Houston Defender: October 26, 2017

FEATURE

FACT OR FICTION: DISPELLING BREAST CANCER MYTHS P8

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

Volume 86 | Number 51 OCTOBER 26 , 2017 |FREE

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NEWSTALK RUTH SIMMONS named sole finalist for PVAMU president

P2 ENTERTAINMENT ROBIN THEDE taking late night by storm

P4 H.S ZONE JOHNITZ ROBERTSON continues to amaze at Worthing

P11 TOP EVENTS

ASTROS

World Series ready H PAGE 10

Frederica Wilson

The Defender

The U.S. Rep. has received death threats and been called vile names after she blasted Donald Trump’s response to a Gold Star widow. The congresswoman was upset after family friend, Myiesha Johnson received a call from Trump about the death of her husband Sgt. LaDavid Johnson.

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source turns 87. The celebration focuses on C.F. Richardson Sr., and five alumni share why they cherish their experiences.

See how CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles is upholding the tradition, and meet members of the Defender team.

under attack

Tom Joyner Jr. and Miss TSU Tramauni Brock at the Pinnacle Awards.

P12

marks 87 years

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 26 | 2017

newstalk

HISD seeks input on school start times

H

as a result, a tighter budget.

“Based on HISD managing 67 different start times, we are evaluating the ISD is looking into the possibility of adopting standardized start possibility of changing times for schools at each school start level: elementary, middle times for and high school,” said next year.

HISD considers Tracy Clemons, a spokesThe district will consider two options person for the district. standardizing start times “These new times across all grade levels would be similar to surstarting in the 2018-19 Option 1 rounding districts. We school year, with the goal • Elementary are currently gathering of increasing bus transStart time 8:15 a.m. input from parents and portation efficiency and Dismissal 3:35 p.m. principals.

Any potential saving money.

• Middle changes would be taken Across its more than Start time 7:15 a.m. before the superintendent 280 campuses, HISD manDismissal 2:35 p.m. for consideration for the ages 67 different school • High 2018-19 school year.” start times – which is the Start time 7:15 a.m.

District officials say highest number in the Dismissal 2:35 p.m. the benefits of standardstate. This poses chalized start times include lenges to delivering safe, Option 2 increased ridership, more reliable, and affordable • Elementary efficient routes that arrive transportation for students.

Start time 8:45 a.m. and depart on time, and exThose challenges Dismissal 4:05 p.m. tended life of the bus fleet. include ineffective routes, • Middle “We took several factors increased cost of mainStart time 7:30 a.m. into account when drafting tenance and repairs, and Dismissal 2:50 p.m. these proposed new schedreduced bus availability • High ules,” said HISD Chief Opfor field trips and athletic Start time 7:30 a.m. erating Officer Brian Busby. events (an increased cost Dismissal 2:50 p.m “At the end of the day, it’s for campuses). The chalabout maximizing time and lenges also come at a To take the parent survey, saving money – which bentime when HISD is facing visit https://www.surveyefits our parents, our schools, growing future recapture monkey.com/r/39PLG6Y. and ultimately our students.” payments to the state, and The survey will close on Nov. 6.

Defender News Services

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People on the move Dr. Ruth Simmons named sole finalist for PVAMU president The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents named Dr. Ruth J. Simmons as the sole finalist for the position of president of Prairie View A&M University. Simmons has served as interim president since July. Simmons will formally become the eighth president of PVAMU at the next Board of Regents’ meeting in November.

“I knew Dr. Simmons was the right fit to lead Prairie View when we asked her to serve as interim president,” said Chancellor John Sharp. “I am so excited by the prospect of President Simmons serving our campus for the long term.”

Simmons, a pioneer in education, became the first African American to lead an Ivy League institution when she served as president of Brown University Dr. Ruth J. Simmons from 2001 to 2012.

Prior to joining Brown, Simmons served as president of Smith College, where she started the first engineering program at a U.S. women’s college. Simmons also held positions of leadership at Princeton University, Spelman College, University of Southern California, California State University-Northridge, Radcliffe College and George Washington University.

Simmons was born in Grapeland, Texas and grew up in Fifth Ward.

Dr. Kendall Harris named TSU provost, VP Academic Affairs Texas Southern University has selected Kendall T. Harris, Ph.D., P.E., as the new provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. Harris, who will begin employment with TSU on Jan. 1, 2018, comes to TSU from Prairie View A&M University, where he served as dean of the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering.

“Dr. Harris brings a wealth of experience and will help us enhance our academic programs and research efforts. We are glad to have him on our team that is dedicated to serving faculty, staff and students,” said TSU President Austin A. Lane.

A licensed professional engineer, Dr. Harris began his tenure at PVAMU in 2005 as associate dean and professor of Mechanical Dr. Kendall Harris Engineering. His external research efforts garnered more than $10 million in research and program funding. Harris also worked at the University of Texas at Arlington.

localbriefs ATTORNEYS FOR STATE REP. DAWANNA DUKES (D-Austin) said all criminal charges against her had been dropped. The announcement ended a months-long legal saga in which Dukes was accused of abusing public office. A grand jury indicted Dukes on 13 felony charges and two misdemeanor charges earlier this year. Prosecutors have been forced to admit that their case against the Austin Democrat was based on flawed evidence…….ALL FIVE LIVING FORMER PRESIDENTS took the stage at a benefit concert in College Station for the victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. Gathered under the championship banners in Texas A&M’s

Reed Arena, Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama thanked donors for their generosity and emphasized the importance of supporting the millions affected by recent natural disasters. In all, they raised over $31 million …….HURRICANE HARVEY VICTIMS can still receive help at the Disaster Recovery Center at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 3015 N MacGregor Way. The center has extended its operating hours to include Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Recovery specialists from FEMA, the State of Texas, the Small Business Administration and other agencies will be located at the center to answer disaster related questions and

can help survivors apply for assistance…….A KAPPA ALPHA PSI MENTAL HEALTH SYMPOSIUM is Nov. 18 in the Athletics/Alumni Center of the University of Houston, 3204 Cullen from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a discussion of mental health issues and resources will be provided in hopes of “Demystifying Mental Health.” Professionals will be on hand to discuss Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, bipolar disease, depression, schizophrenia and children’s mental health issues. Discussions will also center on when family members should call law enforcement about a loved one who is in crisis. To register call 832-895-9799 or visit www.MentalHealth2017.eventbrite.com.

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OCTOBER 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs POPULAR WHITE L.A. RADIO HOST Bill Handel is doubling down on calling Black Florida Congresswoman Frederica Wilson a “cheap sleazy Democrat whore,” by standing by his original comments and clarifying that he should have called her a “media whore.”

Handel’s comments were made on his show “Bill Handel in the Morning” after the beginnings of a fierce social media backlash that included TVOne’s Roland Martin and journalist Shaun King chiming in……..PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP’S CRIPPLING PAYMENT CUTS to President Barack Obama’s health care law may not take effect. A federal judge is hearing arguments about whether to prevent Trump’s latest attempt to dismantle Obamacare.

Democratic attorneys generals from 18 states sued the government over Trump’s plan to halt payments that subsidize health care policies for people who cannot afford to pay for health insurance. The plaintiffs say Trump’s move would destabilize health insurance markets and increase the uninsured rate. Democrats say that Trump has been sabotaging Obamacare since he came into office, as Republican lawmakers fail repeatedly to replace the health care law with something better…….NATION OF ISLAM LEADER LOUIS FARRAKHAN is calling for a “Blacks only state.” On the 22nd anniversary of the Million Man March, Farrakhan said Blacks should be more convinced that “it is time for us to separate and build a nation of our own.” The Million Man March was a gathering of African-American men in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 16, 1995. It is still considered one of the largest civil rights demonstrations in American history…….THE NAACP HAS OFFICIALLY NAMED DERRICK JOHNSON as president.

Johnson has held the interim position since July, replacing Cornell William Brooks. Johnson said he is eager to take up the mantle of the 108-yearold civil rights organization “as it re-envisions itself to take on a tumultuous and contentious social and political climate.”

VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 51 OCTOBER 26, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison 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 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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Soldier’s widow angry Trump didn’t know husband’s name Associated Press

The widow of a fallen soldier has reproached President Donald Trump over his condolence call, saying she was angered by his tone and that he couldn’t remember her husband’s name. Trump quickly responded on Twitter that he’d been “very respectful” and spoke the name “without hesitation.”

The harsh exchange was the latest in an ongoing dispute over how Trump reMyeshia Johnson kisses the casket of her husband Sgt. La David Johnson during his burial service sponded to the deaths of at Fred Hunter’s Hollywood Memorial Gardens in Hollywood, Fla. four service members “I heard him stumbling on trying to in the African nation of remember my husband’s name and that’s what Niger. hurt me the most, because if my husband is out Myeshia Johnson, here fighting for our country and he risked his La David Johnson’s life for our country why can’t you remember widow, spoke on ABC’s his name,” she said. “And that’s what made me “Good Morning Amerupset and cry even more because my husband ica.” It was her first was an awesome soldier.” interview after Florida Johnson also said she has received little Congresswoman Fredinformation about her husband’s death and erica Wilson accused complained she has not been able to see his Trump of being callous body. in the call by telling the The four U.S. soldiers were killed Oct. 4 widow that her husband in Niger when they were attacked by militants “knew what he signed tied to the Islamic State. Confusion over what up for.” happened has dogged Trump, who was silent Johnson confirmed Frederica Wilson about the deaths for more than a week.

Wilson’s account, saying the congresswoman was a Asked about his silence, Trump credited himself longtime friend who was with the family in the car with doing more to honor the dead and console their when Trump called and listened on speakerphone.

She said she had asked for the call to be put on speak- families than any of his predecessors. His subsequent boast that he reaches out personally to all families of erphone so relatives with her could hear. the fallen was contradicted by interviews with family “The president said that he knew what he signed members, some of whom had not heard from Trump up for but it hurts anyway,” Johnson said. She added: at all.

“The only way he could remember my husband’s The conflict continued with Wilson criticizing name was he told me he had my husband’s report the condolence call to Johnson. Trump fired off inin front of him and that’s when he actually said La sulting tweets, calling her “wacky” and accusing her David.” of “secretly” listening to the phone call. White House Trump, who had accused Wilson of fabricating Chief of Staff John Kelly also entered the fray. the statement, fired back on Twitter, saying: “I had a Johnson said that Wilson’s account was accurate. very respectful conversation with the widow of Sgt. “Whatever Ms. Wilson said was not fabricated,” La David Johnson, and spoke his name from beginshe said. “What she said was 100 percent correct… ning, without hesitation!”

Why would we fabricate something like that?”

But Johnson offered a different version.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 26 | 2017

entertainment

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Robin Thede

hosts new late-night show ‘The Rundown’ Defender News Services

Robin Thede made history as the first Black woman to work as head writer of a late-night series on “The Nightly Show With Larry Wilmore.” Now, the veteran comedian is making her mark as a late-night talk show host.

“The Rundown With Robin Thede” is a weekly half-hour show that airs on BET. It features classic monologue jokes and reported pieces along with sketch comedy and musical segments.

The late-night space remains overwhelmingly white and overwhelmingly male, but Thede is part of a vanguard of African-American female voices forcing themselves into the space – women like Amber Ruffin of “Late Night With Seth Meyers” and Ashley Nicole Black of “Full Frontal With Samantha Bee.” But Thede is running her own show. And she talks about her plans on making her mark on late-night.

Q: Where did the idea for “The Rundown” originate?

A: “When I pitched the show, I said I want to do a lot on pop culture because I feel some of the late-night shows rely too much on hard-core politics, and it comes off as too newsy. I want more of a Black point of view of the week’s events. At BET, we have the luxury of not having to talk about Trump.

Black people already know he’s bad.”

Q: What does the show consist of?

A: “We start with a topical sketch, a spoof on something topical from the week in the world of politics or pop culture, and then we go into the studio. We have a really fun party atmosphere in the studio,

and there I do two acts of “The Rundown” itself, which is a mix of politics and pop culture, quickly running down the topics of the week and giving my thoughts and takes on that –not just superficial jokes, but also diving a little bit deeper, because a lot of the stories may have been

“The Rundown With Robin Thede” airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. on BET. covered by other shows, but it’s really my unique take on things and what they mean to me and to our audience.

The third act is one of three things from week to week. It could be a pop-up concert, where we’re showing up around New York City in intimate locations like laundromats, bodegas, libraries, with established or up-and-coming artists. Kind of what [Dave] Chapelle did with musical performances – out of the box, kind of grittier. Or it could be a short documentary piece, which is our alternative to traditional field pieces from these sorts of late-night shows, so we’d be doing something that tackled a social issue as it relates to Black people.”

Q: Are there topics that you’re particularly excited to tackle?

A: “I think whatever matters to my audience. This is a show for BET, so it’s a primarily Black audience, but we’re inviting all sorts of people to come get an authentic view of what a Black lady has to say in late-night. I’m excited to tackle mainstream stories or more niche stories that Black people would love to hear about but aren’t getting more coverage from mainstream hosts.

In my world, pop culture and politics have equal weight. It’s okay to think that [Atty. Gen.] Jeff Sessions is going to double the mass incarceration rate in this country. But it’s also okay to care that Kim Kardashian is wearing makeup 10 shades too dark. There are hosts who don’t care about what Blac Chyna does. But I do.

what’sup SUGE KNIGHT HAS BEEN INDICTED for threats against director F. GARY GRAY in 2014 after seeing how he was being portrayed in the N.W.A. biopic. Court records show Gray received a phone call during the filming of “Straight Outta Compton” from Knight, supposedly angry about how he was being depicted in the film and that he had not received any compensation for it. Two more phone calls were reportedly made to Gray, which he ignored. It is claimed in court records that he also ended that message with a pair of expletives and a racial slur…….TYLER PERRY’S comedy

sequel “Boo 2! A Madea Halloween” scared up a healthy $21.7 million in its first weekend in theaters.

Made for a reported $25 million, Perry’s film drew a mostly older and female audience, who gave it an A- CinemaScore. “Boo 2!” did a little less business than the first film, which opened to $28.5 million last year..…..“Young and The Restless” star KRISTOFF ST. JOHN was reportedly hospitalized and placed under psychiatric evaluation after allegedly threatening to kill himself with a gun. Law enforcement sources said the actor’s ex-wife, MIA ST. JOHN, called police and told them St. John sent her photos showing

him holding a gun to his head. When police arrived, they confiscated two guns and placed St. John under a 72-hour hold for mental evaluation. The three-year anniversary of his son Julian’s suicide at age 24 is approaching (Nov. 23), and family members think that may have affected him negatively…….Radio legend TOM JOYNER, the “Fly Jock,” announced that he is retiring, but will work out his two-year contract.

Joyner earned the name “Fly Jock” after he collected more than 7 million frequent flyer miles flying back and forth between Dallas and Chicago to host two different radio shows every day for eight years.

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OCTOBER 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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celebrates 87 years

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source is observing its 87th anniversary, and is remembering the past while looking to the future.

The Defender was founded in October, 1930 by Clifton Frederick “C.F.” Richardson Sr., a political activist and civic leader.

He was a founding member of such organizations as the Houston NAACP and Houston Negro Chamber of Commerce.

Richardson had also served as managing editor of the Houston Observer and founder/editor of the Houston Informer. He endured threats of violence and an attack by the KKK for his activism.

When Richardson died in 1939, his funeral procession was one of the largest in Houston’s history.

C.F. Richardson Jr. became editor and publisher after his father’s death and the paper continued to advocate for justice and equality.

In this issue, alumni tell why they cherish their experiences at the Defender and current staff share the importance of their work.

C.F. Richardson Sr. (1892–1939) founded the Houston Defender in 1930 and is shown in his office.

Alumni treasure experience

Throughout its history, the Defender has been staffed by dedicated and accomplished professionals. Here, five alumni share their experiences and discuss the Defender’s importance.

KEVIN COOPER • Founder, Point One Group • Former Campus Defender reporter & intern “The most rewarding part of my work with the Defender was the people I met. I’ve learned that your network is more important than any idea you may have. They taught me about team and the ability to have fun. I had so much pride when the Campus Defender papers were dropped off at school and my photo was in it (plus it’s one of the best photos I’ve ever taken.)

People need a voice and the fact that the Defender has been providing that voice for so many decades says something. People need a place to turn and read about common joys and pains and the Defender provides that for such an important community. One of the biggest honors I’ve had in my life is being on the cover of the Defender when I graduated from high school in 1997.”

RALPH COOPER • Sports broadcaster • Former Defender sports editor “My most rewarding moment with Houston Defender was when previous owner Cliff Richardson Jr., son of original/founder Cliff Richardson Sr., decided to pass the baton to Sonceria Messiah-Jiles.

The energy Sonny put into learning the media business not only enhanced the Defender but the city of Houston, and inspired dozens of young people who became employees/interns of the Defender.

The Richardsons are in the heavens smiling and saying, “You were right when you said the Defender was in great hands!”

EMELDA DOUGLAS • Executive director, Susan G. Komen Houston • Former Defender finance & marketing manager “The most rewarding part of my work was access to the most relevant news impacting the local, regional and national African-American community. Also, it was such a privilege to work alongside the publisher, Sonny Messiah-Jiles, who was a role model and inspiration to us all as well as the other stellar, award-winning staff journalists.

The Defender is truly Houston’s Leading Black Newspaper and the most authentic community voice.”

KRISSAH THOMPSON • Feature writer, Washington Post • Former Defender intern “I got to know my hometown in a new way by working on stories in parts of the city I did not know well.

But more importantly, I made lifelong friends like Publisher Sonny MessiahJiles and Editor Marilyn Marshall, who both showed me the ropes in journalism and taught me the importance of community publications. They gave me the opportunity to report, write, suggest headlines and read copy. The experience for a young person (I was 18) was priceless!

The Defender’s history as a publication that both covers and advocates for the African- American community in Houston is part of a proud heritage of Black newspapers. It is for us, by us and that mattered in the past. It also matters today.”

TIFFANY WILLIAMS • CEO & creative director, Twice Media Productions, LLC • Former Defender multimedia coordinator & intern “The most rewarding part of my work with the Defender was writing and producing stories that impact my community. Too often, we are left out or portrayed negatively in mainstream media, so it’s important that we have a voice and write our own narratives.

The Defender is important because it gives voice to the voiceless and keeps those of us with a voice informed. Our stories deserve to be told, and the Defender works to expose wrongdoings, hold government and other major organizations accountable and help highlight the positive news that is often excluded from mainstream narratives. The Defender is vital to our community.”

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 26 | 2017

celebr

Team m

The Defender embraced a new generation by sponsoring a Millennial Roundtable.

Defender CEO upholds tradition

By MARILN MARSHALL Defender

Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah-Jiles was only 27 years old when she bought the Defender in 1981. Her goal was to uphold the newspaper’s tradition of excellence and activism while embracing new technology, increasing advertising and circulation, and recruiting the best and brightest talent.

Under her leadership, the Defender became “Houston’s Leading Black Newspaper.”

Here is a profile of the publisher and her thoughts on the past, present and future.

• Her background: Native, McNair/Baytown; B.A. in Political Science/ Economics, University of Houston; postgraduate work, Texas Southern University, Rice Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah-Jiles University • Career highlights: Chairperson & Publisher of the Year, National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA); advertising account executive, Houston Chronicle; TV talk show host/regular (Channel 11, 26, 2); national chair, UH Houston Alumni Organization; first Black female board member, Greater Houston Partnership; Ebony Magazine 100 Most Influential Black

Americans • Why the Defender has stayed strong for 87 years: “The Defender has stayed strong because of the foundation built by its founder. Mr. Richardson wrote fiery editorials and developed a 10-point platform for the Black community.

His son and successor, C.F. Richardson Jr., was a photographer at heart and believed in the importance of images and telling positive stories about Black people, not just the negative.”

• Why the Defender is important: “The Defender remains a recorder of Houston’s Black history as it unfolds week by week. Building on Mr. Richardson’s foundation, we have a responsibility to our readers and we take that responsibility seriously. Our goal is to serve community members by providing information that empowers them, encourages them and opens doors for them on several platforms: print, digital, events, and social media.”

• What the future holds: “We have exciting new projects that we are going to unfold in 2018 with an emphasis on a new slogan. We are going to expand our community outreach and social media footprint. Be on the lookout for what’s new in the Defender.”

SELMA DODSON TYLER • Advertising/Client services • Hometown: Chicago • B.S., Radio/TV/Film, Northwestern University • Disc jockey & promotions director, WZGC, Atlanta; account executive, KFMK, Houston; general sales manager, MAJIC 102, Houston; general manager, Clear Channel Works, Scottsdale, Ariz.

“I believe I am helping Black entrepreneurs make smart and effective advertising decisions that will benefit their bottom line while branding their business in Houston’s African-American community.”

MAX EDISON • Sports editor, college/pro • Hometown: Brazoria • BFA in Radio, TV & Film, Sam Houston State University • One half of Houston’s first AfricanAmerican co-ed sports talk show; winner, NNPA Merit Award for Best Sports Page; covered the big three – Super Bowl, World Series and NBA championship “I will continue to represent the African-American sports experience on the college and professional level with an eye on the glory of our history-making past, present and future accomplishments.”

CLYD Strateg · Home · Bache College; Associa Bleu, Pa · Execu Group & “My jo people t and reac I believe the com us addre positive

MARG • Engage • Hometo Ohio • Comple Administr Thomas, • Founder manager, LLC; form ConocoPh “Not ev sensation nonethele the news our comm Black med

defendernetwork.com • Serving t

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7

rates 87 years

members committed to the community Each staffer plays an important role in the Defender’s operation. Here is a look at Defender team members – including their positions, hometowns, education and career highlights – and how the community benefits from their work.

DE JILES gic alliance manager etown: Houston elor’s in Finance, Morehouse ; Culinary Institute of America, ates in Culinary Arts; Le Cordon aris, Superior Diplome utive chef, Mertice Hospitality & Catering ob is to bring different groups of together to identify a common goal ch a solution collectively. e together the collective power of mmunity and the Defender can help ess the issues we face and result in change.”

GO WILLIAMS HUBBARD ement manager own: Chicago, raised in Springfield,

eted English & Business tration studies, University of St. University of Phoenix r, MWH Public Relations; operations , DM Electrical & Construction mer communications specialist, hillips Company very story about our community is nal and sexy, but they are important ess. I try to use social media to deliver in a way that informs and engages munity. It’s also important that the dia share the truth of its own stories.”

TONY FERNANDEZDAVILA • Art director • Hometown: Lima, Peru • Bachelors in Communications, University of San Martin de Porres • Owner, tonyferdesign.net; Corporate lead designer & niche products specialist, GateHouse Media; creative director, Delaware News Journal; design director, AmNew York “I have worked with African-American, Latino and mainstream newspapers for many years in design and redesign. I have a lot of passion for the Defender. We have won numerous awards, I know the team very well, and we work in coordination so that each edition is the best.”

RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY • Managing editor • Hometown: Houston • Bachelor of Journalism, UT Austin • Twenty-plus-year career as TV news reporter/anchor; three decades as journalist; national best-selling author of 45 books, two of which have been made into movies; NAACP Image Award-winning writer; publisher of Brown Girls Books (boutique publishing company with over 40 authors); editorial consultant & ghost writer “I have worked in several aspects of journalism, but I always come home to the Defender (where I started in 1993) because our commitment to telling our stories remains strong”

MARILYN MARSHALL • Associate editor • Hometown: Austin • Bachelor of Journalism, UT Austin • Senior associate editor, Ebony Magazine, Chicago; reporter, Houston Post; reporter, Austin AmericanStatesman; NNPA Merit Award-winner; book editor “I have an unwavering commitment to the Black Press and am blessed to have worked for two historic Black publications, including 25 combined years with the Defender. I benefit the community by informing and inspiring readers, and by mentoring young journalists. I am semi-retired but wholeheartedly believe in the Defender.”

ASWAD WALKER • Writer/photographer • Hometown: Cincinnati • B.S. Communications/Advertising, UT Austin; Master of Divinity, Emory University’s Candler School of Theology • Author of three books; co-pastor, Shrine Christian Center of Houston; lecturer, UH African American Studies Program; founder, Bet on Black Productions “I bring a deep passion for Black empowerment which shows through my pan-African world view. This allows me to see through the anti-Black BS that often accompanies issues and events, and get to points that speak to our concerns and realities. This love for our people comes out in my photos celebrating the wide range of beauty we possess.”

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LARRY DAVIS • Distributor • Hometown: Seymour, Texas • Sociology major, Southwestern Adventist University • Driver & transportation coordinator; interest in Keravada Natural Hair Care Products; minister of music; elder, Hebron Seventh Day Adventist Church “I have become a resource of information to individuals not familiar with the paper.

I seek to promote the Defender as the leading Black paper in the city. So, on a weekly basis, I encourage those that I meet to be informed about activities in the Black community by reading the Defender.”

the Houston area for over 85 years

ROBERT SANDERS Distributor · Hometown: Houston · Worthing High School graduate · The Defender is a career highlight.

Delivering the paper is a wonderful job.

“I benefit the community by getting the paper to the people every Thursday. I have been able to pick up more locations and the more locations, the more people who can read the paper.”

RON SCURRY SR. • Distributor • Hometown: Galveston • Business Management & Electronic Technology Degree, TSU • Ramp agent, Southwest Airlines; manager, UPS “I benefit the community by helping to create awareness of the Defender. It is an important source of information that is needed and provides news on various fronts.”

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 26 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

Fact or fiction: Breast cancer myths Defender News Services

When it comes to breast cancer, there are a lot of myths floating around. As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, here’s the real deal.

Myth: Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk.

Reality: Roughly 70 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors for the disease. The family-history risks are these: If a firstdegree relative (a parent, sibling or child) has had or has breast cancer, your risk of developing the disease approximately doubles. Having two first-degree relatives with the disease increases your risk even more.

Myth: Wearing an underwire bra increases your risk of getting breast cancer.

Reality: Claims that underwire bras compress the lymphatic system of the breast, causing toxins to accumulate and cause breast cancer, have been widely debunked as unscientific.

The consensus is that neither the type of bra

you wear nor the tightness of your underwear or other clothing has any connection to breast cancer risk.

Myth: Most breast lumps are cancerous.

Reality: Roughly 80 percent of lumps in women’s breasts are caused by benign (noncancerous) changes, cysts or other conditions. Doctors encourage women to report any changes at

all, however, because catching breast cancer early is so beneficial. Your doctor may recommend a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy to determine whether a lump is cancerous.

Myth: Breast implants can raise your cancer risk.

Reality: Women with breast implants are at no greater risk of getting breast cancer, according to research. Standard mammograms don’t always work as well on these women, however, so additional X-rays are sometimes needed to more fully examine breast tissue.

Myth: Breast cancer always comes in the form of a lump.

Reality: A lump may indicate breast cancer (or one of many benign breast conditions), but women should also be on the alert for other kinds of changes that may be signs of cancer. They include swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple turning inward, redness, scaliness, thickening of the nipple or breast skin or a discharge other than breast milk.

IMPORTANT ELECTION COMING UP! Vote Early starting October 23. Election Day is Tuesday, November 7.

HOUSTON, IF WE CAN DREAM IT, WE CAN DO IT! That’s the spirit that is getting us

through Hurricane Harvey and today, I’m asking for your help again.

Please join me at the polls and vote FOR the City Bonds, Houston Propositions A through E. PROPOSITION A is the final piece of the solution to the pension crisis. It protects retirement plans for our police officers, firefighters and city workers, without raising taxes. If Proposition A fails, we could see layoffs of up to 2,200 city workers, including police and fire — and potential closures of health clinics and community centers.

MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER

PROPOSITIONS B, C, D AND E provide funds to repair or rebuild deteriorating police and fire stations, parks, libraries and health clinics, without raising taxes.

All the propositions are endorsed by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Al Green, Commissioner Rodney Ellis, State Sen. John Whitmire, State Sen. Borris Miles, State Rep. Garnet Coleman and the Houston Chronicle.

The best part is, if Propositions A through E pass, we can focus on rebuilding our city:

WITH NO NEW TAXES.

PLEASE JOIN ME: VOTE FOR ALL THE CITY BONDS, PROPOSITIONS A THROUGH E POL. ADV. LIFT UP HOUSTON PAC

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OCTOBER 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

9

Black student loan borrowers get raw deal

By CHARLENE CROWELL

For most families, the pursuit of higher education means substantial investments in time, effort, and a combination of cash and loans to gain a college degree. These investments – both human and material – are made in confidence that the rewards, although often years away, will one day result in a marketable set of skills that can command a better standard of living over a lifetime.

Unfortunately, life does not always bring what was once hoped for. Decades of racial wealth disparities result in the majority of Black students borrowing more loans than their white classmates.

Even after 12 years, student loan balances for Black bachelor’s graduates grew to 114 percent of the principal borrowed.

By comparison, white bachelor grads who borrowed loans owed only 47 percent of their principal for the same time frame.

This new finding comes from an education analysis by the Center for American Progress (CAP).

After a dozen years, CAP found that the former Black students owed more on their federal student loans, and further that nearly half of Black college student borrowers also defaulted on their loans. As some might suspect, 75 percent of those who dropped out of for-profit colleges wound up in default.

“Seeing even AfricanAmerican students who earned a bachelor’s degree struggle also reinforces that we cannot pretend the federal student loan program exists in a vacuum,” said Ben Miller, author of the analysis and senior director for Postsecondary Education at the Center for American Progress.

“Racial discrimination in hiring has not improved over the past quarter century,” Miller continued. “Perhaps it’s

Federal student loans by race & ethnicity

(entered college 2003-2004) *Median percentage owed 12 years after entry

Overall

Black

Latino

too much to expect student loans and Attained bachelor’s degree 60 114 79 postsecondary education to solve these structural problems, Attained associate degree 92 124 100 but sending AfricanAmerican students Attained certificate 76 108 * into an inequitable adulthood with large Still enrolled 101 115 100 debts from college can put them even furDropped out 83 106 79 ther behind than they already start.”

Note: Data include students who have completely paid off their loans.

The “further behind” reference Source: Author’s analysis of data from National Center for Education Statistics speaks to the $1,700 in accumulated wealth held by median Black households.

“Just as there were mortgage Understanding the borrowers who unnecessarily went into foreclosure during HIV Care System the housing crisis, there are FREE classes to help you get the most now borrowers who are unnecfrom HIV services in the Houston area! essarily defaulting on student Learn how to get good health care and how to get assistance paying for loans when alternatives exist to medications and health insurance costs, how a case manager can help you protect their payment affordfind other services, and learn about PrEP - all presented in short, easy to ability and their credit ratings,” understand sessions! noted Whitney Barkley-Denney, Saturday, November 4, 2017 a senior policy counsel with the 9:30 am Registration & Light Breakfast Center for Responsible Lending 10 am-12 pm Several classes to choose from (CRL) and a specialist in stu12:00 pm Networking Lunch dent loans.

Charlene Crowell is deputy LOCATION: FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Montrose Center Ryan White Planning Council communications director with 401 Branard Street Office of Support Please RSVP! the Center for Responsible Houston, TX 77006 713 572-3724 Lending.

ASL and Spanish interpreters will be in attendance.

10

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 26 | 2017

sports

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Astros vs. Dodgers in World Series American League pennant in franchise history. Astros pitching ace Justin Verlander was named the ALCS MVP. After losing three consecutive games on “We’ve earned it,” Astros manager A.J. Hinch said. the road to fall behind 3-2 in their best of seven “I think our team has been singularly focused from American League the very beginning.

Championship In spring training, we Astros return to Houston on Oct. 27-29 Series against the felt we had this caliber for Games 3, 4 & 5 (if necessary).

New York Yankees, team, and at that point, the Houston Astros we stopped talking Start time 7:09 p.m. proved there’s no about it. There’re two place like home. teams left standing, and The Astros returned home to the loud and raucous I don’t care what cities they’re from; one of them is confines of Minute Maid Park and took Games 6 and from Houston.”

7 to win the AL pennant and punch their ticket to the The Astros (101 wins) face the NLCS champion 2017 World Series.

Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series. The Dodgers The Astros closed out the Yankees 4-0 in a draposted the best record in baseball this year (104-58). matic Game 7 of the ALCS. This marks the local team’s This will mark the first time since 1970 (Reds-Orioles) first World Series appearance since 2005, and their first that 100-win teams will meet in the World Series.

By MAX EDISON Defender

Grambling flexes muscles in SWAC football championship game, the G-Men defeated East division leader Alcorn State 41-14.

“It was good to get out and play a game after taking As we head toward the home stretch in the college last week off,” Fobbs said after the Alcorn win. “We’ve got football season, one thing remains ominously clear – the some bumps and bruises from tonight, but we’re pleased to Grambling State University Tigers are the class of the come out on top with a victory.

SWAC conference.

“We were able to make some big plays. We were The defending champs have picked up where able to run the ball and throw the ball effectively, but also they left off from their 2016 campaign defensively we’ve been able to turn people over like when they were undefeated in we do, which has been truly amazing.”

SWAC play. Their record 6-1 Grambling leads the conference in record this season includes a scoring offense and scoring defense. The perfect 3-0 record in SWAC Grambling defense also ranks No. 1 in competition as the Tigers sacks, rushing defense and intercepset their sights on a hometions. Quarterback Devante Kincade coming match-up against leads the conference in passing winless Texas Southern average and efficiency. Running University on Oct. 28 in back Martez Carter ranks first in the Grambling. conference in all-purpose offense Head coach Broderick and ranks second in rushing.

Fobbs, now in his fourth With four conference games reyear at the helm of the hismaining on the schedule, Grambling is toric program, has been noththreatening to run the table in conference ing short of amazing, breathing play for the second consecutive year. They new life into the program. It seems would like nothing better than an opportunity like ancient history when Grambling to return to the Celebration Bowl in Atlanta and Coach Broderick Fobbs had to forfeit a contest against Jackson State defend their title as the nation’s No. 1 HBCU football due to a player revolt over sub-standard conditions. squad.

The Tigers have been hitting on all cylinders in The final edition of the SWAC Football ChampionSWAC competition, averaging 37 points per game, while ship game era will be played on Dec. 2 at NRG Stadium. only giving up 15 points to opponents. So far this season Headlining the game in a post-game concert will be R&B the Tigers have been able to handle two of its biggest soul sensation Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. adversaries with ease.

SWAC Commissioner Duer Sharp said conference Grambling defeated conference West division oppoleadership decided to suspend the championship game fornent Prairie View A&M University in the State Fair Clasmat after the 2017 season due to “the creation of the Celsic 34-21. In what could be a precursor to the conference ebration Bowl as a national showcase for HBCU football.”

By MAX EDISON Defender

Quarterback Devante Kincade

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h.s.zone Worthing multi-talented back Robertson continues to amaze “We came off a big loss last week so we had to make up for it,” Robertson said. “We have to keep that motor going and keep up the hard Johntiz Robertson continues to amaze for the work.”

Worthing Colts.

Robertson is a major factor for Worthing in In a 40-6 victory over district rival Kashmere all three phases of the game, including offense, at Barnett Stadium, Robertson opened the defense and special teams. game’s scoring with a 14-yard touchdown He’s had two 1,000-yard seasons as a run with eight minutes, 55 seconds rewide receiver coming into the 2017 season. maining in the first quarter.

He plays cornerback on defense and he’s He finished off the eight-play, one of the top return specialists in the city.

86-yard drive with three consecutive In order to get the ball in the hands of runs from scrimmage that his most dynamic player, Worthing head covered the final 33 coach Brandon Ellis has Robertson playing yards. significant time at running back.

As time ran “We try to get Johntiz the out at the end of ball in as many ways as we the first quarter, can,” Ellis said. “He can Robertson hauled score from anywhere on the in a 23-yard field so we line him up as a touchdown pass receiver, a running back and from quarterback he returns kick for us. About Jackson Harris. the only thing he hasn’t done The all-district yet is return an interception for a performer made his touchdown.” name as a receiver Robertson believes the 2017 and draws the season could be his best so far. attention of the “I want to finish strong and go defense wherever to the next level and play college he lines up. football,” he said. “Maybe some Perhaps his place like West Virginia. most impressive “I like to play all over the play of the night field and I want to wake evwould follow. erybody up as to the kind of With four football we play at Worthminutes left in the ing High School,” Robertson second quarter the said. senior four-year Worthing has remaining starter took an games against Wheatley inside handoff and (Oct. 26) and North shook a defender as Forest (Nov. 9) he darted to the far sidewith a bye week in line en route to a dazzling between.

81-yard TD run.

The Colts “[Kashmere] kept are 3-1 in District playing me for the inside 11-4A Division run,” Robertson said. “I I and remain in a knew I had it in me. I made strong position to a move and went with it.” nab one of the four Robertson capped off playoff berths. his night with a 56-yard “I want to make TD run at the 7:16 this a special season mark of the fourth and going to the playoffs quarter to finish the would be the perfect way to Find out about the forgotten team in game with 233 yards cap off my senior year,” RobDistrict 18-6A on 14 carries. ertson said.

By Darrell K. Ardison Defender

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OCTOBER 26 | 2017 | DEFENDER

115

sportsbriefs Harden Player of Week James Harden was named Western Conference Player of the Week for games played from Tuesday, Oct. 17 through Sunday, Oct. 22. It is the 14th time in his career that Harden has received Player of the Week honors, all coming with Houston. Harden helped the Rockets attain the league’s best opening week record at 3-0 while averaging 27.7 points, 9.0 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.67 steals. The Rockets began the season with a 17-point comeback at Golden State on Tuesday and won the following night in Sacramento before closing out the week with a 16-point win in the home opener vs. Dallas.

Dating back to 1983-84, Harden became the fourth player to record at least 27 points and 7 assists in each of the first three games of a season.

Elliott gets more time A judge has rejected the NFL’s request for an expedited hearing on Ezekiel Elliott’s injunction of his six-game suspension, meaning the Dallas Cowboys running back will be available to play against the Washington Redskins.

Judge Katherine Polk Failla of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District ruled that Elliott’s hearing will be held, as originally scheduled, on Oct. 30. The NFL sought an expedited hearing on the temporary restraining order recently granted to Elliott in the ongoing court battle over his six-game suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.

Elliott has played all season as the case between the NFLPA and NFL made its way through the legal system.

Waltrip wins battle Waltrip and Austin went into their Oct. 20 showdown at Delmar Stadium sharing first place in District 24-5A. Following a 38-16 victory that Waltrip broke open with three late scores, the Rams are in sole possession of first place with three weeks remaining in the regular season. Waltrip led 17-16 at intermission.

Kaleb Lastrape had scoring runs of one and four yards. Coley Barnes rushed for 102 yards and a three-yard TD run in the fourth quarter.

Cameron Howe passed for 341 yards and two touchdowns. Samuel Lemond had six receptions for 220 yards. Tyrell Buard, Jacob Reyes and Christian Cherry led the Waltrip defense that held Austin scoreless in the second half.

Waltrip improved to 6-0 overall and in district play while Austin slips to 4-1 and 3-1.

Lamar slays Heights The marquee matchup between Lamar and Heights turned into a lop-sided runaway with the Texans scoring two touchdowns in every quarter and throwing in a safety in the third quarter. Six different Lamar players scored touchdowns as the Texans prevailed 58-0 to improve to 3-0 in District 18-6A. Both teams were missing key players in Lamar running back Ta’Zhawn Henry and Heights standout two-way performer Jalen Green. Roderic Burns stepped in for Henry and had a 28-yard touchdown reception and a four-yard scoring run.

Lamar led 28-0 at halftime. Heights had 20 yards on 20 rushing attempts and no passing yards at the break. Green, a University of Texas pledge, will miss the remainder of the regular season with a broken shoulder.

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12

DEFENDER | OCTOBER 26 | 2017

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

topevents

THE EMPOWERED YOU: HOUSTON SENIOR CITIZENS (Chancellor, TAMU System) and Ruth Simmons (PVAMU president). Attendees CONFERENCE…….As part of Councilmember Amanda Edwards’ “Be included Carolyn Williams, Betty Sinegal, Edward Sinegal, Katherine Berry, the Solution Signature Series,” The Empowered You: Houston Senior Citizens Dr. Deland Myers, Evie Myers, Bishop D. Kimathi Nelson, Ursula Dorsey and Conference provided speakers, workshops and activities designed to equip seniors many others……. 23rd ANNUAL PINNACLE AWARDS….. The Greater Houston with information for empowered living. DeEtte Sauer, a National Senior Games Black Chamber hosted its 23rd Annual Pinnacle Awards, which it considers the most gold medalist, provided words of inspiration, as did Rawle Andrews, AARP prestigious award bestowed upon Houston’s successful and community-oriented regional vice president. Along with information booths and live entertainment, Black entrepreneurs. Amid Astros Game 7 energy outside, inside the venue – the line dancing took the event to another level. Attendees Marriot Marquis –excitement was generated by Pinnacle Award Defender TOP EVENTS finalists’ and other honorees’ tales of perseverance and service. included Isabella Edwards, Rosalind Chew, Horace More photos on defendernetwork.com Griffin, Dana Jackson (Majic 102.1 FM), Avis Ballare, On the national level, Tom Joyner Jr. accepted the Lifetime Cecil G. Snow, Daisy Snow, Christie Russell and many Achievement Award on behalf of his father. Attendees included others…….. PVAMU FOUNDATION GALA….. The inaugural Prairie View GHBC President Courtney Johnson Rose and Vice President Jackie Hall, A&M University Foundation Gala, held at the Hilton Americas Hotel, honored event chairs Shawn Taylor, Jevaughn Sterling, Sherifat Lawal Price and Ellis their mantra “Growing Greatness through Giving” by raising funds for all areas of Hubbard II, Tamar Davis (host), Miss Texas Southern University Tramauni academic and student achievement at PVAMU. Foundation chairman Roy Perry Brock, Congressman Al Green, and scores of business owners and supporters and mistress of ceremony Melanie Lawson (ABC 13) welcomed the packed house including Carlecia Wright, Jacqueline Camphor, Sadiyah Evangelista, Marlon addressed by Elaine Mendoza (Texas A&M Board of Regents), John Sharp Mitchell, Orgena Keener, Carl McGowan, Kelley Taylor, Chris Williams,

Councilmember Amanda Edwards, Isabella Edwards

Carolyn Williams, Roy Perry

Margaret Williams, Dr. Betty Cox, Rawle Andrews, Naomi Andrews

Elaine Mendoza, John Sharp, PVAMU President Ruth Simmons

Sherifat Lawal Price, Courtney Johnson Rose, Jevaughn Sterling

Tom Joyner Jr., Miss TSU Tramauni Brock

Rosalind Chew, Horace Griffin

Karen S. Carter, Emmitt Wooten, Maya Wooten

Tameika Carter, Kelley Taylor, Carissa Stephens, C.C. Sutton

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