Houston Defender: November 08, 2018

FEATURE

ARLINGTON POLICE SHOOTING PROMPTS DEMONSTRATIONS. P12

facebook.com/DefenderNetwork

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

twitter.com/DefenderNetwork

Volume 88 | Number 3 NOVEMBER 8, 2018 FREE

ELECTION RECAP SYLVIA GARCIA

first Latina U.S. rep. from Houston

P2 NATIONAL AYANNA PRESSLEY among the Blacks making history in midterms

P3

Parenting in the new millennium

H.S. SPORTS SHASKA DAVIS inspires team at Westside

H PAGE 8

P15

Michelle Obama star-studded book tour

The former first lady is hitting the road to promote her upcoming book and she’ll be joined by an all-star list of moderators that includes Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Jessica Parker and Valerie Jarrett.

H PAGE 6

Kareem Jackson working for the Texans

TOP EVENTS

After a rocky start, the Texans – including safety Kareem Jackson – are one of the NFL’s hottest teams.

With six consecutive wins and a first place title in the AFC South, they are working hard to position themselves to win their division.

H PAGE 14

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

Bo Porter, Stacey Porter and LeToya Luckett-Walker at SELF Foundation Legacy Gala

P16

2

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018

defendernetwork.com

newstalk

WINNERS

Election changes face of political offices

Adrian Garcia

Sylvia Garcia

Lizzie Fletcher

Ed Emmett

Jack Morman

John Culberson

Beto O’Rourke

LOSERS

Lina Hidalgo

T

Defender News Services

here will be some new faces in area politics as a result of the Nov. 6 election, from county offices to Congress. More than 8 million Texans cast ballots, a historically high number for a midterm election in the Lone Star State. The turnout was boosted by a U.S. Senate race that gained national attention and positive and negative response to President Donald Trump and his policies. Here is a rundown of some of the races.

HOUSTON

Voters approved Proposition A, approving the city’s existing ReBuild Houston street and drainage program, and Proposition B, establishing pay parity between firefighters and police officers.

Mayor Sylvester Turner said Prop B presents city government with a new set of obstacles, including cuts in payroll spending.

“The apparent passage of Prop B puts us on course for layoffs,” Turner said. “Some firefighters who had hoped to benefit from Prop B will lose their jobs instead, while older firefighters get a 29 percent pay hike.

“Regrettably, the Fire Department budget alone will not be able to absorb these additional costs. Other departments such as police, solid waste, parks and libraries will be adversely affected. I hope and trust the residents of Houston will bear with us as we work to balance the city’s budget with an additional $100 million a year added to our expenses,” Turner said.

HARRIS COUNTY

Harris County Commissioners Court is now predominantly Democratic. In the county judge race, incumbent Ed Emmett (R) was upset by Lina Hidalgo (D) and former Sheriff Adrian Garcia (D) won the County Commissioner Precinct 2 race against incumbent Jack Morman (R). Hidalgo and Garcia will now join Democratic Commissioner Rodney Ellis on the five-person court.

Three other county Democrats beat Republican incumbents: Marilyn Burgess defeated Chris Daniel for district clerk, Diane

Trautman defeated Stan Stanart for county clerk and Dylan Osborne defeated Orlando Sanchez for county treasurer.

STATEWIDE

Gov. Greg Abbott easily defeated his Democratic opponent, but three other GOP state officials won close races – Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Attorney General Ken Paxton and Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. African-American Criminal Appeals Judges Maria T. (Terri) Jackson and Ramona Franklin won their races.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Four African-American Democratic incumbents with opponents easily won their races – Jarvis Johnson, Shawn Thierry, Garnet Coleman and Alma Allen.

U.S. CONGRESS

Houston State Sen. Sylvia Garcia (D) made history as one of two Latino women elected on Nov. 6 to represent Texas in the House. (Democrat Veronica Escobar of El Paso will represent Texas in the seat held by Beto O’Rourke). Democratic newcomer Lizzie Fletcher upset incumbent John Culberson (R). Incumbents Al Green (D) and Sheila Jackson Lee (D) easily won their races.

U.S.SENATE

Incumbent Republican Sen. Ted Cruz narrowly defeated Democratic challenger O’Rourke in what was the Democrats’ most aggressive attempt in decades to win a statewide office in Texas.

Cruz had 51 percent of the vote to 49 percent for O’Rourke.

Ft. Bend County turns blue, makes history Defender News Services The high voter turnout had one of its biggest impacts felt in Fort Bend County. Residents made history as Democrats now hold a majority of the County Court judgeships, going from one Democratic county commissioner to two commissioners and the county judge.

In addition, in a hard-fought race for district attorney, Democrat Brian Middleton beat Republican Cliff Vacek to become the county’s first AfricanAmerican top prosecutor and the first Democrat to hold the critical office in 26 years.

Middleton, who runs his own law firm in Southwest Houston, succeeds RepubBrian Middleton lican John Healey who is retiring from the office.

As part of Middleton’s platform for district attorney, he said the intake process could be reformed Yolanda Ford so cases are more thoroughly reviewed before trial, improving the quality of cases going to court. He also has a passion for bail reform.

Fort Bend attorney Toni Wallace was able to win her race for judge of County Court at Law Number 4. Fort Bend ISD board member K.P. George, a Democrat, unseated longtime Republican incumbent Robert Hebert for county judge.

In the race for Missouri City mayor, Yolanda Ford and incumbent Allen Owen are headed for a runoff on Dec. 8. Chris Preston and Susan Soto are also headed for a runoff for Councilmember At Large Position No. 2 Vashaundra Edwards won the Councilmember At Large Position No. 1 race.

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

defendernetwork.com

NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs A NEW LAW WILL ALLOW U.S. SEN. CORY BOOKER (D-N.J.) to run for president and the Senate simultaneously. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, also a Democrat, signed the bill. Booker is viewed as a possible 2020 presidential contender. The bill allows any member of Congress from New Jersey to appear on both the primary general election for their respective office in addition to the presidency……..THE NAACP WON A RACIAL GERRYMANDING CASE in North Carolina after filing suit in state court. A threejudge panel ruled that four districts in the North Carolina House of Representatives violated the prohibition in the North Carolina Constitution on mid-decade redistricting. The four districts in question were redrawn following a 2016 ruling by a federal court that several districts constituted racial gerrymandering. “This is an important victory for the NAACP as we fight to ensure that communities of color have a full opportunity to elect representatives who will protect their interests in state legislatures across the country,” said Bradford M. Berry, NAACP general counsel…….RISING COSTS ARE MAKING HOMEOWNERSHIP HARDER for many Americans. According to the National Association of Realtors, current housing trends are affected by mounting student debt balances, rising interest rates, higher home prices and larger down payments. First-time homebuyers who want to enter the market are having difficulty finding a home they can afford.

Homes are selling in a median of three weeks and multiple offers are a common occurrence, further pushing up home prices. The median home purchase price of $250,000 requires a median household income of $91,600 for a successful mortgage application and a median down payment of 13 percent or $32,500. That’s troubling news for minorities. According to the Federal Reserve, in 2016, white families had a median net worth of $171,000, compared with $17,600 for Blacks and $20,700 for Hispanics.

VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 3 NOVEMBER 8, 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).

3

Ilhan Omar, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ayanna Pressley, Jahana Hayes, Sharice Davids

Wins, losses, recounts:

Blacks and midterms Defender News Service African-Americans across the country proved their voting power, braving everything from long lines to rainy weather in some states in order to cast ballots in the Nov. 6 midterm elections. Though the results were a mixed bag, many are focusing on what the election results – the wins, losses and recounts – mean for Black America.

“This was a remarkable wave of grassroots activism that swept across the country – with women and people of color leading the way,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson.

“From the U.S. House of Representatives being flipped to the passage of Amendment 4 in Florida which restored voting rights to convicted felons, this election was an overwhelming rebuke of Trump and Trumpism, and a show of support for candidates who look like America and campaigned on a bold, forward-looking and inclusive vision.”

There was good news for candidates of color. Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham made history as the first-ever Latina governor in New Mexico.

Ayanna Pressley was elected to represent Massachusetts’ 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House.

Pressley, who won the Democratic primary and ran unopposed, becomes the first African-American woman to represent any New England state in Congress.

Jahana Hayes was elected to represent Connecticut’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House. She becomes the first woman of color to represent Connecticut in Congress.

Tish James was elected New York attorney general, the first woman and first African- American elected who will serve in that capacity.

Twenty-nine-year-old Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made history as the youngest woman ever elected to Congress, winning the race for New York’s 14th

District. Sharice Davids was elected the first Native American woman to serve in Congress. Despite record numbers of Democrat and independent voters at the polls in some key states, there was no “blue wave,” and there was strong enough pushback from Republican and Trump supporters to retain GOP control of the U.S. Senate.

The quest to make history with African-American governors in three states also fell short.

In Florida, Democrat Andrew Gillum lost narrowly with 48 percent of the vote to Republican Rep. Ron DeSantis, who received 49 percent.

Former NAACP president Ben Jealous, a Democrat, failed to make history with a gubernatorial win in Maryland, losing to Republican Ben Hogan 56 percent to 42 percent.

In Georgia, former state legislator Stacey Abrams – attempting to become the country’s first Black female governor – trailed against Republican Secretary of State Brian Kemp. She has refused to concede, vowing to stay in until every vote is counted.

Andria Tupola fell short in her quest to become the first Native Hawaiian woman governor as a member of the GOP. Paulette Jordan is already the first Native American to become the Democratic Party’s nominee for governor in Idaho, but she lost on Election Night to Republican Brad Little.

Johnson said voter suppression played a huge role in the silencing of the political voices of the Black community and all people of color. “As we saw in Georgia and Tennessee, Republicans engaged in a massive voter suppression strategy that has included further rolling back the Voting Rights Act.” “We will continue to resist attacks on our communities, will fight for fundamental structural changes to our political system to restore the balance of power back to the people, and we will propel a visionary movement in 2020,” said Johnson.

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

4

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Greenleaf available at xfinity.com/stream

STAR available on Xfinity Stream app

Stream easy.

With the best WiFi experience, watch the most free shows, movies, and all your DVR recordings on any device.

Plus, save when you include Xfinity Mobile with your Internet. With Xfinity, entertaining, streaming and saving are all, simple, easy, awesome.

S P EC I A L O F F E R

Get Started With TV | Internet

35

$

each a month for 12 months

when you bundle both with 1-year agreement

Includes Xfinity X1 & up to 150 Mbps download speed

See how you can save by including Xfinity Mobile

Equipment, taxes and fees extra, and subject to change. See below for details.

Go to xfinity.com, call 1-800-xfinity or visit an Xfinity Store today.

Offer ends 11/18/18. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to the X1 Saver Double Play with Digital Starter TV with Streampix and Performance Pro 150 Mbps Internet. Early termination fee applies if all Xfinity services (except Xfinity Mobile) are canceled during the agreement term. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $10.00/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $8.00/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after agreement term. After agreement term, or if any service is canceled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast’s monthly service charge for X1 Saver Double Play is $100. Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers.

TV: Limited Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. Mobile: New Xfinity Internet customers limited to up to two lines pending activation of Internet service. Call for restrictions and complete details. © 2018 Comcast. All Rights Reserved. Netflix streaming membership required. Starz® and related channels and service marks are the property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. Visit starz.com for airdates/time. Power ©2018 Starz Entertainment, LLC. All rights reserved. NPA219933-0002

130608_NPA219933-0002 W November Sale_HoustonDefender_9.75x13.indd 1

10/29/18 4:06 PM

defendernetwork.com

NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 | DEFENDER

entertainment

5

Long-shelved Aretha documentary debuting Defender News Services

Forty-six years after an Aretha Franklin gospel concert film was shot and abandoned, the documentary could soon see the light of day. The Franklin estate and producer Alan Elliott have reached an agreement to release the perpetually delayed “Amazing Grace” project, according to Variety.

“In recent weeks, Alan presented the film to the family at the African American Museum here, and we absolutely love it,” said Sabrina Owens, the late star’s niece and executor of her estate, in a phone interview from Detroit.

“We can see Alan’s passion for the movie, and we are just as passionate about it. It’s in a very pure environment, The late Aretha Franklin will be featured in a gospel concert film shot more than four decades ago. very moving and inspirational, and it’s an opportunity for those individuals who had ing the singer a partner in the movie. not experienced her in a gospel context to see how The legal wrangling created the appearance of diverse her music is. We are so excited to be a part of enmity between camps, and the late singer was not this.” always an easy read when it came to business matters.

There is no distribution deal in place for the But in the midst of the imbroglio, Franklin told the planned general release in 2019, but the film will Detroit Free Press that she “loved” the movie, a DVD soon premiere at a film festival. Official premiere edit of which Elliott had sent her years ago. events for L.A. and Detroit are in the early stages of Viewers might quibble over whether it’s technibeing planned for next year. The Franklin family and cally a concert movie or a church service movie, but Elliott believe a distribution deal will come quickly it’s foremost a music movie. “Aretha says six words but wanted to get the film ready for awards considerin the movie,” Elliott points out. “She says, ‘What ation first, then cross that bridge. key is it, E?’ and then she says, ‘Water.’ So, The film was originally scheduled to premiere obviously getting the music right is the in 2015, before Franklin’s lawyers were granted an thing we can do best by her legacy, injunction halting the showings. Her attorneys argued I think.” the singer had the right to deny the use of her likeness For Owens, the film in the movie, while Elliott maintained that all rights “shows Aretha in a very had been granted when he bought the uncompleted different light. She’s footage from Warner Bros. Elliott and Franklin’s team very youthful, very agreed to negotiate in good faith with the aim of makshy, and her voice

is just beautiful throughout, at an age when her voice was absolutely crystalclear and very pure. It’s very moving and inspirational, and I enjoy it as a fan of the church and gospel music beyond just the fact that it’s my aunt singing.

“This just seems like the best time, because I think any time an artist passes, they’re fresh on people’s minds and hearts. But also, I think people want something in a very spiritual mode, and I think this is a feel-good movie that could be very uplifting in a time of turmoil in our country.”

what’sup People Magazine has named IDRIS ELBA 2018’s Sexiest Man Alive, and the British actor says the honor has given him a boost of self-confidence. Elba, who starred in “The Wire” and “Luther,” was surprised after being crowned this year’s winner. Elba’s selection was revealed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” with the actor appearing via satellite from London. Fallon had Elba perform poses to match the magazine’s cover description of him as a “sweet, smoldering superstar.” Elba, 46, also performs on the side under the deejay name DJ Big Driis and has his own clothing line. He is also planning a wedding with his fiancée.…….“Love and Hip Hop” creator

and executive producer MONA SCOTT-YOUNG has inked an overall deal with Lionsgate Television to produce unscripted series for the company’s second division via her Monami Productions. The deal also states that the media mogul will have an opportunity to develop projects for the studio’s digital and scripted arms. Scott-Young, who has managed hip-hop icon MISSY ELLIOT for 20 years, executive-produced “XScape: Still Kickin’ It” for Bravo TV and also orchestrated the group’s 30-city sold-out reunion tour……..BARACK and MICHELLE OBAMA are reportedly planning to adapt veteran journalist and author Michael Lewis’ book “The Fifth Risk,”

which paints a critical portrait of President Donald Trump and his dysfunctional administration. The film is part of the former first couple’s production deal with Netflix and their company, Higher Ground..…..AVA DUVERNAY plans to “go crazy” scouring Paisley Park as she gathers information for a new Netflix documentary about Prince. The Oscar-nominated filmmaker of the acclaimed films “13th” and “Selma” has received the blessing of Prince’s notoriously private estate to make the film and has received full access to the Purple One’s vast archive of work, including unreleased material. The multiple-part film will cover Prince’s entire life.

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

6

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Celebrities join Michelle Obama book tour Associated Press

Michelle Obama is hitting the road to promote her upcoming book “Becoming” (in stores Nov. 13) and she’ll be joined by an all-star list of moderators that includes Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Jessica Parker and Valerie Jarrett.

“Attendees at Mrs. Obama’s events will hear Mrs. Obama’s honest reflections on the experiences and events, both public and private, that have shaped her,” reads a press release, “from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her years spent at the most famous address in the world.”

In a move virtually without precedent in the publishing world, the book tour will exclusively hit basketball arenas that seat about 20,000 people each. The events will be open to the general public, but 10 percent of the tickets are being given to charities, schools and community groups. For more ticket information, check out the book’s official website.

About a year before former President Barack Obama left office, a bidding war erupted for the rights to his memoir along with a separate work by Michelle Obama. Penguin Random House ultimately won the project for a reported $65 million, far and away the most money ever given to a former president for a book. Prior to this, Bill Clinton had the record when he was given $15 million for the rights to his book “My Life” by Knopf.

Any book deal of that size obligates the writer to promote it with an extensive book tour that mixes media interviews with personal appearances. Here is a complete list of stops on the book tour along with the name of the moderator that will appear at the event.

Tour schedule

Former First Lady Michelle Obama’s new book is titled “Becoming.”

Oprah Winfrey is among those joining Mrs. Obama on tour.

Nov. 13 – Chicago (Oprah Winfrey) Nov. 15 – Los Angeles (Tracee Ellis Ross) Nov. 17 – Washington, D.C. (Valerie Jarrett) Nov. 24 – Boston (Michele Norris) Nov. 25 – Washington, D.C. (Elizabeth Alexander) Nov. 29 – Philadelphia (Phoebe Robinson) Dec. 1 – Brooklyn (Elizabeth Alexander) Dec. 11 – Detroit (Phoebe Robinson) Dec. 13 – Denver (Reese Witherspoon) Dec. 14 – San Jose (Michele Norris) Dec. 17 – Dallas (Valerie Jarrett) Dec. 19 – Brooklyn (Sarah Jessica Parker)

defendernetwork.com

Workshop Houston youth honor 3rd Ward with mural Workshop Houston, the youth development program centered in Houston’s Third Ward and Harris County Precinct One, recently dedicated a community mural at Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 3115 Blodgett Street. The mural depicts eight people who have helped to shape and enrich the Third Ward. It was realized through a collaboration with the Workshop Houston inaugural summer employment program for teens, the Summer Mural Art Corps (SMAC).

The individuals featured in the mural include: Heman Sweatt, Barbara Jordan, Ada Edwards, Mickey Leland, Reverend John B. Moore, Christia Adair, Hattie Mae White, and Reverend Bill Lawson. The mural faces the four-mile Columbia Tap Trail which connects the community to the Texas Medical Center and downtown.

NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 | DEFENDER

7

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. Internet EssentialsSM from Comcast brings affordable, high-speed Internet to your home and greater access to what’s important to you. You may qualify if you have at least one child who is eligible for the National School Lunch Program or if you receive HUD housing assistance.

APPLY NOW AT InternetEssentials.com 1-855-8-INTERNET

© 2017 Comcast. All rights reserved. Internet Essentials is a program to provide home Internet service for families. It is not a school program, and is not endorsed or required by your school. Your school is not responsible for Internet Essentials accounts.

CIE_Consumer ad_Marcus_4.79x6.5.indd 1

THERE IS NO GREATER SACRIFICE.

AARP salutes those who have served and still serve. We support our veterans and their families with information on career support, caregiving resources, community connections and more.

Learn more at aarp.org/houston.

Visit aarp.org/veterans for information on what we’re doing in your local community and get more on how AARP helps veterans discover their Real Possibilities.

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP.

7/7/17 3:23 PM

8

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018

Parenting in the NE Many moms and dads take different approach

By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

W

hile there is no right or wrong way to raise children, when it comes to tradition, there are some decisions that parents in the new millennium are finding they must do differently.

Whether it’s evolving views on discipline or balancing unique challenges, many parents today are departing from the normal family structure to adopt a different style in raising children.

“Parenting styles evolve over time and can change to meet the children’s needs, well-being and sometimes their demands,” said Laura Baldwin, a family and child therapist. “While at times there is the need to be stern with children, there are also occasions when parents can loosen the reins and adopt a more permissive approach.

“Parents today may subscribe to a particular style, but many tend to use an approach that provides more encouragement and can improve the children’s capabilities to achieve greater success. A balanced parenting approach produces the best outcome for children to do well in life.”

The different approach reflects the different cultures and backgrounds of millennial children, Baldwin said. Understanding the changing dynamics is important so parents can stay current with the latest methods because each one affects home life differently.

TO SPANK OR NOT TO SPANK

One of the biggest debates in parenting comes from the question of to spank or not. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently hardened its stance against spanking children as a form of parental discipline.

The group recommends that adults caring for children use “healthy forms of discipline” –such as positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors, setting limits and setting expectations –and not use spanking, hitting, slapping, threatening, insulting, humiliating or shaming.

Stacey Patton, author of “Spare the Kids: Why Whupping Children Won’t Save Black America,” said the deeply embedded practice of corporal punishment for Black children can be traced to European parenting styles that were eventually passed on to Black American slaves.

Ultimately, she advocates against hitting children in any way, as well as the embrace of such parenting tools within Black culture.

“People start hitting their children at toddler [age] before they start walking or talking, so the child is beginning to normalize that pain before they’re able to develop verbal and cognitive skills. When you hit children when their brains are still developing, particularly in that 0-to-3 age range…you’re rewiring the child’s brain to avoid pain,” Patton said.

Patton said Black parents have to find a way to reach their children without hitting them.

“Hitting between adults is illegal. A man hitting his wife or his girlfriend is called domestic violence. If we hit animals it’s called animal cruelty. But kids are the only group of people in this country where it is codified in law to assault their bodies,” she said.

For those who argue that they were spanked as a child yet “turned out fine,” Patton said we should change the mindset that any abuse is okay.

“I’ve talked to people who say I was spanked as a kid or whupped, and it wasn’t abuse, but then when you ask them, how was your body hit, they’ll say they were slapped in the face, that a parent used a belt, or a switch,” she said.

“Our entire ecosystem is full of this negative imagery, negative stereotypes and predictions about Black children.

We were always a problem described by the larger white world, and our parents internalized those messages, and you could see them come out in the way they parented us from a place of fear.

“And so the beatings were designed as some kind of [preventative measure] to save us from going to prison, for example. But if beating Black children were so successful in keeping us out of prison, we wouldn’t be having this conversation about mass incarceration and police brutality.”

While 80 percent of Black parents see spanking as reasonable and effective ways to teach respect and protect their children from the streets, incarceration, and encounters with racism, some are actually setting aside the belt to search for healthier, nonviolent alternatives.

Single father Sean Hines Sr. said he stopped spanking his two children because he felt he could get the same or better results with a nonviolent approach.

“Giving up spanking wasn’t as difficult as I thought it would be,” he said. “It was just a matter of breaking that reflex response, taking time to view the entire situation and decide on a suitable course of action.”

Once Hines stopped spanking, he found that his children were “easier to talk to, less afraid. That made it easier for me to educate them. They became more forthcoming with the truth.”

Instead of hitting, he administers discipline according to the violation. “Taking away their gaming devices and TV time seems to be more painful for them than a belt.”

tive way to

UNIQUE

Discip engage in m feelings is n “Man vided food heard. A afraid to work, co In ad order to “We Donald,

defendernetwork.com • Serving the

defendernetwork.com

9

EW MILLENNIUM

o discipline?”

s l a i n n e l Mil g n i t n e r a p e s i v e r

But mother-of-three Chandra Cole echoes the sentiment of many Black parents.

“The AAP didn’t raise me or my kids,” Cole said. “I grew up in the South. If there was one thing I feared, it was the switch. The result? I’ve never smoked or took a drug in my life, I respect the law and elders and I’ve raised my kids to do the same,” she said.

Baldwin said that parents must find what works, but be open to changing to fit the times.

“I have parents say, ‘If they arrest me for putting bruises on my kid, so be it,’ but do you really want to be embroiled in court, put your job at risk, when you could find another, just as effec-

E CHALLENGES

pline isn’t the only changing challenge. Parents today need to become better listeners so they can meaningful conversations with their children. The era when parents didn’t worry about their child’s no more. ny of us grew up where we were told to stay in a child’s place, where as long as we were being prod and shelter, our feelings were not taken into account,” Baldwin said. “Kids today want to be And during those conversations, parents must listen with empathy but not be o speak clearly about the principles that never change such as respect, teamourage, and honor.” ddition, today’s parent must work to achieve balance in their family life in raise well-rounded children. are so busy that sometimes we forget that we have a life,” said Lucy Maca consultant who advocates looking at your life as a whole, deciding what

e Houston area for over 85 years

styles.

000) parenting -2 82 19 in rn renting (those bo friends – for pa d of millennials’ an ts ai ily tr m g fa in st fin t ju of the de e Internet – no Here are some nials look to th en ill M – at just 19 ce vi . onkey found th On-line ad s and apps M om ey ro rv at Su ch d e, an ia, compared to to Googl d by Time on social med advice and turn spotlight – A poll conducte ds ki r ei th of oto Social media ver shared a ph e total parents have ne ent of Baby Boomer parents. al ni en ill m 18 percent of th of to d rc se pe ea 53 percent cr d in sts have day makes en X parents an 34-year-old to d education co to an re 18 ca 30 percent of G e ld ag hi er C g when it ggles – nce the av s are strugglin Financial stru nt ent in 1960. Si re rc pa pe al 2 ni st ju en mill a kid, from in 1980, many cost of raising ey would have th an th ork and child ss le ke on housew ta about $2,000 to y earch el lik e . g kids are mor ng Mother Res comes to raisin Millennial men rvey by Worki – y, su s dr A le un it. ro la of er e t th nd os do m r doing Changing ge gh women still responsible fo e ou ar th ey en th ev y , st sa rs e pa working mothe care than in th g. rents started at 79 percent of care of cookin th d ke ta un fo to s te er itu and Gen X pa th s fa al Inst as ni y en el ill lik m that e twice as l Group found and mothers ar study by Capita parents did.

A er – s m n at least one lk oo ta B ey an Mon milies had take sooner th fa ey al ni on m eled. en t ill ou m ab kids rcent of ngles had trav talking to their rted that 64 pe al couples or si po any ni re en es ith ill w rb m d t Fo te – ha e than w ’re unaffilia or ey m More travel , th ar y ye sa st to pa y rc e likel 18 pe ent cation in the ennials are mor for Open Science found that ill M -international va n io lig ter on re rvey by the Cen Less emphasis families. tions are. A su ra ices with their ne rv ge se r us de io ol lig re nd te at r religion than neve kids said they of millennials’

your priorities are and focusing time and attention on the things most important to you.

“Lower the housework standards,” she suggested, pointing out that kids don’t notice how clean the house is, but do notice how much time you spend with them.

“Our children know we spend time on what’s important to us.”

Today’s parent also faces the challenge of constant connection to their devices. Their reliance on technology may have its benefits in improving parenting, getting things done quickly, and interacting or bonding with their family and friends.

“As opposed to the traditional wooden blocks or writing out numbers, young kids are learning to type and navigate apps,” Baldwin said. “Since technology will be a constant in their lives, embrace it by teaching children early.”

10

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Free Diabetes Awareness & Wellness Network offered Defender News Service

UH Data Science Institute gets $10 million Defender News Services

The University of Houston announced a new collaboration with Hewlett PPackard Enterprise (HPE), including a $10 million gift from HPE to the university. The gift will benefit the Data Science Institute and include funding for a scholarship endowment, as well as both funding and equipment to enhance data science research activities.

In today’s information age, the data being created is only as valuable as the insights that are gleaned from it.

The secrets to scientific breakthroughs and industry-changing innovations hide in plain sight behind mountains of data. Data science is the key to unlocking these breakthroughs and critical as companies undergo digital transformation.

Amr Elnashai, vice president for research and technology transfer at UH, said the alliance with HPE will expand the ability to respond to some of the biggest challenges facing the region.

“This partnership will enhance our capacity to deploy data science tools to address challenges in the healthcare, energy and smart materials sectors in the Houston area, from health data mining to data-enabled oil and gas exploration,” he said.

The Houston Health Department is encouraging people with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes to become a member of the Diabetes Awareness & Wellness Network (DAWN) this November, National Diabetes Awareness Month.

DAWN is a free community-based diabetes education program focused on developing diabetes self-management skills. It helps Houstonians diagnosed with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes get the tools and support necessary to live a healthy life.

“Our approach with DAWN is truly unique compared to other diabetes management programs,” said LaQuisha Umemba, chief nurse of the Houston Health Department. “We focus on giving our members a physical space for encouragement and handson education for their journey towards diabetes self-management.”

The Third Ward Multi-Service Center houses the DAWN Center, where members can learn and practice various aspects of diabetes self-management, all at one location. Members have the

benefits of working with a nutritionist and them taking a group cooking class in the same place.

DAWN also offers physical activity classes and allows members to utilize its fitness facilities.

“Putting education and practice in the same space for a wide range of core self-management skills allows us to establish a powerful way for the community to better manage their own health,” Umemba continued.

DAWN serves an average of 125 members per month.

Members who qualify for the program have access to professional staff, ranging from certified diabetes educators to fitness trainers.

DAWN also offers chronic disease self-management classes and a diabetes prevention program.

In addition to the DAWN Center, services are also provided at other city multi-service centers and partner organizations through a mobile unit.

To find out more or register for DAWN, call 832-393-4055 or visit houstonhealth.org.

defendernetwork.com

SBA, VA aid veteran entrepreneurship

NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 | DEFENDER

11

Defender News Services

Veterans Day is Sunday, Nov. 11, and will be observed on Monday, Nov. 12. The Small Business Administration and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced a new partnership dedicated to supporting veteran small businesses.

A memorandum of understanding was signed between the two agencies to collaborate and scale a new pilot program that will offer intensive management and leadership training.

For more information visit www.sba.gov/veterans.

About Veterans Day

The federal holiday honors America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. Formerly known as Armistice Day, it was originally set as a U.S. legal holiday to honor the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. In 1938 through an act of Congress, Nov. 11 was made a legal holiday.

In 1954, the 83rd U.S. Congress amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word “Armistice” and inserting the word “Veterans.” On June 1, 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

In 1968, the Uniforms Holiday Bill was signed, ensuring three-day weekends for federal employees by celebrating four national holidays on Mondays: Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Columbus Day. With some confusion, the first Veterans Day under the new law was observed on Oct. 25, 1971.

On Sept. 20, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed a law which returned the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date of Nov. 11, beginning in 1978.

T:9.75”

CMYK

A re-newed focus: you.

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.

310299bbd02_9_75x6_5

DM

12

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 defendernetwork.com

Arlington police shooting prompts demonstrations Defender News Service

A Dallas-area community is restless and continues to protest over the shooting death of O’Shae Terry as he drove off during the middle of a traffic stop. A grand jury is set to consider the case in the coming months, but Terry’s attorney and his family don’t think he’ll get a fair review by the Tarrant County District Attorney Sharen Wilson.

“She doesn’t indict cops,” civil rights attorney Lee Merritt said of Wilson.

“It’s a very slim chance that it will be indicted, although it’s clearly criminal.”

Terry was stopped for having an expired registration. Arlington Police Officer Bau Tran reportedly asked Terry to turn off his engine.

He did at first, but according to reports, minutes later he began to roll up his window on the passenger side where an officer was standing and pulled off.

Body camera video showed officer Tran sticking his hand in the window and ordering Terry to stop. When he pulled off in his SUV, the officer pulled out his gun and began firing and fatally shooting Terry.

Drugs and a .40-caliber handgun were reportedly recovered from Terry’s vehicle.

Terry’s grieving mother, Sherley Woods, said she’s upset that Tran has dodged any punishment.

“When officers do something wrong and unjust, it’s only right that they be prosecuted the same way we’d be prosecuted,” Woods said.

“Every day, all night long, I keep seeing my son’s face,” Woods said. “The police officer took away my son’s life before he could experience getting a wife or becoming a father and having a family.”

Residents say they have little faith that justice will be served.

Officials are still grappling with the outrage over the fatal police shooting of Botham Jean who was gunned down in his own home last month. Amber

Guyger was charged with manslaughter and fired from the Dallas police department.

“It appears the outcome has been predetermined despite the officer’s highly questionable tactics,” said Alisa Simmons, president of the Arlington NAACP. Demonstrators marched after a Dallas-area fatal police shooting.

defendernetwork.com

NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 | DEFENDER

13

Biles makes history Associated Press

Even with two falls, gymnastics star Simone Biles could not be beaten.

The U.S. athlete won her fourth all-around title at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Doha, Qatar, besting her competition despite falls on the vault and balance beam.

The 21-year-old could afford a few missteps thanks to the high degree of difficulty in her routines.

The first woman to win four allaround titles at the world championships, she finished this year’s competition with 57.491 points.

Later on Twitter, Biles appeared to revel in her victory and perhaps even the audible gasps her falls caused.

“Didn’t mean to give everySimone Biles one a heart attack,” she playfully tweeted.

Japan’s Mai Murakami came in second place with 55.798 points, while Biles’ U.S. teammate and defending 2017 world all-around champion Morgan Hurd came in third with 55.732 points.

Between the four world championships and her Olympic title, Biles is now riding a five-year winning streak in the all-around.

On top of the athletic events, Biles was hospitalized for kidney stone treatment earlier in the week.

Conversation with HBCU Presidents

Dr. Austin Lane, President Texas Southern University

Dr. Ruth Simmons, President Prairie View A&M University

5:30 PM: Reception 6:30 PM: Program Amegy Bank, 1717 W. Loop South - 9th Floor Houston, TX 77027

TOPIC Opportunities and Challenges Facing HBCUs Today

SPONSORS

FREE RSVP:

www.HBCUPresidentsConversation.eventbrite.com

14

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018

sports

defendernetwork.com

Texans head into NFL bye week on a roll

By MAX EDISON Defender

It seems like an eternity ago that the Houston Texans started the season 0-3. Since then the Texans have righted the ship and are one of the NFL’s hottest teams. All they have done is rattle off six consecutive wins and are in first place in the AFC South. Heading into the bye week the Texans are perfectly positioned to win their division and host a game in the playoffs.

Most recently the Texans escaped from Denver by the skin of their teeth with a 19-17 victory. Their record is now 6-3. They will use the bye week to rest and heal an array of wounded players, particularly offensive linemen. They enjoy a three-game lead in the AFC South and are the only team in the division playing above .500 football.

Heading into the bye week, most football experts agree that despite the Texans’ win streak, there is still room for improvement, especially in the area of offensive play-calling. The running back tandem of Lamar Miller and Alfred Blue has not been flashy, but efficient. The addition of D’Onta Foreman, who returns from the physically-unable-to-perform list, will add additional horsepower to the rushing game.

The passing game should really take off once newly acquired receiver Demaryius Thomas gets more indoctrinated into the offense. Add Thomas plus the continued evolution of the rookie trio of wideout Keke Coutee and tight ends Jordan Thomas and Jordan Akins and you’ve got a variety of viable weapons at quarterback Deshaun Watson’s disposal.

Defensively, coordinator Romeo Crennel has been pressing all the right buttons. Ends J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney have been a formidable tandem on the defensive line. Safeties Tyrann Mathieu and Kareem Jackson having been playing lights out in coverage and are a physical presence against the run.

Head coach Bill O’Brien reminds us that it’s a thin line between winning and losing in the NFL. “Anytime you can go into a bye on a winning note, that’s really a great thing for your team,” O’Brien said. “It’s a very humbling league and the difference between when we were 0-3 and where we are now is not really much.

“We weren’t making the plays that we are making now. We have to remember where we came from and just continue to work hard and not get ahead of ourselves.

“We’ve got a big game and a great team with [coach Jay Gruden’s Redskins] coming up, so that’s going to be a real challenge on the road. They’re all hard. They just become harder and harder and I think our players understand that.”

O’Brien also appreciates the way his team has found a way to come through and win close games like the one with Denver.

“I don’t think any of our games have been wide margins, win or lose,” he said. “I thought, for instance, at the end of the [first] half, that was a great situational deal there where our defense held them and they went for a long field goal and we were able to get three points on the board off that. When you’re able to do things like that, that helps you win close games so hopefully that will help us moving forward.”

The ups and downs of the season have helped to define the character of the Texans in the mind of QB Watson.

“We don’t quit,” Watson said. “Everyone keeps believing. Everyone keeps fighting to the very end. That is what we do. Regardless of the situation or the adversity, we are always going to keep fighting. Everything comes down to the details…We did a good job staying in it and staying with it.”

With seven games remaining following the bye week and only two of those opponents having winning records, the Texans have a tremendous opportunity to make this a memorable season.

Quarterback Deshaun Watson says the Texans “don’t quit.”

Defensive ends J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney have been formidable.

Safety Kareem Jackson celebrates during the Denver game.

Running back Lamar Miller has been efficient this season.

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

defendernetwork.com

NOVEMBER 8 | 2018 | DEFENDER

sports

Davis is joined by her mother. (Photos by Jodie B. Jiles and Jimmie Aggison)

15

The Lady Wolves dominated district play and reached the playoffs.

SHASKA DAVIS inspires Westside team

W

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

estside High School volleyball standout Shaska Davis, a University of LouisianaMonroe commit, is a leader with skills and the ability to inspire the Lady Wolves team.

Davis knows what it’s like to play for a winner. Westside closed out the season with an impressive 28-5 record and a 14-game win streak before falling to Cy Creek 3-2 in the bidistrict playoffs.

The Defender spoke with the senior captain about her game and goals going forward as she takes her talents to the collegiate level.

Defender: Describe your style of play?

Davis: I am a six rotation outside hitter and don’t like just banging the ball. If it is open I am going to kill it. That’s really my attention – how to get a point. As I am going up, I am just thinking about spots with the weakest defenders, weakest blockers and where can I just make this one point that will change the game, give us a point and pick us up.

Defender: Where does your energy come from?

Davis: It really just comes from me being me. I am very dominant on the court. I really like to take control and if I can control myself, I feel that is just a big part of the whole court and helping out everybody.

Defender: What goes through your mind when you are served up a spike?

Davis: Set me, Set me. Open block. I can either tool this outside side or tool this right side because she is a little de-

DefenderNetwork.com See highlights of Westside vs.

Cy Creek playoff game

fender. I will either make that shot or I’ll bang it because it is open net. So, I just keep thinking make the point, Shaska.

Make the point.”

Defender: How would you describe your leadership style on the court?

Davis: I feel like everybody needs that one motivational person. So, I always cheer them on and say, “Hey, it is good it is just one ball and that’s it. Next.

Pump it up a little bit.” As long as we are talking, I feel the communication is the biggest thing in playing volleyball. There are five people on the court including you. If one person can talk to each other and pump up their teammates that’s the game.

Defender: What inspired your commitment to Louisiana-Monroe?

Davis: Coach [Andre King] is an amazing coach.

Out of all the other coaches I have [played for] he just has something about him. He believed in me as a little Class: 2019 hitter. For him to see Twitter: #Shaskanycole that in me, I thought that was a big decision Volleyball player she especially being diviwatches: Skylar Fields sion one and me being Favorite food: Mom’s told I would never Chicken Alfredo ever play division one Favorite subject: History because I am 5-feet-8 World problem she would inches tall. So, him solve: Financial issues trusting in me was just Dream job after volleyball: a fit for me.”

About Davis

Become a sports analyst like Stephen A. Smith Shaska Davis

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

16

DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 8 | 2018

defendernetwork.com

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

topevents

STACEY & BO PORTER SELF FOUNDATION LEGACY GALA 2018……..

Change Happen” Fall Luncheon honoring Councilmember Dwight Boykins for his The Stacey and Bo Porter SELF Foundation honored Grammy Award-winning singer community service. Attendees included MC Cynthia Cisneros, keynote speaker and actress LeToya Luckett-Walker – an original member of Destiny’s Child – Michael Harris, CH CEO Helen Stagg, former Rocket Steve Francis, Gabrielle with the 2018 Torch Award at the organization’s Legacy Gala 2018. Luckett-Walker, Gunn, Dr. Elwyn Lee, Fran-Victoria Stevens, Vanessa Reed, Misha McClure, the first woman to receive the award, joins a distinguished list of past Torch Award Laura Mayorga, Keith Cornelius and many more……..SACRED STRUGGLES/ recipients: College Football Hall of Fame Coach Hayden Fry and MLB Hall of VIBRANT JUSTICE MURAL UNVEILING……..County Commissioner Rodney Famers Frank Robinson, Dave Winfield and Chipper Jones. Proceeds from the event Ellis and Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ held an unveiling ceremony allow the SELF Foundation to add to the 15,000 children in for the Sacred Struggles/Vibrant Justice Mural that Precinct One need already served. Attendees included Bo and Stacey Porter, on the Third Ward church along the Columbia Tap trail.

Defender TOP EVENTS installed Timmicus Walker, Jodie Jiles, Rhonda Skillern-Jones, The mural is adorned with images of eight Houston civil and voting More photos on defendernetwork.com Julissa Duran, Soleil Rucker, John Guess III, Carolyn rights heroes past and present: Rev. John D. Moore, Christia Guess, John Guess IV, Pamela Luckett, Gavin Luckett and Adair, Heman Sweatt, Hattie Mae White, Rev. William Lawson, others……..CHANGE HAPPENS 14th ANNUAL FALL LUNCHEON……..For Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, Congressman Mickey Leland and Ada Edwards.

29 years,Change Happens (CH) has consistently lived up to its promise to empower Attendees included Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Al Green, people to help themselves. CH works harder to be the change that they want to see in artist Reginald Adams, Pastor A. Keith Edwards, Nanette Edwards, Licia Greenthe world and continue to make change happen for children and families throughout Ellis, Melanie Lawson, Jacqueline Bostic, Councilmember Amanda Edwards and the Houston area. To this end, Change Happens held their 14th Annual “Making many others.

Bo Porter, Stacey Porter, LeToya Luckett-Walker, Tommicus Walker

Vanessa Reed, Chef Cynthia Ferrell Sample, Helen Stagg

Reginald Adams, Commissioner Rodney Ellis

Bo Porter, Jodie Jiles, Stacey Porter

Steve Francis, Curtis Flowers

Rev. William Lawson

John Guess III, Carolyn Guess, Bo Porter, Stacey Porter

Dr. Carla Brailey, Councilmember Dwight Boykins, Janette Cosley

Rev. A. Keith Edwards, Nanette Edwards, Kimberley Denkins, J.D. Denkins

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