To the POINT DN
Associate Editors’ Message
NOT HYPOCRISY, IT’S POWER
When we see Donald Trump and crew nominate former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz, who is accused of having sex with a minor, for the position of the nation’s top law enforcement officer (U.S. Attorney General), we scream “Hypocrisy.” When Trump then nominated Fox News weekend anchor Pete Hegseth to head the U.S. Department of Defense, we scream “Unqualified.” Why? Because Hegseth was thrown out of the Army National Guard, suspected of literally being an “enemy from within.” Why? He has a chest-sized white nationalist tattoo and openly criticizes the U.S. Military’s attempts to remove anti-Black, anti-women white nationalists from their ranks. But we’re missing the point. We know Gaetz and Hegseth are both grossly underqualified and morally unfit for those positions. But Republicans have the power to do whatever they want; rules and qualifications be damned. So, while we scream about overqualified Black women and men having their credentials attacked and belittled, Republicans say so what; this is what power can do—anything it wants. We then make the mistake of viewing power as inherently evil when it’s actually neutral and takes on the flavor of the person or group who wields it. Suggestion: we better get us some.
BLUESKY POWERS X-ODUS
respect, debates without demonization, and an acknowledgment of the humanity and opinions of others. With the white nationalist purchase of X, and Elon Musk opening X’s doors to and encouraging all the racist crazies to come in, X members are voting with their feet and leaving that toxic spot for hopefully, greener, more respectful pastures.
BLACK BOY LYNCHED IN MARYLAND
You might have heard. People are leaving Twitter (X) in droves and joining BlueSky. Now, there have always been mass moves away from one social media platform or technology to another, newer version. We all left MySpace for Facebook. When all the old-schoolers joined Facebook, younger folk moved in mass to Instagram, TikTok and Twitter (X). But this new exodus isn’t age-driven. It’s not about some new, shiny breakthrough technology. Rather, it’s about a return to older, more traditional things, like conversations driven by
Elections have consequences. Just 10 days after Election 2024, a 7-year-old Black boy was hospitalized with serious injuries suffered in a school bathroom after an older, white student (a 4th grader) reportedly told the young brother, “I’m going to show you how I did people back in the day.” The family of the Black child said their baby was hung from a bathroom stall-door hook. The child’s mother said, “The principal went into the bathroom and found my baby foaming out the mouth and unconscious.” The child was then rushed to the hospital, where they found “serious injuries” to his neck, including a neck contusion, according to the hospital, that was caused by blunt trauma. Miraculously, the boy survived. But while recovering, he has countless scars and bruises from the ordeal, which officials from the child’s school (Barnhart Elementary School in Charles County Maryland) blew off. The school’s principal, Carrie Burke, reduced the horrific incident to “horseplaying.” Not sure which is more painful: discovering your baby was almost killed or your child’s school leader dismissing the assault as child’s play.
ON THE WEB
• Find out why The Defender Roundtable on Unbothered Blacks is going viral.
• Breaking down the TikTok trend of ‘Loud Budgeting.’
• Cy Falls advances to face the ‘Red Machine’ in round 2.
Matt Gaetz. Credit: AP.
Aswad Walker
New Texas curriculum whitewashes history
By ReShonda Tate
Texas’ textbook debate is taking on a new controversy after some say the state is moving closer to whitewash history and push religion in schools.
Revisionist history
Texas has been under fire for years for it’s “whitewashing” of history, making things like slavery appear more of a business transaction. The State Board of Education is currently reviewing a change in the curriculum that would revise how young students in Texas learn about America’s founding and its historical complexities. Critics, including parents, historians, and educators, say the materials oversimplify and sanitize key events, failing to provide an accurate or inclusive understanding of the nation’s past.
“They want to teach my second grader that my ancestors ‘caught a ride’ from Africa and came to work on plantations because it was a better business opportunity. Are you kidding me?” said parent Grace Smith, whose daughter attends Petersen Elementary in HISD.
Smith pointed to a kindergarten lesson titled “Our Great Country,” which credits the Founding Fathers with creating a free nation while omitting that many, including Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, enslaved people. A second-grade lesson on the Civil War emphasizes Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s leadership and desire for peace but excludes his ownership of enslaved people and his racist beliefs. Lessons on Martin Luther King Jr. focus on his nonviolent advocacy without addressing his critiques of systemic racism.
Some lessons also minimize the unique racial dynamics of American slavery. A second-grade lesson states, “Slavery was wrong, but it was practiced in most nations throughout history,” without delving into the race-based structure that made slavery in the U.S. distinct.
“These are children who will grow up to believe this madness,” Smith said. “And those who don’t know their history are doomed to repeat it.”
“This lack of specificity is striking,” added Julia Brookins of the American Historical Association, who reviewed excerpts of the curriculum. She noted that while the materials touch on major events, they often fail to provide critical context.
The curriculum’s framing of American history contrasts sharply with its treatment of other topics. For instance, a fifth-grade lesson on the Holocaust offers a detailed account of Nazi atrocities, including the systematic persecution of Jewish people. Critics question why similarly detailed discussions of American slavery are deemed inappropriate for younger students.
Pushing religion in schools
The Board of Education is also moving forward with a plan to allow the use of textbooks that include stories from the Bible. The new curriculum being considered is written for elementary classes. It has raised concerns about church-state separation and the exclusion of non-Christian perspectives. Public education advocates worry that the religious emphasis, combined with the whitewashing of history, undermines efforts to prepare students for a diverse, pluralistic
Ex county health director facing charges
Defender News Service
Barbie Robinson, the former head of Harris County Public Health, is facing a felony charge for her alleged involvement in a multimillion-dollar bid-rigging scheme, according to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
society.
“I just think that if we try to let too much be taken over by any one religion, we risk damaging the experience of children who have differing beliefs,” said board member Rebecca Bell-Metereau (D) San Marcos.
The Texas Education Agency has defended the curriculum, stating it aims to build a foundation for more complex historical concepts introduced in later grades. However, public input has prompted only minor revisions, leaving critics dissatisfied.
The Blue Bonnett curriculum, as it’s called, covers kindergarten through fifth grade and has some lessons that incorporate well-known Bible stories. One, on the Golden Rule, mentions the Sermon on the Mount. That lesson also notes how other religions have variations of the Golden Rule. The lessons come with examples from the stories of the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan. A lesson on classical art shows how stories from the Book of Genesis were used by painters. And there’s a study section on poetry that mentions the Book of Psalms.
Those who support the curriculum argue that the material is not a collection of Sunday School lessons or stand-alone religious studies. But some on the board questioned how well the curriculum was vetted before being offered.
If the curriculum wins final approval at the Nov. 22 vote, school districts that choose to use the material would be offered a $60-per-student incentive. While districts retain autonomy over lesson plans, financial pressures could sway some to adopt the state materials. The curriculum is to be available by August 2025.
Court documents claim Robinson misused official information in 2021 by sharing confidential details with IBM employees. This allegedly occurred during her tenure at both Sonoma County, California, and Harris County, Texas. Investigators assert Robinson facilitated sole-source contracts and aided IBM in gaining a financial advantage through non-public information. Emails and records also highlight Robinson’s prior association with IBM during her leadership in Sonoma County.
The charge comes months after Robinson was dismissed from her role in Harris County amid an unrelated investigation. She was terminated in August following a media report that questioned her department’s hiring of a California-based forprofit company with which she reportedly had connections.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has criticized District Attorney Kim Ogg over the charges, drawing parallels to earlier allegations against Hidalgo’s staff. In a statement, Hidalgo defended Robinson, accusing Ogg of politically motivated actions.
“Kim Ogg’s attack on Barbie Robinson is the same thing my former staff members were falsely accused of by her,” Hidalgo stated. “Nothing to show for it three years later, because, as we’ve said, they did absolutely nothing wrong. Her accusations are rife with falsehoods... Ogg continues her pattern of weaponizing her office against those who disagree with her.”
Ogg has yet to comment on Hidalgo’s criticism, but the case raises broader concerns about transparency and accountability in Harris County’s contracting processes. Robinson, who was appointed in March 2021, had previously served as Sonoma County’s health services director for four years.
Robinson
Students in Texas have been protesting the The Texas Board of Education’s stance on textbooks for years. AP
No relief in sight for rising food prices
Defender News Service
With food prices continuing to weigh heavily on household budgets, many Americans pinned their hopes on President-elect Donald Trump to bring relief. Trump made food inflation a focal point during his campaign, criticizing the rising costs of staples like bacon, cereal, and produce. However, the factors driving food price increases—such as the pandemic, the Ukraine war, and avian flu—are complex and not easily reversed. Economists warn that Trump’s proposed policies, including tariffs and immigration crackdowns, may inadvertently push prices even higher.
Food prices:
A persistent concern
As of October 2024, the cost of food consumed at home has risen 28% compared to 2019, according to newly released government data. While food inflation peaked in 2022, prices have since moderated, with a 2% increase over the past year—below the overall inflation rate.
Despite the slowdown, supermarket prices remain a significant concern for Americans. According to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 voters, around 70% of respondents expressed being “very concerned” about the cost of groceries. This sentiment cut across gender lines, with 70% of women and 63% of men voicing serious worries.
Trump capitalized on this anxiety, winning decisively among voters who were most troubled by food prices. Six in 10 voters who said they were “very concerned” supported Trump, while Vice President Kamala Harris, his Democratic opponent, found greater favor among voters who were less concerned.
Tariffs and their potential impact
During a September town hall in Michigan, Trump pledged to lower grocery prices by implementing tariffs to protect American farmers. His proposals include a 60% tariff on goods from China and a “universal” tariff of 10% to 20% on other imports, with mentions of
even higher rates in some speeches.
Trump has argued that imported agricultural goods are hurting U.S. farmers, pointing out that 60% of the nation’s fresh fruit, 38% of its fresh vegetables, and 10% of its beef are sourced from abroad.
“Our farmers are being decimated because we allow so much agricultural product into the country,” he said.
However, experts caution that tariffs may backfire. David Ortega, a food economics and policy specialist, noted that many food producers rely on imported inputs like fertilizer, machinery, and packaging. Tariffs on these items could raise production costs, ultimately driving up grocery prices.
Additionally, retaliatory tariffs from other nations could hurt U.S. farmers who rely on exports.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, around 20% of American agricultural production is exported annually.
Labor challenges and immigration policy
Trump’s immigration proposals also pose risks to the food supply
Disappointed voters watch the election. AP
Black community braces for Trump return to power
By ReShonda Tate
In the wake of the 2024 presidential election, there is a growing fear of what a second Donald Trump presidency could bring. For many Black Americans, memories of Trump’s first term remain fresh, marked by a surge in hate crimes and divisive rhetoric. Now, with Trump poised to retake the Oval Office, concerns about a resurgence of violence and intolerance loom large.
According to the 2024 American Electorate Voter Poll, conducted between Oct. 18-Nov. 4, these concerns are not unfounded.
chain, Ortega warned. More than two million undocumented workers play crucial roles in U.S. food production, including approximately one million on farms, 750,000 in restaurants, and 200,000 in food manufacturing.
Deporting these workers could create severe labor shortages, leading to higher costs for farmers and food producers. “The U.S. food system relies heavily on immigrant labor,” Ortega said. “Without it, production costs will rise, and those increases will be passed on to consumers.”
Industry pushback
Industry groups have raised concerns about Trump’s policies. The Consumer Brands Association, representing companies like CocaCola and Nestlé, pointed out that many food products depend on ingredients not grown in the U.S., such as coffee, bananas, and cocoa.
“There’s a fundamental disconnect between the goal of reducing grocery prices and tariff policies that will likely increase those costs,” said Tom Madrecki, the association’s vice president.
The survey, which included responses from over 9,000 Americans across racial and ethnic groups, highlights deep anxieties among Black voters about Trump’s return.
“While generally hopeful, Black voters have serious concerns with a Trump second term, particularly about hate, division, and violence,” said Professor Ray Block, an advisor with the
African American Research Collaborative (AARC).
Trump’s second term
80%
Believe will promote hate and division
78%
Fear violence, bloodshed 71%
View Project 2025 will push the U.S. toward authoritarianism 73%
Believe a federal abortion ban will become reality
67%
Distrust the Supreme Court, believing it has become too politicized and incapable of acting independently under Trump’s leadership
Experts warn shoppers hoping for relief under a Trump presidency may be in for a rude awakening. AP
Ends 12/3/24. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New Xfinity Gigabit Internet and Xfinity Mobile Unlimited customers only. Offer
enrollment in both paperless billing and automatic payments with stored bank account. Without enrollment, the monthly service charge automatically increases by $10 (or $5 if enrolling with credit or debit card
payments and paperless billing. If either automatic payments or paperless billing are subsequently canceled, the
All other installation, taxes & fees extra, and subject to change during and after promo. After 12 months, or if any service is
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vary and not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Xfinity Mobile: Xfinity
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and roaming charges, taxes and fees, including reg. recovery fees, and other charges extra, and subj. to change. $25/mo charge applies if Xfinity
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Education DN
HISD held accountable for bond failure
By Tannistha Sinha
More than 130 parents, teachers, students, and community members wanted their voices to be heard at the first HISD meeting since voters rejected a $4.4 billion bond proposal.
Board Secretary Angela Lemond Flowers said members were “disappointed” with the defeat of the bond.
“We are proud to put the board on the ballot for the voters to consider. We fundamentally believed our students deserve the chance to get the needed help, safety, and building quality upgrades proposed by the bond,” Flowers said. “We will charge ahead to continue to serve them to the best of our abilities with the facilities we have. We are focused on moving forward in partnership with the Houston community to do everything we can for every single HISD child.”
Speakers say the bond’s failure was due to the district leadership’s failure, especially its state-appointed superintendent, Mike Miles’s lack of community engagement. Some asked him to step down.
Unofficially, the bond could be considered a referendum on HISD leadership. For several months, opponents of the bond took to social media or spoke at these board meetings to highlight a lack of trust in Miles.
The board members reflected on the
criticism from community members regarding engagement by scoring themselves one out of 10 on “advocacy and engagement” and zero on “synergy and teamwork” on its annual self-evaluation. Out of 100, the board scored itself 53.
My community is tired of being on the menu. We want a seat at a table on your next bond proposal.”
SAVANT MOORE
What leaders said
State Representative Jolanda Jones said the bond election results equated to Miles’s and the appointed board of managers’ collective failure.
I-45 North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP)
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2024
5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
FIFTH WARD MULTI-SERVICE CENTER 4014 MARKET ST., HOUSTON, TX 77020
Join us to learn more about the I-45 NHHIP—a transformative project designed to reduce congestion, enhance safety, improve mobility, drive economic and community opportunities, and bolster flood resilience across the Houston region.
This meeting will spotlight Segment 3, offering the latest updates on construction progress, key project activities, and how TxDOT is fulfilling its commitments to property owners, tenants, communities, and other stakeholders.
We look forward to your valuable participation!
PROJECT LIMITS
“The unelected Republican-appointed board of managers are acting like straight dope fiends, begging for $4.4 billion to fuel your addiction to destroy HISD and public education after losing the bond fight. Because we fought your millions with our hearts, you’ve resorted to stealing and selling off HISD assets, including 19 properties, and wasting taxpayer dollars on armored cars,” Jones said. “We don’t trust any of you or your plans. You all need to go. We’ll fight unrelentingly to kick you out of HISD.”
Savant Moore, who serves on HISD’s Board of Trustees and represents District II, recommended further school closures or “co-location” plans be excluded from the next bond.
“My community is tired of being on the menu. We want a seat at a table on your next bond proposal. We’ll take politics out when you take the business out because it’s funny that two school properties that you have for sale now
The project spans I-45 from I-69 to Beltway 8 North, including I-69 improvements between Spur 527 and I-45 in Harris County, Texas. This encompasses the reconstruction of the downtown Houston freeway loop system, including I-45, I-69, I-10, and SH 288. I-45 will be rerouted from the west side of downtown Houston to run parallel with I-69 and I-10 until it exits the downtown area and continues north.
were supposed to be CTE,” Moore said. What Jones and Moore referred to was HISD’s plans to declare 19 properties as surplus and put them up for sale to make up for a part of the district’s budget deficits. Several of these buildings are elementary schools like Brookline and Chatham that are now closed, while two were set aside as career and technical education (CTE) centers within the bond proposal.
Houston Education Association President Michelle Williams said the bond was beaten by “people power” that stemmed from a grassroots effort.
Board votes to end Fondren Middle School IB designation
The board also voted to end Fondren Middle School’s International Baccalaureate designation when principal LaKia Jackson said only two students attend the school as IB students. Moreover, the school has not been able to provide IB programming since the 2021-22 school year.
“In the best interest of my students and my community, that’s why I want to move forward. We’re focused on high-quality instruction, and so none of the students that possibly knew about the IB status are there anymore,” Jackson said.
Flowers Moore Jackson Jones
Education DN
Few disclose race on college applications
By Laura Onyeneho
The Supreme Court’s 2023 decision to strike down affirmative action in college admissions is starting to show its impact on how students approach their applications. At some of the nation’s most selective universities, fewer students are disclosing their race or ethnicity, raising questions about the ruling’s long-term effects on diversity in higher education.
Data from a handful of elite institutions, such as Stanford, Harvard, and Princeton, shows that more students in the incoming 2024 freshman class opted not to indicate their race on applications compared to previous years. For example, at Pomona College in California, the percentage of applicants who did not disclose their race jumped from 3.7% in 2023 to nearly 7% in 2024.
While this trend only affects a small fraction of U.S. universities, namely those with highly competitive admissions, the implications are significant. These schools, including Ivy League institutions, were some of the most likely to consider race as a factor in admissions before the ruling. Now, as colleges and universities grapple with the fallout, many are wondering how the makeup of their student bodies will shift.
Dr. Bequita Pegram, a history lecturer at Prairie View A&M University, sees the reasons behind this shift as clear. Students are worried about facing discrimination.
“In my class, we discussed how some students feel that by disclosing their race, they’re opening themselves up to biases,” Pegram explained. “One student even said, ‘If I don’t put my race down, they can’t discriminate based on what they think I am.’ It’s unfortunate, but some students feel that withholding this information might protect them in a system that isn’t always fair.”
Many students of color feel that even seemingly neutral factors like a name can hint at their racial background. Pegram recounted how some Hispanic students in her class shared that their birth certificates list them as “white” in Texas despite their Hispanic identity. “One student said, ‘I’m going to stop putting my race down,’ because they felt it would stop institutions from making assumptions or treating them differently.”
In some cases, data shows a decline in the enrollment of Black and Hispanic students. For example, Johns Hopkins University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reported fewer first-year students from these demographic groups. However, other institutions, like Northwestern and Yale, have seen increases, making it difficult to draw sweeping conclusions.
Still, the data has raised concerns about the future of diversity at elite schools. Some
Admissions at most colleges were unaffected by the June 2023 Supreme Court ruling. However, the fraction of institutions it impacts includes some of the wealthiest and most well-resourced schools. Getty
universities that had previously used race as a factor in admissions are now left wondering how to maintain diverse student bodies without self-reported racial data.
Pegram pointed out that while students might withhold their race on college applications, universities will still collect this information in other ways.
“Even if a student doesn’t disclose their race on the application, schools will get that information through government documents like financial aid forms,” she said. “Public universities, in particular, won’t be able to get away from knowing a student’s race because it’s tied to things like Pell Grants and student loans.”
This raises an important question: Can colleges create diverse campuses without knowing the racial backgrounds of their students? Pegram expressed doubts, particularly for private schools that might try to work around the issue.
“It would be a challenge,” she said. “If you don’t know a student’s race before they get to campus, you’re left to guess. And that’s dangerous—you can’t just go off skin color. So, schools will still have to ask for that information, even after students are admitted.”
Another complication is the broader political landscape. The rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in states like Texas has only intensified concerns about how colleges will address racial inequality in the future. She believes that eliminating DEI programs doesn’t solve the underlying problem.
“I was disappointed when Texas decided to cut DEI programs,” she said. “It gives the illusion that we don’t have a DEI problem when, in fact, we do. Without these programs, people who were making discriminatory decisions before will continue to do so, unchecked.”
Are you getting the most from your Medicare plan?
Medicare plans change every year, so can your health. Visit Medicare.gov to see all your options side by side and compare coverage, costs, and quality ratings.
Compare your optons now at Medicare.gov, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY: 1-877-486-2048)
New in 2025, all Medicare plans will include a $2,000 cap on what you pay out of pocket for covered prescripton drugs.
The cap only applies to drugs that are covered by your plan, so it’s more important than ever to review your plan options to make sure your drugs are covered.
Get help with drug costs.
If you are struggling with your prescription drug costs, Extra Help is a Medicare program that can help pay for your drug coverage (Part D) premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. If you make less than $23,000 a year, it’s worth it to apply. Visit ssa.gov/extrahelp to complete an application.
InFocus DN
Open enrollment selection ends Dec. 7
By Marilyn Marshall
Ifyou’re one of the 66 million Americans receiving Medicare, this is a decisive time of the year for you. Open enrollment is underway, and you have until Dec. 7 to compare choices for 2025 and select the best insurance plan to suit your needs.
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 or older. You may be eligible for Medicare earlier if you have a disability, end-stage renal disease or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease). Some people receive Medicare automatically and others must actively sign up for it, depending on if you start getting retirement or disability benefits from Social Security before you turn 65.
“The most important thing for recipients to know is that Medicare open enrollment is the period when beneficiaries already enrolled in Medicare can make changes to their health insurance,” said Shondra Wygal, associate state director of Outreach and Advocacy for AARP Texas.
“This includes reviewing options and potentially switching Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription plans to ensure they meet their health care needs for the upcoming year.”
Wygal said recipients can find it confusing to understand the types of changes they can make during open enrollment.
“To clear up confusion, they should review their options at medicare.gov or consult with a certified benefits counselor from their local Area Agency on Aging, who can offer guidance on comparing plans,” she said.
According to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), people in a Medicare health or prescription drug plan should always review the materials their plans send them, like the “Evidence of Coverage” and “Annual Notice of Change.”
“If their plans are changing, they should make sure their plans will still meet their needs for the following year,” said CMS. “If they’re satisfied that their current plans will meet their needs for next year and it’s still being offered, they don’t need to do anything.”
Medicare plans can change every year, and your current one might be changing. Not all plans have the same benefits and out-of-pocket costs. By comparing options, you could find a plan that offers you better coverage, saves you money or both.
Wygal said AARP assists Medicare recipients by providing resources, information and tools to help navigate open enrollment and Medicare-related questions. They partner with organizations like the Medicare Rights Center, which offers plan comparison tools, and provides access to benefits counselors through local Area Agencies on Aging, making it easier for recipients to understand and choose the right coverage.
For more information visit aarp.org/medicare
Where to go, what to ask
For help with open enrollment or other related issues, here is a list of resources from AARP Texas:
• 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) – Talk or live chat 24/7.
• medicare.gov – General information, including your current coverage.
• medicare.gov/prescription-payment-plan
– Info on a new payment option.
• medicare.gov/care-compare/ – Find and compare providers near you.
• 1-800-252-9240 – Texas Medicare Help Line or your local Area Agency on Aging.
• shiptacenter.org or 877-839-2675 – State Health Insurance Assistance Program.
• medicarerights.org or 1-800-333-4114 –Medicare Rights Center.
QUESTIONS TO ASK INCLUDE:
• How do I decide which Medicare plan is best for me?
• How does my Medicare plan work with other insurance?
Navigating Medicare MEDICARE TERMS TO KNOW
COPAYMENT – A fixed amount ($20, for example) you pay for a covered health care service after you’ve paid your deductible. Copayments (sometimes called “copays”) can vary for different services within the same plan, like drugs, lab tests and visits to specialists.
DEDUCTIBLE – The amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plan starts to pay. With a $2,000 deductible, for example, you pay the first $2,000 of covered services yourself.
DONUT HOLE – Most plans with Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) have a coverage gap called a “donut hole.” After you and your drug plan have spent a certain amount of money for covered drugs, you must pay all costs out-of-pocket for your prescriptions up to a yearly limit. Once you have spent up to the yearly limit, your coverage gap ends and your drug plan helps pay for covered drugs again.
INPATIENT CARE – Health care that you get when you’re admitted as an inpatient to a health care facility, like a hospital or skilled nursing facility.
MEDICAID – Insurance program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with disabilities. Medicaid benefits and program names vary somewhat between states.
MEDICARE PART A – Helps cover inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and home health care.
MEDICARE PART B – Helps cover services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds and other equipment) and manypreventive services (screenings, shots or vaccines and yearly wellness visits).
MEDICARE PART C (MEDICARE ADVANTAGE) – A plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide you with all your Part A and Part B benefits. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, most Medicare services are covered through the plan and aren’t paid for under Original Medicare. Most Medicare Advantage Plans offer prescription drug coverage.
MEDICARE PART D – Helps pay for prescription drugs for people with Medicare who join a plan that includes Medicare prescription drug coverage. There are two ways to get Medicare prescription drug coverage: through a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan.
NETWORK – The facilities, providers and suppliers your health insurer or plan has contracted with to provide health care services.
ORIGINAL MEDICARE – A fee-forservice health plan that has two parts: Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). After you pay a deductible, Medicare pays its share of the Medicareapproved amount, and you pay your share (coinsurance and deductibles).
• Will I be paying more or less for my prescriptions if I change plans?
• Are dental and vision included in the plan I am considering?
• Can I keep my same doctor if I change plans?
• What do I do if I have complaints or concerns about Medicare?
• I’m under 65 and have a disability. Am I eligible for Medicare?
• If my employer offers retiree benefits, do I need to sign up for Medicare when I turn 65?
• Am I eligible for Medicaid as well
GENERIC DRUGS – A prescription drug that has the same active-ingredient formula as a brand-name drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than brand-name drugs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rates these drugs to be as safe and effective as brandname drugs.
HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION (HMO) – A plan that usually limits coverage to care from doctors who work for or contract with the HMO. It generally won’t cover out-of-network care except in an emergency. An HMO may require you to live or work in its service area to be eligible for coverage. HMOs often provide integrated care and focus on prevention and wellness.
PREFERRED PROVIDER ORGANIZATION (PPO) – A plan that contracts with medical providers, such as hospitals and doctors, to create a network of participating providers. You pay less if you use providers that belong to the plan’s network. You can use doctors, hospitals and providers outside of the network for an additional cost.
REFERRAL – A written order from your primary care doctor for you to see a specialist or get certain medical services. In many HMOs, you need to get a referral before you can get medical care from anyone except your primary care doctor. If you don’t get a referral first, the plan may not pay for the services.
Shondra Wygal
Profle DN
Strives to educate, empower pet owners Marcquis Davis
By Aswad Walker
Marcquis Davis, owner of Big Tex Feed, Hardware and Pet Supply, is knee-deep in the billion-dollar pet industry, but she’s not in it for the money. Rather, her mission is to educate and empower her predominantly working-class, low-income-earning customers so they can access quality pet care at affordable prices without getting gouged by exorbitant service prices.
The movie equivalent to Davis’s story is “The Godfather,” minus the gratuitous violence. Like “The Godfather” main character, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino), Davis did everything possible to distance herself from the family business, which was Big Tex, founded by her parents.
“I was a flight attendant for American Airlines, and couldn’t have an animal traveling internationally; so, yes, I ran very far from [the family business] and then got snatched right back into it,” said Davis, sounding eerily similar to one of Michael Corleone’s most memorable lines.
And like the fictional Corleones, the Davises founded their business in response to societal pressures.
FAMILY BUSINESS
“My parents started a feed store because there was only one feed store in Houston, and it was white-owned, in a Black community, and they kept treating us poorly, talking to us like we’re crazy,” she said.
So, her parents opened Big Tex in December 2002. But 22 years later, Davis believes she’s experiencing something similar to the treatment that led to her business’s founding – the business she took over five years ago upon her parents’ divorce.
But even before that drama, it was a tragedy that set Davis on a path to even being open to running Big Tex.
TRAGEDY
“I ran from this industry. I didn’t want to be in the pet world. I didn’t want to be an entrepreneur. But, the crazy part about it is, I lost my son as a stillborn,” shared Davis, who was then advised to get a dog as an emotional support animal.
Upon getting Mina, a cane corso (an Italian breed of mastiff), Davis ran into every pet owner problem imaginable, including astronomical veterinarian prices.
Not wanting to spend all her money at the vet, Davis started a deep-dive into some of the over-the-counter products at her family’s store that could help her with Mina’s preventative care.
SERVICE YET DRAMA
In the process, Davis and Big Tex were part of a citywide initiative to tackle a growing problem: stray dogs multiplying
and spreading disease.
“There was an initiative to get all the dogs in the neighborhood either picked up and put in the shelter or getting these dogs
fixed and basically releasing them back out. The city was at one point offering free vet, free spay and neuter services, and we did that on my property.”
Davis realized her customers needed not only spay and neuter services, but affordable preventative care (dewormer, vaccines, nail trimmings, medicated shampoos, ear cleanings, dietary supplements, etc.).
So, with the team of vets who were providing the spay and neuter services, they opened an animal hospital on the property, which provided preventative care at affordable prices.
She contends the team “got greedy” and resorted to a common industry practice—getting customers hooked via lowcost services, then charging high prices for additional services and/or offering cheaper services that don’t cover all aspects of the pet care needed.
ACCUSATIONS
After parting ways with that vet team, five years later Davis’s business is thriving with its expanded focus on preventative care.
But the affordable services she and her new vet team offer, $10 rabies vaccines, have put Davis at odds with the vet industry, which has accused her of practicing vet medicine without a license.
“Everyone knows I’m not a doctor and I never claim or act like I am. I offer preventative care services at affordable prices. At the vet, just the office visit is $65, plus the cost of their services and take-home meds, usually costing $120. My clients also have the option to buy the products and DIY for less than $20,” clarified Davis.
Davis’s response to the vet attacks: “Stop price gouging” customers.
MISSION TO EDUCATE, EMPOWER
For Davis, though, it’s all about educating and empowering pet owners, in large part because she is one.
“I can understand and sympathize with the average American who has a pet and just doesn’t know their options. I just want them to know there are a lot of preventative care stuff that you can get from a feed store.”
“Rabies vaccines only cost $2, but they make you come into the office and they charge you $120. I’m coming from an educational side and making sure that I advocate for not just my community, but people that have pets. The pet industry is a billion-dollar industry. The vet industry makes even more than that.”
Marcquis Davis empowers pet owners with affordable care through her store, advocating against industry exploitation and promoting community awareness of pet health. Courtesy Photos.
Profle DN
Cheryl Tyler
First Black female secret service agent releases memoir
By Laura Onyeneho
For Cheryl Tyler, the path to greatness wasn’t paved—it had to be forged. As the first Black woman to serve as a Secret Service agent protecting the President of the United States, the woman who once grew up in Palestine, Texas has broken through barriers that many believed were impossible to overcome. Now, in her memoir Trailblazer, she shares her extraordinary journey of courage, resilience, and determination, inspiring a new generation of Black women to pursue their dreams, no matter how unreachable they may seem.
There will always be obstacles, but if you believe in yourself and push through, you can achieve things you never thought possible.”
CHERYL TYLER
“I wanted to write this book to show others that it’s possible to break down walls and succeed, even in spaces where you’re not expected to be,” Tyler said in a recent interview. “If my story can inspire just one person to keep pushing forward, then it’s all been worth it.”
Tyler’s fascination with law enforcement began in her childhood living room, watching TV shows like The Untouchables and The Wild Wild West with her father. The bold characters on screen—Elliott Ness with his sharp suits and James West with his fearless, action-packed style—captured young Tyler’s imagination.
“I looked at those men and thought, ‘I want to do what they do, but still look like a lady,’” Tyler recalled. This early spark lit the fire that would eventually lead her to one of the most prestigious and demanding careers in the world: protecting the President of the United States.
Despite having no family background in law enforcement, Tyler’s relentless ambition led her to pursue a career few Black women had ever considered. While working at the Internal Revenue Service, Tyler took a chance—on her lunch break, she visited the Secret Service office to inquire about becoming an agent. That simple inquiry
turned into a life-changing moment.
“I was just curious at first, but then I thought, ‘Why not me?’” Tyler said. “I went back to that office and asked how I could join. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I was determined to try.”
What followed was a career that shattered racial and gender barriers. Tyler went on to serve under presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, becoming the first Black woman to hold such a position. In Trailblazer, she recounts her years traveling with those president, managing high-stakes security situations, and staying constantly alert to potential threats.
But her journey was not without challenges. Tyler faced racial and gender discrimination in a field dominated by white men, but her resolve only grew stronger.
“There were definitely times when I felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself,” Tyler said. “But I didn’t let that stop me. I stayed focused on my mission, and that’s how I earned respect.”
Tyler’s career is more than just a story of breaking barriers—it’s a testament to the power of resilience. Throughout her journey, she learned that success doesn’t come without struggle, and leadership is earned through perseverance.
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you have to be your own biggest advocate,” Tyler shared. “There will always be obstacles, but if you believe in yourself and push through, you can achieve things you never thought possible.”
Now, as the founder and CEO of CLT3 Security Logistics, Tyler continues to lead. Her firm provides security management for major events, corporate businesses, and international organizations. Her experiences in the Secret Service have shaped her approach to leadership, emphasizing preparedness, attention to detail, and, most importantly, resilience.
Through Trailblazer , Tyler hopes to inspire young Black women to pursue careers that challenge the status quo. Her story is one of determination, hard work, and the courage to break through barriers—even when the world tells you it can’t be done.
“I want the next generation to see that there’s no limit to what they can achieve,” she said. “If my story can encourage them to go after their dreams, then I’ve done what I set out to do.”
For more information about her memoir, visit: https://www.1trailblazerbook.com/
First Black Female Secret Service Agent Shares Her Journey In New Memoir.
Credit: Cheryl Tyler
Black Project 2025 A Plan to counter Project 2025 trends on TikTok
By Amaka Watson
Black Americans are mobilizing in response to the potential dangers of Project 2025, a conservative plan coordinated by The Heritage Foundation in concert with over 120 other conservative think tanks. This blueprint, which aims to dismantle key programs like the Department of Education and Medicaid, could severely impact Black communities if fully implemented.
In reaction, a grassroots movement called Black Project 2025 is taking off on TikTok, driven by the idea of economic empowerment and self-reliance. What started as a social media suggestion has become a fullscale initiative to build a future where Black communities are self-sufficient and thriving. The idea for Black Project 2025 was introduced by TikTok creator @mediabuyingbestie, who encouraged Black people to stop supporting corporations that don’t serve their interests and instead focus on building Black-owned businesses. The vision is a self-sustaining Black economy where goods and services are bought exclusively from Black businesses, from groceries to clothing to healthcare.
“Everything we use and consume on a daily basis, it is no longer purchased from these large corporations. It is purchased from one another,” said @mediabuyingbestie in her viral post, which sparked excitement across social media.
With Trump’s re-election looming and fears of policy rollbacks affecting the Black community, Black Project 2025 offers a proactive strategy. Rather than waiting to see what happens, supporters of the movement are building their economic infrastructure, ensuring that Black communities can withstand the impact of harmful political shifts.
Even after the election, Black Project 2025 remains focused on a long-term vision of independence. The movement aims to recreate a modern Black Wall Street—an economic ecosystem centered on Black ownership of banks, grocery stores, and essential businesses that uplift the community.
“We have judges, attorneys, doctors— people from all walks of life—contributing to this,” explained TikTok creator @equilibrium.essence. “Whatever your talent is, there’s a place for you in Black Project 2025.”
This initiative, driven by professionals from various fields, is working to establish a community-focused, Black-owned infrastructure that isn’t reliant on external support.
Black Project 2025 encourages everyone to get involved by shifting their spending to Black-owned businesses and investing in their community. From coffee to clothing, the movement pushes Black people to funnel their dollars into Black-owned companies and support long-term economic sustainability.
Supporters can also contribute their skills to help build the necessary digital and business infrastructure. The project seeks cybersecurity specialists, app developers, and other tech professionals to help move the initiative forward.
A GoFundMe page has been launched to raise $2 million to support the initiative. So far, nearly $60,000 has been raised.
BID NOTICE
Balfour Beatty is soliciting bids for subcontractors and vendors for construction of control no 0271-15-099 on IH 610 from Market St to W of Mercury Dr. bid date is December 3, 2024. Email, mail, or fax quotations to Balfour Beatty, 1114 Lost Creek Blvd, Suite 500, Austin, TX 78746, fax: (512) 707-0798 email: bbiisw@ bbus.com. DBE/HUB contractors are encouraged to submit bids. Plans and specifcations are available to be reviewed at TxDOT Plans On-line: https://www.txdot.gov/business/plans-online-bid-lettings.html E.O.E. For information contact Brian Ficzeri at (512) 707-0797.
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) is planning to issue the procurement documents listed in this advertisement.
IFB No. Doc1350056691: Repaint HOV Diamond & Bus Lanes. Solicitation will be available on or about 11/18/2024.
IFB No. Doc1333106153: Erosion Repairs of Retaining Wall @ Polk. Solicitation will be available on or about 11/12/2024.
Prospective bidders/proposers can view and download these solicitations by visiting METRO's website at ridemetro.org/Open Procurements. If you are unable to download the documents or are having difculty, please contact 713-739-6886 or email Contracts/Property Services at propertyservices@ridemetro.org.
TikToker @mediabuyingbestie introduces the Black Project 2025 initiative on social media. Credit: TikTok
A historic Houston-area Black community Galena Manor
By Aswad Walker
The Houston Ship Channel is known worldwide for its central role in facilitating global commerce. But the neighborhoods around the Ship Channel are barely known, even by Houstonians. The little that is known usually centers around these communities existing within one of the nation’s most environmentally unfriendly (i.e. polluted) zip codes.
Yet, beneath that toxic assault lies a pristine piece of Black history; one that’s worth uncovering and celebrating.
“As a suburban area of Houston, Galena Manor started development in the early to mid-1900s,” said Instagram historian KeAndre (@mysouthernbrand). “The neighborhood was a prosperous Black community that was filled with Black professionals.
“When nearby Frenchtown integrated into Fifth Ward, many Creoles settled into Galena Manor. As a result, the community had a thriving Creole culture.”
Galena Manor was born when all-white Galena Park unsuccessfully attempted to fund the building of a wall between its residents and a growing Black presence on its borders. That Black presence became the community known as Galena Manor.
Nailah Nelson, known locally as “Mama Africa” for her central role in inspiring thousands of individuals, families and organizations to learn of and appreciate Black people’s African roots, is also well-versed in the history of Galena Manor, the neighborhood where she was born and raised.
Nelson shared that history with the Defender in hopes of reviving interest in and respect for the area.
DEFENDER: WhatimpactdidGalena Manor have on the historic life of Black Houston?
Nelson: Galena Manor, via the Galena Manor Civic Club (GMCC), impacted the historic life of Black Houston by engaging residents of Fidelity, Clinton Park and Clinton View to become involved in the Bus detail. Rapid Transit (Metro) had bus stops in these Black communities. Very similar to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, these residents would get on the bus and sit up front, knowing that the driver would instruct them to move to the back of the bus. Then they would all file out to exit the bus. This extremely delayed the Rapid Transit bus routing schedule and complaints poured in, and their revenue was severely impacted. The community residents would use their cars to get people to work or carpool. The
GMCC also engaged these communities for lunch counter/cafeteria sit-ins at Woolworths and Walgreens.
DEFENDER: Did this activism extend beyond the 1950s and 60s?
Nelson: Absolutely. In 1970, all communities connected in response to the brutal death of Bobby Jo Conner and the brutal beating of Larry Taylor. They were stopped by Galena Park Police (GPP) for running a then nonexistent stop sign on 2nd Street and Galena Manor Drive. The GPP stated
that Conner and Taylor were turned over in custody to the Houston Police (HPD). At least 100 people from these Galena Manor communities stormed the Galena Park City Hall to confront the mayor and Police Chief W.E. Cook, demanding Cook’s resignation. They also gathered at Houston City Hall to demand the resignation of then-HPD chief Herman Short. From this ordeal, the legendary Carl Hampton of Pleasantville, who was engaged in the GMCC strategies of protest created the People’s Party II, and began getting members from Galena
Galena Manor, a historic Black community in Houston, contributed significantly to Black history through activism and cultural connections while facing systemic challenges.
Credit: Galena Manor. Fidelity Schools Marker. Credit: James Hulse.
Manor, Pleasantville, Fidelity, Clinton Park and Clinton View.
DEFENDER: Is it true Galena Manor served as a connector community?
Nelson: Galena Manor connected the communities of Galena Manor with its neighboring Fidelity, Clinton Park, Clinton View and Pleasantville via summer programs, park festivals and school dances. Regarding churches, most people connected regardless of denomination. These churches strengthened the bonding of all these communities.
DEFENDER: What about Galena Manor’s connections to Third Ward and Fifth Ward?
Nelson: Galena Manor was built and the city of Galena Park wanted a brick wall dividing Fidelity (Black residents) from Galena Park residents (then predominantly white). Funding for that wall was declined by Galena Park, the city of Houston and Harris County. So, Judson Robinson Sr. and G.K Coleman began contacting Nailah Nelson residents of Fifth Ward, Acres Home and Settegast, getting GIs to apply for a GI loan to obtain houses in Galena Manor. Many who acquired the homes came from Fifth Ward’s Frenchtown. They told their family members, who told their friends and family members. Hence, Galena Manor became a community of friends and family. Later, people moved on up to Third Ward when it became available to Black people. These people still kept their connections, gathering at the Eldorado Ballroom for holiday and festive occasions.
Nailah Nelson
Sports DN
TERRANCE’S TAKE
This Mike Tyson is just a weird nice guy, not a killer
By Terrance Harris
In the 1980s into the 90s, Mike Tyson was either the most intimidating man alive or the biggest con man bully the fight game has ever seen.
Take your pick. He wasn’t someone you wanted to deal with. Most didn’t, which is why Tyson’s fights used to be won before a punch was thrown.
Fast-forward some three decades later, Tyson ain’t that man no more. He hasn’t been for a long time.
We’ve wanted to believe that that fear-striking killer still lives somewhere in Tyson. But it doesn’t, and we saw as much in Netflix’s buffering streaming broadcast of the Tyson-Jake Paul show (because it can’t be described as a boxing match).
So we still flocked to our televisions waiting for a man with an AARP card to thrill us. It never happened.
Tyson, 58, looked like a caricature of himself: a punch-drunk, weirdly nice guy who tries his best to convince us that mean streak is still in him. Paul, who is less than half Tyson’s age, is just a social media personality masquerading as a boxer who wisely avoids real fighters.
Tyson had us all fooled for the first two rounds of their match, showing hints of the aggressiveness that once made him the unquestioned Heavyweight Boxing Champion of the universe. Then he was simply a punching bag for Paul, who hit Tyson at will but without any ill intent.
The undercard fights were far more exciting, with the most memorable moments connected to the main event coming during the pre-fight slap and Tyson showing his ass – literally.
Many felt like this fight was thrown or at least scripted. I’m on the side of the latter because Tyson never really came for Paul. He never attempted his signature jab to the ribs followed by that devastating uppercut.
We watched the training videos leading up to the fight, so we know that Tyson is still there, but he never showed up at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX.
If there was a flex, it was that Tyson walked away with what is believed to be $20 million for a harmless night’s work.
Texans
Will they ever rival the Cowboys?
By Terrance Harris
Brian Denmon is quick to let you know he moved to Houston from Marshall way back in 1971.
But he is still a Dallas Cowboys fan. Period.
“I’ve been a Cowboys fan since I was old enough to walk,” Denmon said as the lone Cowboys jersey in a sea of Texans in a local restaurant. “I brought the Cowboys here to Houston with me and I’ve been a Cowboys fan ever since.”
There isn’t at all a blurred or even thin line in this state when it comes to Texans or Cowboys fans. You are on one side or the other.
For much of Texas, this is still Cowboys country, even in Houston, where the Texans have called home since 2002. While the Texans are having a much more successful season on the field and are likely headed back to the playoffs while the Cowboys are stumbling to the finish line, the Cowboys are still the most identifiable franchise in Texas.
Just ask Denmon who is clearly frustrated with his team’s fortunes but isn’t wavering.
“Our season is shot,” he said, “Even though I’m a fan and will continue to be a fan, but when we didn’t do anything in the offseason, made no offseason moves and then Dak (Prescott) is not worth that $60 million they gave him and now he is out for the season. CeeDee Lamb is hurt, half the people on our defense are hurt. So this season is just going to be a wash.”
“But I will never be a Texans fan ever.”
Lawanda Cornett, seated with Denmon and her twin sister and donning a Texans shirt, isn’t quite as passionate about her team. But she still rocks with the hometown team.
“I’m just a general girl who got into football,” Cornett confessed. “I know a little bit about it and why I’m for the Texans is because I know no other team.”
While there are certainly more diehard Texans fans around Houston, her passion compared to Denmon’s defines the split in popularity of the two Texas NFL franchises.
The difference isn’t as much about this season or last when the Texans were the league’s surprise team. It’s not even about the Texans Monday Night Football 34-10 slaughter of the Cowboys this week. It’s about the history and branding of the two franchises.
The Cowboys, who are accepted worldwide as America’s Team, have a storied history that includes five Super Bowl wins, 32
Pro Football Hall of Famers, the world-famous Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, and the overall mystique of the blue star on their helmets.
The names of the Cowboys greats seem endless: Tony Dorsett, Emmitt Smith, Michael Irvin, Ed “Too Tall” Jones, Deion Sanders, Roger Staubach, Troy Aikman. The franchise also features an owner who is truly synonymous with his franchise: Jerry Jones.
The Texans, who replaced the Oilers in Houston in the early 2000s, are still in their infancy as far as success is concerned. They haven’t come close to a Super Bowl and, until last year, didn’t have a Hall of Famer until wide receiver Andre Johnson received his gold jacket. Their ownership family, the McNairs, certainly aren’t household names.
The Texans and Cowboys meet every four years during the regular season—including
this season—and usually in the preseason, the off years, in what is known as the Texas Governor’s Cup, aka Battle of Texas, aka the Cowboys-Texans rivalry.
University of Houston professor Billy Hawkins, Ph. D., a noted author and sports sociology course instructor, says the Cowboys brand is omnipresent and that it will take a substantial leap for the Texans to catch up globally and even in their own backyard.
Eclipsing the Cowboy’s five Super Bowl wins and challenging their 20 consecutive winning seasons would be a start.
“When you are labeled as America’s Team, what else can compare to that?” Hawkins said. “Houston is a great city, a great sports city, has a lot to offer but they would have to come up with this notion of how can they brand themselves to distinguish themselves uniquely from the Dallas Cowboys, America’s Team.”
The Texans perhaps moved a little closer when the two Texas teams clashed in a rare Monday Night Football game in which the Texans won by 24 points.
But it still will not come close to moving the needle regarding which franchise is Texas’ team. Just ask Denmon.
“It’s just something about that star and it’s been one of the storied franchises,” he said. “In fact, it’s worth billions of dollars. Even right now it’s the most storied franchise in sports. Period. All of the Hall of Famers, five Super Bowls, been in probably about 10 Super Bowls.
“I just go way back.”
Mike Tyson (left) was an easy target for Jake Paul (right) for their glorified exhibition fight on Friday night at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. Credit: Getty.
Credit: AP.
There is certainly no love lost between fans in this Dallas Cowboys-Houston Texans rivalry. Credit: AP.
Terrance Harris
Advance after thrilling comeback WORTHING COLTS PLAYOFFS
By Jimmie Aggison
The Worthing Colts are heading to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2010 after a dramatic 35-28 victory over Almeta Crawford on Nov. 15. The game marked a significant milestone for the team, which finished its 4A-1 Region III District 11 season with a flawless 8-0 record.
The Colts entered the playoffs with an impressive résumé, boasting a defense that allowed just 41 total points during district play and an explosive offense that racked up 298 points. However, they faced a significant challenge in the first half against Almeta Crawford, trailing 21-3 at halftime.
“I told the kids we need to learn from our mistakes,” said head football coach Brandon Ellis. “Last season, we faced El Campo in the first round, and we got down on ourselves, turning on each other and pointing fingers. So, I reminded the guys that we’ve fought too hard to get back to this point, and we have to stick together as a family and keep our heads up. Go out there and play the way we know how to play.”
The second half was a different story. The Colts returned to the field with renewed energy and outscored Almeta Crawford 20-0 in the third quarter and put up 12 more points in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
The Colts’ success this season has been
powered by a core group of players.
Kwame Roy, a senior running back and safety, has been a dual-threat weapon. Standing 6-feet-2 and weighing 175 pounds, Roy’s blend of speed and power has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Pedro Garza, a junior kicker, has been a reliable asset, consistently converting field goals from up to 30 yards out.
Jacory Thurman, a 6-foot-3 and 250pound tight end/defensive end, creates mismatches on both sides of the football with his speed and leaping ability. Thurman is currently committed to the University of Houston.
Va’Shawn Smith, a senior quarterback, has demonstrated excellent decision-making, whether staying in the pocket or running the ball. His accuracy in connecting with Thurman has been crucial for the Colts’ offense.
Nathaniel Dillard , a senior defensive back and wide receiver, has been the emotional leader of the team, delivering high-intensity performances that frustrate opponents and energize the Colts’ defense.
“Kwame Roy is the perfect combination of speed and power; he helps start our run game, which opens many avenues for us on offense,” said Coach Ellis. “Va’Shawn Smith is our heart; he’s our leader. He’s been with the program through the good and bad
times, from a freshman getting beat by 50 to now. He set a goal for the team and we all went and got it.
“Nathaniel Dillard is a very talented player. Two weeks ago, he hurt his foot, but he came back strong; he has excitement in his heart and plays physical all night long.
Jacory Thurman is a very hardworking young man. He works hard in the classroom and comes straight to the field and does the same. Pedro Garza is the icing on top of the cake. When we are in the red zone and need
points, we know we can count on Pedro. He works hard every day.”
Despite their district dominance, the Colts have faced skepticism about the strength of their competition. Friday’s victory against Almeta Crawford sends a strong message to critics who have questioned the program’s legitimacy.
“There has been the stigma HISD teams have carried, especially in the 4A division. That’s why this win means so much to us because there’s some good talent in HISD and we put that on display tonight,” said Coach Ellis.
“They doubted us but we showed them we can do it outside our district,” said Thurman.
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships,” said Smith.
I reminded the guys that we’ve fought too hard to get back to this point, and we have to stick together as a family and keep our heads up. Go out there and play the way we know how to play.”
BRANDON ELLIS HEAD FOOTBALL COACH
The Colts are one of only three Houston ISD teams to advance to the second round of the playoffs, alongside Houston Lamar and Houston Heights. Lamar narrowly defeated Cy Fair 23-19, while Heights triumphed over Memorial 42-21.
The Colts now turn their attention to their next challenge: a second-round matchup against Tyler Chapel Hill. The game is set for Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024, at 7 p.m. at Turner Stadium. As the team prepares, they carry with them the momentum of a historic win and the hopes of a community eager to see them continue their playoff journey.
Worthing’s Kwame Roy, Pedro Garza, Jacory Thurman, Va’Shawn Smith, and Nathaniel Dillard pose after defeating Almeta Crawford at Hall Stadium.
Credit Jimmie Aggison/Defender.
Lucy Ojode takes on Rwanda assignment Feature DN
By Gregory Stevenson
As the Fall 2024 semester winds down, you won’t find distinguished Texas Southern University (TSU) professor Dr. Lucy Ojode on the historic Third Ward campus. She won’t be there during the Spring 2025 semester either. But her absence from the Tiger Walk is not due to negligence.
Far from it.
Ojode, a member of the TSU Jesse H. Jones School of Business’s Department of Business Administration, is an esteemed Fulbright Scholar. The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program sends about 800 American scholars and professionals to around 130 countries each year. Currently, Ojode is sharing her business expertise in Rwanda training entrepreneurs who are seeking their Executive MBA.
“I am honored and deeply grateful to receive this Fulbright award,” said Ojode. “I truly appreciate the support from my colleagues and students.”
Contrary to the historically negative portrayal of the African continent, it is home to multiple countries considered some of the most dynamic in terms of their current and future economic promise. Rwanda, just
TSU FULBRIGHT SCHOLAR
30 years ago, was home to one of the most horrific genocides on the planet. Now, the Central African nation is held up as one of the world’s most exemplary democracies and steady economies, as U.S. democracy, according to social scientists is on the brink of collapse.
What better time for Ojode to take her talents abroad.
“I am excited to embark upon this opportunity to build connections between TSUtrained entrepreneurs and the burgeoning
markets that exist in Africa,” said Ojode, who is celebrating her 20th anniversary as a TSU professor this year.
“It has been a wonderful journey since 2004. I have thoroughly enjoyed my classes, students, and colleagues, and it has always been a joy to be part of this academic community.”
Ojode’s selection as a Fulbright Scholar has been described as underscoring her commitment to academic excellence and her dedication to fostering global understanding.
While currently in Rwanda, Ojode is part of a broader effort by Fulbright Scholars to make meaningful contributions to communities abroad and at home, enriching both their host institutions and their home institutions with their experiences and insights.
And the significance of Ojode’s Fulbright honor is not lost on her TSU family.
“Texas Southern University is a proud partner to the Fulbright Program,” said TSU’s President Jim Crawford.
And why wouldn’t TSU be proud? When a scholar is recognized by the Fulbright Scholar program, so too is their institution.
“The U.S. Department of State has named the University as a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader for four consecutive years in recognition of our support for Fulbright exchange participants and our promotion of Fulbright program opportunities on campus. The presence and contributions of those visiting scholars and our international students over the years add to TSU’s culturally rich environment in myriad ways,” said Crawford, who appreciates the opportunity one of his faculty has to place the global spotlight on TSU’s greatness.
Rwandan citizens celebrating their Independence Day. Credit: igihe.com.