Houston Defender: November 06, 2014

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METRO TRANSIT AGENCY NAMES FIRST BLACK WOMAN POLICE CHIEF, P2 defendernetwork.com

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Volume 83 | Number 51

NOVEMBER 6, 2014 |FREE

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NATIONAL PRESIDENT OBAMA promotes equal pay

P4 LOCAL DELOYD PARKER observes SHAPE anniversary

P7 ELECTION

Houston native directs film

GREG ABBOTT elected Texas governor

‘DEAR WHITE PEOPLE’ H PAGE 6

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Local veterans receive help

Arian Foster singled out

Nov. 11 is Veterans Day, yet for some veterans, the transition to civilian life can be difficult. See what one Houston non-profit is doing to help men and women who served in the armed forces. Check out other resources available to veterans throughout the city.

The Texans’ Arian Foster is the NFL’s most complete running back, and deserves recognition for his performance this season. See why the Defender has chosen Foster as a mid-season award-winner. Find out what other players have excelled on the field so far.

TOP EVENTS

Kofi Taharka and Michael Bey at Black Panther Party reunion

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

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Black woman named Metro police chief

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era Bumpers is Metro’s new chief of police. She is the first woman and first African-American named to the position.

As police chief, Bumpers said she will focus on communication, cooperation and commitment. She replaces Tim Kelly, who is now Metro’s executive vice president of Operations, Public Safety & Customer Service.

“Bumpers has been a dedicated employee, and will ensure we stay focused on providing a safe and secure system” Kelly said.

Bumpers joined Vera Bumpers Metro before the transit agency had a police force.

“I started in 1981 and at that time, it was a security department,” Bumpers said. “There were no more than 30 of us; like a little family. It was overwhelming for me coming to a big city; I came right out of college.”

Bumpers, who is a native of

San Antonio, earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Texas State University. She received her graduate degree from Prairie View A&M University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

During her more than 30 years with Metro, Bumpers has held posts at every level of command – officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and assistant police chief – and was the first woman to do so.

“I went into law enforcement to help and protect, be involved in the community, bring change and uphold the law,” Bumpers said.

“I’ve been able to do that for our transit customers, our employees and the public. I look forward to my new role and I hope to be as instrumental in the development of future leaders at MPD as the agency has in my career.”

HISD Superintendent Terry Grier speaks to local ministers.

Grier asks clergy’s help with literacy

By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender

HISD Superintendent Terry Grier is asking local ministers to institute programs in their congregations to help improve district literacy rates.

Grier met with about 30 ministers during a recent presentation at HISD. He said there is a literacy crisis that greatly affects the districts more than 50,000 Black students. The majority of HISD students come from low-income homes and many are less likely to read outside of the classroom.

“Those students have a future but they don’t have much of one without us helping them,” Grier said. “We are making progress but there is so much more we need to do.”

According to Grier, illiteracy is

the biggest issue for Blacks in American school systems and area ministers can help improve reading statistics.

“In your churches, try to think of literacy in your Sunday schools,” Grier said, noting that he learned to read in Sunday school. “Have literacy camps at your church. We [HISD] are willing to partner.”

He said he has been involved with churches that adopted schools in order to help improve literacy rates. “I can’t think of anything more religious than helping children succeed,” he said.

Grier added that HISD has implemented several programs to improve literacy, including Real Men Read, where local businessmen and community members volunteer to read to students in the second, fifth and seventh grades.

localbriefs CONSTABLE VICTOR TREVINO pleaded guilty to misusing taxpayer money and resigned from the Harris County Precinct 6 position he held for more than 30 years. Trevino is accused of using thousands of dollars donated to a charity he started for his own personal use, including gambling at a Louisiana casino. Trevino, who was tried in state district court, will return for sentencing on Nov. 17. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. “The state is pleased that Mr. Trevino has finally accepted responsibility for the crime that was committed,” said Assistant District Attorney Bill Moore……..

COUNCILMAN LARRY GREEN is launching

an initiative to spruce up District K. The initiative is called (K)lean It Up, Green It Up. “I’m thrilled to be launching this campaign,” Green said. “Our goal is not simply to create a better District K. It is to make our community one of cleanest, greenest districts in the city.” Green wants to beautify the district through tree plantings, the development of community gardens, an increased focus on recycling, establishment of farmer’s markets and other green initiatives……..FREE FLU VACCINES will be administered by the Children’s Museum of Houston on Thursday, Nov. 13 from 5-7 p.m. at 1500 Binz.

The vaccines will be given to the first 150 children

and teens (ages six months to 18 years old) and administered by the Texas Children’s Mobile Clinic Program. To qualify, parents and guardians must bring their child’s immunization records. No appointment is required. For information call 713522-1138 or visit www.cmhouston.org........THE FREEDMEN’S TOWN Preservation Coalition will host a town hall meeting on Monday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m. at Mt. Horeb Missionary Baptist Church, 118 W. Gray. The meeting will include an update on the City of Houston’s removal of historic brick streets in Fourth Ward. For information visit www.facebook. com/FreedmensTownPreservationCoalition.

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NOVEMBER 6 | 2014 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

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U.S.briefs

In a file photo, President Obama was joined by women in calling for equal pay.

Obama promotes women’s equal pay

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resident Barack Obama is calling on Congress to help make equal pay a reality by passing the Paycheck Fairness Act, legislation that will close loopholes that allow employers to avoid responsibility for pay discrimination.

He said Republicans in Congress continue to fight the legislation, blocking its passage in both the Senate and the House.

Despite the progress women have made in the workforce, women continue to make 78 cents for every dollar a man earns. That gap is even larger for women of color.

For African-American women, it’s 64 cents. For Hispanic women, it’s 56 cents.

“At a time when women are the primary breadwinners in more households than ever, that hurts the whole family if they’re not getting paid fairly,” Obama said.

According to the White House, women today graduate from college and graduate school at higher rates than men, and account for almost half of all students in law, businesses and medical school. Yet women are starting their careers

with lower pay, and that gap widens over time.

Obama said that when women succeed, America succeeds, and the nation should be choosing policies that benefit women.

“Even though it’s 2014, there are women still earning less than men for doing the same work,” Obama said.

“We don’t have second-class citizens in this country – we shouldn’t in the workplace, either. So let’s make sure women earn equal pay for equal work, and have a fair shot at success.

“Women deserve to be able to take time off to care for a new baby, an ailing parent, or take a sick day for themselves without running into hardship. So let’s make sure all Americans have access to paid family leave.

“Pregnant workers deserve to be treated fairly. Even today, women can be fired for taking too many bathroom breaks, or forced on unpaid leave just for being pregnant. That’s wrong – and we have to choose policies that ensure pregnant workers are treated with dignity and respect,” he said.

Guidelines could shorten drug sentences Changes to federal drug sentencing guidelines took effect on Nov. 1 and courts may begin considering petitions from incarcerated individuals for sentencing reductions.

According to the Drug Policy Alliance, a national drug reform advocacy group, thousands of people who are currently serving long drug-related sentences in federal prisons could be eligible to apply for reductions.

Federal judges can begin referencing the reduced guidelines in the course of sentencing people convicted of drug trafficking.

The underlying drug guidelines amendment that shortened the length of drug sentencing guidelines was

approved by the United States Sentencing Commission and submitted to Congress for review in April.

The U.S. Sentencing Commission’s decision reflects efforts underway in Congress and by the Obama administration to reform federal drug sentencing laws, as well as a broader effort to adapt federal policy to overwhelming public support for reforming drug laws, ending marijuana prohibition, and reducing collateral consequences of a drug conviction.

Even though African-Americans are no more likely than white people to use or sell drugs, evidence shows they are far more likely to be prosecuted for drug law violations and far more likely to receive longer sentences than white people.

REPUBLICANS TOOK CONTROL of the U.S. Senate in midterm elections that tipped the balance of power away from President Barack Obama. American voters gave Republicans a majority in both chambers of Congress for the first time since elections in 2006. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky will become majority leader in January after he won re-election. McConnell said he was willing to work with the Democrats. “We do have an obligation to work together on issues where we agree,” McConnell said. Republicans needed six wins to control the 100-member Senate……..HUNDREDS OF RELIGIOUS LEADERS will gather in Oakland Nov. 11-12 for the Green the Church Summit, a first-of-its kind meeting to inspire and empower members of the African-American church community to engage in the global fight against climate change. “The African-American church has always served as a moral leader on the most important issues of our time,” said Rev. Dr. Ambrose Carroll, Green the Church Founder.

“Now our brightest minds are coming together to take on the challenge of protecting God’s creation and keeping our communities safe from climate change.” Green the Church seeks practical solutions to economic and environmental issues…….WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS, Blacks are “unbanked” at much higher rates than whites, according to a new report by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The FDIC, an independent government agency, conducted the study aided by the U.S. Census Bureau, and collected data from nearly 41,000 respondents.

According to the report, 20.5 percent of Black households are unbanked, compared to 3.6 percent of white households that do not have a bank account at an insured institution. “Among households that recently became unbanked, 34.1 percent experienced either a significant income loss or a job loss that they said contributed to the household becoming unbanked,” stated the report.

VOLUME 83 • NUMBER 51 NOVEMBER 6, 2014

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Local Coordinator Cierra Duncan Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison

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 6 | 2014 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014 defendernetwork.com

entertainment

Marque Richardson co-stars in ‘Dear White People’

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By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender

M

arque Richardson is a high energy, multi-faceted actor, writer and producer. He can currently be seen in the criticallyacclaimed “Dear White People,” a satirical comedy that examines race and identity in America through the stories of four Black, Ivy League college students.

Richardson has amassed impressive credits, including recurring roles on HBO’s “The Newsroom” and “True Blood.” He has also guest-starred on” Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” “Anger Management” and “The Middle.”

Richardson attended the University of Southern California on a full scholarship from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, graduating with degrees in Business, Public Policy, Planning and Management. To build on his knowledge of the film industry, he interned at Will Smith’s Overbrook Entertainment.

Here, he talks about his career and latest role.

KW: What interested you in “Dear White People?”

MR: It was smart, funny, modern and it had something to say that people needed to hear.

KW: Tell me a little about your character, Reggie.

MR: Reggie is a beast. Intelligent, strong and militant, he’s a computer science major at Winchester University.

He’s like a modern-day Malcolm X mixed with the character Buggin’ Out from Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing.”

What’s most interesting about Reggie is that he defers a lot of his responsibility off onto the other characters of the film. In a way, Reggie represents the

population of the world that wants change but doesn’t want to take responsibility to act themselves, the population that is waiting for their hero.

KW: What do you think of the issues raised by the film?

MR: There are tons of issues which the film brings to light, from race to identity to sexuality.

The characters are a complex mix that serves as a mirror effect for audiences, which is why so many people of diverse backgrounds relate to the film.

At the end of the day, this is a story about identity and the biggest thing I hope people get from the film is that it’s okay to be yourself at all times. Own your uniqueness and all that makes you who you are because there’s no better you than you.

KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure?

MR: I love watching bad horror movies. Like the ones that are so bad they’re good. And I am a fatty, I love eating food. If I could eat, sleep and watch bad horror movies all day, I would.

KW: With so many classic films being redone, is there a remake you’d like to star in?

MR: I can’t stand remakes. We haven’t run out of ideas. Start something new!

Houston native directs film Director and writer Justin Simien is making a name for himself in Hollywood with “Dear White People,” his first feature film that is currently in theaters. Cast members include Tyler James Williams of “Everybody Hates Chris” fame and Dennis Haysbert.

It tells the story of Black students at an Ivy League Justin Simien college where a riot breaks out over a popular African-American themed party thrown by White students.

Discussing the movie, Simien said, “There’s often times a war going on between our identities – how we’re seen in the world and who we really are.

“Negotiating a truce between those two ideas, within ourselves, I think is really what the movie is about.”

Born in Houston, Simien attend the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.

After graduation he studied film at Chapman University in Orange, CA. and later worked at Sony Television and Paramount Pictures.

what’sup ALFRE WOODARD portrays the president of the United States in “State of Affairs,” which debuts Monday, Nov. 17 at 9 p.m. on NBC. In the show, she works alongside KATHERINE HEIGL, who was engaged to her late son. “We have these two women in very powerful positions to make sure the American homeland stays as safe as possible in this day and age. I think this [show] will have people buzzing,” Woodard said……..MEMBERS OF THE ROOTS, the Grammy-winning house band on “The Tonight Show” starring JIMMY FALLON, are helping raise funds for their alma mater in Philadelphia. Drummer QUESTLOVE

THOMPSON and band member TARIQ TROTTER formed the band in 1987 after meeting at the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA). The school has been losing teachers and staff members due to budget cuts, so the two alumni created the CAPA Foundation to help out. The nonprofit organization aims to raise $500,000 annually for the first five years and then $1 million annually after that……… HALLE BERRY is trying to reduce child support for model Gabriel Aubry, the father of her daughter. Aubry’s child support already runs around $16,000 a month.

Aubry claims he cannot get work because of a 2013

altercation with Berry’s husband, actor OLIVIER MARTINEZ. “There is no case, no law, no logic that says a healthy, active man gets to simply live off child support that the wealthier mother earns,” she said........JENNIFER HUDSON and RIHANNA are part of the musical lineup of “The Concert For Valor,” which honors the courage and sacrifice of America’s veterans and their families. It will air live from the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on HBO this Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 6 p.m.

Other special guests include OPRAH WINFREY, JAMIE FOXX, GEORGE LOPEZ and WILL SMITH.

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NOVEMBER 6 | 2014 | DEFENDER

SHAPE celebrates 45th anniversary

Callina Situka and Wayne Dehart appear in “Family Debt,” a part of “Dysfunctional Family Album.”

SHAPE Community Center will observe its 45th anniversary on Friday, Nov. 14, at the Third Ward Multi-Service Center, located at 3611 Ennis. The theme is “Celebrating Our Past, Embracing Our Present, and Shaping Our Future.”

The evening will begin at 6 p.m. with a pre-gala reception, followed by dinner, a silent auction, entertainment and dancing.

Special guest is Houston’s awardwinning poet Se7en. Also an author and motivational speaker, Se7en is described as a storyteller who “entices with prose perfectly pitched to the voice and rhythm of today’s society.”

Deloyd Parker SHAPE Executive Director Deloyd Parker said the anniversary is an “awesome” achievement.

“For 45 years, SHAPE Community Center has been a staple in the Houston community; however, our outreach is worldwide,” Parker said. “SHAPE has always been on the frontline fighting against social injustice, illiteracy, and the miseducation of our children and youth.

“The absolute core of SHAPE’s programs focus on strengthening our families as a means to strengthening our nation. This is what we have done for 45 years and why we count this achievement a blessing and an honor,” he said.

For information on the celebration and to purchase tickets call 713-521-0629 or visit www.shape.org.

Taking control of

Short plays, monologues focus on family A variety of theatrical experiences will be presented onstage at one time when KTSU radio personality Devan Wade presents “A Dysfunctional Family Album,” which runs for two weekends at Express Theatre at Northwest Mall.

Performances are Friday, Nov. 7 and Saturday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 9 at 2 p.m., and Thursday, Nov. 13-Saturday, Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

The production, which features short plays and monologues, is headlined by noted Houston actor Wayne Dehart, who has been a fixture in local theater for decades. Other actors include Jo Anne Davis-

DIABETES

Jones, David Bradley, Mary Masquelette, Tonyai Palmer, Nanesha Dove and Callina Situka.

Directors involved in the project are Errol Wilk, Rachel Dickson, Kelvin Douglas, Michelle James, Erika Walton, Eric Christopher Jones and Dabrina Sandifer.

The plays are “Free to Love,” “An Egg Well Done,” “Angry Black Woman,” “Child Care Cost,” “Family Debt,” “The Chanel Monroe Review,” “Underachieving Adulterer” and “Not This Time.”

Tickets are $15. For information visit www.wadenwade.wix.com/wadesword.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

HOUSTON VETERANS receive helping hand The program offer services such as job readiness training, certification and placement.

“Our job readiness training covers all aspects of the ov. 11 is Veterans Day, a day to honor employment search process…the application process, men and women who have served in the resume writing, interview skills, proper attire, marketU.S. armed forces. Yet for some vetering skills, and financial planning are just a few of the ans, the transition to civilian life can be workshops that we provide,” Pokorny said. difficult, with chal“We cover aspects from lenges ranging from unemployment to “We cover aspects from how to address an interviewer homelessness. in the civilian world differently how to address an interLocally, veterans can get help from in the military and to how from Career and Recovery Resources, viewer in the civilian world to relate your military skills to a Houston non-profit with a mission work force.” differently from in the mili- the civilian to identify and overcome barriers to The program strives to employment. tary and to how to relate leverage funding and use its Its Veteran Services program numerous community partneryour military skills to the helps veterans reintegrate into civilian ships to prevent homelessness civilian work force.” life by providing employment and and enhance the housing stabilhousing assistance, case management, ity of very low-income veteran training services and a connection to families.

VA benefits. The programs are all guided and supported According to the National Coalition for Homeby the Veteran Services Business Advisory Council. less Veterans, about 12 percent of the adult homeless “The veterans that come through our program population is comprised of veterans. Roughly 40 go into a varied arena of employment,” said W. Trent percent of all homeless veterans are African-American Pokorny, Veteran & Housing Services Program Director. or Hispanic.

“We assist veterans with attaining employment in the Pokorny said reasons for homelessness among medical field and the energy sector in a larger capacity veterans are the same as the general population, and than any other specific area.” include unemployment, lack of affordable housing and

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mental disabilities.

“Through our employment services we are able to assist veterans find meaningful careers that help them be contributory members of our community,” Pokorny said. “Through our housing services programs we are able assist our veterans with housing that is a safe, sanitary, and secure place to call home.”

The Veteran Services program has an 80 percent success rate for the current grant year.

Many veterans have entered the workforce as certified nurses’ assistants, phlebotomists and clinical assistants. Others have obtained commercial driver’s licenses and merchant marine certifications, or completed training with the Houston Fire Department Academy.

Pokorny said attempting to remain self-sufficient and not asking for help are the biggest mistakes veterans make in obtaining services, and he has a message for them.

“You are not alone,” he said. “There are people who are here to help you. There is a community of organizations that are here to assist you. These organizations can help you with family counseling, housing, employment services, transportation and even nutritional support. We understand that you are not looking for a handout; therefore, let us give you a hand up.”

For more information visit www.careerandrecovery.org or call 713.754.7000.

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Where veterans can go for help Disabled American Veterans 713-383-2715 www.dav.org

Texas Veterans Commission 713-383-2756 www.tvc.state.tx.us/

Harris County Veterans Service Office 281-876-6600 | www.csd.hctx.net

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 1-800 -827-1000 www.va.gov

Houston Bar Foundation’s Veterans Legal Initiative 713-759-1133 www.hba.org/services/veterans-legalinitiative Military Order of the Purple Heart 713-383-2752 www.purpleheart.org Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) 713-383-2727 www.pva.org

U.S. Vets-Houston 832.203.1626 www.usvetsinc.org/houston/ VA Hospital 713-791-1414 www.houston.va.gov/ AMVETS 713-383-2757 www.amvets.org

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

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PVAMU recognized for Hispanic students The Penn Center for Minority Serving Intuitions recently ranked Prairie View A&M University seventh out of its top 10 HBCUs with the highest Latino/Latina population.

The recognition comes as PVAMU has broadened its outreach to attract and enroll greater numbers of prospective Hispanic students.

“We are certainly proud and honored to be recognized as a leader among HBCUs in working to recruit and retain Latino/ Latina students,” said Col. Mark Pearson, director of student enrollment.

“Prairie View A&M University is steeped in a tradition of educating minority and socio-economically diverse students. Creating a welcoming environment for the rapidly growing college-age Hispanic population fits right in with our overall mission and our scholastic traditions,” Pearson said.

“We owe much of our success to our efforts to establish student affairs programs that exclusively cater to multicultural populations, like our Office of Multicultural Affairs.”

School of the Woods hosts open house School of the Woods will present two evening Open House Programs in November. On Monday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m., the Woods Middle School faculty will discuss how Montessori philosophy impacts 7th and 8th grade students and promotes love of learning. Woods Middle School is on the School’s main campus at 1321 Wirt Road.

The second program is Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. at Woods High School. It is located at 7812 Bobbitt St., a half block from the main Wirt Road campus.

Faculty and students will explain the college prep curriculum as it pertains to the Montessori environment.

They will also discuss how Montessori education tenets and fundamentals apply to the older student.

Parents, students, prospective students and anyone interested in Montessori education are invited to attend.

School of the Woods is an independent, nonprofit and nonsectarian school and is also Houston’s oldest continuously operating Montessori school. It offers preK through grade 12, and is fully accredited. Woods High School is one of only several Montessori high schools across the U.S. Three additional Open House Programs will be held at the Wirt Road campus on Jan. 13, 20 and 27 for upper and lower elementary levels and for early childhood ages. For more information call 713-686-8811.

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Elections 2014

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NAME VETER ER

Republicans win big in Texas again Texas Republicans continued their political dominance, winning all statewide offices in the Nov. 4 election.

The Republican candidate for governor, Attorney General Greg Abbott, defeated Democratic State Sen. Wendy Davis of Fort Worth with 59 percent of the vote.

Abbott will replace Rick Perry, the longest-serving governor in Texas history, who has held the office for 14 years.

Abbott’s platform included ending Obamacare, defending voter ID laws and safeguarding Texas consumers.

“Tonight, Texans sent a message. You voted for hope over fear, for unity over division,” Abbott said. “As Texans, the bond we share transcends our differences. We all want to live in safer communities, to have greater opportunities and to give all of our children lives worthy of their Greg Abbott promise.”

Davis urged Democrats to keep fighting for their beliefs.

“Being disappointed is okay, but being discouraged is not,” Davis said. “Your work is not in vain and the only way that we will have lost tonight is if we stop fighting.”

Houston State Sen. Dan Patrick is the new lieutenant governor, defeating San Antonio State Sen. Leticia Van de Putte with 58 percent of the vote.

“I believe that Texas is America’s last hope,” Patrick said. “For the world to depend on America, America must be strong.

And we’re weak in Washington today.

America looks to Texas. Where are they going to look? California?”

George P. Bush, the nephew of former President George W. Bush, was elected land commissioner. Other statewide winners included U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, Ken Paxton for attorney general, Glenn Hegar for comptroller, Sid Miller for agriculture commissioner and Ryan Sitton for railroad commissioner.

In Harris County, Republican Devon Anderson, the incumbent, defeated Democrat Kim Ogg in the race for district attorney. Other county GOP winners included County Judge Ed Emmett, Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagle and County Clerk Stan Stanart.

Also locally, Democratic Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Democratic Congressman Al Green easily won reelection.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

sports

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Texans at bye week:

Mid-season awards

T

By MAX EDISON Defender

he Houston Texans just passed the mid-way point in the 2014 season and will enjoy a well-deserved bye week.

The good news is, after finishing 2013 as NFL’s worst team (2-14, 14 consecutive losses), the Texans’ current record (4-5) is a remarkable success story.

The bad news is Houston fans’ expectations were a tad higher than the somewhat mediocre brand of football J.J. Watt is the NFL’s most dominant defensive player. the Texans have shown to date. The season has actually been pretty predictable, based on the composition of the roster Technically, the team is a 100 percent better – they have doubled last season’s win total in just nine weeks.

With two games remaining against Jacksonville and a home game against Tennessee, the Texans could finish with a .500 record.

The reality is all four wins have come against teams that all have losing records. The Texans have been totally outplayed in losses to better opponents DeAndre Hopkins leads the Texans in receiving yards. on the schedule. Falling behind 24-0 in the first quarter against Indy and the Andre Johnson for 12 years. total team collapse against the Steelers are graphic reminders that the team hasn’t quite turned Through nine games he has 42 receptions for 684 yards the corner just yet.

(No. 1 on the team) and four New head Coach O’Brien has adopted a glasstouchdowns. He’s had three half-full mentality. games this season with over “We’re still certainly not out of anything.”

100 yards.

O’Brien said after the team’s loss to Philadelphia. He Top offensive percited the Eagles themselves, who were 3-5 last year former: Arian Foster. So before going on a division winning run.

Whitney Mercilus is another defensive standout. what if he had season end“I think this bye week is coming at a good time ing back surgery in 2013. and hopefully, we can figure out some things we The NFL’s most complete jured top pick Jadeveon Clowney. For the season can do better,” O’Brien said. “It’s a disappointed back has returned. Despite missing a game, Foster #59 has 33 tackles and four sacks through nine [post-game] locker room, but we’ve got seven is still second in the league in rushing and No. 1 games. Whitney had a career-high nine tackles and games left, and a lot of those are at home.”

2 sack performance against the Eagles.

Here, the Defender doles out a few mid-season in the AFC with 822 yards on 161 carries (5.1 per carry). His 26 receptions for 229 yards place him Top defensive performer: J.J. Watt. He’s the awards. The winners include two newcomers to third on the team. Foster injured his groin against NFL’s most dominant defensive player and is third prominence and two Pro Bowl players. in the league with 8.5 sacks. Watt has an 80-yard Top offensive newcomer: DeAndre Hopkins. the Eagles. Hopefully he can heal during the bye interception for a touchdown and has caught a TD Now in his second season, Hopkins was the team’s week. He’s the backbone of the offense.

Top defensive newcomer: Whitney pass. Watt is also amongst the league leaders in 2013 No. 1 pick (27th overall). The former ClemMercilus. The former No. 1 pick (26th overall, tackles for losses, despite being constantly double son All-American is showing signs of being the teamed. He’s a legitimate MVP candidate. heir apparent to the “go-to receiver crown” held by 2012) has performed admirably filling in for in-

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NOVEMBER 6 | 2014 DEFENDER

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h.s.zone Conner provides Sealy with consistency asleep on anybody,” Conner said. “We have to keep the same energy level from week to week.”

Holcomb says Conner understands what the s the 2014 high school football Tigers are trying to accomplish on the field. regular season draws rapidly to a “Jordan is very consistent and is a leader on close, Sealy High School head foot- the field for us. He can play multiple positions ball coach Jason Holcomb says his and we’ve been very happy with his effort,” Holteam is still a work in progress. comb said. “The consistency he shows every day The Tigers have endured tough losses in the in practice and in games is what we’re looking non-district portion of their schedule and are curfor.” rently in the midst of Conner said the higha push for the postsealight of the 2014 season son. Four schools will thus far is just being able Find out how Yates players celebrated qualify for the playoffs to take the field with his homecoming out of District 11-4A teammates. “We’ve been Division I. Sealy is through some ups and squarely in the mix behind front-running Navadowns, but playing with my teammates is all I sota. could ask for.”

“We’ve had some injuries so we’re trying to Nicknamed “Drizzy,” Conner’s favorite gain some consistency up front along the offenfootball player is former LSU standout Tyrann sive line and in some other areas,” Holcomb said.

Mathieu, a cornerback for the Arizona Cardi“We’re continually working on things and we’ll nals. “When I began playing safety, I watched have some real challenges with our upcoming ophis highlights and he was the player I looked up ponents.” to,” Conner said. “I liked his nickname [Honey Sealy safety Jordan Conner came into his Badger] too.” senior season knowing he shouldered a major Conner began playing organized football responsibility for both his teammates and the when he was in the fourth grade. coaching staff.

Sealy will host Wheatley in the final game of “Providing leadership is a big responthe regular season. sibility and I’ve been doing it since my sophomore year,” said Conner, a three-year starter for the Tigers.

“I didn’t even play safety until my sophomore year and it’s been fun since then. I look forward to the opportunity to make big plays.”

Favorite color: Conner is a converted wide receiver who can still help out on Red that side of the ball in Favorite food: a pinch. “I had to Spaghetti play some wide receiver today,” Favorite subject: he said, folScience lowing a 43-6 victory over Possible major: Houston SterSports marketing ling. “Our startBirthdate: ing wide receiver got hurt and I went Dec. 11 in a little bit.

World problem to solve: “We’ve just got to keep playCancer ing and can’t afford to fall

A

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

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About Jordan Conner

13

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Every Tuesday, receive “Gimme A Minute in Defender Sports” updates delivered to your e-mail inbox to view on your laptop, tablet or phone.

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sportsbriefs Manvel, Pearland to tangle Some have pointed to this game since the University Interscholastic League (UIL) unveiled its most recent re-alignment. Two unbeaten state-ranked teams will meet to decide the District 22-6A championship at The Rig in Pearland. Manvel advanced to the Class 5A Division II regional final last season. Pearland was a Class 5A Division I state championship game finalist. The last time the two schools met Manvel won convincingly. Manvel (9-0) hasn’t been challenged all season, including big wins over Spring Westfield, North Shore and Dawson. Pearland’s only close encounter was a 15-6 decision over Dawson. Pearland (9-0) is coming off a bye week and leading rusher JaColbie Butler didn’t play in the Oilers’ last game against Pasadena Memorial. Manvel may be the most balanced team in Region III with quarterback D’Eriq King leading the offense while Will Lockett, Shane Jackson and Deontay Anderson headline the defense.

Unbeaten teams optimistic Manvel and Pearland aren’t the only two Houston area schools trying to complete the 2014 regular season undefeated. Dickinson, Ridge Point, Crosby, Navasota, Columbia and The Woodlands Christian will also try to accomplish the rare deed. Dickinson will host Clear Springs while Ridge Point will host Texas City. Crosby must journey to C.E. King, which was knocked from the unbeaten ranks by Kingwood Park (31-28). Navasota closes out with Washington.

Columbia hosts El Campo and The Woodlands Christian takes on Legacy Prep.

Greene’s number retired The Pittsburgh Steelers retired “Mean” Joe Greene’s No. 75 at halftime of their recent game against the Baltimore Ravens. Greene was the foundation of the Steeler dynasty that won four Super Bowl titles during the ‘70s. A Temple native, Greene was an All-American at North Texas State in 1968. He was Pittsburgh’s No. 1 pick in the 1969 draft, the fourth pick overall. “He really was the bedrock, the foundation of our ‘70s team,” former teammate Franco Harris said. “I’ve been blessed,” Greene said as he was surrounded by family and former teammates.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

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Peterson pleads no contest, avoids jail Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson avoided jail time in a plea agreement reached with prosecutors to resolve his child abuse case.

All eyes were on the Montgomery County courthouse in Conroe where Peterson pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of misdemeanor reckless assault. As part of the deal, Peterson will pay a $4,000 fine and court costs and participate in 80 hours of community service. He will also take parenting classes.

Peterson, 29, was indicted in September on a felony charge of injury to a child for whipping his 4-yearold son with a switch.

Peterson said he never meant to hurt his son and was disciplining him in the same way he had been as a child growing up in Palestine. The incident sparked a national debate on spanking.

He said he is relieved the ordeal is over.

“I truly regret this incident,” he said outside the courthouse. “I stand here and take full responsibility for my actions. I love my son more than any one of you could even imagine. I am looking forward to and I am anxious to continue my relationship with my child.

“I am just glad this is over. I can put this behind me and me and my family can begin to move forward.”

The question remaining is when Peterson will rejoin the Vikings. The team placed him on the exempt/commissioner’s permission list, which required him to stay away from all team activities. Only NFL commissioner Roger Goodell can reinstate Peterson from the exempt list.

“All of that is in the hands of the NFL,” said Rusty Hardin, Peterson’s attorney.

Peterson, a star running back at Oklahoma, was drafted by the Vikings in 2007 and became NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He set an NFL record for most yards in a game, running for 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers.

He was named the 2012 NFL MVP.

Adrian Peterson

UT honors area stars with induction Nine distinguished and decorated former University of Texas student-athletes and staff were recently inducted into the Men’s Athletics Hall of Honor.

Featured in the group are two inductees who have ties to the Houston area. Twotime first team All-American and 2000 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Casey Hampton (football, 1996, 1998-2000) and two-time All-American Cory Redding (football, 1999-2002) are a part of the 2014 class.

Hampton, a Galveston native (Ball High) is among the most decorated Longhorn NFL players ever and was one of the nation’s most dominant defensive linemen in his final two seasons at Texas. The 19th overall selection of the 2001 NFL draft by Pittsburgh, he made five Pro Cory Redding

Bowls tying for the most ever by a Longhorn, and helped lead the Steelers to two Super Bowl titles.

Redding, a North Shore product and a twotime All-American, was a disruptive defensive end who started for three years and ranks fourth on the UT all-time tackles-for-loss list.

Selected in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, Redding is now with the Indianapolis Colts in his 12th NFL season. Active in charitable activities through his Cory Redding Foundation, he was voted the Indianapolis Colts “Man of the Year” in 2012.

The remaining inductees are Cedric Benson, Huston Street, Rick Barnes, Mike Beard, Ken Dabbs, James Feller and Delano Womack.

“I am just glad this is over. I can put this behind me and me and my family can begin to move forward.”

classified ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY / TIRZ No. 3 MAIN STREET IMPROVEMENTS The Downtown Redevelopment Authority (the “Authority”) / TIRZ No. 3 will receive sealed bids for the Main Street Improvements project, located in Downtown Houston, primarily the 100 – 1900 blocks from Commerce to Pierce. Bids will be received until 10:00 AM, local time on Tuesday, December 2, 2014, by the Executive Director, Downtown Redevelopment Authority, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. Bids received after this time will not be accepted.

Beginning 10:00 AM, Monday, November 3, 2014, Bid Documents may be purchased for $50 per set from the Authority by cash; or by cashier's check, certified check, or money order (payable to the Downtown Redevelopment Authority); or by credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or Discover). The cost for up to two sets will be refunded to Bidders who submit a valid bid for this Project and return bidding documents to the Authority. Addenda are free of charge and will be distributed by email to those who purchase Bid Documents and

attend the pre-bid conference. Bid Documents may also be examined at plan rooms of the Minority Business Development Center (2302 Fannin Street, #165, Houston, TX 77002), Amtek Information and Plan Room (4001 Sherwood Lane, Houston, TX 77092) or viewed online at isqft.com.

A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 12, 2014, in the Authority’s Conference Room, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. All bidders (general contractors) are invited to attend. Bids will be ruled non-responsive if received from a bidder who did not attend the pre-bid conference. Late arrivals will not be admitted to the pre-bid conference.

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

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY / TIRZ No. 3 SHOPPING DISTRICT STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS The Downtown Redevelopment Authority (the “Authority”) / TIRZ No. 3 will receive sealed bids for the Shopping District Streetscape Improvements project, located in Downtown Houston, primarily the 800 – 1500 blocks of Dallas Street from Milam to Crawford. Bids will be received until 10:00 AM, local time on Wednesday, December 3, 2014, by the Executive Director, Downtown Redevelopment Authority, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010.

Bids received after this time will not be accepted.

Beginning 10:00 AM, Monday, November 3, 2014, Bid Documents may be purchased for $50 per set from the Authority by cash; or by cashier's check, certified check, or money order (payable to the Downtown Redevelopment Authority); or by credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or Discover). The cost for up to two sets will be refunded to Bidders who submit a valid bid for this Project and return bidding documents to the Authority. Addenda are free of charge and will be distributed by email to those who purchase Bid Documents and attend the pre-bid conference. Bid Documents may also be examined at plan rooms of the Minority Business Development Center (2302 Fannin Street, #165, Houston, TX 77002), Amtek Information and Plan Room (4001 Sherwood Lane, Houston, TX 77092) or viewed online at isqft.com.

A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, November 12, 2014, in the Authority’s Conference Room, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. All bidders (general contractors) are invited to attend. Bids will be ruled non-responsive if received from a bidder who did not attend

the pre-bid conference. Late arrivals will not be admitted to the pre-bid conference.

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

NOVEMBER 6 | 2014 DEFENDER

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

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TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY’S PRESIDENT GALA gave an overview offered encouragement while building leadership skills. Capital One associates of the progress of TSU, honored alumni and community contributors and ended served as mentors and the environment was very engaging with the young women with a fun party featuring performing artist Chante Moore. The Distinguished asking questions. Some of the participants were Angela Thames, Thamlinee Alumni awardees were Lawrence Boze, Marla Fielder, Rev. Manson Johnson, “Bam” Srichomthong, Amanda Holland, Mary Frances Odukwe, Jianna Georgia Provost, Jesse Sifuentes and Bertrand Simmons. The International Williams and Jacqueline Evans……..THE BLACK PANTHER PARTY Reunion Alumnus of the Year was the impressive Musiliu Obanikoro, who was named Weekend was recently held in Houston. The BPP paid tribute to Carl Hampton, the Minister of Defense by Nigerian President Goodluck founder of the People’s Party II and Ayanna Ade. Activities Jonathan. The 2014 Community Partners were Radio One’s Defender TOP EVENTS included the 48th Anniversary Reunion Banquet, honoring More photos on defendernetwork.com Doug Abernethy, Rodeo executive Joel Cowley, Coca Cola’s activists such as Rev. Bill Lawson of Wheeler Ave. Baptist See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Ivory Harrison and Mayor Annise Parker. After singing via Church, Rev. Samuel Smith of Mt Horeb Baptist Church, with Melanie Lawson on Sunday Morning telephone to her best friend, who has cancer, Chante showed Ovide Duncantell, Deloyd Parker, Kofi Taharka and Akua off her music talent along with Chris Walker and the Ernest Holt. A special guest at the reunion was Bobby Seale, coWalker Band. It was a big hit with all the attendees, including founder and chairman of the BPP. Historian Gerald Horne James and Charles Lang, Nigerian Alumni President Kola Ibirogba, Robin served as the keynote speaker. As part of the closing program the reunion conducted Evaige and many others……..THE 5TH ANNUAL CAPITAL ONE Future Leaders a panel discussion on “passing the torch of wisdom.” Those in attendance included Forum for Young Women hosted 100 young people in grades 9 through 12. The Mawiyah Buseje, Nikala Asante, Brother “L,” Tyree King, Joan and Amoa program focused on career development, dressing for success and finances, and Wilson, Robert Turner, Bobby Reed, Claude Foster and Willie Jones.

TSU Board Chair Glenn Lewis and sister Cynthia Carter

Zadel Williams, Corrie Matthew and Jasmine Chaney

John “Bunchy” Crear and Bobby Seale

National Bar Association Executive Director John Crump and Jodie Jiles

James Ward, Anne and Craig Ness

Genevieve Espiloy, Linda Richardson and Danita Hammond

Akua Holt and Yedidah Rose

Jane Mathews, Christina Leal, Renee McDonald and Peggy Flournoy

Kofi Taharka and Michael Bey

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 6 | 2014

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