Houston Defender: December 12, 2013

NATIONAL

BLACK UNEMPLOYMENT DIPS TO FIVE-YEAR LOW NATIONWIDE P3

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Volume 83 | Number 7

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Remembering

LOCAL

Mandela H Page 6

ERNEST McGOWEN posthumously receives award

P2 SPORTS PHILLIP GAINES plays hard for Rice University

P10 CHAG’S PLACE OPINION

Jerrika Hinton portrays doctor

Jesse Jackson commends Mandela

Dallas native Jerrika Hinton costars on the acclaimed medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy,” now in its 10th season on ABC. Discover the route Hinton took to be on the show. Read her recollections about growing up in North Texas.

See what she has to say about being blessed.

Longtime civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. was among the African-Americans who fought against apartheid in the 1980s.

What are his memories of the late Nelson Mandela? What qualities made Mandela a rare soul? How does Jackson define true leadership and faith?

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Tina Knowles and Pastor Juanita Rasmus at Art Project event

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 12 | 2013

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Groups blast use of weapons on students Defender News Services

A $500,000 grant goes to the Temenos CDC for the construction of low-income apartments

CDC awarded grant for low-income apartments

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Defender News Services

emenos Community Development Corporation has been awarded a $500,000 grant to assist in the construction of an apartment complex for low-income and homeless Houstonians.

The apartments are a joint project of Temenos, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department and the Harris County Community Services Department.

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is providing financial support and awarded an Affordable Housing Program grant through Amegy Bank.

Temenos CDC was established by Pastor Rudy Rasmus of St. John’s United Methodist Church. The inaugural project for the CDC was the Knowles-Rowland Temenos Place Apartments.

Temenos Place Apartments II will contain 80 efficiency units within a four-story building located near Downtown. It will contain office space, a conference room, two open park

spaces and a patio for residents and guests.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee joined in the announcement and said, “The lack of affordable rental housing is one of the greatest economic challenges of our time. Affordable housing is about more than just rent; it is about ensuring that we maintain the ladder that makes America a land of opportunity.”

“The housing and supportive services that will be offered through the development of Temenos II are a vital component of Houston’s comprehensive, community-driven plan to end chronic homelessness,” added Mayor Annise Parker.

Dana Hogan, CEO of Campus Non-profits, which oversees Temenos CDC, said the project has been in the works for some time.

“The need was there for this type of project – first nationally, with the president making affordable housing for the homeless one of the administration’s initiatives,” Hogan said.

“We wanted to create more units for those who are transitioning out of homelessness and reaching self-sufficiency in their lives.”

In the wake of an incident in which a Bastrop deputy used a Taser on a Texas high school student on school grounds, leaving him currently hospitalized and in a coma, a coalition of civil rights and social justice organizations are asking the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement to end use of so called “less-than-lethal weapons” in school districts statewide.

These groups are asking the ninemember commission to create and implement new standards barring the use of Tasers, stun guns, and pepper spray on Texas students.

“Tragic incidents like this one demonstrate why the state should not grant police free rein to wield weapons in schools for the apparent purpose of maintaining order,” said Terri Burke, executive director of the ACLU of Texas.

“Schools should be safe havens from this type of police use of force.

I hope the commission will heed our call to end use of Tasers and pepper spray.”

On Nov. 20, a member of the Bastrop County Sheriff’s department “tased” Noe Nino de Rivera, a 17-year-old student at Cedar Creek High School, causing de Rivera to fall and hit his head, after which he was airlifted to an Austin hospital where he remains in a medically-induced coma.

According to eyewitness accounts, de Rivera was not involved in Continued on Page 8

localbriefs THE LATE COUNCILMEMBER Ernest B. McGowen Sr. has been named recipient of the City of Houston’s first Champion of Diversity Award.

McGowen was chiefly responsible for pioneering the legislation and subsequent passage of the ordinance that established the city’s Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) program 29 years ago. The presentation was made at the first annual ceremony hosted by the city’s Office of Business Opportunity Advisory Board. The Champion of Diversity Award was renamed after McGowen and accepted by his wife and children……..WHEATLEY HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL Ronald Rodriguez and his fiancé

Dana Bost, HISD’s chief high school officer, are no longer with the district. Rodriguez was recently arrested and charged with two counts of possession of marijuana in Prichard, Ala. Bost was charged with possession of marijuana and cocaine. Rodriguez and Bost were both hired at the beginning of the academic year. HISD said it was unable to discuss the specifics of their departures…….. HOUSTON HAS BEEN NAMED one of the country’s top five large performing metro areas by the Milken Institute, a think tank based in Santa Monica. The report was based on job and wage growth and the propensity for technological innovation. San Jose topped

the list. Austin came in second and Raleigh, N.C. came in third. Washington, D.C. came in fifth. Odessa, Texas came in fourth on the list of the top five small performing metro areas……..

TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY will hold its December Commencement Ceremonies on Saturday, Dec. 14, 9:30 a.m. in the H&PE Arena.

The guest speaker is Tony Wyllie, senior vice president of communications for the Washington Redskins. Wyllie is a graduate of TSU’s School of Communication. He is a five-time recipient of the Pro Football Writers of America Pete Rozelle Award for public relations. Wyllie worked for three years in TSU’s sports information department.

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DECEMBER 12 | 2013 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs THE NAACP is encouraging President Obama to issue an Executive Order increasing the minimum wage for all employees of federal contractors to not less than $10.10 per hour. “We believe that every American worker deserves a fair and livable wage,” said NAACP Interim President and CEO Lorraine C. Miller. “The federal government should be a shining example of fair and just treatment by increasing the minimum wage for all employees of federal contractors.” In July, the NAACP annual convention approved of a resolution calling on Congress to pass the Fair Minimum Wage Act to increase the minimum wage to $10.10 by 2015………..CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS Rev. Al Sharpton and Marc Morial have joined forces with hip-hop legend Russell Simmons in speaking out on “knockout game” violence. The “knockout game” is a series of unprovoked attacks on Jews throughout the country in which unsuspected victims are suckerpunched and knocked out cold by Black teens.

“These kids are targeting innocent people, and in many cases specifically targeting Jewish folks,” Sharpton said. “We would not be silent if it was the other way around, and we will not be silent now. This behavior is racist, period. And we will not tolerate it,” he said……..MANY IN-HOME WORKERS are living in poverty according to a recent study by the Economic Policy Institute.

These are the workers who cook meals, clean homes and care for the elderly, the disabled and children. They often earn low wages and work grueling hours without many of the protections enjoyed by most workers. Nearly 20 percent of them are Black. “Though individual employers of in-home workers can and should improve their employees’ wages and benefits, policy changes at the state and federal level are needed to rectify the exclusion of many in-home workers from employment and labor laws,” the report stated.

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Black unemployment dips to five-year low

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NNPA News Service

he Black unemployment rate fell to a five-year low in November, according to the latest jobs report by the Labor Department. Economists, however, saw little to celebrate as Congress’ inaction threatens federal unemployment insurance programs that help millions of families.

The unemployment rate for Blacks fell to 12.5 percent last month, the lowest since December 2008 when it was 11.9 percent. The unemployment rate for whites ticked down from 6.3 percent in October to 6.2 percent in November.

The unemployment rate for Black men over 20 also improved, dropping from 13 percent in October to 12.3 percent in November. The jobless rate for white men fell from 6.2 percent in October to 6 percent in November.

The jobless rate for Black women fell from 11.5 percent in October to 11.1 percent in November, compared to white women who saw their unemployment rate fall from 5.5 percent in October to 5.3 percent in November.

Black youth between 16-19 years old continue to suffer the worst unemployment rate at 35.8 percent. The unemployment rate for white youth in the same age group was 18.6 percent in November.

The economy added 203,000 jobs last month.

“What this report shows is that the economy continues to grow at a very tepid pace,” said Bernard Anderson, an economist and professor emeritus of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. “The economy is not growing at a rate that will reduce the overhang of long-term unemployment.”

Economists fear that Congress won’t act to extend federal unemployment insurance benefits, a move that could stifle job growth in 2014.

“For lawmakers to not be considering extending [unemployment insurance] means that they are really not looking at what’s happening in the economy and they think that things are better than they are,” said Elise Gould, the director of health policy research at the Economic Policy Institute.

Chad Stone, chief economist at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, wrote on the CBPP blog that, “Despite improvements this year, the labor market is still not strong enough for policymakers to let emergency federal unemployment insurance expire as scheduled during Christmas week.”

The number of Black workers either employed or looking for work fell from 60.7 percent in October to 60.6 percent in November. A decrease in the labor force can make the unemployment rate look better than it does on the ground.

Uninsured Blacks eligible for more aid VOLUME 83 • NUMBER 7 DECEMBER 12, 2013 Publisher Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Art Director Advertising/Client Relations Tony Fernandez-Davila Selma Dodson Tyler People Editor Strategic Alliance Manager Yvette Chargois Clyde Jiles Sports Editors Multimedia Manager Max Edison Tiffany Williams Darrell K. Ardison Online Editor Contributing Writer ReShonda Billingsley Cierra Duncan 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).

NNPA News Service

As President Obama continues a revised campaign to shore up American confidence in the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a new report points out that six out of 10 uninsured AfricanAmericans who are eligible for insurance through the ACA’s marketplaces may also be eligible for assistance with healthcare costs.

According to the report from the Department of Health and Human Services, 2.2 million may qualify for tax credits to help purchase plans in the marketplace, and 2 million may qualify for free to low-cost coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Under the ACA, states can decide whether or not to expand Medicaid coverage to people living on at least 138 percent of the federal poverty line.

This provision expands the safety net for people who are just above the poverty line, but still unable to afford packages from private companies. The government is required to provide 100 percent of funding for the first three years to any state that expands Medicaid.

Florida, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, and New York are home to the highest populations of uninsured African-Americans who are eligible for the ACA’s provisions. Of those, only New York has expanded Medicaid.

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 12 | 2013 defendernetwork.com

entertainment

Jerrika Hinton

Dallas native co-stars in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

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By DENISE JOHNSON STOVALL Special to NNPA from the Dallas Examiner

errika Hinton, who plays Stephanie Edwards on “Grey’s Anatomy,” has made her family and friends in Dallas proud. A feisty yet compassionate doctor, her character occasionally changes her surgical gown to wear a sexy party gown or provocative blouse to get the attention of hospital surgeon, Dr. Jackson Avery, played by Jesse Williams.

“Grey’s Anatomy” is the highly acclaimed medical drama from ABC. It follows medical personnel at Seattle Grace Hospital.

At Seattle Grace, Stephanie and the other doctors make new friends, new enemies and new lovers.

In September 2012, it was announced that Hinton had been cast as a new intern for the show’s ninth season. In January 2013, Hinton along with other newcomers to the show were given the option to become series regulars if “Grey’s Anatomy” was to be renewed.

Not just a star on the show, Hinton can be seen almost everywhere. She made her prime time debut as a guest star on the ABC television hit show “Scandal.” She is in commercials for McDonald’s, Hanes Underwear and Best Buy. Hinton, 32, was born and raised in Oak Cliff. Her father, Avaleon Hinton, continues to work in the Dallas area. Her mother, Cynthia Hinton, is a retired Dallas government worker.

Her early education included Mark Twain

Leadership Vangard School and Henry W. Longfellow Career Exploration Academy. She was an exceptional student and was accepted to enroll

in a magnet school for the gifted and talented.

With a natural love for the theatre, Hinton grew up attending plays by the Dallas Children’s Theatre. She participated in church plays written and directed by her mother.

“As a child, I worked very hard on what I did,” Hinton said. “I had a good example.”

“Parents want to give them something that is contrary as well as something that looks good,” her mother added. “It is always good for them to have a good example to follow.”

Before her television roles, Hinton taught acting at the East L.A. Classic Theatre. She also volunteers in secondary schools at Career Development Days. In 2012 Hinton wrote, directed and produced a film, which premiered at the San Francisco Black Film Festival.

She currently teaches writing and acting workshops and continues to tour other film festivals across the country. Hinton also continues to seek out meaningful projects in the acting field.

“I was blessed to grow up in a diversified community in Dallas known as Oak Cliff. That’s where I first hit the theatre acting with my Girl Scout troop at Margaret Anderson Elementary.

“My mother said to me, ‘No Jerrika, we want you to be happy,’ ” she recalled. “Well, I said, ‘No, I want to be peppy.’ Needless to say, I didn’t get the part. But it was easy then.

Now, I know that in acting, it is meaningful if you have a voice.”

Jerrika Hinton

what’sup The nominations for the 56th Grammy Awards are out, and JAY Z tops the list with nine. They include Best Rap Performance for “Tom Ford” and Best Pop Duo/ Group Performance with JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE for “Suit & Tie.” KENDRICK LAMAR and PHARRELL WILLIAMS each received seven nominations, while DRAKE is up for five. Nominees for Best R&B Performance include TAMAR BRAXTON, ANTHONY HAMILTON and SNARKY PUPPY with LALAH HATHAWAY. Nominees for Best Urban Contemporary Album include FANTASIA and RIHANNA. The awards show will air on Jan. 26……..Fans of ABC’s “Scandal” might be disappointed to hear that the network will broadcast 18 episodes instead of 22 this season. The decision follows word that star KERRY WASHINGTON and her husband,

football player NNAMDI ASOMUGHA, are expecting a baby. After the next episode, “Scandal” will take a break and return in late February with the final episodes of season three. The series about Washington, D.C., political intrigue is a ratings hit……..OPRAH WINFREY talked about her acting experiences in a roundtable with Academy Awardwinner OLIVIA SPENCER and LUPITA NYONG’O of “12 Years a Slave.” Winfrey told the Hollywood Reporter that she wanted to be an actress as a teenager. “My father said, ‘No daughter of mine is going to go out there ho-ing herself.’ She said in the back of her mind, there was always a concern that, “You got to ho in order to act.” Spencer was asked if she thought better parts were being written for women. “Well, you have a fresh crop of female writers, and men are writing better parts for women and realizing

that women can open films. I think we’re making strides,” Spencer said……..PRINCE is staying busy. He will present three concerts at the end of the year in a Connecticut arena.

Tickets start at $125. After a highly public battle against the Internet, the “Purple Rain” star joined Twitter over the summer and used it to publicize his single “Breakfast Can Wait.” Next year, he will headline the 20th annual Essence Music Festival in July in New Orleans……..

D.L. HUGHLEY is enjoying higher ratings with his TBS program “Trust Me, I’m a Game Show Host.” Unlike most game shows, where contestants answer questions in order beat each other and win, in Hughley’s show, contestants have to contend with dueling hosts. In addition to his work on television, Hughley is a weekly contributor to the TOM JOYNER Morning Show.

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DECEMBER 12 | 2013 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 12 | 2013

Remembering

Mandela

cover

Local tribut

Freedom fighter memorialized

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Defender News Services

housands of admirers, including presidents, prime ministers, celebrities and South African citizens, gathered at a Johannesburg stadium to say goodbye to Nelson Mandela during a four-hour memorial service. Speakers included President Barack Obama.

“We will never see the likes of Nelson Mandela again,” Obama said. “To the people of South Africa – people of every race and every walk of life – the world thanks you for sharing Nelson Mandela with us.”

Mandela, who emerged from three decades in prison as a living martyr in the battle against apartheid to become the first Black president of South Africa, died Dec. 5. He was 95 years old.

He died at his home in Johannesburg after months of battling a respiratory illness.

As news of the death of the father of modern-day South Africa flashed around the globe, world leaders reacted quickly with condolences and tributes to the man known as Madiba for his graceful, but assertive leadership and noble, but humble bearing.

Most of the tributes cited how, in a single term as president, Mandela lead the nation’s peaceful transition to Black rule from first-British and then Afrikaans domination with dignity and a lack of bitterness toward his former oppressors.

Mandela emerged from prison in 1990 after serving 27 years of a life sentence for treason to become president of the African National Congress.

He was released following an intense international lobbying campaign to free him during a period of increasing political and ethnic strife in South Africa.

Although he was denounced as a terrorist and communist by his enemies, he led negotiations with then-South Africa President F.W. de Klerk to abolish apartheid and set multiracial elections in 1994. He was elected president in 1994 and served a single term, until 1999.

As president he focused on healing a nation that was deeply divided racially, launched the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to ease ethnic tensions, encouraged land reform in South Africa and initiated measures to battle poverty and improve health care, zeroing in on AIDS. He was also regarded as a global elder statesman, mediating between Libya and the United Kingdom in the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing trial and was the recipient of scores of international awards, including the 1993 Nobel Peace prize.

Nelson and Winnie Mandela divorced in 1996 after 38 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Grace Machel, and five children.

State Sen. Rodney Mandela, one of history’s hardship demonstrated th Congressman Al G righteousness in the face example of the triumph o Congresswoman Sh human rights lawyer, a pr president of a free, democ Judson Robinson I of freedom and justice ha man’s sacrifice helped an State Rep. Sylveste have known such an ama our lives.”

U.S.

NNP

Nearly three decades organizing a movement th heid in South Africa and f nies to end their support o What was called the ing Day 1984, when U.S. TransAfrica Executive Dir Walter Fauntroy and curr a law professor at George South African Embassy i The group called for cal prisoners in South Af activists staged a sit-in at All but Norton were international news.

“There were already tum,” Berry recalls. “We people lined up to get arr They got arrested th day. In fact, every day fo demonstrations at the em The movement attra Congress and other highand allowed themselves t the issue. Before long, ch United States.

Mary Frances Berry Pennsylvania, remember “In dealing with him to be with him and talk to Not at all full of himself, was larger than life. He c

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leaders pay te to Mandela

Ellis – “Texas joins the rest of the world in mourning the loss of Nelson s bravest leaders. His sacrifice and courage in the face of unspeakable he extent to which some must fight for their freedom.”

Green – “Mandela’s impressive legacy is one of courage, dignity and of hatred. May Mandela’s life and accomplishments serve as a timeless of justice.” heila Jackson Lee – “Nelson Mandela’s commitment to humanity as a risoner of conscience, an international peacemaker, and as the first elected cratic, and multi-racial Republic of South Africa inspired the world.”

III – “It is a sad day throughout the world that our great living symbol as passed. We are better as a human race thanks to Nelson Mandela. One n entire nation that in turn helped the entire world.” er Turner – “Mr. Mandela has inspired all of us and we are honored to azing human being. There is no doubt that he has made an impact on all

Nelson Mandela joined Gov. Ann Richards, Dominique de Menil and State Sen. Rodney Ellis during a 1991 visit to Texas.

Congressman Al Green

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Judson Robinson III

State Rep. Sylvester Turner

movement supported Mandela

By JAZELLE HUNT PA Washington Correspondent

s ago, a handful of prominent Black activists began hat would eventually help break the back of apartforce the U.S. government and American compaof white minority rule on the continent.

Free South Africa Movement began on ThanksgivCivil Rights Commissioner Mary Frances Berry, rector Randall Robinson, D.C. Congressman rent D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (then etown University), were granted a meeting at the in Washington, D.C. r an end to apartheid and the release of all politifrica. When their demands were ignored, the t the South African Embassy. e arrested for trespassing, and their actions made

y protests before, but no one got any momene wanted to get arrested. And we tried to get rested the next day.” he next day, the day after that and the following or a year, the Free South Africa Movement held mbassy in D.C. acted support from celebrities, members of -profile people, many of whom joined the protest to be arrested in order to draw more attention to hapters of Free South Africa sprang up across the

y, a professor of history at the University of rs the personal side of Mandela. m in personal interactions – having the privilege o him in an informal setting – he was very funny. , and completely down to earth even though he considered himself on the same level as an ordi-

Nelson and Winnie Mandela celebrated following his release in 1990.

nary person, and he didn’t take himself too seriously. He loved a joke and always had witticisms,” Berry said.

Legislative assault

While maintaining pressure on the streets, movement leaders organized a legislative assault on apartheid, resulting in passage of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986.

It took an entire year to get it passed by Congress and presented to President Ronald Reagan for his signature. Instead of signing, however, Reagan vetoed it. But supporters had enough votes to override the veto.

Next in line were U.S. companies that profited from doing business in the white-ruled nation, including Shell Oil, which had been exploiting workers in South Africa. Boycotts were launched against Shell as well as the Krugerrand, a South African currency that would become an illegal

he Houston area for over 80 years

import under the Anti-Apartheid Act. Even as the United States and other governments condemned Mandela and continued to support the South African government, antiapartheid movements gained traction. Something about South African apartheid had struck a chord, especially for people of African descent.

“There were chapters of FSAM all over the country and there were many white people in those chapters, but the leadership was always Black,” Berry said. “People got involved because our message was simple.

“At that time, if people didn’t remember Jim Crow or the Civil Rights Movement, then their parents did. We told people that the South African government passed laws just like what we did here. It resonated with people in this country.”

Melvin Foote, founder and president of the Constituency for Africa, has worked to foster African and African American relations for more than 35 years. He remembers watching Mandela become a global symbol of injustice.

“When people of African descent learned about apartheid, it didn’t sound too much different than what happened with slavery,” Foote said.

“And I think with Mandela – who would’ve thought you’d have this tall, very strong, powerful man come out of prison after 27 years with his fist up, and do the things he did. He got us to think differently about Africa.”

Foote sees parallels between Black South Africans’ regard for Barack Obama, and Black Americans’ regard for Nelson Mandela, especially for those who visited South Africa during Mandela’s presidency. “[South Africans] based their revolution against apartheid on us,” Foote says. “People, especially white people, try not to make that connection, try not to foster any relationship between Africans and Black Americans…but the South African revolution was very much based on the Civil Rights Movement.”

For Berry, Mandela’s life and anti-apartheid work taught her that movements require perseverance, especially during low moments.

“It reinforced the view that it takes grassroots movements working together with political action to make change,” she said. “If you organize around a simple issue – and messaging has a lot to do with it – and if the issue is clearly one of morality, you can prevail.”

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 12 | 2013 defendernetwork.com

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Enjoy our Year End

AUTO REVIEW December 19th This special edition looks at entry-level economy vehicles, luxury sedans, pickup trucks and sports utility vehicles.

A great resource guide for choosing a vehicle as dealers close-out their 2013 inventory.

For advertising opportunities in our next edition in May 2014 email us at Ads@defendermediagroup.com

Group blasts...Continued from page 2 order in schools that do not pose such a high risk to students,” said Deborah Fowler, deputy director of Texas Appleseed, a public interest law center.

“We need a statewide policy on use of force in schools that makes it clear that Tasers, stun guns, and pepper spray are inappropriate to use on children. And, if we are going to increase the number of school safety officers, it is imperative that officers are adequately trained.”

In September, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that it would provide $45 million in funding for additional school safety officers across the country. Texas received approximately $2 million of that funding.

The request to the state Commission outlines the potential physical harm posed by Tasers, which pack a shock of up to 50,000 volts and are designed for use on adults engaged in criminal or potentially violent activity, not children.

The letter also highlights the physical dangers of pepper spray – also used in some Texas schools – and points out that its use on children is widely condemned by medical experts.

Co-signees on the letter in-

“In this post-Sandy Hook era, everyone is cognizant of the need to keep schools and students safe, however there are far more effective ways to maintain order in schools that do not pose such a high risk to students.” clude the ACLU of Texas, Disability Rights Texas, Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Texans Care for Children, Texas Appleseed, and the Texas Criminal Justice

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DECEMBER 12 | 2013 | DEFENDER

Mandela

opinion

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was a man of courage, conviction

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By Rev. Jesse Jackson

elson Mandela was truly a transformative force in the history of South Africa and the world. My heart weighs heavy, but his life was full and the imprint he left on our world is everlasting.

Every now and then a soul of rare vintage comes our way that by circumstances, sacrifice and suffering, finds its way into the soul of our global culture, the family of man, and calls our better angels to fly. Such a soul is Nelson Mandela.

Addressing the Democratic National Convention in 1988, I said: “Suffering breeds character. Character breeds faith. In the end faith will not disappoint.”

We see this clearly in the life of Mandela.

Imprisoned in Robben Island for 25 years and eight months, Mandela never lost faith that the South African people would win freedom. Suffering breeds character.

Mandela was a transformational figure. To say he was a “historical figure” would not give him his full due. Some people move through history as being the “first this or that” – just another figure in a lineage of persons.

To be a transformer is to plan, to have the vision to chart the course, the skills to execute it. To be transformational is to have the courage of one’s convictions, to sacrifice, to risk life and limb, to lay it all on the line.

I recall marching against apartheid with Oliver Tambo and the enormous rally at Trafalgar Square in November 1985. I later met Margaret Thatcher to decry Britain’s economic, political and military support of the apartheid regime.

Let us not forget that Britain, the U.S. and all of the Western powers labelled Mandela a terrorist and steadfastly propped up the apartheid regime – they were on the wrong side of history. I appealed to her to support the release of Mandela, and departed for South Africa.

My heart burst with excitement on that day of Mandela’s release from Victor-Verster Prison in February 1990. When word got out about his impending release, maids started doing the toya toya in the hallways, beating pots and pans, weeping and demonstrating.

I met Mandela and his then wife, Winnie, at City Hall and when we spoke later at our hotel, he thanked me and recalled hearing about my 1988 convention speech. Even from his jail cell, Mandela was keenly aware of the outside world, and the ebbs and flows of the world.

Three years later, as part of the official U.S. delegation, I was honored to celebrate Mandela’s inauguration as president of the new, free South

Rick McKee, The Augusta Chronicle

My heart burst with excitement on that day of Mandela’s release from Victor-Verster Prison in February 1990.

Luojie, China Daily, China

Africa.

We forged an everlasting relationship. We’ve welcomed him to our home and headquarters in Chicago. We’ve met numerous times in South Africa – the last time in 2010 where we spoke about boxing, sports and politics, and traded baseball caps.

Mandela was a giant of immense and unwavering intellect, courage and moral authority. He chose reconciliation over retaliation. He changed the course of history.

Now, both South Africa and the U.S. have unfinished business to complete.

Mandela is not gone; he remains with us always. He’ll always be a chin bar to pull up on.

Mandela has indeed forged South Africa as a new “beauty from ashes.” He has left this earth, but he soars high among the heavens, and his eloquent call for freedom and equality is still heard among the winds and the rains, and in the hearts of the people the world over.

Shakespeare may have said it best: “And when he shall die, take him and cut him into little stars, and he make the face of heaven so fine that all the world will fall in love with night, and pay no worship to the garish sun.”

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 12 | 2013

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sports

Cougars, Owls compete in post-season bowl games

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By MAX EDISON Defender

he regular season has concluded in college football, and just like the conclusion of a great meal in a swanky restaurant, it’s time for dessert. Playing in a post-season bowl game is the dessert, and acknowledges a successful season.

The University of Houston and Rice University football teams can take a bow, since both are going to bowl games.

After a finishing a disappointing 5-7 in 2012, their first year under coach Tony Levine, the Cougars have responded with an 8-4 record in their inaugural season in the all new American Athletic Conference.

Led by the impressive play of freshman quarterback John O’Korn and All-Conference candidate receiver Deontay Greenberry, the Cougars have regained their offensive swagger.

Efrem Oliphant, Derrick Mathew and Adrian McDonald lead an improved Cougar defense.

As a reward for an outstanding bounce-back season, the Coogs have accepted a bid to play in the in the BBVA Compass Bowl in Birmingham, Ala., on Saturday, Jan. 4, with a noon kickoff. Their opponent will be Vanderbilt (8-4) from the powerful SEC. The BBVA Compass Bowl match-up will mark the first meeting between Houston and Vanderbilt. The Cougars are 40-79-4 all-time vs. SEC opponents and 1-1 in bowl games against the conference. UH defeated Auburn, 36-7, in the 1969 Bluebonnet Bowl, while falling to South Carolina, 44-36, in the 2006 Liberty Bowl.

“We are excited to accept an invitation to the BBVA Compass Bowl and look forward to making the trip to Birmingham,” Levine said. “Vanderbilt has had an outstanding season and I have a tremendous amount of respect for coach [James] Franklin and his staff. Playing at Legion Field will provide a great atmosphere for our fans. Our staff and student-athletes look forward to this opportunity,” At Rice it’s been a tremendous season for head coach David Baliff and the Owls. They finished with an outstanding 10-3 record, 7-1 in conference. As a result the Owls captured their first ever C-USA Greenberry, a title, defeating MarUH receiver, is an offensive shall in the C-USA playmaker. championship game.

The Owls feature a balanced offensive attack led by the rushing of running back Charles Ross and the pitch-and-catch duo of quarterback Luke Turner and receiver Jordan Taylor. Defensively, the Owls are paced by C-USA preseason Player of the Year cornerback Phillip Gaines, along with Michael Kutzler, Paul Porras, Julius White and Malcolm Hill.

The Owls have accepted an invitation to play in the 55th annual AutoZone Liberty Bowl in Memphis on Dec. 31 at 3 p.m.

They too face a SEC opponent in the Mississippi State Bulldogs (6-6).

This will be the Owls first appearance in the Liberty Bowl and will be their second meeting with Mississippi State. The two schools met at Rice Stadium in 1975, with the Bulldogs taking a 28-14 victory.

“We’re excited to face Mississippi State,” coach Baliff said.

“Dan Mullen and his staff are doing a great job. You look at their schedule and you see they only lost to Auburn by three at Auburn, and they lost a shootout with Texas A&M. They really closed ranks and showed great character down the stretch, winning those last two games in overtime to become bowl eligible. We know we are in for a tremendous challenge, but that’s what is exciting about the season we have had. I know our players are excited to play a team from the SEC and ready to get to work as soon as we can.”

Best wishes to the Cougars and Owls in their upcoming bowl games and congratulations on an outstanding season.

Phillip Gaines

Gaines, a Rice cornerback, is a defensive standout.

Deontay Greenberry

Rice coach David Baliff takes his team to the AutoZone Liberty Bowl

UH coach Tony Levine guides his team to the BBVA Compass Bowl.

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DECEMBER 12 | 2013 | DEFENDER

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h.s.zone

sportsbriefs Playoffs set at Reliant

Katy’s Tim Wilkerson trusts the team system “It’s to the point that we don’t really have concerns coming into each game,” Wilkerson said. “We know that once we get our assignments done, that everything will take e’s a pillar of strength on one of the state’s care of itself. We prepare awesome as a team.” most imposing defenses.

Katy (14-0) advanced to the Class 5A Division II At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, Katy defen- state semifinal round by dismantling Manvel 56-14 in the sive end Tim Wilkerson possesses the ability Region III-5A Division II title game at Reliant Stadium. The to run down ball carriers, swat away potential defending 5A Division II state champs will host San Antonio passes or snatch an interception out of mid air. Over the Johnson (12-2) at Reliant Stadium on Dec. 14 with a 4 p.m. course of the 2013 high school football season, Wilkerson kickoff. has routinely made plays in all three areas.

Leading 28-14 at halftime, the Tigers’ defense forced That’s because he knows his preparation combined turnovers on back-to-back Manvel possessions. Wilkerson with that of the Katy coaching staff and his teammates has caused the first by leaping into the air and coming down translated into success with a pass interception of ever since he stepped Manvel quarterback D’Eriq on campus his freshKing. Later in the third man year. to find out more about Tim Wilkerson quarter, Katy recovered a “Every week King fumble near its end we get all the looks zone. The Katy offense that we need from the scored following each turnover. coaching staff to the scout team,” “To have an offense that you can always count on and Wilkerson said. “It’s really a always rely on, that’s a great thing to have,” Wilkerson said. great team effort. Our coaches “We in turn, have their back when they make mistakes and fix up the best game plans that it’s just a great team effort. anybody could think of.

“We play an unselfish defense. We like to set each other up,” Wilkerson said. “This is not a one-man defense and it’s not a one-man team. Everyone with a Katy jersey on, everyone together, that’s how we come up with wins.”

Another win and Katy will make a return trip to AT&T Stadium (formerly Cowboys Stadium) in Arlington with a chance to win the school’s eighth state football championship on Dec. 21.

“Each week of preparation is the same for us. We don’t look ahead to anyone,” Wilkerson said. “The only game we really mark on our calendar is the state championship game. We keep our eye on the prize but we know we can’t skip there.

We have to take care of each opponent week-byweek.”

Wilkerson says the highlight of this season for him has been watching the team grow and come together. “Our coaches really challenged us early in the off-season training to live up to the expectations that we set every year at Katy.

“Growing together as a team and seeing the way we push through things makes it better each and every week,” Wilkerson said. “I love my teammates and wouldn’t trade them for the world. Every week is a high point of my season.”

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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

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Katy defensive end Tim Wilkerson says preparation is key to the team’s success.

A three-game high school football playoff schedule will unfold over the course of two days (Dec. 13-14) at Reliant Stadium as teams advance to the state semifinal round with a chance to participate in state championship week (Dec. 18-21) in Arlington (AT&T Stadium). Stratford (12-2) will face unbeaten San Antonio Brennan (14-0) at 7:30 p.m. (Dec. 13) in the Class 4A Division I semifinals at Reliant Stadium. Brenham (13-1) takes on Port Lavaca Calhoun at noon (Dec. 14) in the 4A Division II semifinals at Reliant. Later at 4 p.m. Katy (14-0) will draw San Antonio Johnson (12-2) in the Class 5A Division II state semifinals. Winners will vie for a state title the following week at “Jerry’s World” in Arlington.

UIL releases cutoff numbers The University Interscholastic League, the governing body for extracurricular activities at Texas public secondary schools, recently released conference cutoff numbers for the 2014-2016 reclassification and realignment. These numbers provide the range of enrollment for each of the six conferences, including the divisional cutoffs for football. The realignment includes the addition of a sixth conference for the smallest schools playing six-man or 11-man football.

Those schools now have a 1A designation. Schools that were previously 1A are now 2A and so forth.

Student enrollment cutoff numbers are: 6A (2,100 and above), 5A (1,060-2,099), 4A (465-1,059), 3A (220-464), 2A (105-219) and 1A (104 and below).

Final alignments will be announced Feb. 3, 2014.

Five HISD high schools could be affected, including Madison, Milby, Reagan, Wheatley and Yates.

Kubiak finally fired It took 11 consecutive losses, a franchise record, but the Texans finally fired coach Gary Kubiak. The move came after yet another embarrassing loss to Jacksonville on nationwide television. Now the question on everyone’s mind is who will replace Kubiak? Team owner Bob McNair has indicated he wants someone with previous head coaching experience, preferably in the NFL. Consider the following names: Lovie Smith, Jim Caldwell and Kevin Sumlin. Both Smith and Caldwell have guided teams to the Super Bowl as head coaches and as coordinators. A&M’s Sumlin has been a successful collegiate head coach and would like to be a head coach in the NFL someday. With the success of Philadelphia’s Chip Kelly, that someday could be now. Stay tuned.

SWAC alums honored One of the highlights of the recent SWAC football weekend was an event that was sponsored by the SWAC Alums organization honoring some local heroes. The Legends Reception & Awards Dinner and Roast put former TSU All-SWAC performer and Oiler great Kenny Burrough on the hot seat as the guest of honor for the roast. Dr. Dennis Thomas, a SWAC Hall of Fame offensive lineman from Alcorn State; Dr. Rod Paige, former Texas Southern University head coach and athletic director and secretary of education; and Zelmo Beaty, PV All-American and NBA/ABA All-Star, were recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Harlan Stefann Robinson, marketing and promotions manager at TSU, received the Charles “Chuck’’ Prophet Memorial Wagon Master Award.

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER 12 | 2013

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For Event Coverage...visit

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Chair Josie Daniels and chapter president Tia Simmons

Karen Johnson and Mary Young

chag’splace

Cheryl Turner, Maxine Cormier and Mae Frances Rowlett

Lionel and Susan Feazell and Veronica and Keith Williams

Tina Knowles and Pastor Juanita Rasmus

Artist Joe Synan and Yvette Tarrant

Simmons, event chair, Josie Daniels and all committee DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY SOIREE …..The members. Congratulations!.....DLW SCHOLARSHIP Houston Alumnae Chapter and the One Delta Plaza & CHARITABLE FOUNDATION…..Over 200 guests Educational Center hosted its 12th annual Jazz Soiree attended the 8th annual Black & Gold Scholarship Gala Scholarship Fundraiser at the Hilton Americas Hotel that recently held at the Houston Marriott was attended by over 1,800 guests.

Join Yvette Chargois South at Hobby Airport hotel. The The organization provides ongoing foundation was implemented to provide programs and services to the greater Events of the Week worthwhile scholarships to academically Houston community and scholarships More photos on defendernetwork.com eligible Houston area students attending to deserving students seeking higher See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads Grambling State University. This education. This year’s honorees with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m. year’s program participants included included the Defender people editor Ms. Chag for her nearly a quarter remarks from the president of the DLW Foundation Deloyd Parker, event chairs Veronica and of a century chronicling Houston Black and professional Keith Williams, Sue Feazell and Angelee Rhyne, Rev. lifestyles in her weekly column “Chag’s Place.” She was Kenneth Eakins and Rev. Lamon Atkins. Entertainment presented with the Dr. Thelma Patten Law Award. Also, was provided by the Codwell Elementary Violin Ensemble, Scott Gertner, a celebrated three-time Grammy Award keyboardist Jerry Tamfor and dancing music by deejay J nominee and owner of Scott Gertner’s Sports Bar Live Yo J. Attendees included Lionel Feazell, George Rhyne, and Scott Gertner’s at Houston Pavilions, received the Karen Johnson, Mary Young, Danielle Guerra and Debra Entertainment and Lena Horne Award. The success of this Johnson. Continued success!!.....THE ART PROJECT, fabulous event is due to the dedication of its president Tia

Honorees Scott Gertner and Ms. Chag

Deloyd Parker and Angelee and George Rhyne

Cheryl Creuzot and Vernell Keys

HOUSTON…..Fashion designer Tina Knowles and interior designer/philanthropist Anita Smith were the honorary chairs for the third annual fundraiser Prescription: Paint 2013. The Art Project, Houston is a therapeutic art and empowerment program of the Bread of Life, Inc. facilitating the recovery and discovery of the creative self for hungry, homeless and transitioning individuals in Houston. The idea to act upon this initiative was developed by Juanita Rasmus, co-pastor of St. John’s Downtown, out of her desire to help people express their creativity and empowering them through artistic endeavors. Renowned watercolorist Joe Synan led the almost 200 participants including clients, art patrons from the community and members of St. John’s Downtown, through an instructional painting session during the paint party. Spotted showing off their artistic style were Cheryl and Percy Creuzot, Annette Bracey, Vernell Keys, Yvette Tarrant, James Hunter, Regina McLemore, Derrick Howard, Candace Bemiss and Paul Smith.

Continued success to you also!.....From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!

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