Houston Defender: October 16, 2014

NEWSTALK

APPEALS COURT REINSTATES TEXAS’ VOTER ID LAW, P2 defendernetwork.com

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NATIONAL MICHELLE OBAMA hits the campaign trail

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 83 | Number 48

OCTOBER 16, 2014 |FREE

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HIGHER ED SPECIAL

FREE MONEY

P4 LOCAL U.S. REP. EMANUEL CLEAVER speaks at local church

FOR COLLEGE

P11

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FEATURE STEVE HARVEY encourages Disney Dreamers

P13 TOP EVENTS

Karen Jackson, Congressman Al Green and Congresswoman Maxine Waters at Sisters Network luncheon

P16

Boris Kodjoe

stars in ‘Addicted’

Heishma Northern coaches PVAMU

Actor Boris Kodjoe is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. He currently stars in the screen adaptation of “Addicted,” the steamy best-selling book by Zane. See why making the movie was like a “family affair.”

Prairie View A&M University football coach Heishma Northern has seen his team get off to a slow start, but things are looking up after a crucial homecoming win. Read what he has to say about the “bottom line.” Check out the team’s philosophy and playmakers.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014

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newstalk

Court reinstates Texas voter ID

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

T

he U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled unanimously that Texas’ controversial voter ID law will remain in effect for the Nov. 4 election.

The ruling came after U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos struck down the law, calling it an “unconstitutional poll tax” that took an unorthodox approach to having a negative impact on minority voters.

Houston State Sen. Rodney Ellis said he was disappointed by the most recent ruling.

“I am extremely disappointed the 5th Circuit has chosen to keep in place a law that just last week was ruled to be a ‘poll tax’ that was ‘imposed with an unconstitutional discriminatory purpose,’ “Ellis said.

“Near last in the country in voter turnout, Texas should be working to get more folks to the polls, not to turn away legal, legitimate voters.”

Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, the Republican candidate for governor, asked

the Fifth Court of Appeals to appeal Ramos’ ruling and allow the current law to remain. His office issued a statement applauding the ruling.

“We are pleased that the appeals court has unanimously agreed that Texas’ voter ID law should remain in effect for the upcoming election, which is the right choice in order to avoid voter confusion,” the statement said.

“The State will continue to defend the voter ID law and remains confident that the district court’s misguided ruling will be overturned on the merits. The U.S. Supreme Court has already ruled that voter ID laws are a legal and sensible way to protect the integrity of elections.”

The appeals court’s decision said in part: “This is not a run-of-the-mill case; instead, it is a voting case decided on the eve of the election.

The judgment substantially disturbs the election process of the State of Texas just nine days before early voting begins. Thus, the value of preserving the status quo here is much higher than in most other contexts.”

Joining in the portrait unveiling and dedication of the Margo Hilliard Alford Clinic are (l. to r.) Dr. Ericka Brown, Elvin Franklin Jr., honoree Dr. Alford and George V. Masi.

Harris Health System dedicates Alford Clinic Harris Health System dedicated its newest same-day clinic in honor of Dr. Margo Hilliard Alford, a former executive and administrator of 25 years with Harris Health, including 17 years as administrator of the system’s Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital.

The clinic is one of six same-day clinics opened by Harris Health in 2014. The clinic provides options for patients for treating minor injuries and illnesses in a walk-in setting.

The clinic is located inside the Harris Health Outpatient Center on the LBJ Hospital campus.

More than 100 people attended the dedication. Among the attendees

were George V. Masi, president and CEO, Harris Health System; Elvin Franklin Jr., chair, Harris Health Board of Managers; Lois J. Moore, former president and CEO, University of Texas Harris County Psychiatry Center; and representatives from Congresswoman Jackson Lee and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett.

Harris Health is a fully integrated healthcare system that cares for all residents of Harris County. The system includes 16 community health centers, five school-based clinics, a dental center and dialysis center, mobile health units, a rehabilitation and specialty hospital and two full-service hospitals.

localbriefs GOV. RICK PERRY, who was indicted in August on two felony counts of abuse of power, will make his first court appearance on Halloween. Perry was on a state economic mission to Europe and was granted permission to skip a recent pretrial hearing in Austin, where a state district judge set the Oct. 31 court date. Perry was indicted in August after publicly threatening and then carrying out a veto of funding a statewide public integrity unit. The unit was run

by Democratic Travis County District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg, who Perry wanted to step down because of legal troubles related to a

DWI……..A “WALK TO REMEMBER” will be held at Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital on Saturday, Oct. 25, at noon in the hospital’s 1st Floor CES Room at 11800 Astoria Blvd. The event is hosted by the hospital’s Perinatal Bereavement Program. During the month of October, parents, their friends and families, health care professionals, clergy, and others affected by the death of a child participate in events to honor deceased children. The hospital’s program supports families touched by the loss of a newborn or pregnancy. The event is open to the public, however, attendees are asked to call 713-222-CARE to

RSVP for planning purposes……..AREA RESIDENTS are being warned by the FBI and Harris County District Clerk about a scam in which con men pose as police officers and demand that callers pay fines for missing jury service. A local resident was recently tricked out of $250 by such a phone scam. FBI Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner, head of the FBI’s Houston office, said education is the best defense against scams.

“Remember, law enforcement authorities will never demand you pay a fine by phone,” he said.

Scammers’ calls can be reported to 713-755-6392 or https://tips.fbi.gov.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014

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national

U.S.briefs

More healthcare workers could contract Ebola

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Dallas official said there is a possibility that more healthcare workers could contract Ebola after a second Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital employee who cared for Thomas Eric Duncan tested positive for the deadly virus.

“We are preparing contingencies for more and that is a very real possibility,” said Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins.

Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings also suggested more people could contract Ebola. “It may get worse before it gets better, but it will get better,” Rawlings said.

The Centers for Disease Control said despite the new case, Ebola could be contained.

“While this is troubling news for the patient, the patient’s family and colleagues and the greater Dallas community, the CDC and the Texas Department of State Health Services remain confident that wider spread in the community can be prevented with proper public health measures including ongoing contact tracing, health monitoring among those known to have been in contact with the index patient and immediate isolations if symptoms develop,” the CDC said in a statement.

Jenkins said the new patient, a woman, was put into isolation within 90 minutes of her diagnosis, and is handling it “with grit and grace.”

Nina Pham, the first healthcare worker who

contracted the disease in Dallas, is listed in stable condition at Texas Health Presbyterian, where she worked. She was one of 70 healthcare workers who treated Ebola patient Duncan, who died Oct. 8. Officials are still investigating how Pham contracted the virus since she was wearing protective gear.

CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden acknowledged that health care workers have expressed concern for their safety.

“I’ve been hearing loud and clear from health care workers around the country that they are worried, don’t feel prepared,” he said.

The CDC and Texas Health Presbyterian have received criticism for their handling of Duncan’s case. Frieden outlined several steps to counter Ebola, including sending a response team to any United States hospital within hours of a confirmed case of the disease.

First Lady Obama campaigns for Democrats The midterm elections are less than three weeks away, and First Lady Michelle Obama is campaigning across the country for Democratic candidates.

She traveled to New England to support candidates in Massachusetts and Maine. She later visited the Midwest to campaign for candidates in Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa.

“She knows the stakes are high and that’s why she is dedicating a good part of her schedule to making sure Democrats are out there voting in the midterms,” said Tina Tchen, Mrs. Obama’s chief of staff.

The first lady thought her husband’s re-election

effort two years ago was the end of their long involvement in political campaigns until President Obama said he needed her help again.

“I told Michelle in 2012 this was my last campaign. She said, ‘Hallelujah!’ ” Obama said.

“And then I had to go back to her and say, ‘Actually, honey, let me amend that. We’ve got one more campaign.’ ” On Nov. 4, voters will decide which party controls the House and Senate during Obama’s remaining two years in office. Republicans are expected to keep control of the House and hope to pick up the six seats they need to claim the Senate majority.

PRESIDENT OBAMA met with heads of 22 foreign militaries fighting ISIS to discuss current military operations. He said the effort to take down the terrorist group will be a long-term campaign. “There will be days of progress and there are going to be periods of setback,” he said. “We are going to have to pay attention to how all the countries in the region begin to cooperate in rooting out this cancer and we are going to have to continue delivering the humanitarian assistance of all the populations that have been affected.” He added that fighters from outside the region joining ISIS make it a threat beyond the Middle East…….. CIVIL RIGHTS ADVOCATES praised updated guidelines for addressing racial disparities in American public schools recently issued by the Office of Civil Rights in the Department of Education.

“School districts that receive federal funds must not intentionally discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national origin, and must not implement facially neutral policies that have the unjustified effect of discriminating against students on the basis of race, color, or national origin,” said the OCR. Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, said that as opportunity gaps widen for poor children and children of color, the new guidance offers protection from discrimination. “The department now makes it clear that states, school districts and schools must provide education resources that are equally available to all students,” Edelman said……..

AUTHOR AND ACTIVIST CORNEL WEST was among some 40 people arrested during a demonstration in Ferguson, Mo. West and the other protestors were detained at the Ferguson Police Department protest site for disturbing the peace. “It’s a beautiful thing to see people on fire for justice, but I didn’t come here to give a speech,” West said. “I came here to go to jail.”

VOLUME 83 • NUMBER 48 OCTOBER 16, 2014 Print Editor Publisher Marilyn Marshall Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Sports Editors Advertising/Client Relations Max Edison Selma Dodson Tyler Darrell K. Ardison Multimedia Coordinator Local Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Cierra Duncan Online Editor Interns ReShonda Billingsley Jazzi Black Art Director Michael Roman Tony Fernandez-Davila Velyjha Southern The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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OCTOBER 16 | 2014 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014 defendernetwork.com

entertainment

Boris Kodjoe

stars in new film ‘Addicted’

F

By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

rom his big screen and television roles to his theater and entrepreneurial skills, Boris Kodjoe has proven to be one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. He is probably best known for his role as Damon Carter on the TV series “Soul Food.”

He can currently be seen opposite Kevin Hart and Nick Cannon on the BET sitcom, “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” and will soon be starring in the upcoming series “Members Only” which will premiere this fall on ABC. On the big screen, he reprised his role as Luther West in the box office hit “Resident Evil: Retribution,” and also starred in “Baggage Claim” opposite Paula Patton, Derek Luke and Trey Songz.

He was born in Vienna, Austria to Ursula Kodjoe, a psychologist from Germany, and Eric Kodjoe, a physician from Ghana, West Africa. They raised Boris, his brother Patrick and sister Nadja in Germany where he became one of the best tennis players in the country before earning an athletic scholarship to Virginia Commonwealth University.

While studying in Richmond, he was approached by a talent scout for Ford Modeling agency which he joined after earning his marketing degree in May of 1996. His career skyrocketed as he quickly became one of the most recognizable male supermodels.

Hollywood soon took notice. While studying with acting coach Janet Alhanti, Kodjoe guest- starred in sitcoms such as “For Your Love,” and landed a supporting role in the feature

film “Love and Basketball.” Onstage, he made his Broadway debut in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”

Kodjoe is married to actress Nicole Ari Parker and has two children, Sophie and Nicolas. The couple started the charity Sophie’s Voice Foundation in honor of their daughter, who was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth.

Here, he discusses his new movie, “Addicted,” the screen

adaptation of the steamy best-seller by Zane.

KW: What interested you in Addicted? Were you already a Zane fan?

BK: I wasn’t as aware of her before I read the script.

That’s when I began to find out more and more about Zane, her tremendous fan base, and all of her books.

KW: What was it like making the movie?

BK: It was great. It was almost like a family affair.

I’ve known [director] Bille Woodruff for years, as well as [fellow cast members] Tyson [Beckford], Sharon [Leal] and everybody. So, it was quite easy to trust my director.

My job was basically to make Sharon feel comfortable and protected. She was so courageous and vulnerable, and did such an amazing job. And I was sort of the safety net for her to do all that.

KW: What message do you think people will take away from it?

BK: It’s about communication, weathering the storms, and making sure you really understand each other.

KW: You’re really busy on TV nowadays. Between “Real Husbands of Hollywood” and “Members Only” do the series’ shooting schedules overlap?

BK: No, it worked out perfectly, which things usually do when you relinquish control and give it to God. KW: How do you and Nicole balance your busy careers with being the parents of young children?

BK: It’s not about balance. It’s about priorities, and we make family our priority, and everything else sort of falls into place around it. When you do that, you don’t have the stress of trying to make things happen. They happen organically. Our kids are more important to us than any movie or TV show. So, we want to make sure they have what they need, and mostly that’s quality time with us.

what’sup TYLER PERRY is getting rave reviews for his role in “Gone Girl,” the No. 1 box office hit starring BEN AFFLECK. Perry, known for his “Madea” movies, portrays a lawyer named Tanner Bolt. He’s pleased to be in the film. “It’s so great, I don’t know how the hell I got in it,” he said…….. LEE DANIELS, the director of such films as “The Butler” and “Precious,” told students at Ohio State University that some people mistake him for Perry. Speaking at a lecture, Daniels said that while he and Perry make films for and about African-Americans, they are different people.

Daniels, who is gay, also said he was bullied as

a child, and had an abusive father who could not accept his sexuality……..JAMES BROWN is the subject of a new documentary. “Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown” will air Monday, Oct. 27 at 8 p.m. on HBO. The film charts Brown’s musical journey, and features rare and previously unseen footage, interviews and photographs chronicling the rise of “the hardest working man in show business.” It is produced by MICK JAGGER, who is interviewed in the film. Others interviewed include REV. AL SHARPTON, BOOTSY COLLINS and rapper CHUCK D. of Public Enemy……..

CHRIS BROWN leads the way in Soul Train

Awards nominations. He earned seven nominations, including Best R&B/Soul Male Artist and Song of the Year for “Loyal.” BEYONCÉ follows with six nominations, including Best R&B/Soul Female Artist, and PHARRELL WILLIAMS is next in line with five nominations, including Best R&B/Soul Male Artist of the Year. Other nominees include JOHN LEGEND, DRAKE, JANELLE MONAE, USHER, TREY SONGZ, LEDISI and DONNIE McCLURKIN. Hosted by WENDY WILLIAMS, the Soul Train Awards will be presented on Nov. 7 in Las Vegas and will air on Nov. 30 on Centric and BET.

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OCTOBER 16 | 2014 | DEFENDER

Coming Together to Reduce Calories 2014 COMMITMENT to ACTION

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, the Clinton Foundation and America’s leading beverage companies have come together to announce a landmark Clinton Global Initiative commitment to help fight obesity by reducing beverage calories consumed per person by 20 percent by 2025.

The initiative will leverage the beverage companies’ marketing, innovation and distribution strengths to: • Increase consumer interest in and access to beverage options that can help them reduce calories, such as smaller portion sizes, water and other no- or lower-calorie options.

• Provide calorie counts and promote calorie awareness and balance on all company-controlled equipment nationwide, this includes more than three million vending machines, self-serve fountain dispensers and retail coolers, within two years.

• Focus on communities where the effort can have the greatest impact: where there is less interest in and/or access to beverage options that can help consumers reduce their calories.

This commitment builds upon the beverage companies’ existing efforts to help address obesity including its partnership with the Alliance, which led to the Alliance School Beverage Guidelines and a 90 percent reduction of beverage calories in schools nationwide. The initiative will continue to help transform the beverage landscape in America and further our commitment to consumers, bringing meaningful solutions to families and communities nationwide.

Go to www.healthiergeneration.org or www.deliveringchoices.org for more information.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014

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Proposition 1 addresses transportation funding

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By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender

n Nov. 4, Texans will vote on a proposed constitutional amendment that would provide billions more in transportation funding without new taxes, fees or debt.

The statewide ballot proposition was approved by legislators last year. The amendment would authorize annual disbursements from the state’s oil and gas production tax collections to the State Highway Fund.

The ballot proposition will read: “Constitutional amendment providing for the use and dedication of certain money transferred to the state highway fund to assist in the completion of transportation construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation projects, not to include toll roads.”

State Rep. Sylvester Turner supports the proposition.

“The experts at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute say our state needs to spend $5 billion a year more on highway construction simply to keep our traffic congestion on current levels,” Turner said.

“Prop 1 will generate about $1.7 billion a year. We have a long way to go, but Prop 1 will move us in the right direction.”

If approved by voters, additional transportation funding can only be used for construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, and acquiring rightof-way for public roads. The funds cannot be used for toll roads.

“If Prop 1 fails, needed highway construction projects would end up on the backburner,” Turner said. “Traffic congestion will take you even longer to get where you want to go. And construction jobs would be lost.”

“We have nearly 52,000 jobs directly tied to highway construction this year and another 98,000 indirect jobs, such as those involving materials used in building highways.

Prop 1 will not be a complete solution to Texas’ traffic problems. However, according to Turner, it is a step toward improving traffic and securing jobs.

“Coming up with a total solution for our traffic problems will take more time and discussion,” he said. “For now, Prop 1 is an easy choice for voters. It will mean safer, better roads and keep construction jobs going – all without raising taxes or fees.”

“If Prop 1 fails, needed highway construction projects would end up on the backburner,”

“I got an insider’s look and the knowledge I needed to be even more successful.”

We are now accepting applications for the Spring 2O15 Workshop at Macy’s!

We invite all minority and women-owned businesses to apply for The Workshop at Macy’s!

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Apply today at macysinc.com/workshop PICTURED: Kim Roxie, LAMIK Beauty. Past participant of The Workshop at Macy’s.

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OCTOBER 16 | 2014 | DEFENDER

health

A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance

Know your breast reconstruction options

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By JAMAL BULLOCKS, M.D., F.A.C.S.

It is also possible to do breast reconstruction long after a mastectomy. If any chemotherapy or radiation treatments have already begun, reconstruction may need to be postponed until those treatments are completed.

reast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer among AfricanAmerican women. The good news is that with early detection and New microsurgical treatment many survive. If you are a woman advancement with breast cancer and have been told you may need a mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an A relatively new advancement in breast important option that you should discuss with reconstruction is DIEP (deep inferior epiDr. Jamal Bullocks your doctor. gastric perforator) flap surgery, an advanced Not every woman wants breast reconstruction. It’s a personal microsurgical technique. With this procedure, decision for you to make after a discussion with your doctor. the patient’s own abdominal skin and fat are used to help restore a natural, warm, soft breast after mastectomy.

Timing of reconstruction This technique spares the abdominal musculature, which Breast reconstruction takes place during or after a means that recovery is usually faster and complications fewer mastectomy, and in some cases, lumpectomy. During than with traditional TRAM (transverse rectus abdominis reconstruction, a plastic surgeon creates a breast shape using an myocutaneous) flap surgery. implant, tissue from another place on your body, or both.

Breast reconstruction that uses the patient’s own tissue Timing of reconstructive surgery is based on the is popular because the consistency of the abdominal tissue is patient’s preferences, medical conditions and cancer treatvery similar to natural breast tissue. Women who undergo the ment. For many, immediate reconstruction – performed DIEP flap reconstruction also benefit from improved abdomiduring the mastectomy surgery – offers a reconstruction with better aesthetic outcomes as well as reduces the expense nal contouring, much like a “tummy tuck.”

In general, flap procedures behave more like the rest of and discomfort of two major operations.

your body tissue. For instance, they may enlarge or shrink as you gain or lose weight. There’s also no worry about replacement or rupture as compared to implant-based reconstruction.

A candidate for DIEP flap surgery must have an adequate supply of blood to the skin and fatty tissue in the lower abdominal region. Additionally, patients must also be in good health.

Although most women are good candidates for this type of reconstruction, it’s not the right option for everyone.

In general, women who are obese, smoke, have uncontrolled diabetes or other uncontrolled medical conditions, including connective tissue or blood vessel diseases, are not good candidates because these conditions can affect blood circulation. A healthy blood supply to the new breast tissue is critical to the success of the surgery.

Assess available options

There are many options to restore the breast after a mastectomy. A consultation with a plastic surgeon is necessary to assess what’s best for you. The DIEP procedure is still a relatively new advancement in breast reconstruction, so it is important to find an experienced surgeon.

Dr. Bullocks is a board-certified breast reconstructive and plastic surgeon at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic’s Main Campus. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bullocks, call 713-442-1122. Visit kelsey-seybold.com/bullocks to learn more.

Get KelseyConnected

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As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, your entire healthcare team 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

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014

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Former councilman wants justice, answers

By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender

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ormer Houston City Councilman Jarvis Johnson wants answers after a routine traffic stop by a deputy constable allegedly turned violent.

Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen said that his office is investigating Johnson’s allegations.

Johnson, the owner of Aunt Bea’s Restaurant, said he was going to get gas after closing his restaurant. He said as he was driving he noticed flashing lights behind him and pulled into a gas station on North Shepherd.

“The officer approached me with his gun drawn and pointed at my head. He yelled expletives at me, asking me what I was doing,” Johnson said. “He then went on to tell me that if I had turned my [expletive] music down, I would

have heard his siren. I said I was listening to talk radio.”

The officer asked Johnson to step out of his car and he complied. Johnson said as he turned to put his hands against the car another officer slapped him in the face. His ID and money were taken out of his pocket; he was handcuffed and placed in the backseat of a police car. Johnson said he asked if the car’s dash cam was recording the incident but never received an answer.

Johnson was ticketed for having an expired registration and speeding. After the incident, he also discovered that $2,500 of his restaurant’s daily sales was missing.

“At this point I haven’t heard anything from Internal Affairs,” Johnson said. “I’m still in the dark as to why an officer was allowed to put his gun to my head, slap me, handcuff me, all for a traffic violation.”

“We are demanding a just investigation,” activist Deric Muhammad said. “If the officer is found to be at fault, and he should be, we want him terminated.”

Jarvis Johnson was joined by his wife Charlene as he detailed his run-in with law enforcement.

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Pilgrim Congregational observes 110th anniversary Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ will celebrate 110 years of service and history on Sunday, Oct. 19 at 3115 Blodgett.

Rev. Jacquie Hood Martin, former associate pastor at the Church without Walls, will be the guest speaker for the 10 a.m. service. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver will be the guest speaker for the 2 p.m. luncheon.

Cleaver, a minister, was the first African-American mayor of Kansas City, Mo., where he also founded a local chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).

Martin is owner of J. Hood & Associates, a firm offering a range of personal, professional and prophetic coaching services.

Pilgrim Congregational was organized in 1904 in the home of George Bernard McClelland Turner. Charter members included noted educator E.O. Smith. Its current leader is Pastor A. K. Edwards.

For more information call 713528-5321 or visit www.pilgrimchurchhouston.com

Vote YES

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3Improves Safety 3NO New Taxes 3NO New Debt 3NO Toll Roads

Endorsed by: Harris County Judge Ed Emmett Mayor Annise Parker, City of Houston State Senator John Whitmire State Senator Rodney Ellis State Senator Sylvia Garcia State Senator Dan Patrick State Senator Larry Taylor State Senator Glenn Hegar State Senator Joan Huffman State Representative Sylvester Turner State Representative Garnet Coleman State Representative Carol Alvarado State Representative Jessica Farrar State Representative Cecil Bell, Jr. State Representative Rick Miller State Representative Ron Reynolds State Representative Ed Thompson State Representative Phil Stephenson State Representative Patricia Harless State Representative Wayne Smith State Representative John Davis State Representative Bill Callegari State Representative Gene Wu State Representative Dwayne Bohac

www.infrastructuretexas.org Rev. Jacquie Hood Martin

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For information about state certification and Texas Lottery opportunities, contact our HUB Coordinator, Joyce Bertolacini at (512) 344-5293 or joyce.bertolacini@lottery.state.tx.us

To learn more about the State of Texas HUB Program, visit the Texas Procurement and Support Services web page at: http://www.window.state.tx.us/procurement/prog/hub/

© 2014 Texas Lottery Commission. All Rights Reserved.

The Texas Lottery Commission is committed to including Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) in its procurement opportunities.Your minority or woman-owned company may qualify to be certified as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) with the State of Texas.

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OCTOBER 16 | 2014 | DEFENDER

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Contest for small business owners

Steve Harvey and Mickey Mouse welcome Disney Dreamers participants each year.

Disney Dreamers deadline nears Oct. 31 is the deadline for high school students to apply to be among the 100 selected to participate in the 2015 Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine. The annual educational mentoring program is held at Walt Disney World Resort.

Applications are open to U.S. students ages 13 to 19. A panel of leaders will judge the applications

in November and winners will be announced in December.

Each year, academy students participate in hands-on, fullimmersion workshops related to a variety of career paths, ranging from animation to zoology. Each participant learns important skills such as communication techniques and networking strategies. The 2015 academy will take place

March 5-8.

“Disney Dreamers Academy gives hope and inspiration and exposes youth to a world of possibilities,” Harvey said. “We are excited about another opportunity to transform lives and give students an inside look at what their future can hold.”

For information visit www. disneydreamersacademy.com.

Cricket Wireless is sponsoring a Cricket Community Stars: Salute to Solopreneurs contest to recognize men and women who serve as one-person enterprises and still make it a priority to help their community.

Entry forms are being accepted online now through Oct. 19 via the Events page of cricketwireless.mediaroom.com/cricketstars. Entrants must provide details on their sole proprietorship business, community involvement and social media presence. Finalists will be announced in November.

“Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of most communities,” said Winston Warrior, director of Marketing and Customer Acquisition, Cricket Wireless.

“As a community brand, we’re always looking for ways to support these business owners – including our dealers and sole proprietors, thus, positively impact our customers where they live and work.”

Contest entries will be reviewed and evaluated

by Cricket and narrowed down to three finalists who will be named by a panel of judges and receive prizes as follows: • First place: $5,000, free mobile device with 1 year of Cricket service.

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14

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014

sports

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PVAMU salvages season with homecoming win

I

By MAX EDISON Defender

t has been a long season for coach Heishma Northern and the Prairie View A&M University football team.

The Panthers were predicted to come in no lower than second and compete with defending champion Southern in the conference’s West division. Coming into its most recent game with a 1-2 record (1-4 overall), the underachieving Purple and Gold desperately needed a win to keep any chances for the playoffs alive, no matter how faint.

Against the backdrop of the final homecoming contest at the soon to be demolished Blackshear Field, the Panthers had to beat one of SWAC’s more dominant opponents, Alabama State (3-1 in conference), to keep hope alive on the season.

Despite getting off to a slow start, trailing early before a capacity crowd of students, alumni and wellwishers, the Panthers rallied to win in convincing fashion, 34-24.

“Anytime you Coach Heishma Northern gets emotional during a Prairie View A&M University football game.

play you want to win, no matter who it’s against,” Northern said.

“It’s also good to beat a team that people perceive is one of the better ball clubs in the conference. Like I tell our guys all the time, if Prairie View doesn’t beat Prairie View we can beat anybody that’s on our schedule.”

Despite the team’s recent success, Northern refuses to get caught up in the “what if “game regarding the Panthers chances of winning the West division.

“We just talk about winning one in a row,” he said. “We don’t worry about where we are.

Our motto says: ‘All out, all game, all season.’ It doesn’t say if you have a chance to go to the championship game.

It doesn’t say what Quarterback Jerry Lovelocke and the Panthers hope to keep their playoff hopes alive. the score is or what On defense the Panthers received big efforts the record says. The bottom line from their linebacker unit. Linebacker Jerome is you want to be a better football Howard recorded a game-high 15 tackles with two player every time you practice and sacks and four tackles for a loss. Fellow linebacker win every game in which you have a Danny Brownell added 14 tackles. Safety Damond chance to play.”

Jackson collected 12 tackles, a tackle for a loss and The Panthers’ high-octane ofhad two pass breakups. fense showed the type of balance For their efforts Howard received the SWAC that most had expected to see when Defensive Player of the Week award and Jackson, a preseason predictions were made. freshman, was named conference Newcomer of the Running back Johnta’ Hebert was able Week. to carve out 99 yards on 23 attempts “Everybody makes each other better. If you do and a touchdown against a stingy ASU your job then it makes it easier for somebody else defense. to do theirs,” Northern said. “Jerome is a team capQuarterback Jerry Lovelocke rushed tain, as voted by his peers. I think a lot of his glory for a pair of touchdowns and passed for goes to the defensive lineman in front of him who 231 yards on 19-of-23 yards passing. All kept their offensive linemen off him so he could run total the Panthers offense accounted for to the ball and make plays.

411 total yards.

“I actually thought he should have won the “Anytime you go into a game you honor the previous week for his play against Jackwant to keep teams off balance,” Northern son State. D.J. [Jackson] has been a starter since explained. “We talk about running the ball day one and has done a solid job for us. He is what when they expect us to pass and passwe thought he was when we recruited him out of ing the ball when they expect us to high school.” run. Balance is the key. Our passing The Panthers have won two consecutive confergame is so much better when we ence games. They hit the road to face Mississippi can run the ball. When we can stay Valley State next, hoping to keep their playoff balanced it keeps our opponents off hopes alive. balance.”

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OCTOBER 16 | 2014 DEFENDER

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15

sportsbriefs

Volleyball dream team roaring at Jack Yates

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

S

hanna Thomas calls the Yates High School girls’ varsity volleyball squad her “Dream Team.”

After coaching volleyball and soccer at Phillis Wheatley High School for the past four years, Thomas took over a program at Yates that had been saddled in mediocrity for as long as anyone could remember.

“My major concern from the beginning was making sure I had enough girls interested in the program,” Thomas said. “Each day more and more girls came out until we had enough for varsity, junior varsity and a freshmen Yates High School volleyball coach Shanna Thomas (middle, back row) is proud of her Lady team.”

Lions squad.

Thomas says the Lady Lions have been experiencing success on all levels, Find out whose father was a Yates but none quite like the varsity squad.

All-American football player The Yates varsity reeled off eight consecutive victories to begin the season and went through the sive and utilize my height to my advantage. first half of district play unbeaten (District 20“For me the game is all mental,” Simone said.

5A). It wasn’t until a rematch with Austin in the “If I carry myself the right way both on and off the second half that the Lady Lions felt the agony of court, things will work out for me.” defeat.

Thomas said she informed her team they were “You have to know how to win and how to heading for success following the first week of lose,” said senior libero Destinee Bailey, one of practice. several Yates players hoping to secure a college “We had so much talent and on top of that they scholarship. “We’ll learn from this one and conwere hungry for success and loved to practice,” she tinue to work and improve.” said. “They learn each other’s moves in practice Senior setter Solana Hood says hard work and and I have to make them go home at times. When dedication are trademarks of the team. we get into the games, it’s like they can read one “Our practices are real hard and timed,” she another’s minds. said. “We discipline each other and study film. I be“I really don’t have to say much because if we lieve our success is due to our quality practices and get down, they fix the problem among themselves,” the fact that there were already key pieces in place.

Thomas said. “They have become so cohesive; they “They just needed a setter and another middle already know what I’m going to say before I say blocker. That’s where my sister and I came in,” said it.”

Solana, who also serves as the team’s vocal leader.

Other key players include Alex Thymes, Amber “We just need to work on our mental and emotional Felder, Raelena Means and Mykayla Gardner, who game as we move forward and tighten up in some doubles as a Yates cheerleader. minor areas as we prepare for the playoffs.”

“They serve well and most of our players Solana’s sister is freshman middle blocker Simhave a good all-around game,” Thomas said. “The one Hood. “We have a good time with each other beauty of our team is that the players are interand have learned to love and respect each other,” changeable. When I send them in the game, they she said. “The coaches want me to be more aggresknow what to do.”

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Channelview gets big win Channelview had never beaten North Shore in six previous meetings on the football field.

That all changed when the Falcons scored on the last play of the game with no time left on the scoreboard clock as wide receiver Bryant Valentine gathered in a deflected pass to secure a 49-48 first-ever victory over the Mustangs. It was Channelview’s sixth victory of the season that ensures its first winning football season in 20 years. The Falcons improved to 2-1 in District 21-6A after letting a game slip away the week before against Beaumont West Brook.

Channelview’s victory was the first in seven tries against North Shore and came on the Mustangs’ home field (Galena Park ISD Stadium). Falcons’ quarterback Jalen Hurts was outstanding in the game as he finished with 217 yards and two touchdowns through the air and 145 yards and one touchdown on the ground. Valentine contributed with six receptions for 140 yards and two scores.

Week 8 for unbeaten teams Ten Houston area high school football teams remain unbeaten heading into week eight of the regular season. Manvel, Pearland, Elkins, Ridge Point, Crosby, C.E. King, Waller, Navasota, Columbia, Huffman, and Woodlands Christian have eluded a dreaded loss thus far. Cy-Fair and Seven Lakes fell from the unbeaten ranks in week seven. A choice matchup will be when Fort Bend Elkins hosts Ridge Point at Hall Stadium in a key District 23-5A affair. Manvel and Pearland will meet Nov. 7 at The Rig in Pearland.

Biles’ dominance continues Houstonian Simone Biles continued her dominance in the field of gymnastics at the World Championships in Nanning, China recently.

Biles captured gold medals in the team event and the all-around competition, as well as the balance beam and the floor exercise. She successfully defended her crown in the team event and all-around events which she won in 2013 in Antwerp, Belgium. “I just wanted to go out there and hit all my routines. It was a lot of fun,” Biles said. “I’m looking forward to the next world championships and hopefully the Olympics in 2016.” Biles’ six gold medals in World Championship competition are the most ever by a U.S. woman, surpassing the five won by Shannon Miller.

Baylor keeps climbing The Baylor Bears are currently the #4 ranked team in the nation based on their undefeated record and a score-board busting, come from behind win over previously unbeaten TCU recently.

Both the AP and USA Today have the 6-0 Bears at the #4 slot behind #1 Mississippi State, #2 Florida State and # 3 Mississippi. Notre Dame is #5 in both polls. The Bears survived a Central Texas shootout with Big 12 rival Texas Christian, winning on a field goal as time expired 61-58.

Baylor overcame a 21 point deficit in the game’s final 11 minutes to remain perfect on the 2014 season. Heisman Trophy candidate Bryce Petty, after a slow start, completed 28 of 55 passes for 510 yards and 6 touchdowns.

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16

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 16 | 2014

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

topevents

PINK ANGELS.....Sisters Network Inc. rolled out its Pink Angel Awards Luncheon Public Leadership Award, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee; and Lifetime Achieveand Style Show at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. Founder/ CEO Karen Jackson was all ment Award, Earl Graves Sr., Black Enterprise Magazine. Pinnacle Award winners smiles as honorary chairs Gerald and Anita Smith along with co-chairs Caleen Allen were: Dr. Latisha Rowe, ClikItClinic; Jessiica Howell, Jessiica Howell Fashions; Joiand Shawntell McWilliams arranged a full house of who’s who of Black women in Lin Venison, Superweave Express; Tamicha Roberts and Danielle Roundtree, Sweet Houston. The impressive honorees were: Majic 102’s Kandi Eastman, Comcast Cable’s Dreams Gourmetsweet Dreams Gourmet; Seble Woubshet, Affirmative Biosolutions; Yolanda Green, HISD Trustee Paula Harris, philanthropist Arvia Few, Comerica Erma Palmer, Autos-R-Us; Dallas Jones, Elite Change; Charles Griggsby, Facility Bank’s Vanessa Reed, PR guru Judy Foston, Methodist HospiInteriors; Andre Horn, Industrial Welding Academy; Latanya tal’s Dr. Angel Rodriguez, Congressman Al Green and Breast Walker, JOLT; Jeffrey Sowells, Sowells Constructions ManageDefender TOP EVENTS ment; and Tristen Sutton, State Farm Agency…..GOLDEN Cancer Wellness Magazine’s Beverly Vote. A surprise guest was More photos on defendernetwork.com California Congresswoman Maxine Waters, who made a cameo SPLENDOR…..Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD) celebrated See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ appearance. The fantastic fashions were compliments of Elizabeth their 50th Anniversary Golden Splendor Gala with the theme “A with Melanie Lawson on Sunday Morning th Anthony…..PINNACLE AWARDS.....The 20 Annual AfricanTradition of Leadership, Friendship and Impacting Service.” The American Achievement Pinnacle Awards were presented by the majestic fanfare of trumpets introduced the TLOD presidents: Greater Houston Black Chamber at the Power Center surrounded by an atmosphere of Ladies Franchell Boswell, LaVerne Madlock, Faye Bryant, Vivian Crawley, Bobbie elegance. Showcasing Houston’s most prominent Black business owners, GHBC Board W. Moorehead, Jacquelyn Parker, Marie Stellos, Dorothy Chimney, Vivien RichChair Vernita Harris in concert with the gala co-chairs Wells Fargo executive Cary ard, Peggy LeCompte, Jackie Pope and Audrie Lawton. Lovely ladies from Miami Yates and A-Rocket Moving CEO DeAndre Sam, rolled out the red carpet. The winenjoying themselves were JoAnn McDonald, Katie Turner, Janice Dixon, Annette ners: Excellence Award , James Davis, Gulfgate Dodge; Endurance Award, Unity Bank; Brantley, Loretta Pieze, Mary Simmons, and Karen Love.

Anita Smith, Karen Jackson and Caleen Allen

Larry Green, Vernita Harris, George and Thomasine Johnson

Lady Bobbie Moorehead and Lady Georgia Provost

Shataria Greene, Bill Littlejohn and Merele Yarborough

Shonte Byrd, Loren Williams, Anita Smith and Dr. Inge Ford

Cary and Judge Clarease Yates

Lady DiAnn Robinson, Lady Teddy McDavid and Lady Rosemary McGowan

James and Marla Davis

Lady Hope Ruffin and Lady Helena Dodson

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