downturn, the health and financial security of voters over 50 are on the line.

That’s why AARP Texas is fighting for your voice to be heard.

AARP Texas wants to make sure that you know all of your voting options and that all Americans—from working parents to family caregivers to seniors in nursing homes—can vote safely whether they choose to vote from home or in-person.

Learn how you can vote safely and make your voice heard at aarp.org/TXVotes facebook.com/AARPTexas | @AARPTX | aarp.org/TX

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DN News

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL PUBLIC HEARING FOR PROPOSED SERVICE CHANGES Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO)

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, TX (METRO), will hold a virtual public hearing on Wednesday, October 7, 2020 at 12 Noon to receive public comment on its proposed January 2021 changes to METRO service. The public hearing will be held by telephone and video conference call on the Zoom virtual meeting platform.

The public may join the virtual hearing on Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81623720367 or by calling: 346-248-7799 or 1-888-747-5597 (Toll Free), Meeting ID: 816 2372 0367. Participation on Zoom is only necessary if you want to provide comments during the public hearing. Or visit RideMETRO.org/Pages/BoardStreamingVideo.aspx to livestream the virtual meeting. A video recording of the hearing will also be archived at RideMETRO.org.

Based on the current guidance from public health officials recommending the limitation of in-person public meetings to slow the spread of the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, the public hearing will only be conducted virtually.

The proposed service changes include:

Edward Pollard is introducing a Community Policing program to District J.

Councilman Pollard launches policing program Defender News Service

City Council Member Edward Pollard has unveiled a plan for a new, modern way to address community policing in District J. The Patrol program is a three-prong approach that bridges the gap between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve. This new public safety initiative includes neighborhood patrolling by the Houston Police Department’s Differential Response Team (DRT), the use of two new Polaris vehicles and the District J Patrol Community Committee.

“When I began my campaign to become the council member for District J, I vowed to address concerns residents have around public safety, and in the last few months, it has become very clear that a re-imagined approach to community policing is necessary. It is my belief that fostering a collaborative relationship between law enforcement and residents is a step in the right direction toward creating a safer district and a safer

city. My hope is that our District J Patrol program can become a model for others looking for ideas of how to modernize public safety,” Council Member Pollard said.

The Houston Police Department is operating with far fewer officers than other major cities of similar size in the United States. The District J Patrol Community Committee is comprised of 10 individuals from within the district who will serve as a liaison between the community and the police department.

The members were selected based on their existing leadership and engagement within their own neighborhoods in District J, and they will focus on quality of life concerns and neighborhood violations and work directly with HPD, making this patrol primarily community-driven. The DRT is a specially trained group of officers experienced with problem-solving strategies that work proactively to address problems at the neighborhood level, including calls involving mental health or substance abuse issues.

‘Make It Right’ program helps people clear up criminal records Defender News Service

If an old warrant is holding you back from a job or home, you have a limited time to ‘make it right.’

The “Make It Right” program is an opportunity to help people clear their records and find second-chance opportunities.

“This is about helping people get back on track, stay in the work force and build a better future,” said Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg. By applying for help with expunctions and warrants, Harris County residents have an opportunity to resolve outstanding

Justice of the Peace Class C non-traffic warrants and tickets, clean up eligible criminal records and even find job opportunities through the 2nd Chance Job Fair.

Visit www.makeitrighthouston.com, to see if you qualify by filling out either the ‘Clean Your Record’ or ‘Warrant Forgiveness’ forms.

If you’re not sure if you have either of those issues, you can check on your status at no cost and no risk of arrest.

The program does not assist with any traffic tickets or with legal assistance for ongoing or pending criminal cases.

Route realignments to routes 56, 66, & 89; schedule changes to routes 4, 6, 8, 10, 14, 25, 26, 27, 28, 40, 45, 47, 50, 54, 56, 65, 66, 68, 73, 82, 86, 88, 89, 96, 99, 108, 137, 151, 402, 418, all Park & Ride corridors, and METRORail Red, Green, and Purple Lines; and the discontinuation of routes 412 & 413.

METRO will continue to make temporary schedule adjustments in response to social distancing and workforce availability.

Copies of proposed route maps and available timetables will be made available beginning on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 for public review online, and in the lobby of the METRO RideStore, located in the Lee P. Brown METRO Administration Building, 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002.

HOW TO COMMENT ABOUT THE SERVICE CHANGES It is recommended that anyone wanting to make public comments register as a public speaker with the METRO Board Office at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing. Interested participants can call 713-739-4834 or send an email to boardoffice@RideMETRO.org and provide their name, address and telephone number. If you pre-register, your comments will be heard first at the public hearing. Your name will be called at the appropriate time for you to make your comments. Alternatively, you may provide public comments after the pre-registered speakers, by selecting the “Raise Hand” feature on the Zoom platform online, or by pressing *9, if joining by telephone. Those calling in will automatically be placed on mute. After an unregistered speaker’s name or number is recognized, their microphone will be unmuted and they will be asked to provide their comments.

You may also provide comments by writing to us at METRO, ATTN: January 2021 Service Change, 1900 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002.

Comments may also be faxed with a subject line referencing “January 2021 Service Change” to (713) 652-7956. You may call METRO Customer Service at (713) 635-4000 or submit comments through the METRO website at RideMETRO.org.

Comments should be received by METRO no later than Wednesday, October 7, 2020 at noon.

HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES For individuals with special needs, assistive services or copies of public documents in an alternate format can be provided. Individuals with impairments may call (713) 750-4271 a minimum of five (5) working days prior to the public hearing.

LANGUAGE ASSISTANCE Upon request, METRO provides free language assistance to help patrons who have a limited ability to read, write, speak or understand English in accordance with its language assistance plan. Request for language assistance and other accommodations should be directed to the Board Office at 713-739-4018, or via e-mail at METROPublicAffairs@RideMETRO.org at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing.

1. This Public Hearing conforms to requirements described in the Federal Transit Administration’s Circular 9030.1E, published January 16, 2014, page VI-7.

2. METRO does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or in treatment or employment in, its services, programs, and activities.

3. METRO is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, its transit services on the basis of race, color, or national origin, as protected by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

RideMETRO.org • 713-635-4000 | All METRO vehicles are 100% accessible.

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DN InFocus SOCIAL

ACTION ITEMS

Do white supremacist exist within the police force?

By Aswad Walker

There is a long history of police brutality against African Americans in Houston dating back to the 1900s. Today’s state of affairs is just as troubling. Extensive reporting shows police arrest, exercise use of force and kill Blacks at a much higher rate than whites, leading some to wonder just how many racists exist on police forces. What is not as well-known is that a 2006 FBI report warned of negative interactions between police and Blacks increasing due to white supremacist groups infiltrating local and state law enforcement agencies.

The FBI even labeled this infiltration a “significant threat to national security.”

As part of the Defender’s “Redesigning Public Safety” series, we interviewed two Houston-area Black police officers, each with 20-plus years of experience, to get their take on the presence of white supremacist-leaning officers, and ways to stop them from infiltrating the ranks of the police. For their safety and job security, the officers will be referred to as Officer RedBlack (HPD) and Officer Green (Ft. Bend County Sheriff’s Dept.).

Defender: Do you believe white supremacists are infiltrating police forces?

Red-Black: To some degree. It’s probably more prevalent in smaller departments that don’t have review boards and don’t have their actions evaluated as much as larger agencies. However, I’m pretty sure they’ve infiltrated police departments nationally.

Green: The assertion is very real. However, this isn’t a new

REDESIGNING

Public Safety phenomenon. The purpose of organized white supremacist organizations is to establish and maintain some form of control. Typically, that control is best obtained through government positions of authority and the most available and plentiful positions are within law enforcement. The South has always attracted racially-biased whites to policing because it is within the common man’s reach and legitimizes a biased social ideology.

Defender: What are you basing your answer on?

Red-Black: My experience with peers, supervisors and transitions over my 23 years as a police officer.

My interaction with fellow officers who have told me that they have never been around other races or “cultures” before. My observations of police officers treating white folks with respect by addressing them as “ma’am” and “sir” on calls… but with Black or Brown people they address them as “man” or “girl.”

Green: Historically, police officers are believed to be directly derived from “slave catchers.” Although this does not fully explain or define modern police officers, it certainly adds perspective to the legacy created by those who seek policing as a profession, particularly those who diligently follow their fathers and grandfathers… Regardless of the progress made within the profession or within society, it is close to impossible to eradicate racism or

This report is part of a Solutions Journalism Network project on “The Redesign of Public Safety.”

racial biases. I believe that is why the treatment of violators and/ or offenders is disproportionately harsher toward violators or offenders of color. Finally, check the backgrounds of officers and I believe one common thread is the legacy trend from grandfather to grandson. Another is the rural upbringing of most white officers.

Defender: Whose responsibility is it to stop this infiltration: police HR, mayors, city council?

Red-Black: At times it’s very hard to weed out these types of people through the recruiting process and while they’re police cadets. A lot of these alt-right types know how to “mask” who they truly are during these processes. They’ve been in our military, which most police departments think very highly of. Some of these hires are from police families.

Their grandfathers, fathers, uncles and mothers were all officers. What needs to happen is when they are constantly under investigation and they show a certain aggressiveness towards a certain group of people, they need to be re-evaluated more, and people need to start suing the individuals more than just the city, when civil rights violations are found to be true.

Green: All the above. The hiring body that places officers should give more than lip service to qualifications and dis-qualifiers. As the process stands, it’s difficult to enter law enforcement with a negative

1. Keep hiring standards high, or even raise them 2. Commit to diverse hiring beyond lip service 3. Provide officer training that prioritizes cultural acceptance over cultural tolerance 4. Institute officer reevaluation process for officers who exhibit consistent aggressiveness towards certain groups

blemish on your criminal history unless you know someone who has the authority to hire you… Additionally, most agencies won’t consider the character growth that could come from adversity. Therefore, many young Black men and women aren’t seriously considered for positions, yet most agencies profess their determination to hire a more diverse force.

Blacks more likely than whites to be killed during police contact

Defender: How can this problem be fixed?

Red-Black: It is very hard to weed these types of individuals out during the recruiting process because they know how to “mask” their beliefs.

Usually their prejudice toward Blacks comes out later in their careers. The hiring of candidates is very competitive because all law enforcement agencies are competing against each other. Due to jobs needing to be filled the standards are often dropped. Some departments feel through training and experience people will change. Sometimes they do, and sometimes they don’t.

Green: Police officers are typically responding to a microcosm of societies effective marketing of race and characteristics of Black culture.

Training is always the most effective mechanism but many officers are taught through the “good-ol’ boy” system… Training can help neutralize and mitigate some of the poor examples. But to be truly effective, diversity in recruiting needs to be a priority in action not just words.

Cultural acceptance should replace cultural tolerance in law enforcement training. Understanding cultural differences can eliminate the fear and the distrust of those who are different from you.

3.2 X Nationwide 6.5 X Chicago 5.87 X

San Francisco / Oakland

5.38 X

New York/ Newark

5.14 X St. Louis, MO 4.83 X Columbus, OH 4.73 X Milwaukee, WI Photo: Jimmie Aggison

Source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study, June 2020

12 | October 1, 2020 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

White supremacist police connections Unfortunately, examples abound nationally of white supremacists interacting with or being part of local police forces and other law enforcement-related entities. A 2006 FBI memo on the topic warned of “ghost skins,� hate group members who mask their racism in order to blend into police forces and “covertly advance white supremacist causes.�

Moreover, research has shown that hate groups are often successful at recruiting police to their membership rolls. Here is just a small sampling of such connections. • “The [FBI Counterterrorism] Guide from April 2015‌ notes that ‘domestic terrorism investigations focused on militia extremists, white supremacists extremists and sovereign citizen extremists often have identified active links to law enforcement oďŹƒcers,’ and explains in some detail how bureau policies have been crafted to take this inďŹ ltration into account‌ Federal investigators have been reluctant to publicly address that threat or to point out the movement’s longstanding strategy of inďŹ ltrating the law enforcement community.â€? (The Intercept) • Disturbing texts between Oregon police and far-right group prompts investigation (NBC News; Feb. 2019) • Entire Florida SWAT Team resigns in protest of police chief kneeing in support of police brutality protesters (Newsweek; June 2020)

• State Dept. conďŹ rms leader of white nationalist group as employee, won’t be ďŹ red (Business Insider.com; Aug 2019) • U.S. Army soldier charged with plotting white supremacist terror attack (Axios.com; June 2020) • The FBI has quietly investigated white supremacist inďŹ ltration of law enforcement (The Intercept; Jan 2017) • Dallas oďŹƒcers investigated after bigoted, violent social media posts (DallasNews. com; June 2019) • Joliet Illinois PD facing 12 current federal complaints due to decades-long discrimination and recent case where Black man died after police shoved baton in his mouth (Theappeal.org; Sept 2020) Photo: Jimmie Aggison

KNOW PREDICT PREVENT

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Kim Ogg

HarrisCount yDA.COM

17771-PIPC-EN-Houston-TheDefender-4.79x13-F.pdf

October 1, 2020 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. raises $1M for HBCUs Defender News Service

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) will get a financial boost, thanks to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. The organization recently raised $1 million in 24 hours through its annual HBCU Impact Day. The Sept. 21st event exceeded its $1 million goal in online donations alone from local AKA chapters, private donors and corporate matching dollars from across the globe.

“We did it, we did it again!” Dr. Glenda Glover, AKA International President and Chief Executive Officer said in a video message to sorority members. “The online receipts alone totaled more than $1.3 million. We can now continue to provide endowments to our treasured HBCUs.” HBCU Impact Day is one part of a fouryear $10 million fundraising goal set by Dr. Glover, who has challenged the women of AKA to lead the charge in helping to secure fiscal sustainability and success for accredited HBCUs around the country. The sorority was successfully able to reach the $1 million goal consecutively

AKA International President Dr. Glenda Glover (second from right) is joined by (l-r) former Bennett College President Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Jennifer King Congleton, AKA Mid Atlantic Regional Director and Erika Everett, Executive Director, Education Advancement Foundation in Chicago for grant presentations to 32 HBCUs in 2019. AKA

in 2018 and 2019, supporting the organization’s HBCU for Life: A Call to Action platform, which aims to promote HBCUs by encouraging students to attend and matriculate through these institutions.

Last year, AKA gifted $1.6 million to the first 32 of 96 HBCUs through the

AKA-HBCU Endowment Fund. Each HBCU received $50,000 in unrestricted endowment funds as part of a phased approach to help schools reduce student debt through scholarships, fund industry-specific research, recruit and retain top faculty, and other critical operations

SINCE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT PASSED IN 1965, WE’VE NEEDED 5 AMENDMENTS TO PROTECT IT Voting was and still is our super power. It keeps people and neighborhoods from being ignored. We celebrate the people who not only got knocked down, but who kept getting up. Join AARP as we continue the journey to protect and empower all races and ages in all communities.

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especially during this global pandemic.

The sorority held a virtual brunch to launch the next round of 32 HBCU endowment recipients. Four more recipients were announced: Delaware State University, Lane College, St. Phillips College and Medgar Evers College. Three additional $50,000 grants were later announced to Allen University, Benedict College and Tougaloo College, along with a $10,000 contribution to Lawson State Community College.

The sorority will announce 24 more recipients — six schools every Thursday for the next four weeks.

“These institutions continue to make a powerful impact in our communities and throughout our country, graduating 22% of all African Americans with bachelor’s degrees, nearly 80% of all African-American judges and 50% of all Black lawyers,” said Dr. Glover, who is also the president of Tennessee State University and an HBCU graduate. “It’s gratifying to know that funds raised will establish endowments, providing sustainability to our Historically Black Colleges and Universities.”

October 1, 2020 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Entertainment PASTOR JUANITA CAMPBELL RASMUS RELEASES NEW BOOK

By Kissuth E. Reamo Defender

Servant leader Juanita Campbell Rasmus lived a life of service for decades, which finally caught up to her in something she defines as “The Crash.”

Rasmus speaks of that time in her new book, which outlines the defining moment that helped her find her “center after the bottom fell out.”

“Learning to Be” heralds Rasmus’ victorious ascension from the depths of darkness, depression and despair through the guiding light of God’s word and practical principles that she shares.

In a conversation with the Defender, she discusses her private and public lives.

Defender: It’s not common for leaders to share their struggles.

What made you decide to tell your story now?

Juanita Campbell Rasmus: We are all experiencing our form of disorientation, trying to find our being amid social injustice, COVID-19, and more, particularly those of us in Black or Brown bodies in America. Social and physical protocols are being addressed, but little is being done to address mental health protocols. “Learning to Be” is the tool families can use to support each other as they learn the family’s effects and receive tools on how to cope.

It’s a tool to break down the walls and shame about mental health disorders. It’s a diagnosis. When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, people prepare meals, make calls and plan visits. Aliments afflicting the mind are just as important as those affecting the body.

Defender: In the book, you identify causes, symptoms and tools of “The Crash.” What were they?

Rasmus: One of the challenges is knowing

what led up to that moment. Life was working, but working on fumes. Most pastors are not trained in therapy. The mistake I made was trying to serve 3,000 members like I did nine members. I had no healthy boundaries, time management or delegation skills. I had to realize my ‘no’ is just as holy as my ‘yes.’

STOP – Stop; Take a deep breath to ground yourself in the here and now; Observe, Proceed as needed Symptoms can be changes in appetite, sleep patterns, loss of interest in essential things, loss of focus or concentration and constant sadness. Symptoms of depression may be masked as physical ailments.

Tools can be daily meditations, rest (take

Website & Blog: juanitarasmus.com ; www.stjohnsdowntown.org Twitter: @Pastor_Juanita Instagram: @JuanitaRasmus FaceBook: @PastorJuanitaRasmus TedTalk: www.ted.com/talks/juanita_ rasmus_learning_to_be_me_why_is_it_ so_difficult See National Alliance on Mental Illness and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 800-273-8255 for assistance.

naps), acknowledging “I’m not what I do,” practice Lectio Divina- Divine Listening (read; meditate; pray; contemplate), and observing silence (definition Renovare bible): closing off our souls from sounds, whether noise, music or words, so that we may better still the inner chatter and clatter of our noisy hearts and be increasingly attentive to God. Defender: How does your previous community service give you the insight to empathize with readers?

Rasmus: Realizing humanity looks different for everyone. Practice saying, “Just like me, that person wants to be love, wants to feel valued, may be hurting and wants to know their life matters.”

Defender: What’s needed most during recovery?

Rasmus: Support is critical.

The entire family is affected by one member’s diagnosis. Extended family, friends and neighbors can play a significant role in the healing process.

Defender: Friend and member, Tina Knowles Lawson, wrote the foreword and stated the book caused her to make some observations and changes in her life. Is that what you are hoping this book will do for readers?

Rasmus: Absolutely, she cried her eyelash-

es off. I want people to laugh, cry, slow down and take notice. How is “Learning to Be” calling out to you? Pay attention to what you are feeling deeply. It’s a tool to mark 2020 for resilience and to be our very best selves.

Juanita Rasmus

16 | October 1, 2020 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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October 1, 2020 |

| 17

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Events UPCOMING VIRTUAL EVENTS

By Aswad Walker Defender

The coronavirus pandemic has made virtual meetings, online learning and working from home the new normal. It has also forced Houston’s once non-stop public events scene to go virtual.

Moving forward, the Defender will provide a weekly list of upcoming virtual events--some local, some national. If your organization has an online class, workshop, conference or fundraiser on the horizon, forward the critical information to news@defendernetwork.com for consideration of being featured here.

Listed below are a few upcoming virtual happenings.

Black Health Matters Fall Summit 2020, Oct. 10, 7:30am - 3pm

The confluence of the COVID-19 pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement has our society focusing on racial, ethnic and gender equity and health inequities.

Utilize this moment to improve your health now. Attend the Black Health Mat-

owned businesses, advocating for Blackowned businesses and cultivating the next generation of Black entrepreneurs.”

Register at www.byblackconference.com.

2020 World Homeless Day Virtual Brunch, Oct 10, 10am

ters Fall Summit and learn from expert physicians and advocates who are committed to making sure that #BlackHealthMatters. Register at BHMFallSummit. vfairs.com. For more info: 973-333-9541; info@blackhealthmatters.com.

2020 By Black Conference, Oct. 14-16, sessions at various times

The U.S. Black Chambers (USBC) will host its annual conference online this year to empower Black businesses with solutions and strategies to grow and sustain their businesses. USBC President Ron Busby said, “There are hundreds of thousands of online conferences taking place. Our conference boldly sets itself apart by focusing on growing Black-

CLASSIFIED REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 2021 PAVER MAINTENANCE The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for Paver Maintenance services performed in Downtown Houston, Texas. Bids will be received until 11:00 AM, local time on Friday, November 6, 2020, by the Construction Manager of the Downtown District. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids are to be delivered to 1313 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002.

Beginning September 24, 2020 documents will be available at downtowndistrict.org/procurement.

An ONLINE MANDATORY Pre-proposal Conference will be held at 2:00 PM on October 7, 2020. All bidders are invited to attend.

Due to COVID-19 and the District’s safety protocol, all potential bidders who intend to participate in the pre-proposal conference and submit bids are required to register their intention by 2:00 PM on October 6, 2020 by email to Dusty McCartney, Construction Manager at dusty@downtowndistrict.org. Potential bidders are to provide Company Name, Address, and Phone plus two (maximum) Representative Names, Titles, Email Addresses and Cell Phone Numbers. All bidders who register in advance of the pre-proposal conference will receive a calendar invitation providing access to the online meeting venue. Bids will be ruled non-responsive if received from a company who did not have a representative attend the pre-proposal conference.

Bidders shall comply with City Ordinance 95-336 (March 29, 1995) and Exec. Order No.1-2 (June 14, 1995), and City of Houston Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Division Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) Procedures (June 1995). The successful Bidder will be required to make good faith efforts to achieve an M/W/DBE participation goal of 20 percent.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 2021 – 2023 CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / PUBLIC SAFETY GUIDE The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for Cleaning & Maintenance / Public Safety Guide services performed in Downtown Houston, Texas. Bids will be received until 10:00 AM, local time on Friday, November 6, 2020, by the Operations Administrator of the Downtown District. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids are to be delivered to 1313 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002.

Beginning September 24, 2020 documents will be available at downtowndistrict.org/procurement.

An ONLINE MANDATORY Pre-proposal Conference will be held at 10:00 AM on October 6, 2020. All bidders are invited to attend.

Due to COVID-19 and the District’s safety protocol, all potential bidders who intend to participate in the pre-proposal conference and submit bids are required to register their intention by 10:00 AM on October 5, 2020 by email to Scott Finke, Operations Administrator at scott@downtowndistrict.org. Potential bidders are to provide Company Name, Address, and Phone plus two (maximum) Representative Names, Titles, Email Addresses and Cell Phone Numbers. All bidders who register in advance of the pre-proposal conference will receive a calendar invitation providing access to the online meeting venue. Bids will be ruled non-responsive if received from a company who did not have a representative attend the pre-proposal conference.

Bidders shall comply with City Ordinance 95-336 (March 29, 1995) and Exec. Order No.1‑2 (June 14, 1995), and City of Houston Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Division Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) Procedures (June 1995). The successful Bidder will be required to make good faith efforts to achieve an M/W/DBE participation goal of 20 percent.

The Coalition for the Homeless Houston invites you to learn more about the unique role the Coalition plays in the Houston community and get inspired to join the work to make homelessness in our community rare,

brief and non-recurring. Guest speaker: Chris Gardner, author, “The Pursuit of Happyness.” To attend, visit www. homelesshouston.org/whd.

CLASSIFIED Notice Final Environmental Impact Statement Available for Public Review

North Houston Highway Improvement Project From US 59/I-69 at Spur 527 to I-45 at Beltway 8 North CSJ: 0912-00-146 Harris County, Texas This notice advises the public that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has completed the Final Environmental Impact Statement (Final EIS) for the proposed North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP) and that it is available for review. The Final EIS identifies the preferred alternative for the project. TxDOT will issue the Record of Decision document no sooner than 30 days after notice of availability of the Final EIS is published in the Federal Register.

The preferred alternative would include roadway improvements to add four managed express (MaX) lanes on I-45 from Downtown Houston to Beltway 8 North, reroute I-45 to be parallel with I-10 on the north side of Downtown Houston and parallel to US 59/I-69 on the east side of Downtown Houston, realign sections of I-10 and US 59/I-69 in the Downtown area to eliminate the current roadway reverse curves that limit capacity, and depress US 59/I-69 between I-10 and Spur 527 south of Downtown to remove the problematic weaving sections. The proposed project also includes reconstruction of mainlanes and frontage roads; addition of bicycle/pedestrian realms along the 44 Downtown streets that cross the freeways, including a 15 to 17‑foot-wide pedestrian realm that will create a buffer between the bicycle/pedestrian traffic and the vehicular traffic; addition of sidewalks along frontage roads; and addition of pass-through lanes on I-10 that will separate traffic desiring to go to Downtown from traffic destined to go through Downtown.

The Final EIS is available online at www.IH45NorthandMore.com and also is on file and available for inspection at the TxDOT Houston District Office, 7600 Washington Avenue, Houston, Texas 77007 by appointment. Individuals wishing to inspect the Final EIS at the TxDOT Houston District Office may visit https://www.flexbooker.com/reserve/NHHIP_FEIS_APPT or call (713) 802-5207 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, to make an appointment. In recognition of COVID-19, enhanced safety measures will be applied, including a requirement to wear a face mask, submit to a temperature check prior to entry, and follow social distancing practices. If anyone arrives without an appointment, they may be asked to wait outside to ensure we maintain appropriate occupancy within the room. When local officials reopen public facilities such as libraries and community centers, the document also will be provided at some of these locations. Distribution locations will be posted on the project website.

Comments on the Final EIS (due 30 days from the date the Notice of Availability is published in the Federal Register) should be sent to the Texas Department of Transportation, Attention: Director of Project Development, P.O. Box 1386, Houston, Texas 77251, or by email to: HOU-piowebmail@txdot.gov. For further information or to request a copy of the Final EIS, please contact the Director of Project Development, (713) 802-5070.

The Final EIS is written in English. If you need an interpreter or document translator because English is not your primary language or you have difficulty communicating effectively in English, one will be provided to you. If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. If you need interpretation or translation services or you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to review the FEIS, please contact Denetia Robinson at (713) 802-5207 no later than 4 p.m. CT at least three business days before the date on which you would like to review the FEIS. Please be aware that advance notice is required as some services and accommodations may require time for TxDOT to arrange.

Si usted necesita un intérprete o traductor de documento porque inglés no es su idioma primario o usted tiene dificultad comunicando eficazmente en inglés, sírvase comunicarse con Denetia Robinson, Distrito de Houston, al número de teléfono (713) 802-5207.

Nếu bạn cần một phiên dịch hoặc biên dịch do tiếng Anh không phải ngôn ngữ chính của bạn hoặc bạn gặp khó khăn khi giao tiếng hiệu quả bằng tiếng Anh, vui lòng liên hệ với Denetia Robinson, Quận Houston theo số (713) 802-5207. 由於英文並非您的主要語言或者您的英文不流利難以有效溝通，如果您需要口譯員或文件譯員，請撥打休士 頓區Denetia Robinson 聯絡(713) 802-5207.

Ikiwa unahitaji mkalimani au mtafsiri wa hati kwa sababu Kiingereza sio lugha yako ya msingi au una ugumu wa kuwasiliana vizuri kwa Kiingereza, tafadhali wasiliana na Denetia Robinson, Wilaya ya Houston, (713) 802-5207.

Si w bezwen yon entèprèt oubyen yon tradiktè pou tradwi dokiman pou w poutèt angle pa lang ou itilize pi souvan an oswa ou gen difikilte pou kominike byen ann angle, souple kontakte Denetia Robinson, distri Houston, nan (713) 802-5207.

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried-out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT.

18 | October 1, 2020 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

NORTH SHORE CB DENVER HARRIS BORN READY

By Jodie B. Jiles

After winning not one, not two, but three state championships in the past five seasons, you would think an off-year would be on the horizon for Galena Park North Shore after numerous four- and five-star talents departed to Division-1 programs.

Yet, in spite of these departures, the Mustangs appears to have put together another championship-level roster for its 2020-21 campaign.

On defense, leading the way is none other than returning starting cornerback Denver Harris. As just a sophomore, Harris was named a starter for North Shore. As a junior, Denver is again proving himself born ready to take the next steps to his game. In North Shore’s season opening 38-21 victory over nationally-ranked Alvin Shadow Creek, Harris shined bright, picking off an interception for touchdown before halftime.

Harris’ heroics couldn’t have come at a better time. Before his pick, the game was tied 14-14 and Shadow Creek was driving into the red zone, about to take a lead. But once Harris’ big play swung momentum back in favor of the Mustangs as the second quarter came to a close, he unconsciously helped set the tone for victory in the second half.

In the third quarter Harris caught a second interception and Shadow Creek could only score one more touchdown against North Shore’s defense.

When North Shore head coach Jon Kay was asked about his impression of Harris’ performance in their season opener, Coach Kay stated, “Denver had a big task today. That receiver for Shadow Creek (C.J. Guidry) is one of the best in the state if not the entire country. And what I love about Denver is his ability to go out there and compete.”

“He won some, he lost some. He went out there and had fun. Both of those are going to represent the Houston area well and it was just great to see Denver compete snap in and snap out,” Kay continued.

The Defender spoke with Harris after the Shadow Creek game to discuss his style of play, his performance in the victory and the culture of North Shore’s 2020 defense.

Defender: How would you describe your style of play as a cornerback?

Harris: “I’m really a speedster that can catch up with anybody. I am very aggressive off of the line and like to tackle.”

Defender: What would you say is the culture of this year’s defense?

Harris: “We are physical and very fast-paced. But there is still some progress to be made.”

ABOUT HARRIS Instagram: @denvobandz Classification: 2022 247 National Ranking: 12th (5th Ranked Cornerback) Current Offers: Alabama, Clemson, Auburn, Texas, Arizona, Arkansas, Baylor…..

NFL Players He Studies: Jalen Ramsey and Darrelle Revis

Defender: How did you help lead your team to victory against Shadow Creek?

Harris: “I don’t think I really led my team to victory. Us as a whole came together and took home the ‘W.’” Defender: Walk us through your two interceptions?

Harris: “It was a blessing. It came right to my hands and I just took the opportunity and ran with it.”

TO VIEW DENVER’S TWO PICKS AGAINST SHADOW CREEK VISIT DEFENDERNETWORK.COM

October 1, 2020 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney leads the AFC in total tackles since 2016 with 458 tackles during that span.

Houston native Jimmy Butler has been the major catalyst for the Miami Heat’s improbable surge into the NBA Finals this season.

TEXANS STRIVING FOR OFFENSIVE CONSISTENCY

By Terrance Harris

Whether via addition-by-subtraction or just continued growth, the Texans offense was supposed to take a dramatic leap this season.

Deshaun Watson is a rising star quarterback in his fourth season, and while he lost his go-to receiver DeAndre Hopkins he gained a cast of capable playmakers in receivers Brandin Cooks and Randall Cobb, along with veteran running back David Johnson. But through the first three game the offense has seemed a disjointed mess.

Watson says that consistency must improve if the Texans have any hopes of turning things around. Watson believes he and offensive coordinator Tim Kelly, who is calling plays for the first time this season, have to be the catalyst to consistency.

“You’ve just got to do it all four quarters, honestly,” Watson said to The Defender. “It starts with me. It starts with Timmy. We have to come together and try to figure out what we can do consistently.”

It seemed to be working perfectly during the first half against the Pittsburgh Steelers, when Watson connected with five different receiver for 20 yards or more for the first time in franchise history to help the Texans take a 21-17 lead into halftime. But things changed dramatically in the second half with the offense looking disjointed and unable to put forth a single point in the 28-21 loss.

Watson has seemed to consistently be on the same page with his receiving corp that includes returners such as Will Fuller and Kenny Stills.

And even with an offensive line that came back intact from last season, Watson is also still taking far too many hits with 13 sacks allowed in the first three games.

Watson, whose 0-3 team gets ready to host the 0-3 Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, recognizes the offense has to improve and in a hurry.

“We are going to keep doing that (becoming more consistent) and keep growing,” he said.

“Really it just starts with me as the quarterback, making sure I’m talking to [Kelly] and communicating with the guys in the box to see

SportsBriefs Charlo twins triumphant Houston twin boxers Jermall and Jermell Charlo both had successful pay-per-view wins last weekend.

Jermall continJermall ued to prove he Charlo belongs among the best middleweights with an impressive unanimous decision win over Sergiy Derevyanchenko to retain his WBC middleweight title. Then Jermell showed that he is the unquestioned No.1 junior middleweight with an eighth-round TKO of Jeison Rosario to unify the WBC, WBA and IBF belts in the 154-pound weight class.

Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) plays in the second half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

what defensive strategies they are trying to do, especially in the second half.”

Part the inconsistency issue seems to be a team that is struggling to get on the same page.

Like the rest of the NFL, COVID-19 prevented Watson from being able to mesh with his new weapons during minicamp. Moreover, there wasn’t a preseason.

But Cooks, who came over from the Los

Angeles Rams, isn’t buying that as the reason for the Texans’ early struggles.

“I think that is a big excuse because when you look around the league there are a lot of offenses playing at a high level,” Cooks said.

“At the end of the day we didn’t start our season fast and that’s on us as players. We’ve been playing football for a long time to understand we’ve got to come out and be consistent.”

We are where we are. We are 0-3 but there is a lot of positivity in this. You can’t dwell on negativity. There is a lot more football to go. We’ve got 13 more games, so who knows what can happen in 13 more games.”

Deshaun Watson

Could Harden join D’Antoni?

As it seems a forgone conclusion that former Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni will soon be named the new head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, James Harden’s name has been linked James with joining him.

Harden There has been no indication from the Rockets that they are looking to deal Harden or break up the duo of Russell Westbrook and Harden, but it is worth keeping an eye on.

UH season delayed The University of Houston Cougars football season has been severely delayed due to COVID-19 concerns.

The last two weeks against Baylor and North Texas were the most recent games to be cancelled due to the pandemic.

But they weren’t their first.

The Cougs’ game against Rice was postponed on Sept. 3, then their Sept. 12 matchup against Washington State was called off after the Pac-12 postponed its season. Their Sept. 18 conference opener against Memphis was also delayed.

Perhaps they will finally get their first game in this week against Tulane.

20 | October 1, 2020 |

DEFENDER NETWORK