Houston Defender: October 10, 2019

FEATURE

ADVOCATES SAY CLIMATE CHANGE ISN’T A ‘WHITE THING’ P7

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

facebook.com/DefenderNetwork

www.defendernetwork.com

twitter.com/DefenderNetwork

Volume 88 | Number 50 OCTOBER 10, 2019 |FREE

NEWSTALK JUDSON ROBINSON III brings Urban League conference to Houston

P2 FEATURE DIAHANN CARROLL dies at 84

10

P6

things to know about your voting rights H PAGE 8

H.S. SPORTS TROY TISDALE

one to watch at Lamar

P15

Johnathan Joseph

Tyler Perry

still dominating

opens studio

A star-studded crowd was on hand as the 50-year-old filmmaker officially opened his film studio, which is one of the largest in the US and served as a Confederate army base during the American Civil War. It features 12 soundstages, each named after a seminal Black actor.

H PAGE 5

TOP EVENTS

The Texans veteran cornerback is at peace with how his career has evolved.

Joseph, who in his 14th season in the league, isn’t asked to do as much but his contribution on and off the field is still critical to the Texans success.

H PAGE 14

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

Deandrea Dillard, Dr. Polly Sparks Turner and Lauren Dillard at the YWCA Outstanding Women’s Prereception.

P16

2

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019

defendernetwork.com

newstalk

Houston host National Urban League Conference in 2020 Defender News Service

More than 20,000 people are expected to converge on Houston when the National Urban League brings their annual conference to town Aug. 5-8 of 2020.

Mayor Sylvester Turner along with NUL president Marc Morial and Houston president, Judson Robinson III made the announcement, adding that the conference will focus on the “challenges of discrimination and lack of opportunity in every aspect of today’s social and economic landscape.”

“The timing could not be better,”

Robinson said. “In addition to the fun and excitement of national speakers, influencers, celebrities and entertainment, it will be a time for real talk. It will be at the peak time to decide on our next President and the direction of our country will be a front and center topic, right here in Houston.

We will also discuss the Census while fighting to ensure people are registered to vote. We will delve into the importance of community activation of tools like the Census that create the avenues to ensure fair and capable representation in government services and elected Representation.”

This will mark the first time in more than two decades that Houston has hosted the event.

The conference will include events specifically aimed for Houstonians, including a job fair, technology events, and family and community days.

The Urban League is one of the nation’s most prominent civil rights organizations, and has chapters in 90 cities and towns nationwide. It operates and advocates for programs aimed at the “economic empowerment” of urban communities and elevating living standards of vulnerable or underserved people.

Judson Robinson III

The conference will be held only a few months before the 2020 presidential election, and leaders said they will invite political candidates from both major parties to address attendees.

Firefighters reject leadership of Peña tinuing decline of HFD’s fleet and facilities.

Additionally, the resolution calls out Peña for supporting a three-shift model that, More than 3,000 of the city’s 4,000 according to the union, would hinder diversity firefighters signed a no-confidence and promotions of minority members within resolution against Houston Fire Chief the Fire Department.

Samuel Peña.

The union members also criticized The Houston Professional Fire Peña’s role in the response to Hurricane Fighters Association made the anHarvey. Another thing they said he opposed nouncement, saying the majority of was a ballot initiative that would provide pay district fire chiefs had called for a vote of parity between Houston police officers and no-confidence of Peña. firefighters, an issue that has caused ongoing Patrick ‘Marty’ Lancton, presiconfrontation between Lancton and Mayor dent of the firefighters’ union, stressed Houston Fire Chief Samuel Peña Sylvester Turner over the past year. that as many as 97 district chiefs had received a vote of no-confidence “This is a huge indication – not by the requested the vote and added the union from the majority of firefighters. union, by the people who make up the union, the didn’t promote the initiative, but responded members, the Houston firefighters– that they are to the request. not in support,” Lancton said.

The resolution criticizes what it calls consistent underMayor Sylvester Turner shot back in a written statement, funding and cutting of the fire department’s budget and the conDefender News Services

calling the move 100% political.

“Chief Sam Pena is a person of integrity and a strong leader for the Houston Fire Department,” Turner said in the statement. “As I said last month when the Houston fire union announced its intentions to hold a vote of no confidence in Chief Pena, he is doing a great job for the Houston Fire Department and an excellent job for the City of Houston.”

The mayor highlighted that Peña has secured more than $3 million in grant funding to install health and safety equipment in 30 stations.

Peña also sent out a statement. “The fact is that we have accomplished more to improve conditions in just two and a half years since I arrived here than had been done in the last 20 years prior to my arrival,” he said.

The fire chief listed several accomplishments under his leadership, including investing over $31 million in the last three years in fire truck replacements and installing vehicle exhaust removal systems in 17 fire stations.

localbriefs CLARENCE GIBSON, THE BAND DIRECTOR OF THE OCEAN OF SOUL Band at Texas Southern University, is no longer an employee at the college. His departure left many band students demanding answers. TSU released a statement saying they “were made aware of allegations concerning our interim band director. He was immediately placed on administrative leave and has since resigned.” Gibson posted to Facebook thanking his supporters and said he didn’t agree with the decision. Upset students created a petition to

bring Gibson back. It currently has over 1,000 signatures……..VICTIMS OF TROPICAL STORM IMELDA IN SIX TEXAS counties will receive federal assistance after President Donald Trump granted Gov. Greg Abbott’s request for a federal disaster declaration. Residents of Chambers, Harris, Jefferson, Liberty, Montgomery and Orange counties whose homes were damaged during last month’s storm can apply for up to $35,500 per household in assistance. For more information about how to apply, call 1-800-621-FEMA or visit https://

www.disasterassistance.gov/.…….A PROPOSED EIGHT PERCENT PROPERTY tax increase in Harris County didn’t get a vote when two commissioners failed to attend a scheduled meeting.

The law requires a quorum of four commissioners to vote, but only three were present during the meeting.

Commissioners Jack Cagle and Steve Radack used the legislative maneuver to keep the tax rate the same. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo called the move dangerous and said the lack of new revenue will lead to service cuts.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 10 | 2019 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs A FORMER GEORGIA POLICE OFFICER WHO FATALLY shot a fleeing, unarmed Black man has been acquitted of voluntary manslaughter and involuntary manslaughter. The jury, however, found Zechariah Presley guilty of violating his oath of office in the 2018 shooting of Tony Green, 33. He faces a prison term of one to five years. Though Presley’s body camera recorded his fatal encounter with Green, darkness and something covering the camera lens obscured the shooting and the moments leading up to it. Presley said he followed Green because he believed Green was driving with a suspended license. Dash camera video showed Green drive the car off the road, then open the door and run. He briefly returned to the vehicle to grab an unseen object, then fled again. Presley chased Green on foot down a darkened street. A short struggle followed that’s not visible on the video. The recording picked up the electrified clicking sound from Presley’s Taser, followed by eight gunshots.

The grand jury that indicted Presley rejected charging him with murder…….THE U.S. UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FELL to 3.5% in September, the lowest level in nearly five decades, even though employers appeared to turn more cautious and slowed their hiring.

The economy added a modest 136,000 jobs, enough to likely ease worries that an economy weakened by the U.S.-China trade war and tepid global growth might be edging toward a potential recession…….THE MAYOR OF ATLANTA, KEISHA LANCE BOTTOMS, announced that the city raised a whopping $50 million to provide housing for the homeless.

About half of the money came from donations from private organizations. The other half is from the Homeless Opportunity Bond sale that began under former Mayor Kasim Reed.

There are currently over 3,000 homeless people in Atlanta and the money raised will provide 550 homes for the city’s homeless population.

3

Harris and Waters fight homelessness with bills mittee and is expected to go to the House floor.

“Too many people don’t have a safe place to call U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), who is run- home. We must act quickly to tackle our country’s homelessness crisis head on,” Harris said. “The women and ning for president, has introduced a bill that would men who woke up this morning on a bench or under an invest billions of more dollars in affordable housing overpass cannot afford to wait.” and other initiatives to prevent homelessness.

The lack of afThe “Ending fordable housing is a Homelessness Act,” nationwide crisis, and which was coCalifornia has one of sponsored by Sens. the highest rates of Kirsten Gillibrand homelessness. On any (D-N.Y.), Mazie given day in January Hirono (D-Hawaii) 2018, more than 500,000 and Patty Murray people were homeless in (D-Wash.), would the U.S., according to a give an additional federal report. $13.27 billion over Nearly a quarter of five years to create the nation’s homeless an estimated 400,000 residents live in Caliaffordable housing fornia. In the past two units. years, homelessness has The funds would U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris and Congresswoman Maxine Waters, both of spiked in Los Angeles, go to supportive hous- California, have introduced legislation to reduce homelessness. parts of which Waters ing, including homerepresents, and the San Francisco Bay Area, where Harris less shelters and transitional housing, as well as housing is from and had served as district attorney. vouchers for low-income families and local outreach “In the richest country in the world, it is simply services to homeless residents. unacceptable that we have people living in the streets,” U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) introduced a Waters said. similar bill in the House in March, which passed in comDefender News Service

Trump speaks to young Black conservatives Defender News Services

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 50 OCTOBER 10, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Tate Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For digital subscriptions, visit www.DefenderNetwork.com/ subscribe. No paper subscriptions are available. All material covered by 2019 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

President Donald Trump recently delivered his pitch to a roomful of young African American voters eager to throw their support behind the GOP candidate ahead of the 2020 presidential election.

Hundreds of college-age Black conservatives were reportedly on hand in the White House’s East Room for the 2019 Young Black Leadership Summit. The scene was quite reminiscent of one of the president’s campaign rallies, replete with boisterous chants of “USA! USA” and “four more years!”

“You broke the sound barrier,” Trump, 74, joked with the crowd of students and young proKearyn Bolin, back left, of Texas State University and Ben Okereke, right of fessionals. “I’ve never heard it quite like that, and I Georgia State University, listen as Donald Trump speaks. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) appreciate it. We love you!”

Trump wasted no time touting his track record crats and the media. with the Black community. After highlighting record-low Black At one point, however, Trump credited Black people with unemployment rates (a trend started under his predecessor building the United States in a nod to their ancestors’ enslaveBarack Obama), Trump took aim at some of his critics, Demoment

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

4

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019

defendernetwork.com

METRORAPID TO

BUSH AIRPORT The METRONext Moving Forward Plan includes 75 miles of new METRORapid bus service that operates like light rail and includes a line to Bush Airport.

Judge Tammy Kemp received criticism for hugging former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger after she was sentenced to prison for killing her neighbor, Botham Jean.

Judge says she couldn’t refuse to hug Guyger The judge who gave a hug and Bible to a former Dallas police officer after she was sentenced to 10 years in prison for killing her neighbor said that she watched the woman change during her trial and wants her to live a purposeful life.

Judge Tammy Kemp said she had never previously acknowledged her Christian faith to a defendant or given one a Bible, but Amber Guyger said she didn’t have one at the end of her trial for the September 2018 killing of her upstairs neighbor, Botham Jean.

In her first interview since the jury convicted Guyger of murder, Kemp said she felt her actions were appropriate since the trial was over and the former officer told her she didn’t know how to begin seeking God’s forgiveness.

“She asked me if I thought that God could forgive her and I said, ‘Yes, God can forgive you and has,’” Kemp said.

“If she wanted to start with the Bible, I didn’t want her to go back to the jail and to sink into doubt and self-pity and become bitter,” she said. “Because she still has a lot of life ahead of her following her sentence and I would hope that she could live it purposefully.”

Critics contend that it was unethical of Kemp to hug Guyger and give her the Bible. One group asked for a judicial misconduct investigation, and some activists have said the hug took the focus off justified anger at a police killing.

After Guyger was sentenced and the jury left the courtroom, Jean’s brother, Brandt Jean, was allowed to address Guyger directly from the witness stand. He told her he forgave her and that Botham would have wanted her to devote her life to Christianity before the two shared a tearful embrace. Soon after that, Kemp walked over to the defense table to speak with Guyger, who she said went through a “marked change” after the verdict.

Kemp said that Guyger asked twice if she could hug her as well and, after a moment’s hesitation, the judge wrapped her arms around the former police officer.

“Following my own convictions, I could not refuse that woman a hug. I would not,” said Kemp, who is Black. “And I don’t understand the anger. And I guess I could say if you profess religious beliefs and you are going to follow them, I would hope that they not be situational and limited to one race only.” defendernetwork.com • Serving

© Houston Airport System

Associated Press

It’s in the PLAN. Find out more at:

METRONext.org

the Houston area for over 88 years

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 10 | 2019 | DEFENDER

entertainment

Tyler Perry opens massive Atlanta studio

B

Defender News Services

eyoncé revealed that she “could not stop crying” when she attended the opening of Tyler Perry’s gigantic new film studio.

The superstar entertainer, who joined other famous faces including Oprah Winfrey and director Spike Lee at the grand opening of the 330-acre Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, congratulated the award-winning writer and producer. The attendees warmly greeted Perry, a man who had once been homeless and yet now helmed his own studio, one of the nation’s largest.

His studio once served as a Confederate army base during the American Civil War, according to its website. It features 12 soundstages, each named after a groundbreaking Black actor.

The 50-year-old filmmaker said he was determined to build a legacy while laying the groundwork for future generations with his new studio.

“It feels like encouragement, it feels like gratitude,” he said at the studio’s launch. “More than anything, what I’m hoping it becomes is for everybody else who is ever dreaming and hoping – they can do it too. So that’s what I want it to become, fully.”

Posting on Instagram, Beyoncé told why she had been moved to tears at the star-studded event.

“I could feel our ancestors’ presence. Surrounded by my heroes, I watched Denzel, Queen Oprah, Spike, Whoopi, Sir [Sidney] Poitier, Will, Halle, Dame Cicely [Tyson] and our angels John Singleton and Diahann Carroll honored,” she captioned the gallery.

“The Armand de Brignac crashed against each soundstage as fireworks lit up the sky. Generations of blood, sweat and tears, success, excellence and brilliance.”

“It makes me so proud, so full, I could not stop crying.

Thank you my Virgo brother for so much love and passion put into every detail. My prayer today is that you will take it all in.

You inspire me to dream even bigger.”

Perry’s film credits include producing 2009’s Oscarwinning drama “Precious” and writing and directing the 2007 hit comedy-drama “Why Did I Get Married?” along with his comedic “Madea” movies.

“I think it’s pivotal in everything that we’ve done, everything that we’re doing still, that we continue to try to motivate and inspire people,” Perry told the Associated Press as he shook hands with well-wishers.

Winfrey praised Perry and said the new studio head is a force to be reckoned with.

“He didn’t wait for other people to validate or to say you should go this way or that way. He said I’m going to create my own way and as we can see here, become a force for himself,” Winfrey said.

“I remember when he was thinking about buying this place and I said ‘You’d be crazy not to take it.’” she added.

Samuel L. Jackson pointed to Perry’s vision as the key to his ascent.

“This is more about Tyler the entrepreneur. The visionary.

A guy who understands that ownership means that you can do what you want,” Jackson said as he paused along the red carpet.

Tyler Perry, Stacey Abrams, Congressman John Lewis

Perry unveils a soundstage

Beyoncé

Spike Lee

Stedman Graham, Oprah Winfrey

Ava DuVernay

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

5

6

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019

defendernetwork.com

Entertainer Diahann Carroll dead at age 84 Defender News Services

Actress and singer Diahann Carroll, a pioneering Tony Awardwinner who also made television history, died Oct. 4 from complications of breast cancer.

She was 84.

Her NBC show “Julia,” which debuted in 1968, was the first to portray a Black woman with a professional career. She played a nurse, mother The late Diahann Carroll and widow named Julia American character on a primetime Baker. The role earned her soap opera.

Emmy and Golden Globe nominaShe received an Academy Award tions. nomination for Best Actress for her Though some criticized “Julia” role as a single mother on welfare in for presenting a whitewashed version the 1974 movie “Claudine.” of the Black experience, it laid the Carol Diahann Johnson was groundwork for other shows to feaborn in the Bronx, N.Y. on July 17, ture Black characters from all walks 1935.

Her father, John, was a subway of life. conductor and her mother, Mabel, a She joined the cast of ABC’s nurse.

She studied at the High School “Dynasty” in 1984 as fashionista of Music & Art. At age 15 she became Dominique Deveraux and became a model and appeared in Ebony, Tan the first prominently featured African

and Jet magazines.

She received another break with a role in the all-Black cast of the 1954 hit musical “Carmen Jones.” Carroll starred as Clara in the 1959 film adaptation of “Porgy and Bess.” She won a 1962 Tony Award for Best Actress for her role in “No Strings” on Broadway, also a first for a Black woman.

MEMBER FDIC

The key element in every personal loan?

The person.

Unmatched service. Multiple loan options.

And a trusted partner to help you find the right one.

Talk to a Frost banker at (800) 51-FROST or visit your nearest financial center.

Most recently, Carroll gueststarred as Isaiah Washington’s mother on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” and as a Park Avenue widow on USA’s “White Collar.” She was married four times and her last husband was the late singer Vic Damone.

Survivors include her daughter, Suzanne Kay, and two grandchildren.

Community Health Choice Members

Simplicity.

That’s a great policy.

At Community Health Choice we believe health insurance should be far less complicated and way more dedicated to its Members. We help reduce the stress.

You do the rest to building a better life.

Let us help find the right plan for you, call 713.295.2222 or visit CommunityHealthChoice.org.

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 10 | 2019 | DEFENDER

7

© Copyright 2019. Paid for by the American Petroleum Institute. All rights reserved.

NATURAL GAS POWERS COMMUNITIES Advocates say climate change isn’t ‘white thing’ NNPA Newswire

The climate crisis is real. From the devastation of extreme weather events made worse by climate change to the public health implications of increased pollution like heightened asthma attacks, communities are feeling the impacts of the crisis first and worst.

Experts said real solutions to the climate crisis are needed now to protect the long-term well-being of communities, and for future generations.

“With the Trump administration rolling back environmental and public health safeguards, I am deeply concerned that we are running out of time to do something about this crisis,” said Dana Swinney, a New York-based public relations expert who works with several green organizations across the country.

Information provided by Swinney’s firm noted additional climate crisis health impacts on African Americans, including: • Number of African Americans that report having asthma is 2.6 million.

• Black children are 4.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for asthma than white children.

• Black children are 10 times more likely to die from asthma than white children.

• The increased health burden of particulate air pollution on African Americans compared to the American population overall is 54%.

• Some 68% of African Americans live within 30 miles of a coal-fired power plant.

• 6.7 million African Americans live within a county that is home to a refinery.

“There is a familiar phrase that goes something like this: if you’re not at the table then you’re on the menu,” said Michelle Mabson, a staff scientist for the Healthy Communities Program at Earthjustice.

Mabson is also a volunteer chief advocacy officer for Black Millennials for Flint.

“Far too often it is our communities – Black and Brown communities – that are not prepared enough, resilient enough, or adaptive enough when climate disasters hit,” Mabson said.

“We look at the devastating impacts from Hurricane Katrina, and more recently Hurricane’s Maria, Harvey, and Dorian, and we see communities that look like ours, nearly destroyed,” she said.

“It is imperative for us to be at the table when decisions, like rebuilding and increasing adaptive community capacity, are discussed so we can get the resources we need to be prepared for the impacts from the next storm. Make no mistake, the next one is on its way, and we can no longer afford to react once it’s here – we’ve got to be prepared,” Mabson said.

African Americans must heavily engage in climate justice and environmental conversation taking place globally, said Heather McTeer Toney, the national field director at Mom Clean Airforce.

More than half of the African American population lives in the south, where they’re four times more likely to be hit with catastrophic flood, hurricane or other extreme weather-related events, Toney said.

NATURAL GAS: THE

#1

SOURCE

OF ELECTRICITY GENERATION IN AMERICA

DECREASE IN CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS (2007–2017)

NATURAL GAS PRODUCTION IS

UP MORE THAN (1990–2017)

$

14%

57%

NATURAL GAS AFFORDABLY POWERS OUR COMMUNITIES & PROGRESS

MORE ENERGY – LESS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

8

10

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019

things to know about your voting rights

E

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

lection Day in the Houston area is Nov. 5th and the 2020 election is a little more than a year away. Both elections will be among the most important in our city’s and nation’s history.

White nationalism and student loan debt are reaching epidemic proportions, while access to affordable healthcare seems as fleeting as equal justice for African Americans or equal pay for women.

The nationwide attempts at suppressing the votes of people of color Oct. 21-Nov. 1 and college-aged adults signal just how critical the ballot is.

Election: Nov. 5 A lack of knowledge about the voting process can keep citizens from making their voices heard. For example, how many people know that high schools are state mandated to encourage voting-age students to register to vote, or that the address on your driver’s license does not need to match the address in the voter registration record in order to vote?

To this end, the Defender has comprised a top 10 list of things area voters need to know to cast their ballots.

1

County-wide voting is here – “Harris County has transitioned to countywide polling which allows voters to go to any place in the county to cast a ballot,” said Roshawn Evans, director of Pure Justice. Michael Winn, Harris County Clerk’s Office’s director of elections, added, “Know that you can go to any of the 757 Election Day locations to vote.”

2

Early voting dates and times are set – Though Election Day 2019 is Tuesday, Nov. 5, early voting in Texas (including Harris County) is as follows: Oct. 21-Nov. 1, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.; Oct. 27, 1 p.m.–6 p.m.; and Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 7 a.m.– 7 p.m. Times may vary for some Texas counties.

3 4

You still have time to apply for a ballot by mail – The last day to apply for ballot by mail is Friday, Oct. 25.

Having a felony does not automatically block you from voting – In Texas, individuals with felony records are allowed to vote as long as they have completed any community supervision requirements they may have been placed under. “So many people with criminal records have been falsely told that they cannot vote because they have a felony. People need to understand that each state is different when it comes to

Early voting

the restoration of voting rights for returning citizens,” said Evans.

• Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS

5

8

6 7

9

You can preview your ballot now – “Be familiar with your ballot before going to the polls,” said Winn. “Go to www.harrisvotes.com to look at your sample ballot and locate the polling location closest to you.”

Your vote matters – My one vote doesn’t count” is one of the biggest myths in the electoral process. Close elections occur all the time, so every vote counts.

Bring a photo ID to the polls – Here is a list of the acceptable forms of photo ID in Texas: • Texas Driver License issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) • United States passport (book or card) • U.S. Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph • U.S. Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph • Texas Handgun License issued by DPS • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued

by DPS

If you have no photo ID, vote any way – If you don’t have the required form of ID, you can still vote by provisional ball According to the Texas Secretary of State, voters m cast a provisional ballot at the polls. However, in or to have the provisional ballot counted, the voter wil required to visit the voter registrar’s office within s calendar days of the date of the election to either pr ent one of the acceptable forms of photo ID or subm one of the temporary affidavits (e.g., religious objec or natural disaster).

Employers must allow you to vote Your employer is legally required to allow y time to vote. Once at the polls and in line to vote, stay in the voting line until you cast your vote long as you were in line before the polls are schedu to close, you have the right to cast your ballot.

10

Straight ticket voting will end next year – “In 2020, there is no str ticket voting,” said Tracy Scott, directo of the Black Women’s PAC. “Voters truly need to be patient and vote the complete ballot, top to bottom.

defendernetwork.com • Servin

y

yms lot. may rder ll be six resmit ction

e– you

e. As uled

d raight or e .”

defendernetwork.com

9

Voters have power

Exercise your right

Texas Southern UniverMercy Gagnon, a student at the ool of Law, conducted resity’s Thurgood Marshall Sch rights in the U.S. as a memsearch on the history of voting and Resource Center. She is ber of TSU’s Urban Research ing their right to vote. adamant about everyone exercis man, or a non-land owner, “Whether you’re Black, a wo to exercise the franchise for you owe it to your ancestors acquire,” said Gagnon, who which they fought so hard to larly powerful role in the said young adults play a particu voting process. to support current issues “Young voters are more likely to citizenship for immigrants such as supporting a pathway other age demographics.” and legalizing abortion, than in most communities Gagnon’s research found that than 50%, further magnifynationally, voter turnout is less ause of this, Winn implores ing the power of each vote. Bec s stop voters from voting. voters not to let any roadblock ns about anything “When in doubt or have questio ce ns offi at 713-274-9550,” voting-related call the electio said Winn.

ng the Houston area for over 88 years

Mercy Gagnon

There have been countle ss reports and op-eds bemoaning millennials’ apathetic views on votin g.

Tracy Scott, director of the Black Women’s PAC, hopes to convince them otherwise.

“Not voting isn’t radica l, voting is,” said Scott. “Voting is so impo rtant and some millennials argue it’s not because they don’t fully appreciate [yet] the historical struggle and the reality of voting as self-govern ance and the ability to protect against and defea t oppression.

“If you want change/refor m elect new district attorneys, better judges, force the mayor and/ or City Council to hire be tter officials… the’ one vote doesn’t matter’ [th ought] is irrational, honestly silly. One plus one plus one can [eventually] equal a million.”

The numbers are showing a major increase in millennial voting.

According to a Pew Research Center study, millennial voter turnout nearly doubled from Kim Topps 2014 to 2018.

Some are calling this increase the Tru mp effect.

“Your entire future and the future of this country are directly align ed with those we elect to office,” said Kim Topps, the Texas state connection coordinator for Alph a Kappa Alpha Sorority , Inc. and a member of To p Ladies of Distinction.

“Health Care, education , wages, student loans, etc…are directly tied to voting. We all need to make sure our vo ices are heard.”

Roshawn Evans, director of Pure Justice, said the new makeup of Harri s County Commissioners Court is a good example of the power of the vote.

“We have a court that ha s passed misdemeanor bail reform, created a department of economic opportunity and equity that focuses on gender and racial wealth gaps, and they have considered making the Harris Coun ty jail a polling place for inmates not convicted of a crime to vote,” Evans said.

“These are progressive ideas that many advocates like myself and co mmunity members have asked for and need. This would not have happened if people did not turn out to vote.”

10 DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019 defendernetwork.com

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 10 | 2019 | DEFENDER

health

A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance

11

Why well-woman exams are important

W

BY YETUNDE ADIGUN, M.D.

omen sometimes procrastinate when it comes to our own health. We’re so busy with careers, raising children, and taking care of spouses and parents that we delay getting the checkups we should have to stay healthy. It’s important we take care of ourselves. A good place to start is with YETUNDE ADIGUN, M.D. well-woman exams.

The well-woman checkup is tailored based on age and symptoms. Regular exams are essential for early detection of many potentially serious health conditions when there is a greater chance of being cured.

The three most common gynecological cancers are endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer.

Most cancers don’t exhibit symptoms early on, which underscores the importance of checkups.

pressure. An exam of your breasts and pelvis may be performed. Your doctor may also do a Pap test to detect changes in the cells of the cervix and may check for evidence of the HPV virus and bacterial infections.

Note that a Pap test and a pelvic exam aren’t the same. A pelvic exam is a visual and manual inspection of a woman’s genital area. This does not necessarily include a Pap test.

During a pelvic exam, your doctor examines the skin and linings of the vulva, vagina, and cervix, looking for any suspicious lesions. These may represent skin cancers or vulvar diseases. Your doctor may also perform a bimanual exam, which means the pelvic organs are felt between the physician’s hands.

This allows the doctor to feel for pelvic masses or abnormalities of the uterus.

Doctors perform a Pap test by using a speculum to view the cervix and a soft plastic brush to gently scrape off some cervical cells. The cells are then sent for examination by a pathology lab to detect cervical cancer or precancerous cells.

What is the exam?

Don’t forget mammograms

During a well-woman exam, your physician will do a reproductive health physical exam, along with a check of your vital signs such as weight and blood

In addition to your doctor’s physical exam of your breasts, women should begin regular mammogram screenings at age 40 (or earlier if there’s a family

Regular exams are essential for early detection of many potentially serious health conditions. history). Mammograms help detect breast cancer when it may be too small to otherwise notice.

The combination of a clinical breast exam by your doctor, self-breast exams, and mammograms greatly improves early detection and survival of breast cancer.

So be sure to make the time for these important health checks.

Be your own healthcare advocate

Be smart; schedule an exam. Remember, women past child-bearing years also need regular checkups, as the risk for breast and reproductive cancers increases with age.

Dr. Yetunde Adigun is a board-certified OB/GYN specialist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic’s Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center. To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

Get KelseyConnected

SM

Healthcare that Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you. As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, you have an entire healthcare team that can share your medical history through one electronic medical record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you.

Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and convenient with: n

n

Locations close to home and work. Choose the location most convenient for you at kelsey-seybold.com/locations.

24-Hour Nurse Hotline. Speak with a Kelsey-Seybold nurse after 5 p.m. and on holidays and weekends.

n

MyKelseyOnline. Email your doctor’s office, make appointments, refill prescriptions, view test results, and more.

n

Appointments today! Book a Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics appointment online at kelsey-seybold.com/NOW.

24-Hour Appointment Scheduling: 713-442-0000 | kelsey-seybold.com

12 DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019 defendernetwork.com

Remarks by Rockets GM anger some Chinese dissatisfaction” with the team.

“We have lodged representations and expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Houston Rockets, and urged the latter to correct the error and take immediate concrete measures to eliminate the adverse impact,” the consulate general’s office said in a statement.

classifieds Corporate Communications Firm RFP Houston First Corporation requests proposals from experienced firms able to provide corporate communications consulting, strategic planning and media relation assistance for all Houston First brands, including thought-leader engagement, marketing extensions, and special initiatives relating to and owned and operated events.

Please visit https://www.houstonfirst.com/do-business for complete details.

National Public Relations Firm RFP Houston First Corporation requests proposals from experienced public relations firms to provide representation with specific focus on national consumer (specifically broadcast, magazine and newspaper, national websites and blogs) and trade media. Services include promotion of Houston as a leisure and meetings destination.

Please visit https://www.houstonfirst.com/do-business for complete details.

Daryl Morey (shown with James Harden) supported Hong Kong protesters in a tweet that has been deleted.

Associated Press

Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey is trying to defuse the rapidly growing fallout over his deleted tweet that showed support for Hong Kong anti-government protesters, saying he did not intend to offend any of the team’s Chinese fans or sponsors.

A short time after Morey posted that statement, the NBA said it was “regrettable” that the deleted tweet offended many in China, and all that followed.

Several companies in China, including some of the NBA’s major business partners there, are lashing out over Morey’s original tweet.

The uproar started when Morey tweeted an image that read “Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong,” referring to the four-month-old protests in the semi-autonomous Chinese territory.

That led to Houston owner Tilman Fertitta turning to Twitter to say that Morey does not speak for the Rockets, and sparking an outcry that included the Chinese Basketball Association – whose president is Yao Ming, the former Rockets star center – saying it was suspending its relationship with the team.

Other criticism came from Tencent, a major media partner of the NBA in China with a streaming deal that is worth $1.5 billion over the next five years, and Chinese state television, both of which said they would not be showing Rockets games.

It wasn’t immediately clear if Morey’s new tweets or the NBA’s statement that followed would be enough to salvage those relationships. Chinese athletic apparel maker Li-Ning also released a statement saying it was upset with Morey’s tweet.

“I did not intend my tweet to cause any offense to Rockets fans and friends of mine in China,” Morey tweeted from Japan, where Houston was playing. “I was merely voicing one thought, based on one interpretation, of one complicated event. I have had a lot of opportunity since that tweet to hear and consider other perspectives.”

“I have always appreciated the significant support our Chinese fans and sponsors have provided

and I would hope that those who are upset will know that offending or misunderstanding them was not my intention,” Morey continued. “My tweets are my own and in no way represent the Rockets or the NBA.” NBA Chief Communications Officer Mike Bass said the league recognizes that Morey’s tweet “deeply offended many of our friends and fans in China, which is regrettable.” Bass added that the league supports individuals “sharing their views on matters important to them.”

“We have great respect for the history and culture of China and hope that sports and the NBA can be used as a unifying force to bridge cultural divides and bring people together,” Bass said.

Earlier, Fertitta attempted to distance the team from Morey’s tweet with a Twitter post of his own: “Listen.@darylmorey does NOT speak for the @ HoustonRockets. Our presence in Tokyo is all about the promotion of the @NBA internationally and we are NOT a political organization.”

The timing of this is particularly awkward for the NBA. China had teams in the U.S. playing preseason games, the Rockets were playing two games in Japan and the Los Angeles Lakers – with one of the biggest global sports stars in LeBron James – and Brooklyn Nets played in Shanghai and Shenzhen, China.

Fostering strong relationships with China has been a priority of the NBA for at least three decades.

The NBA has a China office, just announced plans to add a gaming team in Shanghai to the NBA 2K League, and officials in both countries say as many as 500 million Chinese watched at least one NBA game last season.

Several NBA players – including major current and former stars like Stephen Curry and Kobe Bryant – go to China annually to promote their individual brands, and the World Cup held in China earlier this summer saw countless fans attending in NBA jerseys.

The Rockets, largely because of Yao, have an enormous Chinese following. But after Morey’s tweet, even the Chinese government’s consulate office in Houston issued a statement saying it “expressed strong

Jones Plaza Redevelopment Restaurant Broker RFP Houston First Corporation requests proposals from experienced real estate brokers able to represent the entity in finding, selecting, and contracting with a restaurant operator.

The restauranteur selected is to operate a first floor restaurant and second floor café and bar space to be constructed as part of the redevelopment of Jones Plaza in Downtown Houston.

Please visit https://www.houstonfirst.com/do-business for complete details.

PM Construction & Rehab, LLC dba IPR South Central Is currently soliciting MBE/WBE subcontractors for the SAN JACINTO RIVER AUTHORITY - Rehabilitation of Bear Branch Gravity Main Rehabilitation of Bear Branch Gravity Main - SJRA Project No. WDPR0082.1001.2T001. This project bids on October 17, 2019.

Please return your quotes no later than October 16, 2019 by 12 PM. This contract is subject to the EPA DBE program, which includes EPA-approved fair share goals toward procurement of M/WBE business. EPA rules require that applicants and prime contractors make a good faith effort to award a fair share of contract, subcontract, and procurements to M/WBEs through demonstration of the six affirmative steps. For more details of the DBE program and the current, applicable fair share goals, please visit www.twdb.texas.gov/dbe Per the TWDB spec, Goals for this project are as follows: Construction – 19.44%(MBE) & 9.17%(WBE) Equipment – 16.28%(MBE) & 11.45% (WBE) Supplies – 25.34%(MBE) & 8.82%(WBE) Services – 20.41% (MBE) & 13.66%(WBE) Accordingly, our company is soliciting quotes for the following:

Open Cut, Bypass, Erosion Control, Traffic Control, CCTV, Manhole rehab Dewatering, Geotech (Piezometer), Engineering Services (Prep of Flood Risk Mitigation Plan) Landscape (Tree Planting, Clearing and Grubbing), Mats rental, Engineering Services (permits, flood risk mitigation plan etc), Hauling, Grouting, Asphalt, Concrete Works, Drilling Suppliers: Stone, Backfill, Mats Rental, Construction Equipment Rental (excavators, trucks, pumps, bypass hoses, tankers, trench-box etc.), Erosion Control Materials (filter fabric, inlet protection barrier, Pipes and appurtenances, Cement, Concrete, Grout, Flowable Fill, Cement Stabilized Sand, Sand, Asphalt, Fence, Nursery Reinforcement steel, Construction chemicals (repair materials, readymade non-shrinking grout etc.)

Precast Manholes, Manhole Frame and Covers, Vent Pipe, Bollards, Temporary Signs (Project Signs) Geotextile and other potential scope items as needed If you need assistance with obtaining bonding, loan capital, lines of credit, insurance or joint pay agreements, contact us and we will review your needs and direct you to available agencies for assistance, if appropriate.

Per the spec, the encouragement of contracting with a consortium of DBE’s should be considered if you think that this will assist you as a subcontractor with providing a responsible quote.

Our goal is to receive a positive response from your firm regarding any or all the above items. Please check the box below to indicate if your firm is interested in submitting a quote or not, and please email this page to bids@teamipr.com Plans and specifications are accessible by contacting our office directly at (832) 948-4541

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 10 | 2019 | DEFENDER

HEALTH FORUM A Powerful and Healthy ‘US’ at Every Age

Tuesday October 29, 2019 6:30 PM Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy 1906 Cleburne Street | Houston, TX 77004

Sponsored by:

Submit your questions in advance and get answers from the experts on these topics and more:

Cancer | Diabetes | Fibroids Infant/Maternal Mortality Vaping | Weaves | Body Imaging Dementia | Depression Stress | Hormone Imbalance Healthy Relationships | Sex

Show us Your Crowd Size Contest!

Win $3,000, $1,000 and $500 prizes for largest Women’s organization crowds!

Visit SOBWHealthForum.eventbrite.com for FREE REGISTRATION

13

14

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019 defendernetwork.com

sports

Texans cornerback

Johnathan Joseph a force on, off field

By TERRANCE HARRIS Defender

S

ometimes it’s difficult for older players to accept lesser roles, but Texans veteran cornerback Johnathan Joseph is at peace with how his career has evolved.

Joseph, who in his 14th season in the league, isn’t asked to do as much but his contribution on and off the field is still critical to the Texans success.

“When I first came here I was the guy following the No.1 receiver everywhere they Johnathan Joseph went but over time, obviously when you get older you can’t do that anymore even though you think you can,” said Joseph, who signed with the Texans as a free agent in 2011 after spending the first six years of his career in CincinJoseph (right), 35, shares his knowledge with nati. younger Texans.

“But for me, it’s just about being wherever I’m needed. I sive backs. don’t come in here and demand anything. I play and “Joe, he is a I try to lead the young guys to go out there and put leader, not just on winning football on the tape.” the football field Almost as often as you see Joseph making plays but in the locker on the ball, you see him instructing his younger room,” Hopkins teammates on the field and on the sideline between said. “He was in possessions. The peer coaching can continue in the the league before locker room like it did following the team’s impresme, but since I’ve sive win over the Atlanta Falcons. been in the league, The game had been over for at least an hour I think every young and Joseph was still holding court, still imparting receiver coming in knowledge around his locker. here he helps them “It’s even more fun because I get to see the with football, he young guys go out and make plays,” he said. “I Joseph remains a huge presence on the field for the team. The Rockford, S.C. native played college helps recognize football at South Carolina. know how to study, I know how to prepare and things on the field, do all of those things, but it gives me even more things that defenses reer passes defensed with 188, recorded six tackles satisfaction when I see those guys taking steps like might do. and a pass defensed in helping slow Julio Jones Lonnie Johnson, who last week took a slant when he “Joe is kind like one of those all-around playand company. It doesn’t appear that it will get any was supposed to stay outside and they converted it. ers that we are very fortunate to have in the locker easier with a tough road game against dart-throwing “They did that same slant-flat [against Atlanta] room.” quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City but he recognized it and came back outside and He is also a huge presence for the Texans on the Chiefs. made the tackle. I get satisfaction in seeing guys field, as well. Corner Bradley Roby now covers the “You always have to have the confidence,” take steps from one week to the next.” opposing team’s No.1 receiver most of the time, but Joseph said. “But this game has no correlation to the Texans receiver DeAndre Hopkins can attest Joseph will still draw that assignment from time to next game. Celebrate it and move on from it because to that. Hopkins, who refers to Joseph as his “big time and shows that even at 35, he can still hang. it’s a different monster coming up next week. We brother” because of their South Carolina ties, said Joseph, who ranks sixth in NFL history in cacan’t ride high from this and go up there next week the wisdom Joseph shares extends beyond the defen-

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

defendernetwork.com

OCTOBER 10 | 2019 | DEFENDER

H.S. sports Lamar playmakers

Troy Tisdale, Ka’Veon Griffin a duo to watch

L

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

Defender: What impresses you the most about working with Tisdale?

Griffin: He’s so young and doesn’t know the potential he has. He can be a beast…

amar High School senior quarterback Troy Tisdale and senior wide receiver Ka’Veon Griffin were like Batman and Robin in their 50-14 beatdown of HISD rival Westside. The Class 6A district 18 victory marked Lamar’s first of the season as they started district play.

Tisdale and Griffin connected for four touchdowns in the game, with their longest connection coming off of an 84-yard touchdown pass where Griffin could not be caught.

Lamar head coach Michael Lindsey is pleased with Tisdale’s talent and dependability.

“Troy is a competitor,” Lindsey said. “When For game & crowd photos the game is on the line Visit IG: @DefenderHighSchoolSports there is no one else you want the ball with than him.”

“He finds a way to make it happen, is a great athlete, and always competes to the last snap.”

The Defender spoke with Tisdale and Griffin after the Westside game to discuss their styles of play, keys to their productive night and how the win will help fuel Lamar into the playoffs.

Defender: How would you describe your style of play?

Tisdale: I am a dual-threat playmaker.

Defender: What were the keys to success against Westside?

Tisdale: Execution. We just made sure everything was perfect and really limited our mistakes.

Defender: How special was your night after winning against Westside and taking the homecoming king crown?

Tisdale: It’s special being my last-ride senior year. I had all my people here so it’s really special.

Defender: How do you use this first win as fuel to push you through district into the playoffs?

Tisdale: Just win for my team. They keep me motivated and if it weren’t for them there would be no me. Everything I do is for my team. This win is also really good for the young guys.

Defender: How would you describe your style of play?

Griffin: It’s me being me. I have been grinding all the way to my senior year not to fail and I’m just trying to make it to state.

Defender: With four touchdown catches in the game, what was clicking between you and Tisdale?

Ka’Veon Griffin Griffin: We just focused on completing the passes, getting to our spots, reading our keys, getting to the landmarks and staying positive especially when things went negative.

About Tisdale

IG: @d1bound.tee NFL quarterback he watches: Russell Wilson Favorite artist: Kenny Lou Favorite subject: English Shout-outs: “Mom, Dad and Granny”

Quarterback Tisdale (who wore No. 6 last season) “competes to the last snap.”

Griffin, a wide receiver, believes staying positive is one key to victory. (Photos by Jimmie Aggison)

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

15

16

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 10 | 2019

defendernetwork.com

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

topevents

DECISION 2019 PRE-ELECTION ANALYSIS LUNCHEON……..Decision Choice program, a residential program for homeless young women, Meals on 2019, the 33rd Annual Pre-Election Analysis Luncheon, brought together politicos, Wheels and the TechGyrls STEM program for local teen girls. Attendees included community and business leaders and individuals currently running for office to Dr. Janice Beal, Lauren, Deandrea and Niles Dillard, Dr. Stacey Jones-Reed, hear thoughts and predictions from three panelists – Defender Publisher Sonceria Connie Kwan-Wong, Ann Tanabe, Argentina James, Lou McElroy, Michelle Messiah Jiles, former County Judge Ed Emmett and political analyst Dr. Robert King, Pamela Joubert Davis, Morgan Carr, Roxann Thomas Chargois, Dr. Stein – on the upcoming 2019 local elections. Everything from the heated mayoral Polly Sparks Turner, Paula Harris and others……..2nd ANNUAL TURNING THE PAGES FOR LITERACY……..EastSide University, an entity that race to City Council seats were discussed. Attendees included panel discussion provides educational assistance and job skills development, moderator Miya Shay, Adrian Patterson, Cindy Clifford, hosted its 2019 2nd Annual Turning the Pages for Literacy. The former Houston Mayor Annise Parker, former Congressman Defender TOP EVENTS Craig Washington, Sam Luna, Kimberly Williams, Chelbi event supported EastSide’s efforts to champion literacy, bridge More photos on defendernetwork.com Mims, Constable May Walker, DA Kim Ogg, Clydette the digital divide and more. The founder and executive director Messiah, C.J. Messiah, Kayler Williams, Sharon Owens, of EastSide, Pastor Manson Johnson, offered remarks, as did Tarsha Jackson, Dr. Carla Brailey and others……..YWCA Jackie Aguilera, EastSide’s president/CEO. Other attendees OUTSTANDING WOMEN PRE-EVENT RECEPTION……..In advance of included Comcast’s Misha McClure and Ray Purser, Dr. Rhea Lawson, Zelda the 33rd Annual Outstanding Women’s Luncheon (OWL), the YWCA hosted a Johnson, County Attorney Vince Ryan, Adriana and Ismael Tamez, Nicole pre-luncheon reception at the Publisher’s Club. There, honorees were celebrated Robinson, and event honorees Ed Emmett, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and NNPA and donations were sought to support several YWCA programs including the President Karen Carter Richards.

Cindy Clifford, Ed Emmett, Adrian Patterson

Roxann Thomas Chargois, Dr. Janice Beal, Dr Stacey Jones-Reed

Comcast representatives

Craig Washington, Sam Luna

Lou McElroy, Michelle King

County Attorney Vince Ryan, Dr. Rhea Lawson

Kayler Williams, Constable May Walker, Sharon Owens

Deandrea Dillard, Dr. Polly Sparks Turner, Lauren Dillard

Adriana Tamez, Ismael Tamez, Marcelo Vilches Robert

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years