Houston Defender: November 16, 2017

NATIONAL

ACA (OBAMACARE) ENROLLMENT SURGING, EVEN THOUGH IT ENDS DEC. 15TH P3

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ALICIA LEWIS excited about Blackshear-UH partnership

P2 NEWSTALK GARY BLEDSOE named interim dean at TSU Law School

P2 H.S. ZONE DOMINIC FRANKLIN on a mission at Chavez

P7 TOP EVENTS

Ludacris

Paul Wall

Solange

STARS SERVE UP HARVEY RELIEF H PAGE 4

Back care

Special edition

Anthony Muhammad, Deloyd Parker and Deric Muhammad at Deloyd’s 70th birthday celebration.

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The back is an integral part of the body, and an estimated 80 percent of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. Learn facts about the back, get back care tips and see the top 10 “back-breaking” jobs in America.

Willie Simmons

setting records

It’s been a tough year for the Prairie View Panthers’ coach. With a 3-3 record in SWAC competition and sitting in third place behind Southern and Grambling in the extremely tough West Division of the conference. But the Panthers are poised to finish strong.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 16 | 2017

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People on the move

UH initiative partners with 3rd Ward schools Schwartz are co-directors of ACES, a program that traces its roots back to UH’s Third Ward Initiatives led by Dr. Elwyn Lee and UH’s University Neighborhood Partnership Forum (UNPF).

“The whole idea was for [the UNPF] to come together and figure out what were best practices for universities and communities to work together to

Bledsoe named interim TSU Law School dean

According to Cullen Principal Clayton Crook, ACES is living up to its promises.

Principals at two Third Ward “With the dynamics of the comschools, Blackshear Elementary and munities surrounding Cullen – high Cullen Middle School, are commendpoverty and high crime – there’s not a ing efforts by the University of Houston lot of individuals giving kids encourageto improved student outcomes through ment, asking about grades or if they’re the recently launched Advancing Comgoing to college,” Crook said. munity Engagement and “With some of our Service Institute (ACES). students moving from school Blackshear’s Princito school, they have people pal Alicia Lewis identified walking in and out of their literacy as her campus’s top lives, making it difficult to priority, and said that the trust anyone,” Crook said. support provided by UH has UH mentors place a been stellar. premium on building trusting “I’d give UH an A-plus relationships “so that students because even before it was grow to care about coming called ACES Institute, UH to school every day, on time had already started supportand applying themselves to ing us through the Third the best of their abilities.”

Ward Initiative,” said Lewis.

Crook graded UH”s efShe referred to multiple forts an “A-plus-plus” noting points of contact, including that they have had powercounseling program students ful impacts upon some of providing support for Black- Principal Alicia Lewis chats with Blackshear scholars during lunch Cullen’s most mentor-needy shear’s social worker, scholars and students, like the two Crook highlighted make the community better,” said Lee teachers; UH athletes who participate who literally had no one caring for them of the effort he and former Pastor Wilin HISD’s Houston Read Program and liam A. Lawson co-chaired. at home. serve as mentors; College of Education Their research led them to the na“Their issues showed through their students instructing four days a week; tion’s top-rated university/community poor hygiene and grades, and inability to and 10 Cougar Literacy Corp students partnership – the University of Pennsyl- smile or look people in the eye. who provide one-on-one attention for vania’s Netter Center – which became “I knew those students cared Blackshear students. the model for ACES. because they walked every day all the “They’re helping us make sure that “All you have to do is look at the way from Peck Elementary,” Crook said. our scholars are growing in literacy,” evaluations of the [Yates High feeder “And with their mentors, now they’ve Lewis said. “That one-on-one attention pattern] schools and you can see that so made a complete turn-around, smiling, works every time.” many of the schools have ratings that high-fiving teachers, making good grades Anne McClellan and Jonathan need to be elevated,” said Lee. and feeling confident in their abilities.”

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

Former Texas Southern University Regent Gary Bledsoe will assume the role of interim dean at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Bledsoe will lead the law school through its American Bar Association compliance requirements.

Bledsoe specializes in public interest law, employment and civil rights law.

He is president of the Texas NAACP and has held that Gary Bledsoe position since 1991. He has a longstanding relationship with the NAACP as a member of its National Board since 2003 and is chair of the National Criminal Justice Committee of the NAACP. Bledsoe earned his bachelor’s and juris doctorate degrees from the University of Texas at Austin.

Fisher named to SWAC Hall of Fame

Dr. Dwalah Fisher has been selected for induction into the 2017 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Hall of Fame. The enshrinement ceremony will take place on Nov. 30 at the Westin Galleria.

Fisher, who serves as assistant director and senior woman administrator for TSU Athletics, was a top volleyball player at TSU. She earned three All-SWAC nods and four All-Tournament honors for the Lady Tigers Dwalah Fisher and her team won three conference titles.

She took the helm of the Lady Tigers volleyball program in 1994, guiding the team to the SWAC volleyball championship, and coached until 2010. Fisher also coached the women’s basketball team in 1996.

localbriefs THE TEXAS GOVERNOR’S OFFICE has granted $4.4 million to law enforcement and prosecutors in Harris County to aid in the ongoing fight against sex trafficking. City and county leaders say the money will be used to improve services to victims of violent crimes and increase prosecution of traffickers and buyers. The grant is emblematic of a sea change in the way sex trafficking cases are handled. In decades past, sex trafficking survivors – adults and minors – were often jailed for selling sex.

In recent years, however, law enforcement’s focus has turned to the demand and not the supply…….

FORT BEND ISD OFFICIALS have broken

ground at the District’s new James Reese Career and Technical Center, which will open in the fall of 2019. Located at University Boulevard and Chatham Avenue in Telfair, the new center will offer advanced junior and senior level courses and give students an opportunity to gain real-world experience working at one of five student-operated learning labs that will be open to the public, including a cosmetology studio, automotive shop, restaurant, credit union and early education center. Industry certifications and dual-credit courses will also be available…….

ASPIRING ARTISTS CAN GET A CHANCE TO WORK with Project Row Houses (PRH) and

the Center for Art and Social Engagement (CASE) at the University of Houston through the CASEPRH Fellowship. This multi-year program builds on PRH’s history of leadership in social practice and community-engaged art projects. Two new Fellows will get a mentorship and year-long engagement with Project Row Houses and the University of Houston’s Center for Art & Social Engagement. The fellowship program brings artists, cultural practitioners, urban planners, educators, and policymakers to engage with the PRH process and the greater Houston community.

The deadline is Nov. 21. The application can be completed at www.ProjectRowHouses.com.

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U.S.briefs FORMER VICE PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN says he hasn’t ruled out running for president in 2020. “Not yet,” Biden told Oprah Winfrey during an interview promoting his memoir.

Still, many supporters remain hopeful that Biden will announce a bid for the White House. Citing age and other factors, Biden did say with certainty that he plans to have a continued presence in politics, particularly regarding fundraising and helping Democrats win back the majority in Congress........U.S. SEN. CORY BOOKER said Americans can fight President Donald Trump with love. The senator lives by the creed of a “conspiracy of love,” using the phrase often to describe everything from his own disadvantaged youth to the state of politics today. Recently, Booker employed the love angle again in speaking to a state NAACP convention, telling the crowd that the best way they could win their political fights was through love.……ACCORDING TO THE FBI, ISLAM IS NOT THE MOST HATED religion. A new government report found that Jews were more than twice as likely to be the victims of “hate crimes motivated by religious bias” than Muslims were in 2016, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report for hate crime statistics last year. More than 54 percent “of the bias motivation of religiousbiased offenses” were against Jews. That paled in comparison to the nearly 25 percent of instances of “anti-Islamic (Muslim)” hate crimes that were reported to law enforcement in 2016.……CONSERVATIVE MEDIA IS ATTACKING MALIA OBAMA in a fabricated piece that alleges the former first daughter, who is currently attending Harvard University, is part of “Antifa,” shorthand for the anti-fascist movement that emerged after Charlottesville. According to the piece, Malia and others beat up a 97-year-old woman supposedly named Mabel Gouldman after she left church. Another conservative fake news site embellished the story and passed it along.

VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 3 NOVEMBER 16, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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Obamacare update

ACA enrollment surging, Dec. 15 deadline to apply

By CASH MICHAELS Contributing Writer

The enrollment period to be covered by the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, is scheduled to end Dec. 15 for those hoping to qualify for health care coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2018.

The Trump Administration, which has made no secret of its wish to “repeal and replace” President Barack Obama’s signature legislative achievement, has done everything it can to force the ACA to whither on the vine by cutting the enrollment period from the previous three months to just 45 days.

It has also cut the $100 million Obama Administration budget to advertise the open enrollment period, and slashed grant funding efforts for state and community organizations across the nation that reach those in dire need of all that the ACA offers through education and mobilization, by an estimated 90 percent to just $10 million for the entire nation.

Yet, according to recent published reports, President Donald Trump’s efforts to strangle the ACA to discourage participation are coming up short. In fact, based on available numbers, people are enrolling at a higher, faster pace than last year at this time, and there’s every reason to believe that pace will continue the closer Dec. 15 comes.

While no official numbers have been released by the administration, The Washington Post (citing sources) reports that, “More than 200,000 Americans chose a plan on Nov. 1 (first day of open enrollment). That’s more than double the number of consumers who signed up on the first day of enrollment last year.”

More than 1 million people visited HeathCare.

gov, the official federal website, the official said, which amounts to roughly a 33 percent increase in traffic compared with 2016.”

This doesn’t account for over a dozen states that have their own health insurance exchanges. However, several states, like California, New York and Connecticut, all say they are seeing more signups over last year as well.

Those wishing to enroll should visit www.healthcare. gov to qualify for federal tax subsidies to offset the rising cost of health insurance premiums. Those subsidies, better known as APT (Advanced Premium Tax Subsidies), make monthly premiums more affordable for most Americans who apply.

Premiums on some health insurance plans can be subsidized as low as $87 per month from a high of $662, depending on the type of plan an applicant needs and signs up for.

To make sure Trump’s efforts to squash the ACA signup period fails, several advocacy groups across the nation, including the NNPA, have stepped forward, making sure that their constituencies are properly informed about all ACA deadlines and requirements.

Some states are stepping up to cover the cost of open enrollment education too, like California, adding $5 million to its efforts.

The question now is, though it’s clear that many Americans are ignoring Trump’s efforts to kill the ACA, just how many of them are young people? There is concern in the health care community that most of the new signups are people who are older and have afflictions, versus young, healthier people who are needed in large numbers in order for the ACA to work properly by design.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 16 | 2017 defendernetwork.com

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Harvest the Block fest celebrates Houston Defender News Services

Ludacris

Solange

Paul Wall

Bread of Life prepares a celebrity-filled feast Defender News Services

Celebrities will be out in full force on Saturday, Nov. 18 to serve up a “Royal” Epicurean Thanksgiving Feast benefitting Hurricane Harvey relief funds.

Bread of Life Inc. (St. John’s United Methodist Church) is bringing out celebrity waiters to serve up warm Thanksgiving meals from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Celebrity hosts such as Solange, Ludacris, Paul Wall and other surprise appearances are expected to be on hand for the event.

Global humanitarian and Bread of Life Pastor Rudy Rasmus will host the event. “The event is designed to encourage those affected by

Houston Black Restaurant Week kicks off its second annual fall festival, Harvest the Block, on Saturday, Nov. 18 from noon to 8 p.m. at Peggy Park, 4101 Almeda. This year the festival seeks to uplift the Houston community still recovering from Hurricane Harvey.

“Houston has experienced a lot this year, and we want to create an event to celebrate the strong spirit of our community,” said Falayn Ferrell, Harvest the Block Chair. “This fall we are striving to bring a little holiday joy to families and our community as we continue to recover and heal.”

The family-friendly event showcases local farmers’ fall harvest alongside culinary demonstrations, gardening classes, and a bevy of children’s activities. Patrons can enjoy bites from various food trucks including local favorites Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill and Craft

Burger Food Truck.

DJ Big Reeks and other local bands will provide sounds on the Peggy Park lawn, while guests can sip on specialty cocktails available for purchase. New additions this year include a holiday pop-up market and local artists displaying their collections.

To honor the Houston community, the festival committee is presenting Harvest the Home, an arts and crafts station to help those in need. Organizers are asking the community to assist in making holiday baskets for families for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Baskets will include canned goods, produce from the farmers market, and personal notes to share kind words from one family to another. The organizers’ goal is to create over 100 baskets to spread joy to Houston families during the Thanksgiving holidays.

For free tickets visit www.harvesttheblock.com/tickets/.

Harvey and to thank the hundreds of committed volunteers who stepped in and up to support the recovery efforts,“ Pastor Rudy said.

Proceeds will benefit Bread of Life’s ongoing Hurricane Harvey disaster relief programs, in partnership with Beyonce’s BeyGood Houston. Sponsors include Sony Music, the Houston Food Bank, Legacy Collective and Amazing 102.5 FM.

Bread of Life Inc. St. John’s UMC 2019 Crawford Saturday, Nov.18 2-6 p.m. www.breadoflifeinc.org

The Harvest Festival is sponsored by Houston Restaurant Week.

what’sup XSCAPE has reunited, but it looks like there are still some serious bumps in their relationship.

During an episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” the ladies promoted their new Bravo reality show: “Xscape: Still Kickin’ It.” They revealed that they were making new music without KANDI BURRUSS. When asked about new music, Burruss pointed to the other three and said that “the three of them” would be putting out new music. Things got rather awkward as host ANDY COHEN asked if the music would be put out under the Xscape name before, finally, TAMEKA “TINY” HARRIS said, “Well, we are Xscape.”…. ..Singer

TYRESE shared bizarre and irrational posts on his Instagram account. Most recently he had a crying spell in front of millions of people over the custody battle with his ex-wife over his 10-year-old daughter. Now, he is saying his breakdown was due to a prescription for an anti-psychotic named Rexulti that had an “adverse effect” on him. Rexulti is used to treat schizophrenia and depression. Tyrese was apologetic in the post and asked that the public not see his transparency as oversharing……..

Grammy-winning singer JILL SCOTT has filed divorce papers from her husband of 15 months, citing “irreconcilable differences” and

“inappropriate marital conduct that such further cohabitation would be unsafe and improper.” The grounds for divorce in Scott’s petition – filed in Tennessee, where the two were married – include cruel treatment, infidelity, verbal or physical abuse or sexual impropriety. Her husband, Mike Dobson, disputes the claims and says he was “blindsided” by the news, even though court documents listed the couple’s separation date as Sept. 5…….People Magazine is counting down to their favorite Hollywood hunks and announced that “Queen Sugar” and “Girls Trip” star KOFI SIRIBOE is definitely on the list as one of the hottest men in town.

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Defender Special Edition

facts about the back

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

Any discussion of the back often leads to the subject of back pain, and there’s a good reason why. It’s estimated that 80 percent of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. It’s a leading contributor to missed work days and the most common cause of job-related disability.

Here are 10 things to know about the back, including its status as the source of a common medical problem.

When looking at the structure of the back, look at the spine.

It runs from the base of the skull down the length of the back, going all the way down to the pelvis. It is composed of bones called vertebrae. The spine is divided into four sections: the cervical spine (neck), thoracic spine (upper back), lumbar spine (lower back) and the sacral region.

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Treatment for back pain depends on the kind of pain and its cause. It may include hot or cold packs, exercise, medicine, injections, complementary treatments or surgery.

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The spinal cord is part of the body’s collection of nerves called the central nervous system, along with the brain. If the spinal cord is injured it often causes permanent changes in the body’s strength, sensation and other functions.

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The back provides support for the head and trunk of the body, strength in the trunk of the body and flexibility and movement. The back comprises interconnecting nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons, all of which can be a source of pain.

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Back pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain. Most low back

Causes of back pain

pain is acute (short term) and lasts a few days to a few weeks. Subacute low back pain lasts between four and 12 weeks and chronic back pain persists for 12 weeks or longer.

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Arthritis, poor posture, obesity and psychological stress can cause or complicate back pain. It can also result from disease of the internal organs, such as kidney stones, kidney infections, blood clots or bone loss.

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Weekend warriors who exercise a lot after being inactive all week are more likely to suffer painful back injuries than people who make moderate physical activity a daily habit.

Most low back pain is mechanical in nature. Causes include: • Sprains and strains – Sprains are caused by overstretching or tearing ligaments and strains are tears in tendon or muscle.

• Intervertebral disc degeneration – Occurs when the usually rubbery discs lose integrity as a normal process of aging.

• Herniated or ruptured discs – Can occur when the intervertebral discs become compressed and bulge outward.

• Radiculopathy – Caused by compression, inflammation or injury to a spinal nerve root.

• Sciatica – A form of radiculopathy caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, which travels through the but-

these patients.”

Earlier this year, the American College of Physicians (ACP) recommended that doctors try nondrug therapies first when treating acute and subacute low back pain, including superficial heat, massage, acupuncture and spinal manipulation. The ACP said doctors should “avoid prescribing unnecessary tests and costly and potentially harmful drugs, especially narcotics, for

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Back pain is more common among people who are not physically fit because weak back and abdominal muscles may not properly support the spine. Having a job that requires heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling can also lead to pain and injury.

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An inactive desk job can lead to or contribute to pain as well, especially if you have poor posture or sit all day in a chair with inadequate back support.

Sources: American College of Physicians, Arthritis Foundation, National Institutes of Health

tocks and extends down the back of the leg.

• Spondylolisthesis – A condition in which a vertebra of the lower spine slips out of place, pinching the nerves exiting the spinal column.

• Traumatic injury – Examples include playing sports, car accidents or a fall.

• Spinal stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal column that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

• Skeletal irregularities – Includes scoliosis, a curvature of the spine, and lordosis, an abnormally accentuated arch in the lower back.

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How back problems impact kids Defender Exclusive

When children experience back problems, there may or may not be pain, depending on the condition.

In a Q&A with the Defender, Dr. Benny Dahl, orthopedic surgeon at Texas Children’s Hospital, sheds light on the subject.

Defender: What are the most common back problems in children and teens?

Dahl: The most common diagnosis of the spine in children and teens is so called “adolescent idiopathic scoliosis” (AIS). This is a condition most often diagnosed in patients between the age of 10 and 18.

Normally, when the body is viewed from behind, the normal spine appears straight. In patients with AIS an S-shaped curvature on the spine is seen.

The second most common diagnosis is called “spondylolisthesis” and “spondylolysis,” where there is a small slippage between two vertebras of the spine;

typically, between the 5. lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum. In most cases the slippage is caused by a small crack in the 5. lumbar vertebrae. Sometimes this is seen in patients doing extensive extension of the low part of the spine in certain sports.

The third major group of diagnosis of the spine in children and teens consists of children with severe conditions like cerebral palsy or syndromes like trisomy 21. Some of these patients develop various types of spinal deformities that can lead to bad sitting position or impaired breathing.

Defender: What are the causes, symptoms and treatment?

Dahl: Regarding adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), the cause of the condition is unknown. That is the reason for the use of the term “idiopathic.” In most cases of AIS there are no symptoms and the diagnosis is made during routine pediatric examination or during so called school screening.

There are no preventive measures to avoid AIS, but early detection is important to be able to identify patients who may benefit from brace treatment as soon as possible. In the majority of cases observation with x-ray follow up is enough, and only approximately 10 percent of patients with AIS require surgical treatment.

As opposed to AIS, patients with spondylolisthesis and spondylolysis often seek medical help because of low back pain. There are no preventive measures and treatment primarily consists of physiotherapy and sometimes a brace.

Few patients need to undergo surgical treatment.

In patients with cerebral palsy or syndromes, there are many causes why these patients develop spinal deformities.

Sometimes it is most likely caused by muscle imbalance (cerebral palsy) and in other cases caused by deficiencies in the connective tissue caused by the underlying syndrome.

Treatment of spinal conditions in these patients is primarily surgery, since brace treatment rarely is effective.

Beware of heavy backpacks Backpacks that are too heavy can place a strain on kids’ spines and possibly cause back, neck or shoulder pain. A child’s backpack should weigh no more than 10 to 20 percent of his or her body weight. Here are some tips on playing it safe.

1. Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.

2. Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. Go through the pack with your child weekly and remove unneeded items to keep it light.

3. Remind your child to always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.

4. Adjust the pack so that the bottom sits at your child’s waist.

5. If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up the stairs and they may not fit in some lockers.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

Message from the Publisher

Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

If you’ve ever experienced serious back pain you know how excruciating it can be. You should also know that you’re not alone. Statistics tell us that 31 million Americans experience low back pain at any given time, and we spend at least $50 billion each year on back pain.

That’s a lot of pain and a lot of money, which is why with this special health edition, the Defender is focusing on the back.

We begin with interesting facts about the back and back pain. Children and teens can have back problems too, and we take a look at that issue, as well as tips on backpack safety.

Our article on taking care of your back explores what you can do to lessen the chances of pain and injury. We list medical professionals who treat back pain and their areas of expertise as well. And, see if your career choice made the list of top 10 “back-breaking” jobs.

We would also like to thank our partners – Harris Health, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children’s Hospital – for their valuable advice on other health matters.

Like so many other aspects of life, maintaining good back health can start with you, and we are pleased to provide information that can help.

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NOVEMBER 16 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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Spinal tumor symptoms, treatment vary Defender Exclusive

Driving tops list of ‘back-breaking’ jobs wheel that your elbows and knees are slightly bent.

• Take a short break every 45-60 minutes. Drink water, walk around to improve circulation, and gently stretch your back, Working as a driver tops the list of careers that spine neck and hip flexor muscles. specialists consider most harmful to back health, according to a • While driving, try to move a little in your seat. Even member survey from the North American Spine Society (NASS).

10 seconds of movement and gentle “Chronic back pain has long been an stretching is helpful. occupational hazard for professional truck • When possible, use cruise and taxi drivers,” said Chad Patton, MD, an control. Resting both feet on the floor orthopedic surgeon and chair of the NASS is easier on your back and hips than Public Affairs Committee. constant foot pedal movement.

“But with the rise of ride-hailing 1. Driver • Ensure a smoother ride. services like Uber and Lyft, tens of thou2. Construction worker Choose routes with the least amount sands of ‘amateur’ drivers each month are of traffic, construction and potholes.

3. Nursing suddenly becoming professionals, sitting in • Keep your vehicle in prime their cars for extra hours, toting luggage, and 4. Office worker condition.

Provide regular maintefeeling the pain.”

5. Manual laborer nance of shock absorbers, brakes and To avoid back pain and stay on the job, 6. Dentistry tires.

Patton counsels professional drivers to use 7. Warehouse worker • If you must handle cargo or simple tips: 8. Mechanic luggage, do it safely. Use a partner, • Treat driving like a sport. Warm hand truck, dolly or forklift to lighten up your muscles by doing gentle stretches 9. Factory worker the load and reduce strain on your before you get into the vehicle.

10. Motherhood back.

• Remove items from your back • Eat healthy when you’re on pockets. Sitting on or against a wallet or the road. Extra pounds, particularly cellphone for a long period of time can in the midsection, can put unnecessary throw your spine out of alignment and trigstrain on your back muscles. ger back and leg pain.

Since many of his patients are familiar with sports, Patton • Position your body for comfort and support. Adjust counsels them to “approach their job like a professional athlete your seat to a 100-degree angle to prevent slouching. Make sure prepares for a big game – do warm-up exercises, strengthen your you can see mirrors and dashboard gauges without turning your core, use appropriate equipment, maintain a healthy weight, work head when it is supported by the headrest. Support your lower with your teammates, do not smoke, use proper form, and take back’s natural curve with a pillow or rolled-up shirt or towel regular breaks on the sideline.” placed in the small of your back. Be close enough to the steering Defender News Services

Top 10 most harmful jobs

It’s estimated that one person in 100,000 a year develops spinal tumors in the United States. Here are things to know from Dr. Laurence Rhines, director of the Spine Tumor Program in the Department of Neurosurgery at MD Anderson.

1) Spinal tumors occur when cells within and around the spine grow out of control.

“These tumors may be ‘primary’ (originating from tissues in the spine) or ‘metastatic’ (spread to the spine from a cancer that developed in another part of the body),” Rhines said. Spinal tumors may be benign (slow-growing) or malignant (faster-growing).

“The majority of spinal tumors are metastatic, coming from cancers arising in other organs. Approximately 30 percent of cancer patients will develop symptomatic spinal metastases, and these can be the source of significant disability.”

2) Spinal tumor symptoms vary depending on the location in the spine.

“The most common symptom is pain,” Rhines said. “Numbness, weakness, difficulty walking, or problems with bowel, bladder or sexual function can also be caused by tumor pressing on the nerves.

“Symptoms often start gradually, but may worsen suddenly. Since back and neck pain are common ailments, often treated with medication and physical therapy, you should alert your physician if these symptoms persist or worsen after treatment, as this may indicate a more serious problem.”

3) Treatments for spinal tumors include surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy.

“The choice of therapy depends on the type of tumor as they vary in their sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation,” Rhines said.

“Treatment also depends on the nature and severity of the symptoms. Pain due to fracture or spinal instability is more likely to require a surgical intervention.

“In addition, severe neurologic symptoms caused by compression of the spinal cord are more likely to require surgery,” Rhines said.

“Research on spinal tumors is ongoing. We are continually looking for better ways to treat tumors of the spine that will be more effective and require less recovery time for the patient.”

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 16 | 2017

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Harris Health’s team approach helps patients control diabetes

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By HARRIS HEALTH SYSTEM

efore diabetes takes or disables a life, Harris Health System wants to step in through an ambitious program that places a patient with uncontrolled diabetes with a dedicated medical and support team to change the course of the disease.

As one of the leading causes of death in U.S., diabetes killed nearly 80,000 people in 2015 and was the underlying cause of death in another 250,000 deaths, according to the American Diabetes Association. The disease cost $245 billion in the U.S., alone.

Harris Health treats nearly 36,000 patients with diabetes and roughly one third (12,000) of them have levels categorized as uncontrolled (meaning hemoglobin A1c levels are above nine percent). Hemoglobin A1c is a three-month measure of a patient’s sugar levels. Simply put, patients with high levels are prone to severe nerve damage, kidney failure, eye disease, as well as, life-threatening conditions like stroke and heart disease.

Harris Health serves a higher rate of diabetes among ethnic minorities, compared to the national average: 59.6 percent Hispanic, 24.9 percent AfricanAmerican, 8.3 percent white, compared to the national average of 12.7 percent African-American, 12.1 percent Hispanic and 7.4 percent white.

A significant portion of Harris Health patients have a body mass index classification of obese (BMI greater than 30), a high risk factor for diabetes and an indicator of poor disease management Harris Health among those diagnosed.

System’s El Franco In just two years, Harris Health’s Lee Health Center Diabetes Multidisciplinary Program shows became the second location of 14 in the great promise and has organizer, Christy Chuku, senior operations manager, Popula- system to begin the Wall of Wellness to tion Health and Disease Management, for spotlight successful Harris Health’s Ambulatory Care Services, patients who have is excited about the quality-of-life improve- made improvements on their uncontrolled ments she’s seen in patients. diabetes. Joining Christy Chukwu, far The program places patients with a team that includes a primary care physician, left, are patients and care team members nurse, dietitian, certified diabetes educator, from the Diabetes clinical case manager and clinical pharma- Multidisciplinary cist. Each plays a vital role in helping the Program.. patient understand the gravity of their situation and how simple lifestyle modifications—in foods, exercise and adherence to medications—can make huge improvements.

“Healthcare is a team effort, and the most important person on the team is the patient,” Chukwu says. “A key aspect of the program is our effort to strive for effective treatment by educating and engaging the patients as a true partner in the management of their chronic disease.”

Harris Health System’s Baytown Health Center became the first location of 14 in the system to begin the Wall of Wellness to spotlight successful patients who have made improvements on their uncontrolled diabetes. Joining Christy Chukwu, far left, at the event are patients and care team members from the Diabetes Multidisciplinary Program that are helping patients control and manage their chronic disease.

patients and team members – Chukwu developed a “Wall of Wellness” display at each location to promote patients who successfully manage to control their diabetes and the healthcare team members who helped them.

“We had two gentlemen at El Franco Lee Health Center who each dropped about seven points on their A1c levels,” she says. “That was pretty incredible and shows others what is possible. They lost weight, exercise more and feel better about themselves. We want this positive reinforcement to show others that they too can succeed.”

Chukwu says everyone on the patient’s care team supports and promotes the benefit of patients working with various members of the multidisciplinary team. At each interaction, members provide education about their colleagues and how each can assist patients control diabetes.

“If a patient sees a patient educator and the educator sees that he or she has questions about food, the educator can refer him or her to a dietitian,” Chukwu says. “We want to make the visit as beneficial to the patient as possible.”

Christy Chukwu, senior operations manager, Population Health and Disease Harris Health’s success is directly linked to Management, for Harris Health System’s Ambulatory Care Services, and organizer of the Diabetes Multidisciplinary Program, shows off the honorees on the system’s achievement of the Physician Practice the Wall of Wellness at Baytown Health Center.

Connections-Patient-Centered Medical Home designation by the National Committee for Quality The program has seen an average drop in A1c levels of Assurance (NCQA). The prestigious recognition nearly two points. Chukwu says there are patients enrolled in signifies the system’s primary care centers and clinics use the program across 14 Harris Health locations in Harris County. evidence-based guidelines to standardize the management of To support the program and motivate participants – chronic diseases.

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“It was excellent. All of the staff is excellent. Thanks for everything.”

“I was pleased with everything. A thousand thanks.” “Todo estuvo bien. Gracias.”

“Y’all are doing an excellent job.

“They made meof feel like I was family.“ Based on the latest” independent survey results

the Harris System network,provider and awesome clinic.”

“Very attentive.” “I was pleasedpatients with across my visit onceHealth again. ” “Good

9 10

“They are the reason that my breast cancer was detected early.”

out “I was exceedingly happy with my experience here. The people were gracious and kind.” of “I would recommend her or any of the other providers to my friends or family.” ofSheour patients “No complaints whatsoever. and her team were exceptional” “Outstanding.”

“May God bless you all. Thanks.” “Caroline es una excelente professional—nunca cambie.”

“It was a great visit.” “I don’t have anything to say except the staff was excellent.”

usa great experience all around.”

“She listened to me.” “Thanks,would for takingrecommend care of me.” “It was to someone about.that’s accessible to work with.”

“Good staff, good doctor and overall they givethey you acare schedule Results from Connect National Research Corporation Trend Report, March 2017

“We are very grateful to you.” “Exselente atension.” “Thank you for your care.”

10 10

“Thank you for helping everything.” “I trust this facility and often recommend it to others.”

“Very respectful.” “Everything was wonderful.” “They take very good care of people.”

out “100%.” “Thank you very much for Harris Health.” “Good and timely visit.” ofvery well and with a lot of patience.”

“He explained the questions I asked him of us saywasthank “Truly professional.” “Everything good.you.

Everything was explained.”

“Everything was good and heproud had toa sense of humor.

We’re be here, caring for That was refreshing.”

our friends, neighbors “Muy bien.” “Most satisfactory in every way.”and “Myfamily experience was just perfect.”

County.to Spanish and they explained very well.

“They gave me a number to havethroughout everythingHarris interpreted

Thanks for supporting us and respecting our Spanish language.”

“Never in my life have I had a doctor like her.” “They gave me a lot of confidence.”

“No idea how it could have been any better.” “Y’all were the bomb. Thank you very much.”

ONEFORALL “Amazing place. Keep up the great work.” harrishealth.org

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TAKE C

Stayin

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

eeping your back strong and healthy can help save you from pain in the long run, whether you’re trying a new exercise routine or lifting a box while moving.

Allison Smith, a board certified orthopedic clinical specialist with Harris Health System, noted important things to know about the back, including myths that exist.

“The back is not that vulnerable to damage and is designed for lifting and bending,” Smith said. “The body is amazing and resilient. We were built to move and our backs are strong and adaptable.”

Smith said there is a reason why so many people seem to suffer from back pain.

“The body adapts to the loads we put it through,” she said. “For example, many people here in town do the Houston Marathon or the MS150. To be able to perform these strenuous events, they have to train their bodies to be able to handle those activities. They exercise and train for weeks or months to be able to do the activity they want to do.

“While not all of us are marathoners or cyclists, the same principles apply to everyday activities. If all someone does all day long is sit, then their body will be great at sitting. If that same person who sits all day decides to help their friend move and lifts a couch, they have not conditioned their body to be able to handle that load which could cause pain or injury.

“Our bodies are made to move and be active, but unfortunately many people are not getting the daily activity they need.”

Here are more tips on taking care of your back.

KNOW THE RISKS

Risks associated with back pain include: • Getting older. Back pain is more common the older you

Seeking treatment from specialists

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defendernetwork.com • Servin

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CARE OF YOUR BACK

ng active, avoiding injury can help

You may first have back pain when you are 30 to 40 years old.

• Poor physical fitness. Back pain is more common in ple who are not fit.

• Being overweight. Too much weight can stress the k and cause pain.

• Heredity. Genes play a role in some causes of back n, including certain types of arthritis.

• Other diseases. Some types of arthritis and cancer cause back pain.

• Your job. If you have to lift, push, or pull while sting your spine, you may get back pain. If you work at esk all day and do not sit up straight, you may also get k pain.

• Smoking. Your body may not be able to get enough rients to the disks in your back if you smoke. Smoker’s ugh may also cause back pain. People who smoke are w to heal, so back pain may last longer.

ET ACTIVE

Smith, who is also a fellow of the American Academy Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists, stressed that intaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the best things a son can do to promote back care.

“The recommended amount of activity is at least 30 nutes a day of moderately intense activity or 20 minutes strenuous activity,” she said. “I recommend that my pants choose activities they enjoy so it doesn’t feel like a ore. If people change the way they think about activity t can help as well.

“There’s a big difference between thinking ‘I get to for a 30-minute walk!’ or ‘I would feel better if I got and moved around’ vs. ‘Ugh, I still haven’t done my minute walk yet.

“The other part of a healthy lifestyle is eating a wellanced diet,” Smith said. “Myplate.gov is a great place

for back problems, start with who can perform an exam and atment. If more involved care is efer you to a specialist or you can sts include: disorders and diseases of the perform treatments, such as ssage. A Doctor of Chiropractic ears of education at an accredited e-year internship. & neurosurgeons treat spine ons specialize in disorders of es, ligaments and nerves. Neuases of the nervous system. Both medical school. dic surgeon requires a minimum opposed to seven years for a

to start for helpful information regarding what to eat.”

Concerning exercise options, experts say riding a stationary recumbent bike is a safe form of cardio because you press your lower back against a seat rest. Walking is gentle on the back, but avoid walking on uneven terrain or concrete.

Water therapy, such as walking in a shallow pool, can minimize stress on the back. For some people, however, swimming and water aerobics can cause too much rotation of the spine.

Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning an exercise program. Tips from other experts include:

STRENGTHEN YOUR BACK

Strengthening and stretching exercises can help reduce back pain and speed recovery after an injury. You should always start slowly and increase repetitions as you feel stronger.

Stretches should never cause pain and you should not feel tingling in the extremities. Stop immediately if you experience any discomfort.

Passive stretches help facilitate movement in an affected muscle or joint. Stretches should be held for 15 to 30 seconds, allowing muscles to gradually relax and lengthen. Examples include hamstring and back stretches.

Active stretches facilitate movement and improve strength. Examples include leg raises and bridges, where you lie on the floor with knees flexed and raise hips off the floor.

In addition, yoga can help stretch and strengthen muscles and improve your posture.

PREVENT INJURIES

Back injuries are often caused by ac-

neurosurgeon.

• Osteopathic physicians hold Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degrees. Training is similar to that of MDs, with emphasis on whole-body treatment and musculoskeletal manipulation. They attend four years of medical school followed by an internship and a minimum two years of residency.

• Physical medicine & rehabilitation physicians, also known as physiatrists, specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation and treat various conditions. PM&R physicians must graduate from medical school followed by four additional years of training in a physical medicine and rehabilitation residency.

• Physical therapists (PTs) use a variety of techniques to improve mobility, restore function, relieve pain and limit permanent physical disabilities in patients. PTs must graduate from an educational program with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

ng the Houston area for over 85 years

cidents or improper lifting, and can occur at home, work or play. Safety tips include: • Never carry something that is too heavy. Try using a dolly, hand truck or forklift, or ask others for help.

• Check a load to see that it is stable and balanced.

Before lifting an object, test its weight by lifting a corner.

If you are unsure of its weight, use a handling device.

• Keep your back straight and bend at your knees or hips when lifting.

• Pace yourself by taking breaks between lifting to give your muscles a chance to rest and heal.

• Use a wide stance, with feet about shoulder’s width apart, and one foot slightly in front of the other for more stability and to reduce the risk of falling.

• The closer a load is to your body, the less strain on your back. Store heavy and frequently used objects off the floor and at waist level. Don’t twist the trunk; move your feet to turn.

• Complete a thorough warm-up before playing sports to prepare the back for the stresses to come.

• Increase circulation gradually by doing some movement such as walking to increase blood circulation to the ligaments of the back and muscles.

• Stretch the lower and upper back and related muscles, including hamstrings and quadriceps.

• Start slowly with an athletic movement, such as serving a ball or swinging a golf club Additional sources: American Academy of Family Physicians, American Chiropractic Association, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Dept. Health & Human Services

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Homework: The great debate

By DR. ADIAHA SPINKS-FRANKLIN Texas Children’s Hospital

S

chool days! School daze!

Homework haze! Ugh. Homework…It can be a challenging or rewarding time for parents and their children.

The academic benefits of homework have been debated since the late 1800s.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, homework was primarily assigned to students in fifth to eighth grades and was seen as an activity to exercise the “brain muscle.”

During the 1930s the Great Depression was central to the homework debate where teachers and parents were concerned that homework led to increased child stress.

By the 1950s, at the start of the Cold War, student achievement became a central focus as the United States competed with Russia. Homework was seen as a tool to help improve student achievement to enhance the ability of the U.S. to compete with Russia.

During the 1960s, when the U.S. became involved in the Vietnam War, the educational pendulum swung once again toward less homework where educators and Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Texas Children’s Hospital parents saw homework as adding to student students self-discipline, time management and decorate their homework boxes. Only provide them stress levels at home. prioritizing. Since your child or children are bringing with the necessary school supplies – pencils, pens, During the 1980s, academic achievement in homework home, here are some practical tips for hand-held sharpeners, index cards, highlighters, the U.S. began to fall behind other countries, such helping it be less stressful for parents and students scissors, timer, etc. as Japan. Therefore, homework was again seen as a alike: Homework chunking: Often children become necessary tool to help students in the U.S. compete Homework time: Set aside homework time distracted while working on non-preferred homework with students in Japan. This philosophy continued where the household environment is conducive to assignments. I suggest chunking homework, or throughout the 1980s and 1990s. studying – no television, telephone or unnecessary breaking assignments down, into amounts your child At the turn of the 21st century, however, with distractions. Everyone in the household should respect can complete in a specific amount of time based upon passage of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, homework time. If a child does not have homework, how long she can pay attention to a non-preferred the value of homework has been debated again, with task. Providing chunks of work sets a specific goal to concerns that increasing levels of homework may lead then they can read a preferred book, put together a jig saw puzzle or do a pencil-and-paper puzzle during be completed in a specific amount of time. Allowing to student burn-out. Interestingly, studies found the that quiet time. When determining how much time for scheduled timed breaks prevents mental fatigue. amount of homework students are assigned has not you should set aside for homework, consider the Homework practice: Incorporate learning changed much over the past 50 years.

“10-minute rule” – homework should take 10 minutes activities into daily life experiences, such as Research about the academic benefits of per grade level. using math in the grocery store or to balance your homework has mixed results. Some studies show Homework space: Set aside a homework space checkbook; reading recipes while cooking; or reading homework is more beneficial academically to students in your home. Every household is different and every driving directions. Parents can read out loud with in middle school and high school, with minimal child’s needs are different. Your homework space their children and discuss the books in order to make academic benefit for elementary school students. should contain a table or desk, comfortable chair, reading more enjoyable and bring life to the story.

Other studies find that certain types of homework plenty of lighting and have the necessary school If your child is having a significant challenge can be beneficial to students in all grades. Still other completing homework, please consider talking to research questions the value of homework all together. supplies.

Homework box: To prevent your child from his teacher about it and develop a plan of action, With busy family schedules, making sure children wandering around the house searching for school such as hiring a homework tutor or modifying his complete their homework can be stressful for parents supplies, create a homework box for each child. An assignments. and children. Researchers do agree that homework old shoe box can do the trick. Your children can even Happy homeworking! can provide non-academic benefits, such as teaching

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

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NOVEMBER 16 | 2017 | DEFENDER

Quality health care for $50 or less a year.

What a relief.

Texas Children’s Health Plan covers children from newborns to teenagers. We even cover adults and pregnant moms through STAR Medicaid.

Families with children who qualify for CHIP pay $50 or less a year. Those who qualify for Medicaid pay nothing. CHIP and STAR Medicaid offer a wide range of benefits including checkups and shots, dental services, medications, and more.

With Texas Children’s Health Plan you also get: ■ Over 6,200 doctors.

■ A 24-hour nurse hotline.

■ Transportation to doctor visits at no cost.

■ Pregnancy support program and classes.

■ Help losing weight through the Keep Fit Program.

■ Learn how to play soccer from the Houston Dynamo coaches.

■ Fun member events!

For more information, to receive an application, or to find an event in your area, visit us online or call today.

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1-800-990-8247 | TexasChildrensHealthPlan.org

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DEFENDER || NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 16 16 | |2017 2017 DEFENDER

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health health

Keeping your kids tobacco-free

T

By MD ANDERSON

he Great American Smokeout, held each November, is a perfect time for smokers to quit. It’s also a good time to talk to your children about tobacco.

Smoking and tobacco use is responsible for onethird of all cancer deaths.

Still, almost one-in-four high school seniors smoke. Those statistics could have big consequences.

Knowing the risk factors that make a teen likely to try smoking can help you prevent them from starting, says Alexander Prokhorov, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Tobacco Outreach Education Program at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Found in insecticides

.

Found in car batteries Found in sewer gas and animal manure

Found in rocket fuel

Found in glue and embalming fluid

Used in road material

The main ingredient found in rat poison

Found in lighter fluid

Found in plastic

Found in insecticides

A common pollutant from car exhaust or chimney smoke

SIGNS TEENS ARE LIKELY TO START SMOKING Their friends smoke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a survey of Memphis 11 and 12 year olds found that 30 percent of survey participants got cigarettes from their friends. A similar survey conducted in California found that 82 percent of adolescents who had tried smoking got cigarettes from friends.

Their academic performance has changed. Students who do well in school are less likely to smoke than their peers. Any change in academic performance or behavior could be a sign that something more is going on. If your student is struggling, it could lead to self-esteem problems, another factor that makes teens more likely to try smoking.

They struggle with weight. There’s a common misconception that smoking cigarettes can help control weight, making it tempting for image-conscious adolescents, Prokhorov says.

“Kids need to understand that tobacco is not the best way to lose weight.” In fact, smoking can make it more difficult for kids to exercise, making it harder to lose weight in a healthy way.

Found in toilet cleaner

Found in nail polish remover

They’re not comfortable telling someone no. Low self-esteem in general can lead to smoking. “Kids are looking for a friend and many of them find them in cigarettes,” Prokorhov says. The challenge lies in showing teens that smoking will hurt them more than help them in the long run. In addition, teens who suffer from depression, anxiety and stress are more likely to start smoking.

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO? Be on the lookout for signs of these risk factors. If you notice these signs, you may want to keep an extra eye out for tobacco use and spend more time discussing the dangers of smoking.

Quit smoking or using tobacco. Research shows that children who have a parent who smokes are more likely to smoke and to be heavier smokers at a young age. Quitting, or trying to quit despite difficulties, sends a strong anti-smoking message.

Know the trends. The good news is fewer and fewer teens are smoking cigarettes. The bad news is they’re turning to new products like e-cigarettes and hookahs. None of them are

safe. Knowing what’s on the market can help you better inform your kids. Look for these products: E-cigarettes are smokeless devices that may look like cigarettes, but also can resemble pens or USB memory sticks. Users inhale a vapor of liquid nicotine that comes in many flavors.

Flavored cigars come in sweet flavors like cherry and vanilla. They are typically available at convenience stores and gas stations for a very low price.

Snus (pronounced snooze) is a type of smokeless tobacco that comes in small pouches and can be a discreet way for kids to use tobacco.

Snuff is a fine-grain tobacco that often comes in pouches.

Chewing tobacco comes shredded, twisted or bricked. Users put these products between their cheek

.

. . . .

and gum.

Hookahs are water pipes that create flavored tobacco smoke. Most people use hookahs at bars and cafes to socialize.

Talk to your kids. Make sure your children know the dangers of tobacco use. While this may be easier said than done, Prokhorov says it’s vital to establish honest and supportive communication.

“Don’t nag or yell. It can be counterproductive,” Prokhorov says. “It’s a lot better to show them that you’re their parent, but you’re also their friend, and then explain the reasons why you don’t want them to smoke.”

Remind them that it can affect others by discussing the dangers of secondhand smoke and how it can affect anyone from siblings to pets. If they’ve lost a loved one due to a tobacco-related illness, try talking to them about that. If your child plays sports, remind them that tobacco will make success more difficult.

MD Anderson offers free community outreach programs to educate people of all ages on avoiding and quitting tobacco. Visit www.mdanderson.org/community to learn more.

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

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“The best way to fight cancer–prevent it.”

Dr. Saira George | Cancer Physician Up to 50 percent of cancer cases in the U.S. could be prevented. It’s true. Up to half the cancer cases in the U.S. could be prevented through lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, not smoking, preventive vaccinations, sun safety, and screenings. The first and best way to fight cancer is to do everything you can to reduce the risk of getting cancer.

To learn more or to make an appointment, please go to MDAnderson.org/reduceyourrisk or call 1-855-894-0145.

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health

How to de-stress the holidays

By Abby Sokunbi, M.D.

O

ne of the fastest routes to holiday stress is pursuing unrealistic expectations. People often hold on to what they remember as an “ideal” holiday from years gone by and are sad when they Dr. Abby Sokunbi are unable to reproduce it.

There are also expectations around the holidays that “everything must be perfect,” and perfection is seldom achievable.

To reduce heightened expectations, try to be honest with yourself about what you can and can’t do during the season. Instead of trying to take on everything, identify what’s most important to you to get done and make a plan to accomplish those things. You also need to pace yourself and get enough rest so that you don’t become overly stressed.

Stress impacts health

Medical research shows that stress can contribute to such health problems as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, headaches, stomach problems,

chest pain, muscle tension or pain and sleep problems.

no one else is either.

• Keep moving. Exercise is a great way to burn those extra calories you may be taking in this time of year and relieve stress.

Tips for keeping stress in check

To help keep stress under control – and the joy in the season – keep these tips in mind:

• Avoid overeating. Weighing in after the holidays and discovering unwanted pounds is probably not how you want to start the New Year. Stay away from goodies, such as candies and snacks, in the workplace and at home. Eat healthy snacks instead. Be practical, but picky. Choose those special treats that are really only available during the holiday season and pass on foods that you can enjoy any time of the year. Pay attention to portions. Also, eat normally during the day; don’t skip meals just to eat more at a social gathering later.

• Delegate. Don’t try to do it all by yourself.

By breaking down tasks and doling them out to friends and family, tasks become more manageable.

• Set an affordable limit on spending. Getting carried away with holiday advertisements that spur you to compulsive shopping and overspending can lead to undesirable financial and emotional consequences in February when the credit card bills come due.

• Let go of the past. Don’t be disappointed if your holidays aren’t like they used to be.

Embrace the present as well as the future.

Chances are, you’ve got some “good old days” still in the making; don’t miss them by constantly looking back.

• Give yourself a break. So what if you aren’t the best cook or the cleverest gift giver. You aren’t Supermom or Superdad. But guess what –

Work in some alone time

Lastly, don’t forget to set aside some “me time.”

If you find yourself getting a little anxious, take a breather. Relax and recharge your batteries.

Dr. Sokunbi is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic’s Katy Clinic. To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

Get KelseyConnected

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Healthcare that Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you.

As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, your entire healthcare team can share your medical history through one Electronic Medical Record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you.

Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and convenient with: n

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#HoustonStrong

NOVEMBER 16 | 2017 | DEFENDER

Media association assists Defender Harvey victims Defender News Services

Local Media Association President Nancy Lane, Chief Innovation Officer Jed Williams and Chief Content Officer David Arkin visited three media companies in Houston and personally handed out checks to employees of LMA member media companies who experienced everything from flooded homes to collapsed roofs during Hurricane Harvey.

This summer, Harvey hit Texas and destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses. It brought more than 50 inches of rain to parts of Houston and greatly impacted employees of media companies and their families.

A week after the hurricane landed, LMA organized a fund-raising drive to help employees of LMA member media companies that were impacted. More than 60 companies and individuals donated more than $50,000.

“It was such a wonderful experience being able to help out these

media members,” Lane said. “I was touched hearing their stories and struggles knowing that dozens and dozens of those in the industry pitched in to help them. I can tell you it meant a ton to those whose lives have been so impacted.”

LMA met with the Defender and handed out checks.

“We continued publishing through the storm,” said Defender CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles. “Many of our employees were dealing with hardships of their own from Harvey damage but they continued working to make sure our readers wouldn’t be affected. We’re grateful that the LMA stepped up to help those who have been so committed to helping others.”

Five other media companies also received funding: Community Impact Newspaper, KRIS/Cordillera, KPRC/Graham Media Group, Sherman Company/American Press and Victoria Advocate. The funds were divided up evenly among the six companies.

Jed Williams, Clyde Jiles, Sonceria Messiah-Jiles, Nancy Lane, ReShonda Tate Billingsley, Jacob Hodgson, and David Arkin during the LMA check presentation.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 16 | 2017

sports

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PVAMU season includes record-setting performance

By MAX EDISON Defender

Justin Verlander

It has been a tough year for Coach Willie Simmons and the Prairie View A&M University Panthers. The team has a 3-3 record in SWAC competition and sits in third place behind Southern and Grambling in the extremely tough West Division of the SWAC conference.

Coach Willie Simmons is proud of the team’s recent Despite the hardships of the season, performance. the Panthers show no signs of quitting and erupted for a record-setting performance Receiver Khadarel Hodge broke a longstanding PVAMU recently at home against Arkansas Pine record (Photo by Raymond Holley) Bluff.

The Panthers’ vaunted offensive attack was on full display recently defeating UAPB 35-12 on Senior Day and Military Appreciation Day. Wide receiver Khadarel Jose Altuve Hodge had the type of day that players dream about in the contest.

Hodge, a 6-foot-2 redshirt senior from D’Lo, Miss. set a school record with 232 receiving yards and three touchdowns.

Former Fort Bend Hightower star, quarterback Neiko Hollins (redshirt freshman), threw for 410 yards and four touchdowns.

Hodge’s receiving yards total broke one of the oldest PVAMU football records of all time, as the single-game receiving yards mark had stood since 1964. PVAMU Sports Hall of Famer and AFL great Otis Taylor had 198 receiving yards in one game more than 50 years ago.

“I just want to thank God and my teammates, especially Neiko who gave me the ball when I asked for it,” Hodge said. “He did a good job of going through his progressions. I woke up thisCameron Maybin morning feeling like it was going to be a big day.

I didn’t’ know I was having that kind of day, and I’m definitely blessed. It’s definitely a way to be remembered here in my last game at Panther Stadium.”

Hodge had touchdown receptions of 70 and 17 yards, and a career-long 88 yards, the latter beQuarterback Neiko Hollins played high school ball at Hightower (Photo by Raymond Holley) ing the play that set the record. To say that Hodge has been on a hot streak is a major understateand how it shows up on game day.” penalties. ment. In the last six games, Hodge has caught 30 Simmons was quick to add that the win was “The defense kept them out of the end zone passes for 644 yards and 10 touchdowns, and has much more than a two-man effort. until the last drive. I tip my hat to those guys. at least one touchdown catch in every game during “I thought our team performed extremely They gave great effort, and paid great attention to that stretch. well in all three phases,” Simmons said. “We had detail this week. It was about time to put one of “Khadarel has been playing at elite level for some great individual efforts today. Neiko threw these type games together.” the last month or so,” Simmons said. “The ball for more than 400 yards. Khadarel broke the The Panthers wrap up the 2017 season on just seems to find him. The way he practices single-game record for receiving yards. Sta’Fon Saturday, Nov. 25 against SWAC rival Texas shows up in games, I’m proud of him, and hope[McCray] had another 100-yard rushing game, Southern University at BBVA Compass Stadium. fully the other guys learn from the way he works and would have had more without some untimely Kickoff is at 6 pm.

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h.s.zone Chavez offensive, defensive player a senior on a mission District 18-6A that includes Lamar, Westside, Heights, Bellaire, Sam Houston and Westbury.

Dominic Franklin made a statement Franklin has a 3.2 grade-point averin his final high school football game for age and hopes to play at the collegiate Chavez High School. level. Texas Southern University, Southern The 6-foot, 245-pound two-way performUniversity, Morehouse College (education er broke off a 71-yard run from scrimmage on only) and the University of Arkansas are the Lobos’ first offensive play and scored from schools of interest for him. the one-yard line on the very next play.

“If somebody wants a big back Later in the game, Frankwe definitely would welcome lin scored on a 40-yard that opportunity,” said burst over right tackle Chavez head coach and finished with Cory Jiles. “The kid a game-high 189 can play and he can yards on eight carplay at the next level. ries. For good mea“He’s got great sure he tacked on grades, a good a pair of two-point SAT score and been conversion runs. a model citizen and From his lineambassador for this backer position on program for the past four defense he registered years,” Jiles said. “We a quarterback sack for brought him up to the an eight-yard loss. varsity about the fourth “I really don’t or fifth game of his have a preference for freshman year and he’s offense or defense,” been a very important he said. “I like to be a part of our program dog on the defensive ever since.” side and a killer that Jiles added that nobody wants to touch he’s going to miss Birth date – Sept. 17, 1999 on the offensive side.

Franklin’s leadership, I’m thankful that I can Birth sign – Virgo dedication and commitplay both sides and I do ment to the sport.

Favorite subject – Science it willingly.”

“He never missed Chavez completed a day during the sumFavorite meal – Tuna croquettes the 2017 high school football mer. He made it through the regular season with an 84-23 entire strength and conditionSocial media preference – Twitter victory over Sam Houston at ing program for the past two Barnett Stadium.

(Killerunderscoredog) years,” Jiles said.

“Unfortunately we came “Dominic started out up short of our goal to make as a three-sport athlete. He the playoffs, but we finished played football, basketball and strong in our last game and I can baseball,” Jiles said. “He’s a remember this looking ahead to college,” Franklin said. great leader and inspiration for these younger kids.

“It’s a blessing that God gave me the talents that I “He encourages his teammates and we win as a have and my teammates gave it their all to send the seteam and lose as a team. If I had 10 more like him we niors out with a victory,” Franklin said. “I really respect might be in a better situation,” Jiles said. that and thank them.”

Franklin is looking With the 189-yard forward to navigating his rushing effort in his final way through the remaingame, Franklin topped der of his senior year with Find out which Milby senior refused to the 1,000-yard mark and hopefully a prize at the end let the Buffaloes lose in season finale ranks among the leaders in of the journey.

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

About Dominic Franklin

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NOVEMBER 16 | 2017 | DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs GQ cites Kaepernick GQ Magazine has named former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick its “Citizen of the Year” for starting the protest that became a movement in the NFL. “He’s been vilified by millions and locked out of the NFL, all because he took a knee to protest police brutality,” GQ wrote about the cover. “Colin Kaepernick’s determined stand puts him in rare company in sports history: Muhammad Ali, Jackie Robinson – athletes who risked everything to make a difference.” Kaepernick first knelt during the national anthem at a preseason game last year to protest mistreatment of Black Americans, particularly by police. The protests grew this year to dozens of other players and to other sports, and President Trump called for the firing of protesters.

Texans honor Johnson Andre Johnson will be the first Texans player in history inducted into their newly created Ring of Honor.

The ceremony will take place during halftime of the Nov. 19 game against the Arizona Cardinals. Johnson officially retired as a Texan this past April, putting a Houston-sized bookend on his amazing player career that spanned 12 years with the team. Johnson’s legacy is unmatched, and makes him the perfect player to be the first to win the organizational honor. With the Texans still being a relatively new franchise, having a signature star as the first inducted into the team’s historic Ring of Honor will be a great moment for Texans fans everywhere.

St. Pius honors Kubiak Former Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak was honored by his alma mater, St. Pius X High School, on Nov. 10 prior to the St. Thomas/St. Pius X football game. The school’s football facility was officially renamed Kubiak Stadium and his No. 9 jersey was retired during a ceremony celebrating Kubiak and his wife Rhonda, who was his high school sweetheart and a former St. Pius X cheerleader. Kubiak, who coached the Texans from 2006 to 2013, was an All-American quarterback all four years at St. Pius from 1975 to 1978. He led the Panthers to a state championship in three consecutive years. Kubiak was named to the all-state football, basketball, baseball and track teams before graduating in 1979. His career passing mark of 6,190 yards was a state record at the time and in 1999 Kubiak became the first player from a private school to be inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame. Kubiak is a four-time Super Bowl winning coach – three as an assistant and one as head coach. Following the ceremony St. Pius X defeated St. Thomas 56-14.

Spring players selected Keondre Coburn of Westfield High School and Malcolm Epps of Dekaney have been selected to participate in the 2018 Under Armour All-America High School Football Game in Orlando, Florida on Jan. 4. Coburn is a defensive tackle for the Westfield Mustangs and Epps plays tight end for Dekaney.

Representatives from Under Armour stopped by both schools recently to present the student-athletes with their game jerseys. ESPN2 will air the game live at 6 p.m.

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DEFENDER | NOVEMBER 16 | 2017

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

topevents

MATT ROGERS’ FIRE DEPT. RETIREMENT…….Matt Rogers, a Dr. Abdul Muhammad, Munirah Olabisi, Byron Parker, Judge Zinneta 30-year veteran of the Houston Fire Department, celebrated his retirement Burney, Dr. Floyd Atkins, Dr. Pamela Atkins, Shondra Muhammad, recently at the Power Center. Matt’s wife Angela Rogers coordinated the Michael Diggles, Maisha Meloncon, Carolyn Scantlebury and many affair, which included a lavish buffet spread, music, video presentations and more…….. REAL MEN WHO COOK FUNDRAISER…….In recognition friendly words of remembrance and appreciation from friends and colleagues of World Hunger Awareness, Phenomenal Pearls Educational and Charitable in attendance, including Dr. John Rudley, Dr. Docia Rudley, Pastor Foundation, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the 100 Black Men Manson Johnson, Corey Hall, Jillian Hall, Tamela Houston Metropolitan Chapter hosted a Real Men Who Capers, Lessie Parks, Marie Lewis, Jodie Jiles, Cook fundraiser at the Buffalo Solider Museum. Local Defender TOP EVENTS Defender CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles, Estella West, men prepared their best entrees, appetizers, side dishes and More photos on defendernetwork.com Rodney West and others…….. DASHIKI & DENIM desserts for guests to sample. Chefs competed in various BIRTHDAY BASH & CONCERT….. Houston icon categories for top prizes amid the festivities that included and director of SHAPE Community Center Deloyd Parker, was roasted raffles and a silent auction. Event organizers Orjanel Lewis, Stephen Carter recently by friends and community members gathered to celebrate his 70th and Angela Knight welcomed attendees Finnley Polidore, Elleen Polidore, birthday. The event, held at the Ensemble Theatre, also served as a fundraiser Senora Sims, Tieshia Robinson, Jordan Williams, Meloni Williams, for SHAPE, complete with food, fellowship and entertainment provided Tamaika Parish, Osjetta Gascey, Darrell Collins, Sherinn Charles,

by Two Black Men and Hard2Fine. Attendees included Omowale Lithuli, Xavyance Handfield and countless others.

Angela Rogers, Matt Rogers

Dr. John Rudley, Dr. Docia Rudley, Georgia Provost, Pastor Manson Johnson

Anthony Muhammad, Deloyd Parker, Deric Muhammad

Orjanel Lewis, Stephen Carter, Angela Knight

Mary Bradley-Davis, Dr. Floyd Atkins, Dr. Pamela Atkins

Finnley Polidore, Elleen Polidore, Senora Sims

Corey Hall, Jillian Hall, Tamela Capers

Munirah Olabisi, Nzinga Rideaux

David Willis, Neal Willis, Corey Hemmingway

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