Houston Defender: November 01, 2018

NATIONAL

FATAL SHOOTING OF TWO BLACKS AT KENTUCKY GROCERY STORE COULD BE A HATE CRIME P4

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Volume 88 | Number 2 NOVEMBER 1, 2018 FREE

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NEWSTALK RUTH SIMMONS testifies in affirmative action case

P2

NATIONAL BARACK OBAMA disses Donald Trump

P4 FEATURE CHRIS PAUL raising money for a worthy cause

Countdown to Nov. 6 election

RACES

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WATCH

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P15 TOP EVENTS

Rossalyn Jackson, Kareem Jackson and Hezekiah Jackson at Kareem’s Dinner for a Difference.

P16

Madea

coming to an end Tyler Perry says he is ready to retire his most famous character.

The multi-talented content creator revealed his plans to get rid of Madea once and for all, saying she will make her final bow in the upcoming film “Madea Family Funeral,” due out in March..

Abdul-Jabbar

sharing his journey The NBA great excelled on the court, but he has been a tireless advocate for civil rights and social justice for over 50 years.

He’s heading to town in conjunction with his newest autobiography, “Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court,” and a multimedia spectacle.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018

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newstalk

Houston offers amnesty program

PVAMU president testifies in affirmative action case served as president of Brown University from 2001 until 2012, coming out of retirement in April Prairie View A&M University Presito become the eighth president dent Ruth Simmons took the stand on at PVAMU. Simmons’ personal behalf of Harvard University in a trial journey, from the child of a shareover admissions policies that could imcropper and maid to the heights of pact college affirmative action programs academia, is inspirational. across the nation.

SFFA alleged that Harvard Simmons, who was also the first systematically rejects qualified African-American president of an Ivy Asian-Americans to maintain ilLeague school, told the court that the legal racial quotas. various criteria schools use to make adHarvard received 42,749 apmission decisions, including legacy and Dr. Ruth Simmons plications for its class of 2022 and admitted 2,024 athletic achievement, “all play a legitimate role in of them, according to the university’s data. The the admission process,” according to Law360.com. class is comprised of 47.3 percent white students, Lawyers for Harvard and anti-affirmative ac22.9 percent Asian-Americans and 15.2 percent tion group Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) African-Americans. But it was the race-based conrecently began their weeks-long court battle. Harsiderations that were preventing the Asian-Amerivard was accused of discriminating against Asiancan student population from being much higher, the American applicants in its admissions process. plaintiffs have contended.

Simmons is a highly regarded educator. She Defender News Services

Defender News Services

The City of Houston is once again offering its amnesty program now through Saturday, Nov. 17. Any defendant who voluntarily appears at any Municipal Court location during the amnesty period will be permitted to resolve all of their eligible delinquent cases, including failure to appear cases, and will not be subject to arrest.

“Many of our citizens are still putting the pieces back together from Harvey, and we understand that sometimes many are not able to meet all their obligations,” stated Judge J. Elaine Marshall, director and presiding judge of the Municipal Courts Department.

“We are hoping this final amnesty of the year will give everyone the opportunity to clear up old business, reduce the stress that delinquent cases cause, to start the new year off fresh,” said Judge Marshall.

Cases eligible for amnesty include cases that were delinquent prior to Sept. 1, 2018. Only the defendant named in the citation or their attorney can participate in the amnesty program.

Bonding companies, friends, relatives, and spouses cannot make the amnesty request on behalf of someone else.

The program does not apply to a defendant that is in custody, previously adjudicated cases, parking citations, administrative violations, bond forfeitures, or civil cases. Individuals may call the Houston Helpline by dialing 3-1-1 or 713-837-0311 for questions about whether their specific case(s) is amnesty eligible.

Defendants may take advantage of the amnesty program by phone, mail or in person at any Municipal Court location. For additional information about Municipal Courts or court cases, visit the website at www.houstontx.gov/courts or call the Houston Helpline at 3-1-1or 713-837-0311 if outside of Houston.

Spreading joy

Ahead of their recent performance at Jones Hall, the Soweto Gospel Choir paid a special visit to patients and their families at the Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center.

The 30-minute-long performance was a part of the Society for the Performing Arts’ Education & Community Engagement Programming in partnership with the Periwinkle Arts in Medicine Program. The program provides fun and educational art projects that encourage self-expression, empowerment and development of coping skills to patients and their families.

Artistic experiences can be a vital resource in helping patients cope with illness.

localbriefs LONE STAR COLLEGE IS AWARDING SCHOLARSHIPS to students living in communities that traditionally lack resources to succeed and now have an opportunity for a brighter future. Through the Lone Star College Promise Firsts Scholarship program, eight donors pledged a total of $250,000 for the fund and another $250,000 in matching dollars will be provided through Lone Star College Foundation from the chancellor’s discretionary fund.

The LSC Promise Firsts Scholarship program will be made available to qualifying first-generation students to go to college, first-time-in-college, and first responders. For more information visit LoneStar.edu/ Giving……..KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY

HOSTS a Mental Health Symposium, which will emphasize the perspectives and needs of people of color. Information will be presented and discussed around key issues of mental health and resources will be provided including vendors on location in hopes of “Unlocking the Mystery of Mental Health.” The symposium will also feature discussions by professionals in the mental health field. The event takes place Saturday., Nov. 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, 3100 Cleburne.

For more information contact Ronald Lockett at info@houkappa.org.......BE AN ANGEL IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS to shop for

gifts for nearly 5,000 Houston-area children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness who come from underprivileged homes. The program began more than 31 years ago with the aim of helping children experience the joy of receiving gifts during the Christmas season. Each child has an individual wish list. Volunteers are needed to load gift bags on Wed., Dec. 12 at the George R. Brown Convention Center from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Two hundred volunteers are needed per day at various locations to shop and 200-plus volunteers with vehicles are needed to deliver the gifts. For more information on volunteering with Be An Angel visit twww.beanangel.org.

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NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018

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national

U.S.briefs

Hate crime considered in Kentucky shooting Associated Press

The fatal shooting death of two Black grocery patrons by a white gunman is now being investigated as a possible hate crime.

Federal investigators are examining if there were any violations of federal law, “which includes potential civil rights violations such as hate crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Russell M. Coleman in Louisville.

Gregory A. Bush, 51, has been charged with Maurice Stallard murder and other crimes in the Oct. 24 deaths of the man and the woman at a Kroger store in Jeffersontown, located on the outskirts of Louisville. The FBI is investigating alongside local police.

The local coroner’s office identified the shooting victims as Maurice Stallard, 69, and Vicki Lee Jones, 67. Police said there didn’t appear to be any connection between Bush and the victims.

“The murders are not being taken lightly by the United States government,” Coleman said in a prepared statement.

Police said Bush attempted to enter a historically Black church minutes before arriving at the grocery store.

A surveillance video confirmed Bush’s presence at the Jeffersontown First Baptist Church about 10 to 15 minutes before he went to the Kroger, Police Chief Sam Rogers said. Rogers said it was too soon to say whether the shoot-

Vickie Lee Jones

ing was racially motivated.

Rogers said Bush apparently does have a history of mental illness, as news outlets have reported.

An arrest report said Bush walked into the Kroger, pulled a gun from his waist and shot a man in the back of the head, then kept shooting him multiple times “as he was down on the floor.”

The report said Bush then re-holstered his gun, walked outside and killed a woman in the parking lot. Each victim died of multiple gunshot wounds, Rogers said.

Bush was jailed on $5 million bond on two counts of murder and 10 counts of felony wanton endangerment.

Bush’s ex-wife is African-American, and she received protection orders against him after violent outbursts, including an incident in 2009 when she told police he called her racial epithets during a custody exchange of their son.

PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP LAUNCHED what opponents decried as a racially loaded attack on Florida Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum, labeling him a “thief” without evidence and claiming that, as mayor of Tallahassee, Gillum oversees one of the country’s “most corrupt cities.”

Trump’s tweet came just eight days before the election to decide who will lead the state – Gillum or his Republican rival, former U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis. Early voting is already underway and Gillum, who is vying to become the state’s first African-American governor, led by double digits in a recent CNN poll. Trump also insinuated that Gillum’s Florida A&M University (an HBCU) education was inferior to DeSantis’ Ivy League education. Gillum responded less than an hour after Trump’s attack and mocked the president for not engaging him more directly...….AN APPARENTLY INTOXICATED WHITE WOMAN who was caught on video racially abusing two Black women has been fired after boasting about her income and threatening the women at a Charlotte, N.C. apartment complex. Video of the encounter showed Susan Westwood approaching the women who were reportedly waiting for AAA to service their disabled vehicle in the complex parking lot. Westwood, 51, demanded to know why they were “congregating” because she doubted that a Black person could afford to live there. She bragged about earning $125,000 a year, adding that she was “white” and “hot.”

Cable provider Spectrum fired Westwood after viewing the video, calling it a violation of their code of conduct. Westwood also faces charges of simple assault and communicating threats… ……A TRUMP SUPPORTER from South Florida, Cesar Altieri Sayoc Jr., was charged with sending explosive packages to at least a dozen of the president’s critics, including former President Barack Obama, U.S. Sens. Cory Booker and Kamala Harris and Congresswoman Maxine Waters. The mailed pipe bombs did not explode.

Obama rips Trump, GOP in fiery speeches Associated Press

Former President Barack Obama criticized President Donald Trump’s tenure in office in fiery speeches in Milwaukee and Detroit that took aim at him and other Republicans for “making stuff up.”

The speeches were among Obama’s sharpest and most direct takedowns of Trump’s presidency, although the former president was careful to not mention Trump by name. He said the “character of our country is on the ballot” in the first midterm election since Trump took office.

Obama cited a recent Trump comment that he would pass a tax cut before the November election.

Obama added that “Congress isn’t even in session

before the election! He just makes it up!”

Obama’s visits were to urge people to vote for Michigan and Wisconsin’s Democratic candidates.

While Trump was frequently the target of his criticism, he did not spare Republicans generally and said they are lying when they say they want to protect people with pre-existing conditions while trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act. He spoke about the slow-moving migrant caravan from Central American bound for the United States as another example of a Republican scare tactic.

“Now the latest, they’re trying to convince everybody to be afraid of a bunch of impoverished, malnourished refugees a thousand miles away,” he said.

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 2 NOVEMBER 1, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

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

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For 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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NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Black leaders condemn synagogue shooting Defender News Services

African-American leaders and organizations said hate-inspired violence must end and offered condolences to the Pittsburgh community after the Oct. 27 killing of 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life Synagogue.

Robert Bowers, a 46-year-old white trucker, is accused of the attack, which the Anti-Defamation League called the deadliest against the Jewish community in U.S. history. Bowers was wounded in a gunfight with police and was released from a local hospital hours before his first hearing.

Police said he screamed anti-Semitic epithets, including “All Jews must die,” as he fired Former President Barack Obama Marc Morial at random, armed with an assault and Esther Bush, president and CEO of the Urban rifle and three handguns. ProsecuLeague of Greater Pittsburgh, also condemned the tors vowed to pursue the death penalty. mass shooting and said recent violence points to a Former President Barack Obama called on desperate need for a national movement of unity Americans to combat anti-Semitism. and healing.

“We grieve for the Americans murdered in “Our hearts are with the Tree of Life comPittsburgh,” Obama said. “All of us have to fight munity in Pittsburgh, the police officers who were the rise of anti-Semitism and hateful rhetoric shot in the line of duty, and all those who have against those who look, love, or pray differently. been targeted in this spate of bigotry and vioAnd we have to stop making it so easy for those lence,” Bush said. who want to harm the innocent to get their hands Morial reached out to the Anti-Defamation on a gun.”

League to offer solidarity and support.

T:9.75” National Urban League President Marc Morial

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“We need national leadership who can unequivocally condemn bigotry and hatemotivated violence and make it perfectly clear that white supremacists, anti-Semites and violent political extremists do not have a champion in the nation’s highest offices,” Morial said.

“The constant vilifying of political adversaries and endorsement of violent acts is wreaking incalculable damage, not only in terms of human life, but to the moral fiber of the nation.”

The NAACP said antiSemitism, racism, xenophobia and hatred represent “horrible stains” on our democracy.

“When these stains are embraced by elected officials and demagogues who prey on the fears and lowest common denominators within our nation, we all suffer,” the organization said.

“We must say no to hate, fear-mongering and the demonization of differences. We must express our opposition to hatred in all aspects of our lives including economic, social and at the ballot box.

We must support those individuals, institutions, and organizations which call for inclusion. If we remain silent, then those who champion stratification and division, win.”

CMYK

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New customers can qualify for a $500 bonus,* and get access to our team of personal bankers who are there to help you with your banking needs.

In order to qualify, you must be a new Wells Fargo customer and: • Open a new consumer checking account with a minimum deposit of $25, and within 150 days set up and receive at least 3 consecutive monthly direct deposits of $500 or more a month, and • Open a new consumer savings account with a minimum deposit of $25, and within 10 days, deposit at least $25,000 in new money, and maintain a balance of at least $25,000 for 90 days T:6.5”

• This limited-time offer expires November 16, 2018. Visit a participating* Wells Fargo branch and talk to a banker today!

Your bonus will be deposited into your new consumer checking account within 45 days after eligibility and qualifications are met.

Find a branch near you: wellsfargo.com/locator *Important things to know about this offer: Checking and Savings Bonus Eligibility: Only certain consumer checking accounts are eligible for this offer, including non-interest bearing checking accounts. Ask a personal banker for details. Teen Checking,SM Greenhouse by Wells Fargo, and the prepaid Wells Fargo EasyPay® Card are not eligible for this offer. All consumer savings accounts are eligible for this offer, excluding Time Accounts (CDs). This is an exclusive, non-transferable offer. A valid bonus offer code will be provided to each customer while meeting with a banker. You cannot be: a current owner on a Wells Fargo consumer checking or savings account, a Wells Fargo team member, or a recipient of a consumer checking or savings bonus in the past 12 months (limit one bonus per customer). Offer is only available to customers in the following states: AK, DC, ID, MN, NJ, NE, TX, WY. Bonus Qualifications: To receive a $500 bonus: 1. Open a new, eligible consumer checking account with a minimum opening deposit of $25 by November 16, 2018. Within 150 days of account opening, set up and receive at least three consecutive monthly qualifying direct deposits of at least $500 each month. During this time, your account balance must be at least $1.00 or more. A qualifying direct deposit is the customer’s salary, pension, Social Security, or other regular monthly income of an accumulated $500 or more, electronically deposited through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network to this checking account by your employer, or an outside agency. A non-qualifying direct deposit is a transfer from one account to another, or deposits made at a Wells Fargo branch or ATM. AND 2. Open a new, eligible savings account with a minimum opening deposit of $25 by November 16, 2018 and within 10 days of account opening, deposit at least $25,000 in new money into either the new checking or new savings account, and maintain at least a $25,000 cumulative account(s) balance for 90 days. New money is defined as at least $25,000 in new deposits from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates. Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Offer subject to change and may be discontinued at any time. Offer cannot be: paid without a valid U.S. Taxpayer Identification Number (W-9); combined with any other consumer deposit offer. Minimum new money deposit requirement of at least $25,000 is for this offer only and cannot be transferred to another account to qualify for any other consumer deposit offer. If you wish to take advantage of another consumer deposit offer requiring a minimum new money deposit, you will be required to do so with another new money deposit as stated in that offer’s requirements and qualifications. Those who take advantage of this Savings bonus offer cannot also take advantage of any New Dollar promotional interest rate offer during the same promotional period. Offer cannot be reproduced, purchased, sold, transferred, or traded. Bonus Payment: We will deposit the $500 bonus into your new consumer checking account within 45 days after eligibility and qualifications have been met. Checking account must remain open in order to receive the bonus payment. You are responsible for any federal, state, or local taxes due on your bonus, and we will report as income to the tax authorities if required by applicable law. Consult your tax advisor. New account open subject to approval. Checking and savings accounts are subject to monthly service fees; please refer to the Consumer Account Fee and Information Schedule (available at www.wellsfargo.com/online-banking/ consumer-account-fees) or speak to a banker for more details. The consumer savings accounts eligible for this offer are interest-bearing accounts with variable interest rates. For example, Wells Fargo Way2Save® Savings pays an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 0.01% on all balances and requires a minimum opening deposit of $25. The APY is accurate as of 9/13/2018 and may change at any time without notice. Fees may reduce earnings. © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Legacy widens breast cancer screening efforts

BECOMING KAREEM

HOSTED BY CLYDE DREXLER ONE OF THE TOP 50 GREATEST PLAYERS OF ALL TIME FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 • 7:30 PM • JONES HALL

Defender News Services

Legacy Community Health is expanding its breast cancer screening efforts across Houston thanks to a $100,000 grant from the American Cancer Society and the National Football League’s Crucial Catch campaign.

The funding will focus on screening efforts in the African-American community, while also targeting other underserved Dr. Ann Barnes populations. It will provide more breast cancer screenings, increase follow-ups to abnormal mammograms and timely access to any needed specialty care.

“When it comes to breast cancer, early detection is still the key. This generous grant will increase our capacity to provide mammograms to women across Houston’s most underserved communities,” said Dr. Ann Barnes, Legacy Community Health’s chief medical officer.

Breast cancer rates have steadily decreased since 1989, but there still remains a large racial gap when it comes to breast cancer mortality. Both Black and white women get the disease at the same rate, but the mortality rate is more than 40 percent higher for women of color. Access to timely follow-up and high-quality treatment are the key drivers of these disparities, especially in underserved comT:9.75” munities.

NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer.

Six-time NBA Champion.

NBA’s only six-time MVP.

713.227.4772 • SPAHOUSTON.ORG

It’s time to show our power.

Don’t be a no-show at the November 6 elections.

Make sure Washington protects our Social Security and Medicare and keeps our prescription drug costs from soaring.

As African Americans over 50, we must use our voices.

T:6.5”

Vote on November 6.

photo: Timot m hy Green Green reen eld e d-Sa S nder nders rs

CEO, AARP

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP

Be the difference. VOTE. Learn more at aarp.org/vote

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NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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Tyler Perry planning end of Madea movies Defender News Services

Tika Sumpter, Whoopi Goldberg and Tiffany Haddish star in “Nobody’s Fool.”

‘Nobody’s Fool’ latest Tyler Perry film Defender News Services

Even after decades in the entertainment industry, Tyler Perry is still celebrating “firsts.” The latest? An R-rated comedy, “Nobody’s Fool,” starring Tiffany Haddish, Tika Sumpter, Omari Hardwick, Austin native Mehcad Brooks, Amber Riley and Whoopi Goldberg.

The movie, which hits theaters on Nov. 2, is about a woman attempting to return to the real world after being locked up. Black sheep of the family Tanya (Haddish) moves in with her straight-laced sister Danica (Sumpter), who assists in helping her get back on track.

As the two opposite worlds collide, humor coincides as the two sisters and their mother (Goldberg) interact and Tanya discovers that Danica’s pictureperfect life and her Internet boyfriend may not be what they seem.

“I wanted to go all the way, and that’s what we did,” Perry told the Hollywood Reporter.

Sumpter has worked with Perry on several projects, but she said “Nobody’s Fool” was different.

“He let loose, he had a good time, and we were free in our characters – not that we weren’t before – but we could have a little bit more fun and say more ad-libs than we would’ve. It’s such a layered piece that he wrote. I’m so excited to be in his first R-rated comedy, and then with Tiffany, Whoopi, and so many others, it’s exciting.”

“Nobody’s Fool” wasn’t Perry’s first time working with another one of the film’s leading ladies, Haddish. The two first collaborated on Perry’s show on OWN, “If Loving You Is Wrong,” but he said even then, he knew Haddish belonged somewhere “bigger.”

Haddish said the movie helped her see online dating in a whole new light. “I’m not the biggest fan of Internet dating because you never know what you’re getting,” Haddish said. “Let’s meet somewhere. I like to go to the library because I want to make sure I meet a man that knows how to read…he knows how to return things.”

Tyler Perry is ready to retire his most famous character.

The multi-talented content creator revealed his plans to get rid of Madea once and for all during a recent interview with Bevy Smith on Sirius XM. “This is it,” he said. “It’s time for me to kill that old b*tch. I’m tired!”

According to Perry, Madea will make her final bow in the upcoming film, “Tyler Perry’s a Madea Family Funeral,” due out in March. The flick will be the eighth film from the Madea franchise and the eleventh time the character has appeared on the big screen.

“We’re gonna say goodbye in ’19,” he said. “I just don’t want to be her age playing her.”

Although Perry insists he will be retiring Madea from the big screen, she won’t disappear all together. He’s planning to take the character on a “farewell” stage tour that will feature a few characters and actors from the films.

Perry also revealed he has no plans to take his talents to Broadway.

“My thing with Broadway is that you got to do the exact same thing every night, the exact same way. That wouldn’t work for me,” he explained. “I’d piss off all the producers. I’d be like, look, we gotta do something different.”

what’sup CHRIS ROCK and KEVIN HART are teaming up for a new film. With WILL PACKER as the producer and Rock as the director, Hart will star in “CoParenting,” Deadline reports. In the film, Hart plays a stay-at-home dad whose CEO wife is the breadwinner for the family. After she decides she wants out of their marriage, their relationship becomes everything but amicable as their divorce and custody battle gets nasty. Hart and Packer are frequent collaborators and their movies are always huge successes. Their latest flick, “Night School,” grossed about $28 million in the box office its opening weekend earlier this month.

Their “Think Like A Man” series grossed over $91 million in the U.S. while its sequel grossed over $71 million……..After turning down an offer to perform at next year’s Superbowl halftime show, RIHANNA is looking to join forces with former NFL quarterback COLIN KAEPERNICK on a new project. Kaepernick was shocked when we heard the “Wild Thoughts” singer supported him in his protest and they have been in contact ever since. The Metro UK reports that they will be collaborating on a project that will push for social justice through music………It’s no secret that 50 CENT and fellow rapper, JA RULE, don’t like each

other, and it looks like their beef isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. 50 Cent reportedly purchased 200 tickets on Groupon for a Ja Rule concert so the seats would be empty. Critics say his pettiness knows no bounds……NBC’s AL ROKER is back in the anchor chair in the 9 a.m. hour of the “Today” show after he was replaced by MEGYN KELLY. Roker won’t have his former comrade, TAMRON HALL, re-join him as she was also replaced to make room for Kelly, whose talk show was recently cancelled amid poor ratings and insensitive “blackface” comments.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018

Countdown to Nov. 6 election

RACES WATCH TO

Defender News Services

Houston-area residents go to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 6, to cast their votes in the midterm election. Interest is already at an all-time high, with early voters going to the polls in record numbers. Here are some races to watch, with candidates running as Democrats (D), independents (I), Libertarians (L) and Republicans (R).

U.S. SENATE

Ted Cruz (R)

Beto O’Rourke (D)

Neal M. Dikeman (L)

U.S. CONGRESS

John Culberson (R) U.S. Rep. District 7

Lizzie Pannill Fletcher (D) U.S. Rep. District 7

Al Green (D) U.S. Rep. District 9

Phil Kurtz (L) U.S. Rep. District 9

Benjamin Hernandez (I) U.S. Rep. District 9

Kesha Rogers (I) U.S. Rep. District 9

Vince Duncan (I) U.S. Rep. District 18

Phillip Aronoff (R) U.S. Rep. District 29

Adrienne Bell (D U.S. Rep. District 14

Don Conley III (L) U.S. Rep. District 14

U.S. CONGRESS

Randy Weber (R) U.S. Rep. District 14

Ava Reynero Pate (R) U.S. Rep. District 18

Sheila Jackson Lee (D) U.S. Rep. District 18

Luke Spencer (L) U.S. Rep. District 18

Sylvia R. Garcia (D) U.S. Rep. District 29

Cullen Burns (L) U.S. Rep. District 29

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THINGS TO KNOW S VOTING HOURho . statewide. urs are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m Election Day voting

ID REQUIREMENTS

• Texas driver’s licen se • Texas election ident ification certificate • Texas personal ide ntification card • Texas handgun licen se •Passport, U.S. milita ry identification card or citizenship certificate containing a photograph.

• Supporting forms of ID including copy or original government docume nt, voter registration certificate, current utility bill, ba nk statement, govern ment check, paycheck or birth ce rtificate

WHO CAN VOciTtizEen

ion for • A United States in which applicat ty un co s xa Te e • A resident of th ade registration is m n day s old on electio ted must • At least 18 year , or, if so convic ny lo fe a of d te ic nv g any term • Not finally co ntence, includin se e th ed rg ha sc eted a have (1) fully di rvision, or compl pe su or , le ro pa ) been parof incarceration, any court; or (2 by d re de or n io disability period of probat om the resulting fr ed as le re e is doned or otherw exercising to vote ment of a court dg ju al fin a by capaci• Not determined tally mentally in to ) (1 be to n io d without the probate jurisdict lly incapacitate ta en m lly ia rt tated; or (2) pa right to vote

BRAZORIA COUNTY

FORT BEND COUNTY

David Linder (R) Co. Comm. Precinct 4

Cliff Vacek (R) District Attorney

Arnetta Murray (D) Co. Comm. Precinct 4

Brian M. Middleton (D) District Attorney

Fred G. Taylor Missouri City Mayor

CURBSIDE VOTING

Voters who are physically una ble to enter the polling location without assista nce or likelihood of injury may ask the presiding precin ct election official to allow them to vote outside the polling location.

You may bring a friend who can enter the polling location for you to let the sta ff know that you will be waiting in your car. The att endant will note your place in line and take an electronic ballot out to you when it is your turn to vote. You wil l then be able to vote within the privacy of your car .

L VOTING PROVISIONipAulates that if a voter appears atara

Federal law st does not appe his/her name d cast a an e ac pl polling the voter may , rs te vo of er rost eligible on the official ms to be both ai cl he /s he if llot in that provisional ba stered to vote gi re d an on ti vote elec al is eligible to to vote in the du vi di in an er heth counted is jurisdiction. W ballot will be l na io is ov pr the and whether state law. by ed in determ

FOR MORE IN

FO www.brazoria countyclerk.n et www.fortbend countytx.gov www.HarrisVo tes.com

Allen Owen Missouri City Mayor

Yolanda Ford Missouri City Mayor

HARRIS COUNTY

Ed Emmett (R) County Judge

Lina Hidalgo (D) County Judge

e Houston area for over 85 years

Eric Gatlin (L) County Judge

Jack Morman (R) Co. Comm. Precinct 2

Adrian Garcia (D) Co. Comm. Precinct 2

R. Jack Cagle (R) Co. Comm. Precinct 4

Penny Shaw (D) Co. Comm. Precinct 4

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

OBITS

Local activist Ovide Duncantell remembered Defender News Services

Ovide Duncantell, the Houston civil rights activist committed to keeping the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. alive, died on Oct. 25 at age 82. Funeral services are pending.

Duncantell was founder of the Black Heritage Society, a self-help, non-profit organization. He was the originator of the MLK Jr. Parade and a driving force behind the renaming of South Park Blvd. to MLK Jr. Blvd.

He also spearheaded the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Statue and Plaza.

In 2012 he chained himself to a tree on MLK Blvd. known as the Tree of Life, which was scheduled to be removed for construction of Metro’s light rail line.

It was eventually relocated to MacGregor Park.

Ovide Duncantell Mayor Sylvester Turner recalled his commitment to the community.

“Ovide Duncantell and I ran for county commissioner in 1984, and we both came up short,” Turner

Avoid problems with straight-ticket voting Texas Tribune

The Texas Secretary of State is urging vThe Texas Secretary of State is urging voters to doublecheck their ballot, after complaints from some that when they vote straight-ticket and reviewed their final list of selected candidates, someone from an opposing party was picked instead. Officials say the voting machines are not at fault. Rather, the problems reported are the result of “voters hitting a button or using the selection wheel before the screen is finished rendering,” which de-selects the pre-filled candidate selection.

“The issue is occurring primarily with the U.S. Senate race selections, because it is at the top of the ballot,” said Sam Taylor, a spokesman for the secretary of state.

The problem is happening with Hart eSlate voting machines, which are used in 82 of Texas’ 254 counties. In a statement, Hart eSlate said it “simply records the voter’s inputs. It does not, and cannot, ‘flip’ or ‘switch’ votes.” A spokesman also said that their voting devices comply with the state’s Election Code and have been used “reliably across Texas” since 2002.

Voters are urged to double-check all votes before submitting their ballot.

sponsored by the Black Heritage Society and supported by the City of Houston will be extra special as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and remember and thank Ovide Duncantell for living a rich life of service.”

Duncantell was born in Natchitoches, La., in 1936. After graduation he entered the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1959. Returning home after leaving the service, he soon discovered his vision of success wouldn’t be achieved there. He married a “hometown girl” – Naomi Duncantell, who died in 2015 – and left for Los Angeles. He stopped in Houston to visit his new wife’s brothers and became a permanent resident.

In 1969 he went to work for the AntiPoverty Program-Houston Community Duncantell was accompanied by Congressman Al Green and Martin Luther King III at the 2014 unveiling of the MLK Jr. Memorial Statue and Action Association and organized youth, adults and senior citizens to band together Plaza. and improve their communities. He later created his own organization titled the said. “However, his commitment to the Central Committee for the Protection of Poor People. community and holding people accountHe worked for County Commissioner Tom Bass able never waned. Ovide Duncantell was from 1973 to 1977 and also earned his bachelor’s and the force behind the Black Heritage Society, master’s degrees from Texas Southern University. Along and the Black Heritage Society was deeply the way he became founder and executive director of the rooted in him.

Black Heritage Society in 1974.

“With the Black Heritage Society, he Duncantell’s ongoing efforts to keep Dr. King’s honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther legacy alive impressed his father, Martin Luther King King Jr. by organizing the MLK Jr. Day Sr., who made a personal appearance at the street name Parade and many other events surrounding the MLK change and served as the MLK Parade’s first grand marweekend. shal in 1978.

“The MLK Jr. Day Parade this January (2019)

Cybersecurity tips help small businesses

By RICH BAICH Wells Fargo

From digital payments to social media to mobile ordering, technology has radically transformed how small business owners operate. At the same time, the speed of technology innovations has created an increasingly difficult challenge: how to protect a business from cyber threats.

Many initially think about large companies when discussing cybersecurity breaches, but small businesses are just as vulnerable to threats. In fact, a single business can spend more than $1 million recovering from damage or theft of IT assets.

This can cripple a small business.

The best defense is to be prepared, so here are some strategies you can take to make your business more resilient to cyber threats.

Understand your unique needs for security

Business owners must understand that having a one-sizefits-all approach to cybersecurity can leave substantial gaps making their businesses vulnerable. The first step is to think about exposure: this includes the hardware and software you are using as well as operations conducted via web or cloud-based systems. You should also consider what unique threats there are to a particular system. It isn’t enough to think about your own business. What about the third-party vendors you’ve hired? Any of their vulnerabilities will affect you, too.

Prevent against the vulnerability of connected systems

Connectivity of systems both internally and externally has been a major driver of technological progress, and the advent of things like cloud-based storage and mobile payment options

have made doing business easier. But while interconnected systems may make things run more efficiently, it also can increase the risk – a vulnerability in one system can affect the connected ones as well.

Keeping critical systems like payroll, business email, and point-of-sale (POS) separate can decrease the inherent risks of connectivity and help ensure that one cyber threat doesn’t compromise a business’ entire operation. Another solid strategy is to have a well-integrated backup system for both internal and customer information.

Handle employee access carefully

Ensuring proper training and clearly defining access to systems based on your employee’s roles helps to cut down the risk that they will introduce a cyber threat, intentionally or not.

Managing the access of employees also includes regularly updating any security credentials like usernames and passwords, and immediately removing an employee’s access following termination. These are elements that easily can be forgotten and yet can cause serious issues if left unchecked.

Don’t forget mobile security

The security of mobile devices like smartphones and tablets is also a key consideration in guarding against cyber threats. Regularly updating passcodes, only downloading applications and files from trusted sources, and avoiding any suspicious links or texts are all important to protecting your business from the risks of mobile technology. In addition, using anti-virus software for mobile devices helps protect them in places with public networks like airports, convention centers, and coffee shops.

Rich Baich is chief information security officer at Wells Fargo in Charlotte, N.C.

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Kanye distances himself from conservative, politics Defender News Service

MARCUS USED TO STAY LATE AT SCHOOL TO WORK ON HIS HISTORY REPORT. NOW HE DOES HIS RESEARCH FROM HIS BEDROOM.

LEARN MORE. DO MORE. SHARE MORE.

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Kanye West said he never wanted any association with the Blexit brand.

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Following reports that he designed T-shirts and caps with the Blexit (Black exit from the Democratic Party) brand and was urging Black voters to leave the party, Kanye West denied the claim, and said he was being used to spread messages he didn’t support.

The concept, originated by Black conservative Candace Owens, advertised that West designed the group’s merchandise.

“I introduced Candace to the person who made the logo,” West tweeted. “They didn’t want their name on it so she used mine. I never wanted any association with Blexit. I have nothing to do with it.”

He added, “My eyes are now wide open and now realize

I’ve been used to spread messages I don’t believe in. I am distancing myself from politics and completely focusing on being creative !!!”

Owens released a statement walking back West’s involvement.

“I said on stage that my friend and fellow superhero helped me design the ‘X’ for Blexit,” she wrote. “Blexit is a project that is mine entirely.”

Owens shared the collection at the recent Young Black Leadership Summit in D.C. The gathering of young Black conservatives included a rally with President Donald Trump at the White House.

Trump is continuing his efforts, which began during the 2016 presidential campaign, to convince Black people to join the Republican Party.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Houston Gospel Music Legends Carol Allen-Simmons Richard Baker Andrew Berry, Sr. Theola Booker Olivia Branch-Walker Lee Ida BrownCampbell Glenn Burleigh Helen Burrell Lecresia Campbell Lillian Cook-Mitchell Darryl Daniels Rosalind Darrin DuWayne Davis Jerry Davis Alvin Dread Barbara Rose Franklin Jesse Harrison Joseph Hearne Allene Hines Arthur Holmes Clyde Owen Jackson Estelle James

Houston Gospel Music Living Legends Myra Allen-Banks Milas Baul Jessie Mae Berry Wilma Jean Bivens Ione Booker Eleanor Brackins-Lee Helen Brock Rose Brunswick Mary Butler

Houston Gospel Music Torchbearers Yolanda Adams DeJuan Adamson Daniel Alexander Marvan E. Alexander Angela Alfred Doren Allen Mallory Allen Lydia Alston Jesse Anderson Ray Bady Chester Baldwin Cedric Ballard William Barksdale Jacory Bass Andrea Baty Vanessa BellArmstrong Angela Bennett David Bennett Juretta Berry Lee and Stephanie Blue Nikki Boldware Johnny Branch Chad Brawley Dawn Braxton Vicki Bright Anna-Boney Brown Erwin Brown Michael Burns Kathy Burrell Kim Burrell James Burt Willie Byron Johnson Kurt Carr

Royce Johnson Shirley Joiner Billy Joe Jones Paul Jones Bill King Tomasita Lewis Ronald Materre Rosalyn McDuffie Juanita Nash Hanq Neal Carl Preacher Gideon Sanders Jerome Sims Betty Talley Cornell Thigpen Chester Hebert Thompson Willie Thornton Donald Tucker Willie Lee Turner, Jr. Charles Tyrone Brenda Waters Barnett Williams Eugene Williams Jesse Williams

Houston Gospel Music Honorable Mentions

William King Francis Lee Connie Murphy Richard “Pap” Murray Anthony Oliver Bruce Parker Jeffrey Parker Daryl Pitts Martha Pollard Lloyd Rogers Margie Russaw Jesse and Ada Sampson Edwina, Debbie, and Glenn Sloan Bennie Smith Carmen Smith Earl Sykes Cedric Taylor Anthony Terrell Freddie Mae Tubbs Ruthie Wright

Houston Legendary DJ’S and Radio Announcers

Elnora Cain Robert O. Chambers Christine Cockrell Beatrice Conway Nevarro Daniels Freddie DudleyProctor Donald Ray Edwards Eileen Edwards Pat Ford Patsy GilliamThompson Willa Dean Glover Robert Green

Brenda Harland Alice Harris Don Hill Pat Hobbs-Smith Betty Hollins Ed Howard Joan Hubert Minnie Jefferson Dawn Jenkins Barbara JohnsonTucker Kathy Kirkendoll Ina Kirksey-Zellers Albert Lemons

William Lockett Zelda Miller Gloria Mundine Charlie and Joyce Nelms Emery Payne Lucille Penny Eva Perkins Iretta Peters Ronnie Porter Elly Price Lois Profit Bettye Ransom-Nelson Frank Reynolds

Sharon Richard James Ross Earnest Smith Carolyn Taylor Loretta Turner William Wactor Sandra Walker Robert Willis Mamie Wilson-Johnson Alice Woods-Samuels

Eric Carrington Jackie Chambers Richard Chance Nakitta Clegg-Foxx Zacardi Cortez Earnest Craven Cynthia Cunningham Leona Daniels Pamela Davis Trey Davis Wanda Davis Robert L. Davis III Carnell Davis, Sr. Gwen Davis-Deason LaTonya R. Earl Keith Eason Jacob Eddin Jr. Chris Edwards Diane Edwards Eric Elder Kirisma Evans Melanie Finley-Gordon Ronnie Fleming Cheryl Flores James Fortune Will Fortune Claudette Fowler John Fuller Jeremiah Gatlin Francis Glass Trevor Goff Ruth Goolsby Ilyana Grant Wallace Grant Avis Graves Kenneth Green Harold Guillory Phillip Hall Cheryl Handcock Craig Harris

Travis Hearne Eric J. Henry Faye Hines Cecile HinesStevenson Lucious Hoskins Marie Hughes Lawrence Ingram Barry Jackson Isadore Jackson Lewis Jackson Melba Jackson Randy Jackson Terry Jackson Najah Jahkur Dominic Jefferson Darrell Johnson Ed Johnson Nick Jones Treva Jones Yolondra Jones Vernon Jordan Phyllis Kennedy Alvin King Pamela Knight Nelson LaFleur William Lemuel Leon Lewis Jan Lightfoot Bruce Linscomb Earnest Lofton Sandra Malone Raine Manning Ryan Materre Gregory Mathis Gary Mayes Chester Mayfield Anthony McBeth V. Michael McKay James McKnight

Shawn & Rhonda McLemore Joe McNeil Adrian Medaris Joseph Montgomery Gene Moore, Jr. Keith Morrison Kenneth Myles Tina Nelms-Boson Alvenetta NelsonStevenson Kenneth Owens Risé Peters Michael Pickett Donna Porter Ellen Porter Jason Prince Earnest Pugh Raymond Rax Tangy Reed Paul Richard Sherman Rideaux Joey Riggins Michael Robertson Carl Rodgers Frank Rollins Nikki Ross Bobbie Jean Ruddie Daryl Rushing Warren Sam Corey Sawyer Jacky Scott Oliver Scott Stepheny Scott Gerald Sidney Mark Simmons Robert Simpson April Sloan BJ Smith Dorothy Smith

Jackie Smith James Smith Roland Smith Torrence Smith Sammie Smth Jeanine Sparks Chris Stanley Chad Stevenson Michael Stevenson Gail Stewart Glenda Taylor Karen Taylor Kathy Taylor Lenora Taylor Mark Taylor Sonya Taylor Kendrick Thomas Marva Thomas Robert Thomas Marva Thomas-Barnett Triston Thompson Patrick Tribitt Andre Venson Chris Walker Ernest Walker Jerald Washington Kelvin Washington William Washington Harmon West Bernard Whitaker Ken White Omari White Beau Williams Carolyn Williams Patrick Williams Starlic Williams Brian Courtney Wilson JoAnn Woods

Carolyn Adams Ray Barker Joyce Bell Ronald Paul Bigham Evelyn Booker Pee Wee Booker Margie Braeden Carolyn Cyrus Wilford Davis Earl Davis, Jr. Minnie Eaglin Ronnie Farrington LaRon Gaddis Betty Grace Gilliam Louise Henderson Preston Hodge Calvin Jackson Keith Jackson David Johnson Marcus Kemp

Myron Anderson Steve Crain Lloyd Crosby Bobby Earls George Frazier Skipper Lee Frazier Carl Harris Gladys Hill George Nelson Leroy Patterson Rick Roberts Clifton “King Bee” Smith Maurice Hope Thompson Bernard Walker Robert “Bassman” Washington

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People on the Move

Houston Texans YMCA executive director named Defender News Service

YMCA of Greater Houston named Kelly P. Hodges as executive director at the Houston Texans YMCA. She brings over 15 years of experience in the areas of nonprofit management, fund development, community mobilization, capacity building, communications, public health and advocacy.

Hodges previously served as senior director of health equity for the American Heart Association, Southwest Affiliate; director of strategic partnerships and national programs for Sisters Network Inc. and program coordinator at the

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Center for Research on Minority Health.

“I’m very excited to lend my time and talents to one of the most prestigious nonprofits in the world,” she said. “The Houston Texans YMCA is a hidden jewel nestled in a very diverse community…

“I’m looking forward to working side by side with individuals that have a vested interest in serving several of the most historic communities in the Houston area: Third Ward, Sunnyside, and the East End as we promote youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.”

New administrators join TSU Defender News Service

Yolanda Edmond

Mario Berry

Yolanda Edmond, who most recently served as the assistant superintendent of human resources at Katy Independent School District, has been named the new senior associate vice president of human resources for Texas Southern University.

Prior to KISD, Edmond worked at HISD as a payroll supervisor. She holds a B.S. in health information management and an MPA in HR management from TSU. Mario Berry joins the university in the

capacity of acting chief information officer.

Berry comes to TSU from Spelman College, where he served as vice president/chief information officer. Prior to that, he worked in the Lone Star College System, most recently as the associate vice chancellor of enterprise applications. Berry also served in the U.S. Navy.

He has a B.S. in management information systems, an M.S. in management/computer information technology and is pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership and management from Capella University.

Kelly Hodges

classifieds 1313 MAIN FURNISHINGS, FURNITURE AND INSTALLATION SERVICES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP 18-916.600-01

Sealed proposals for furnishings, furniture and installations services will be received by the Records Management Officer for the Houston Downtown Management District, 909 Fannin Street, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010, through Friday, November 16, 2018 at 5:00 P.M. Late submittals or submittals by facsimile or e-mail will not be considered. Questions concerning proposals must be submitted in writing prior to 5:00 P.M., Friday, November 9, 2018. Proposal documents can be accessed at the address noted herein or online at http://downtowndistrict.org/about-us/procurement/

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018

sports

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NBA great Abdul-Jabbar shares his journey

T

By MAX EDISON Defender

he name Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is synonymous with basketball royalty: A three-time NCAA champion and AllAmerican at UCLA, a six-time NBA champion and six-time NBA MVP, a 19-time All-Star and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (38,387 points).

Not only has Jabbar excelled on the court, but he has been a tireless advocate for civil rights and social justice for over 50 years. His newest autobiography, “Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court,” examines his top seven mentors and the most important lessons he learned from each.

The Society for the Performing Arts presents Jabbar and an “exciting and poignant” multimedia spectacle based on his book at Jones Hall on Nov. 16.

The Defender had an opportunity to catch up with the American sports icon in advance of his trip to H-Town.

Defender: You’ve always been a very private person. At age 71, why did you feel now was the ideal time to write this book and do a tour?

Abdul-Jabbar: Age gives a special perspective that you don’t have while dramatic things are happening in your life. From the distance of years, you can see the patterns in your own behavior and get more insight to what the events of your life meant to you. I’m also at a point where I can readily admit mistakes yet still understand why I made them. And I can appreciate more all the people who helped me become who I am today. My hope in writing the Abdul-Jabbar, a 7-foot-2 center, played in the NBA for 20 years book was that I can use that perspective and wisdom with the L.A. Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks. Previously known as Lew to help other young people facing some of the same Alcindor, he converted to Islam in 1971. struggles that I faced.

Defender: What is it you hope people discover self drawn to social activism. You boycotted the 1968 Olympic about you and your incredible life that they were not already and supported Ali not going into the military, etc. aware of?

Abdul-Jabbar: Being an activist simply means to take Abdul-Jabbar: Most people think everything came easy specific actions in support of your beliefs. The first step in to me because I was 7-feet-2, as if all I had to do was step out activism is to form beliefs about which you are passionate onto a basketball court and I’d have instant fame and fortune. enough to take those actions, knowing that once you do, you It definitely wasn’t like that. are putting yourself at risk. I formed my I want to share with people beliefs about social injustice by person“Becoming Kareem” how hard the road was for me ally experiencing prejudice in school and Friday, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.

– sometimes because of my by seeing in the news how widespread Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana own choices and sometimes racial inequities were. Studying journalbecause of outside influences. 713-227-4772 or www.spahouston.org ism in high school and meeting Dr. King I want people to get to know helped inspire me. My activism started me, not just as a basketball at UCLA when I took place in a couple player, but as a father, a writer, an activist, a businessman and a marches. Becoming part of the Cleveland Summit when I was philanthropist.

20 helped me see how committed these other activists were, Defender: At what point in your life did you find yourespecially Jim Brown and Muhammad Ali. I’ve continued my

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s multimedia spectacle based on his autobiography is coming to Houston. Now 71, he gives insight into lessons learned.

activism since then.

Defender: Your impression of Colin Kaepernick and other NFL players protesting on behalf of social injustice.

Abdul-Jabbar: All those men and women who take a knee or sit or refuse to come out during the anthem are honoring the Constitution and the anthem more than those who blindly stand and think they are being patriotic. Patriotism demands we work to fulfill the spirit of the Constitution, not stand idly by while the principles this country represents are being dismantled. We have a president who just said he and Kim Jong-un, a Hitler-esque despot who murders his opponents and subjugates his people, “fell in love.” Our president embracing totalitarianism ain’t patriotism. If that doesn’t make you want to take a knee, what does?

Defender: What is it you hope your audience takes away from your appearance here in Houston?

Abdul-Jabbar: Mostly, I want people to just have a good time. My life has had some hardships, but I’ve also had a lot of fun…I traveled the world many times, changed religions, raised a family, and appeared in dozens of movies and TV shows. And, oh yeah, I won a whole lot of basketball games.

The audience and I will have a lot to talk about.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years

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NOVEMBER 1 | 2018 | DEFENDER

sports

Rocket point guard Chris Paul was joined at his fundraiser by (l. to r.) his parents Charles and Robin Paul, wife Jada, and Paul’s sister-in-law and brother, Desiree and C.J. Paul.

15

Celebrity servers included James Harden and Yolanda Adams. (Photo Credit: Omar Vega and Bob Metelus)

CHRIS PAUL

fundraiser aids local organizations

By MAX EDISON Defender

When the Rockets traded for Chris Paul a year ago not only did they get a Hall of Fame basketball player, they got a Hall of Fame human being as well. His Chris Paul Family Foundation recently hosted a huge fundraiser to benefit a pair of Houston area charities, the Urban Enrichment Institute (formerly the Fifth Ward Enrichment Program) and The Way Home-Coalition for the Homeless.

The Celebrity Server Dinner was held at Mastro’s Steakhouse.

Among the celebrities serving patrons were Grammy Awardwinning singer Yolanda Adams, Cy Young Award-winning Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel, former Texan offensive linemen turned writer Wade Smith, Rocket teammate and MVP James Harden and

a host of other Rocket teammates.

“Entertainment Tonight’s” Kevin Frazier served as the events emcee. Entertainment was provided by acclaimed violinist Lee England Jr. “I want to thank everyone for coming tonight to support my family and I,” Paul said. “We are happy to acknowledge two organizations that support the Houston community to whom we are donating $25,000 each. In today’s world it is important that we remember our communities need our continued support. I also want to thank our celebrity servers who did a great job making sure you all had a memorable time.”

The event highlighted three organizations that are making a difference: • Chris Paul Family Foundation strives to positively impact individuals and families by leveling the playing field in education,

Texans pursue Thomas with Fuller out Defender News Services

With the recent season-ending injury to Will Fuller V, the Houston Texans are looking to other options to fill the void left in his absence.

The Texans have agreed to acquire WR Demaryius Thomas and a 2019 seventhround pick from the Denver Broncos in exchange for a 2019 fourth-round pick and seventh-round pick. The trade was contingent upon Thomas passing a physical.

Through seven games, Fuller was second behind DeAndre Hopkins with 503 yards receiving and four touchdowns. Head coach Bill O’Brien originally expected Fuller’s loss to be filled with a combination of players, from wide receivers to tight ends Will Fuller to running backs.

Thomas, a nine-year NFL veteran, five-time Pro Bowl selection (2012-16) and former Super Bowl champion (50), has played in 125 games (111 starts) and 10 postseason contests in his career (2010-18).

He has compiled 665 receptions for 9,055 receiving

yards (13.6 avg.) and 60 receiving touchdowns since being drafted with the 22nd overall pick in the 2010 draft out of Georgia Tech.

The Texans previously added rookie Vyncint Smith and Sammie Coates Jr. this offseason to their wide receiver group. Smith, an undrafted rookie out of Limestone, started in Week 1 at New England with Fuller out and hoped to see more action heading into Houston’s Week 9 matchup at Denver.

Coates, who signed in free agency, has contributed mostly on special teams this season. In Week 4 against the Colts, the four-year veteran caught a 12-yard pass in overtime to set up the game-tying field goal. He appeared in 12 games with one start last season with the Cleveland Browns.

Rookie Keke Coutee, inactive in Week 8, is working his way back from a hamstring injury.

The (5-3) Texans will travel to Denver to face the (35) Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 4. Kickoff is set for 3:05 p.m.

CT on CBS and SportsRadio 610.

sports and life. The foundation provides resources that enrich and strengthen healthy development of strong communities.

• Urban Enrichment Institute is designed to empower boys to become responsible men and productive members of their families and their communities. It keeps youth off the streets by engaging high-risk minority youth in daily structured after-school alternative programs, weekend field trips and a summer community service project.

• The Way Home is the collaborative model to prevent and end homelessness in Houston, Pasadena, Conroe and Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery Counties. Since 2012, more than 100 non-profit businesses, funders, government agencies, associations and others have worked together to ensure that no one is without permanent housing for more than 30 days.

Red Sox win World Series Defender News Services

The Boston Red Sox put the finishing touches on their ninth title – and fourth since 2004 – with a clear and convincing 5-1 victory over the Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series at Dodger Stadium.

The Red Sox began 2018 by blowing an eighth-inning opening day lead and sending their fans into a Twitter tizzy. Then the club with a rookie skipper named Alex Cora won 119 times in all – a mark bested only by the 1998 Yankees (125) and the 2001 Mariners (120).

The team needed just one game north of the minimum each to take down the 100-win Yankees in the American League Division Series, the defending World Series champion Astros in the AL Championship Series and the 2017 and 2018 National League champion Dodgers in the fall classic.

“We’re not cocky,” said shortstop Xander Bogaerts, “but we know who we are. We have one of the best teams [in history], especially in Red Sox history.”

Steve Pearce was named World Series MVP with three homers and eight RBIs.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 1 | 2018

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

topevents

CHRIS PAUL’S CELEBRITY SERVER FUNDRAISER……..NBA-All Star the academic path needed for a career in medicine by speaking directly with current Chris Paul and the Chris Paul Family Foundation’s fourth “Celebrity Server” medical professionals about their career experiences. Attendees included coordinator Dinner & Fundraiser was held at Mastro’s Steakhouse to benefit two local nonDr. Justin Washington, Melanie Washington, Jey’Lee Williams, Karen profits, the Urban Enrichment Institute and The Way Home-Coalition for the Bryant, Eric Williams, Breia Williams, Blake and Cole Walker, Nelson Guity, Homeless. The event featured athletes and other celebrities serving a four-course Dr. Serge Madhere, Juan Wyms, Ferrel Bonner, Dr. Julian Pollard-Larkin, meal to over 200 guests to support this worthy cause. “Entertainment Tonight’s” Chloe Dorsey and many more……..KAREEM JACKSON’S DINNER FOR A Kevin Frazier served as MC and welcomed attendees including Mayor Sylvester DIFFERENCE……..Houston Texans safety Kareem Jackson hosted his second Turner, Jamey Rootes (Texans president), Tad Brown annual Dinner for a Difference at the Four Seasons Houston.

(Rockets CEO), Jada Paul, LaLa Anthony, NBA legends his Texans teammates mixed and mingled with Defender TOP EVENTS Jackson and Clyde Drexler and Elvin Hayes, Rockets Carmelo guests while raising funds to support the charitable efforts of the More photos on defendernetwork.com Anthony, Clint Capela, Eric Gordon, Gerald Green, Kareem Jackson Foundation including activities to help children James Harden, and Michael Carter-Williams, Yolanda battling cancer and women battling breast cancer, including Adams, Wade Smith (retired Texans’ Pro-Bowler), Dallas Keuchel (Astros) and Christmas in July and Pretty in Pink. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and many others……..100 BLACK MEN’S MENTORING TO MEDICINE…….. world-class cuisine with the Texans players while participating in exciting live and Mentoring to Medicine, 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston’s latest service silent auctions. Attendees included Juanita Fuller, Whitney Mercilus, Johnathan effort, was held in partnership with M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor Joseph, Seth Payne, Linda Lorelle, Lou Gregory, Hezekiah and Rossalyn College of Medicine. The event allowed participating 6th-12th graders to learn about Jackson, Dezra Nauls, Dia Hawkins, Britney Turner and others.

Michael Carter-Williams, Chris Paul, Clint Capela

Jada Paul, LaLa Anthony

Michael Elder, Venice Elder, Alex Elder

Melanie Washington, Dr. Justin Washington

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