Houston Defender: December 26, 2013

Happy Kwanzaa & Happy New Year!

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source facebook.com/DefenderNetwork

www.defendernetwork.com

Volume 83 | Number 9

DECEMBER 26, 2013 | FREE

twitter.com/DefenderNetwork

2013 Year in Review

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

2

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

defendernetwork.com

in memoriam

Deaths in 2013 Houston artist, died Feb. 1 of pancreatic cancer at the age of 72.

Long, a native of Fifth Ward, was a widely regarded painter, sculptor and photographer. His works were shown across the country and in Europe. Local venues for his exhibits included the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Gaynelle G. Jones,

appointed by President Bill Clinton as the first Black woman to be United States attorney for the Southern District of Texas, died March 1 after a battle with cancer. She was 64. She was also the first Black woman to serve on the First Court of Appeals in Texas. Jones served as litigation counsel for HewlettPackard and was an adjunct faculty member at the University of Houston Law Center.

Lee Elliott Brown,

Rick Roberts, a legend-

Pastor Lloyd Crosby,

Malcolm Shabazz, the

Ayanna Adé, a noted Houston activist, died May 23 from breast cancer complications at age 62. SHAPE Community Center and the National Black United Front hosted standing-room only memorials after her passing. Known for her contributions as a midwife, Adé earned a master’s degree in midwifery and delivered over 2,000 babies. She was co-founder of Childbirth Providers of African Descent, and described as a “tireless revolutionary and a great humanitarian.”

Bobby “Blue” Bland,

Dr. Charles A. Hines,

William H. Gray III, a pastor, former United Negro College Fund chief and former member of Congress, died July 1 in London at the age of 71. He was in London for the Wimbledon championships.

Gray was elected to Congress in 1978 and became the first AfricanAmerican to chair the House Budget Committee and to serve as House majority whip. He served in the House from 1979 to 1991, and surprised many people when he resigned to become president and CEO of the UNCF.

Bert Long, an acclaimed

grandson of Malcolm X, died May 9 in Mexico City after being beaten outside of a bar. Shabazz, 29, was reportedly traveling to Mexico City with a Mexican labor organization based in California. Trouble seemed to follow Shabazz. In 1997, at age 12, he pleaded guilty to setting fire to the apartment of his grandmother Betty Shabazz, the widow of Malcolm X. The fire resulted in her death and young Malcolm spent four years in juvenile detention.

who served as affirmative action director for the City of Houston from 1984 to 1994, died March 25 at the age of 74. Brown, who served under former Mayors Kathy Whitmire and Bob Lanier, designed and implemented the first discrimination investigation process for the city workforce. She also monitored the increase in the participation of minorities and women in city contracts.

a legendary singer, died June 23 after a lengthy illness. He was 83.

Bland recorded more than 30 albums and remains one of the top 25 bestselling R&B artists of modern times.

He made a name for himself in the ‘50s with a sound that mixed gospel, blues and R&B. His first hit was “It’s My Life, Baby,” released in 1955.

Two years later, his single “Farther up the Road” reached No. 1 on the R&B charts. Bland was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and presented a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997.

ary Houston radio announcer, died March 21 at the age of 71. Family members said he died from injuries sustained after burglars beat him in his home. Roberts began his broadcast career at KYOK-AM. As program director in the ‘70s, he was a part of the first radio station on wheels. He later worked for Texas Southern University’s radio station KTSU-FM, first as program director and later as general manager.

Roberts was one of the first AfricanAmericans in the nation to do live play-by-play sports broadcasts.

who served as president of Prairie View A&M from 1994 to 2002, died July 4 at the age of 77. He oversaw the university’s role in the Office of Civil Rights settlement that resulted in funding for four new buildings, additional master’s and doctoral degree programs, development initiatives, student scholarships and endowed chairs. Hines was a retired major general with the Army.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

died April 3 at the age of 62. Crosby was the pastor of Mount Corinth Baptist Church in Hempstead and the voice of “The Christian Community Today” on KTSU. His radio ministry included such programs as “The Church and Community in Action” and “Teen Talk” on Prairie View A&M University’s KPVU and “Spirit, Soul, and Body” on Praise 92.1. He served as public relations director for Houston Ministers Against Crime and chaplain for the Hempstead Police Department.

Continued on Page 14

defendernetwork.com DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

newstalk

Top 10 local stories

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

It was an eventful year in the Houston area. The African-American community experienced highs and lows, and many of the issues were all too familiar. The Defender takes a look at the top 20 local stories in the order in which they occurred.

Legislative session begins, ends

The state’s 83rd Legislative Session began with a list of key priorities, including the budget, business and economic development, criminal justice and public safety, health, education and transportation. A deal on a Texas budget was passed that restored nearly $4 billion to public schools cut from the previous session. The budget also granted state employees a three percent raise. In the area of healthcare, the House voted to increase funding for mental health programs. On the criminal justice front, minority lawmakers praised a new law ensuring that all relevant evidence that speaks to a defendant’s innocence or guilt is revealed.

North Forest loses fight

The year began with supporters of the North Forest community determined to keep their school district open. Texas Education Commissioner Michael Williams recommended that the troubled district be annexed into HISD effective July 1. The decision upset many in the community. “We made sure our schools were safe and our students were taught,”

NFISD Superintendent Edna Forté said.

Despite a valiant fight, NFISD officially merged with HISD, which took over its buildings, records and the responsibility of teaching its students

SHAPE Center stays put

SHAPE Community Center received a scare when it was sold at auction.

It was alleged that SHAPE accrued a debt of $60,000 due to unpaid leases on two copiers. A default judgment was awarded to debtors, which led to the auction. Founder and director Deloyd Parker assured Houstonians that the iconic Third Ward institution was not going anywhere. Sure enough, the sale of the center’s property was voided. “The case has been settled; the property has been returned,” said attorney Ben Hall.

Ryan Middle School closes

The HISD Board approved a transition plan that would allow Ryan Middle School to be repurposed as a magnet school designed to attract students from throughout the city.

The district said Ryan was too small to operate efficiently while offering students needed services. Students zoned Continued on Page 4

Legislators gathered at the State Capitol for the 83rd session.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

3

4

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

newstalk

defendernetwork.com

North Forest ISD closes and merges with HISD.

Deloyd Parker speaks at a rally in support of SHAPE Center.

Newstalk... Continued from page 3 to Ryan were permanently rezoned to nearby Cullen Middle School. The new Medical and Health Professions Academy at Ryan Middle School is designed to prepare more students to compete for admission into the DeBakey High School for the Health Professions

Homelessness in Houston declines by 27 percent.

Fires are deliberately set in South Park and Sunnyside.

Reynolds maintains innocence

Missouri City State Rep. Ron Reynolds said he would fight to maintain his innocence.

In March, arrest warrants were issued for Reynolds and seven other Houston-area lawyers.

They were charged with barratry – often called ambulance chasing – and accused of paying kickbacks to the alleged ringleader of an operation. In November, Reynolds was indicted on 10 counts of barratry by a Montgomery County grand jury. Barratry is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in jail.

Black schools get bad grades

The annual rankings of Texas schools released by Children at Risk showed while some local schools continue to excel, others continue to decline. In 2013, Children at Risk assigned each school a letter grade (A-F) based on comparative performance on its indicators, and a number of predominantly Black schools received a failing grade. HISD high schools receiving an F included Wheatley, Worthing and Yates. Failing middle schools included Attucks, Holland and Ryan, and failing elementary schools included Blackshear, Gregory Lincoln and Kashmere Gardens.

Homelessness on the decline

The Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County celebrated its 30th anniversary on a positive note. Preliminary results of its 2013 count showed a 27 percent drop in homelessness. The decrease was attributed to a corresponding increase in individuals living in permanent supportive housing. A coalition spokesperson said, “This focus on placing individuals and Houstonians protest the acquittal of George Zimmerman. families into permanent supportive the question of whether opportunities would be housing has been a collaborative effort taken away from Black or other minority women among many homeless services providers and the already certified with the city. “We do not believe results are evident.” so,” said Carlecia Wright, director of the Office of Business Opportunity. “The city has contract City MWBE program changes specific goals, meaning separate goals for minority The City Council approved several changes subcontractors and women subcontractors.” to Houston’s MWBE program. Women-owned businesses were reinstated to the program, the Four firefighters lose lives citywide participation goal in construction was A five-alarm blaze at a Southwest Houston increased, and the Persons with Disabilities motel killed four Houston firefighters and Business Enterprise program was expanded. The reinstatement of women-owned businesses raised Continued on Page 17

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

national

5

Top 10

national stories

T

By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

he year 2013 was marked with controversy and disappointments, from the government shutdown and frustrations with the justice system to an assault on voting rights.

The following is a recap of the top ten national stories that dominated the headlines in 2013.

President Barack Obama speaks to Americans about the Affordable Care Act.

1. Obamacare stumbles

One of President Barack Obama’s key legislations – the Affordable Care Act – went into effect in 2013. But the Oct. 1 rollout of a crucial part of the health care initiative fell flat. Between enormous website issues and frustrations over elements of the plan, enrollment in Obamacare fell way below expectations. The site was supposed to make it simple for people to search and sign up for new health care policies, but instead it was challenging, at times, inoperable. The White House worked diligently to iron out the kinks, but not before thousands lost faith in the plan and the president. The White House is determined to get the initiative back on track.

2. Government shuts down

From Oct. 1 through 16, the U.S. federal government entered a shutdown and curtailed most routine operations after Congress failed to enact legislation appropriating funds for fiscal year 2014. Regular government operations resumed Oct. 17 after an interim appropriations bill was signed into law. During the shutdown, approximately 800,000 federal employees were indefinitely furloughed, and another 1.3 million were required to report to work without known payment dates. Only certain government employees continued to report to work. The 16-day-long shutdown was the third-longest government shutdown in U.S. history.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

Continued on Page 6

6

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

Top National Events... Continued from page 5 3. Nelson Mandela dies

Nelson Mandela, freedom fighter, prisoner, moral compass and South Africa’s symbol of the struggle against racial oppression, died Dec. 5 at the age of 95.

Mandela, who emerged from prison after 27 years to lead his country out of decades of apartheid, was known for his message of reconciliation, not vengeance. He inspired the world after he negotiated a peaceful end to segregation and urged forgiveness for the white government that imprisoned him. His defiance of white minority rule and long incarceration for fighting against segregation focused the world’s attention on apartheid, the legalized racial segregation enforced by the South African government until 1994. Mandela, a former president, battled health issues in recent years, including a recurring lung infection that led to numerous hospitalizations.

defendernetwork.com

happy kwanzaa

4. George Zimmerman acquitted

George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who fatally shot unarmed Black teenager Trayvon Martin, was found not guilty of second-degree murder. He was also acquitted of manslaughter, a lesser charge. After three weeks of testimony, the six-woman jury rejected the prosecution’s contention that Zimmerman had deliberately pursued Martin because he assumed the hoodie-clad teen was a criminal and instigated the fight that led to his death. Zimmerman said he shot Martin on Feb. 26, 2012, in George Zimmerman self-defense after the teenager knocked him to the ground, punched him and slammed his head repeatedly against the sidewalk. In finding him not guilty, the jury agreed that Zimmerman could have been justified in shooting Martin because he feared great bodily harm or death. Zimmerman experienced a slew of other troubles after the acquittal but remains free. Trayvon’s death ignited a national debate on racial profiling and standyour-ground laws.

A pA s t t o u n i t e u s , s ev e n p r i n c i p l e s to g u i d e u s

5. Gay marriage gains support

The year marked a number of milestones for the gay marriage movement, earning approval from a majority of Americans along the way. The two largest victories came from the Supreme Court in June, when justices struck down the Defense of Marriage Act preventing same-sex couples from receiving federal benefits, and invalidated an effort to restore California’s Proposition 8 banning gay marriage. The DOMA ruling was a close Continued on Page 18 South African freedom fighter Nelson Mandela died Dec. 5 at age 95.

N3110980F.indd 1

12/12/13 11:43 AM

defendernetwork.com DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

entertainment

7

Top 10

entertainment stories of the year

By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

There were lots of highs and lows in the entertainment arena in 2013. From a resurgence of Black movies to drama with popular icons, this year has been a memorable one. The Defender takes a look at some of the top stories of the year.

1. Black movies gain popularity

This has been a banner season for Black films, from the slavery odyssey “12 Years a Slave” to the day-in-alife drama “Fruitvale Station,” to the civil Rights drama, “The Butler,” to the highly-anticipated sequel, “The Best Man Holiday.” “The Butler” in particular shocked Hollywood by raking in more than $100 million. Also successful were such films as David E. Talbert’s “Baggage Claim,” “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” a sweeping biopic of the South African leader starring Idris Elba, the Jackie Robinson drama “42” and the Langston Hughes adaptation “Black Nativity.”

2. Beyoncé shatters records

The good news keeps coming for Mrs. Carter.

Beyoncé’s self-titled album released in December sold over 1 million copies in the worldwide iTunes Store in just a few days. The LP started out as an iTunes exclusive, with physical copies heading to stores by Christmas. The 14-track “visual album” came with videos for every single song, a stunning collection of material that was recorded in large part while Beyoncé was touring the globe as part of her Mrs. Carter World Tour. The mammoth effort was kept under wraps, and news of its release spread across social media like wildfire. In the time since its release, the album has spawned vigorous debates about feminism, consumerism, parenthood and sexual representation, as bloggers and Twitter users write and pick apart a myriad of thought-pieces on Beyoncé’s music and messaging.

Chad Boseman portrays baseball great Jackie Robinson in “42.”

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

Continued on Page 8

8

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

defendernetwork.com

Top 10 Entertainment... Continued from page 7 3. “Scandal” grows

In eight months, producer Shonda Rhimes broke up the first family, unleashed a mole into the executive branch of the White House, suppressed a ballot-rigging debacle, killed innocent people, and consequently, made “Scandal” one of the top-rated dramas on network television. While season one of ABC’s Thursday night political thriller earned a modest critical response, round two hit record-highs, even outscoring “American Idol.” According to Nielsen “Scandal” is the highest rated scripted drama among African-Americans, with 10.1 percent of Black households, or an average of 1.8 million viewers, tuning in during the first half of the season.

A large part of the show’s new-found success has been the support of a passionate online community. Tweets each week keep “Scandal” trending for days, and it doesn’t hurt that Rhimes and her cast are leading the call to action.

4. Winfrey, Perry become partners

Tyler Perry struck a deal with his friend, Oprah Winfrey to give her and her OWN network the exclusive rights to every original TV show directed and produced by T.P. himself. It was a move that paid off as the struggling Oprah Winfrey Network pulled down big ratings thanks to Perry’s shows, “Have and Have Nots” and “Love Thy Neighbor.”

Oprah’s big interviews have also drawn great ratings. The network’s target audience, women aged 25-54, bumped up viewership by 39 percent.

5. Jackson case in court

Michael Jackson’s family lost its $1.5 billion negligent hiring lawsuit against international concert promoter AEG Live. Jackson died of a drug overdose in 2009 at age 50, after being given a fatal dose of propofol. In 2011, Dr. Conrad Murray, who administered the propofol injection, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter. Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, filed the negligence case against AEG Live, promoter of Jackson’s “This Is It” tour, in 2010.

During the 21-week trial in Los Angeles, attorneys for the Jackson family claimed AEG did not properly investigate Murray and was only concerned with the money Jackson’s comeback tour would bring the company. After two days of deliberations, jurors decided that AEG did hire Murray but that the doctor was not “unfit or incompetent to perform the work for which he was hired.”

6. Shows keep it real?

Reality TV shows continued to dominate the airwaves. Every single one of the top five shows on VH1, essentially the network’s bread & butter, are all so-called “Black-themed” programs, which is even more interesting when you consider that VH1 is not a Black TV network. Shows such as Kerry Washington attracts a wider audience with her hit series, “Scandal.”

Beyoncé scores with a Super Bowl performance, world tour and new album.

Cicely Tyson wins a Tony Award for “The Trip to Bountiful.”

“Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta,” “T.I. & Tiny” and “Basketball Wives” brought the network big ratings.

The same is happening over at Bravo, which once again experienced success with “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” but also added, “Thicker Than Water.” The antics featured on these reality series have sparked a growing backlash: viewers have created petitions demanding VH1 cancel shows, advertisers have pulled ads and critics blast the network for promoting crass and negative images of Black women.

7. Blacks win on Broadway

Several stars had a big night during the 2013 Tony Awards. For only the second time in history, Blacks took home four of the eight major acting awards.

Walking away as winners were: Cicely Tyson, Best Performance by an Actress in Leading Role; Billy Porter, Best

Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey form a winning partnership.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

Continued on Page 9

defendernetwork.com

Top 10 Entertainment...

DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

9

text “cpn” to 62297 to get coupons, sales alerts & more!

Continued from page 8

Max 3 msgs/wk. Msg & data rates may apply. By texting CPN from my mobile number, I agree to receive marketing text messages generated by an automated dialer from Macy’s to this number. I understand that consent is not required to make a purchase. Text STOP to 62297 to cancel. Text HELP to 62297 for help. Terms & conditions at macys.com/mobilehelp Privacy policy at macys.com/privacypolicy

Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical; Patina Miller, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical, and Courtney B. Vance, Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play.

macy’s week of wonderful

8. Talk show hosts have a lot to say

America can’t seem to get enough of talk shows.

Actress, singer and rapper Queen Latifah debuted her new daytime show in 2013. Actor and comedian Arsenio Hall returned to late-night TV with his new talk show. His first ran from 1989 until 1994. Wendy Williams, Steve Harvey and Trisha Goddard continued to entertain their audiences in 2013. Others on the air included Michael Strahan, Sheryl Underwood, Aisha Tyler, Whoopi Goldberg and Sherri Shepherd.

christmas

9. “American Idol” goes through changes

It was a rocky year for “American Idol.” The addition of three new judges – Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban – did nothing to increase the show’s audience. In fact, the ratings were lower than ever for “Idol,” which for nine seasons was the mostwatched show on television. The season ended with the crowning of Candice Glover as the show’s winner.

It was later announced that Carey and Minaj would be leaving and Urban would be staying. He will be joined

by Harry Connick Jr. and former judge Jennifer Lopez.

Randy Jackson will return as a mentor.

oPens early today at 6am!

HOURS MAY VARY BY STORE. VISIT MACYS.COM & ClICk On STORES fOR lOCAl InfORMATIOn.

use your macy’s card or tHIs Pass frI, 12/27-mon, 12/3o

WOW! pass

EXTRA SAVINGS ON ALL SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL! (EXCEPT SPECIALS & SUPER BUYS)

EXTRA 15% off

selecT sale & clearance apparel for hiM, her & kids plus fine & fashion jewelry extra 1o% off all sale & clearance waTches, coaTs, suiTs, dresses, iMpulse, inTiMaTes, suiT separaTes & sporTcoaTs for hiM and selecT shoes & hoMe iTeMs Also excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), Doorbusters, Deals of the Day, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic shoes for him, her & kids, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services. Exclusions may differ at macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account.

EXTRA SAVINGS % APPLIED TO REDUCED PRICES.

10. Robin Roberts returns to work

“Good Morning America” co-host Robin Roberts has been through a lot. But things are definitely looking up for the longtime ABC News host. GMA had taken over the No. 1 morning show slot from “The Today Show,” which had been slipping badly in the ratings, though it has been inching back up lately. Roberts felt that she was deserving of a big increase in salary. After much back and forth, Roberts reached a new long-term deal with ABC which will net her $14 million a year.

Roberts, who has been at ABC News for over 20 years, has had her share of health issues over the past few years, including a recent risky bone marrow transplant.

VAlid 12/27-12/30/2013

it’s OUr BiGGEst wHIte sale of tHe year it’s OUr BiGGEst underwear sale of tHe season it’s OUr BiGGEst denIm eVent of tHe season it’s OUr BiGGEst fasHIon clearance eVent of

Arsenio Hall returns to late-night television with a talk show.

tHe season

FREE ONLINE SHIPPING EVERY DAY + EXTRA 15% OR 1O% OFF! Free shipping with $99 purchase.

Use promo code: MERRY for extra savings; offer valid 12/27-12/30/2013. Exclusions apply; see macys.com for details.

AFTER CHRISTMAS SAlE pRICES In EFFECT 12/26-12/30/2013. MERCHAnDISE WIll BE On SAlE AT THESE & OTHER SAlE pRICES THROUGH 1/4/14, EXCEpT AS nOTED. ”Of the season” refers to Macy’s winter season from nov. 1, 2013 to January 31, 2014.

OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

N3110642J.indd 1

12/18/13 11:30 AM

10

chag’s

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

For Event Coverage...visit

defendernetwork.com

theme for their sixth annual gala was “Investing in Ourselves: Building Our Future.”

YEAR IN REVIEW…..2013 was an exciting year for many individuals, businesses It is through investment that they can continue to improve our community and build a and organizations. Here are 10 events that appeared in “Chag’s Place” as well as bright future for Houston. They honored several individuals, including attorney Terry online at defendernetwork.com for your viewing pleasure….. CELEBRATING A Bruner, Chief McClelland, James Davis, Dr. Baxter Montgomery, and Dr. Heather SILVER WITH A CENTENNIAL….. Houston-area Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Brown…..WESTERN AREA CONFERENCE…..The Galleria will never be the Sorority, Inc. celebrated the centennial anniversary as a national organization and same again. More than 800 members of The Links, Inc., with delegates the 25th anniversary of the Houston area joint Founders Day from Alaska to Texas, 10 states in all, attended the organization’s 41st Observance. The chapters include Bay Area Houston Alumnae, Join Yvette Chargois Western Area Conference. The four-day agenda included a major Houston Metropolitan Alumnae, North Harris County Alumnae, donation of $30,000 to the Young Women’s College Preparatory Suburban Houston-Fort Bend Alumnae, Delta Gamma Chapter Events of the Week Academy; recognition of Houston living legends Rev. William Lawson, at Texas Southern University and Zeta Sigma Chapter at the More photos on defendernetwork.com Lauren Anderson, Dr. Edith Irby Jones, Dr. Mae Jemison and Regina University of Houston-Central Campus….. FRIENDS OF See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m.

Rogers; and a workshop on bullying presented by Congresswoman MHMRA MARDI GRAS BALL…..The Friends of MHMRA Sheila Jackson Lee. The Links celebrates more than 65 years as celebrated its ninth annual Mardi Gras Ball at the Bayou City a women’s volunteer service organization committed to enriching, Event Center. The organization was created in 2005 to enhance sustaining and ensuring the cultural and economic survival of African-American and and expand the services and supports provided by and through mental health and other persons of African ancestry…..DIARY OF A FASHIONISTA……This year MHMRA of Harris County. This year’s honorees were Houston Police Chief Charles marks the Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston’s (IEACF) 32nd A. McClelland Jr. and Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia…..BUILDING OUR year of educating, empowering and encouraging the Houston community. They FUTURE….The 100 Black Men Metropolitan Houston celebrated another year of hosted their annual scholarship luncheon and fashion show that was attended by over successful partnering in the community and mentoring our young men. This year, the

Mary Wright, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Cynthia Butler McIntyre...

(Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.-Houston-area Chapters)

MHMRA Exec. Dir. Dr. Steven Schnee and MHMRA Board Member Dr. Lois Moore…..(Friends of Mental Health & Mental Retardation Authority)

Honorees Atty. Jarvis Hollingsworth, Judge Debra Champagne, Cynthia Turner and Atty. Harry Johnson…..(Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation)

James Davis, Dr. Heather Brown and Chief Charles McClelland…

Metropolitan Houston)

Atty. Cornel Williams and John Guess Jr. …..(Houston Museum of African-American Culture)

Yava Scott, Senfronia Thompson and Sherr

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

splace

defendernetwork.com

800 guests. Additionally, they honored several outstanding individuals including, attorney Rosalyn Bazzelle, Alsie Cluff Jr., Susan Delson, Paula Harris, Dr. Felicia Austin Jordan, Carrin Patman, Latosha Lewis Payne and Merele Yarborough…..

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION…..The Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (MCJCF) is a non-profit organization and the largest of its kind in the nation. For the 11th year, they celebrated with weeklong Texas-sized family events and activities. One facet of their celebration is the Community Service Awards Gala that was established in 2006 to bring recognition to area community leaders.

This year’s gala was held at the beautiful City Centre-Quail Valley facility and the honorees included attorney Jarvis V. Hollingsworth, Judge Debra Champagne, attorney Harry E. Johnson and Cynthia Turner…..COCKTAILS AND CULTURE…..The Houston Museum of African-America Culture (HMAAC) chose the theme “Cocktails and Culture” to showcase the latest happenings at the museum.

Due to the remarkable and dedicated work of its CEO, John Guess Jr., HMAAC is a museum that is unafraid to be contemporary as well as historical, to acknowledge the cultural impact of the last 20 years, including hip hop, as well as major cultural movements of the past such as the Harlem Renaissance. It’s a museum for all people…..WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP…..The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) gathered an impressive group of 44 of Houston’s prominent women leaders to hear

…..(100 Black Men

more about the work of the ADL and specifically how important their work is to women. The luncheon was the inaugural collaboration of a diverse group of women that the ADL would like to see involved with the organization. State Rep. Senfronia Thompson was the guest speaker and recalled her work with State Sen. Rodney Ellis in passing the James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Law and much more….. LIVING LEGENDS…..Blue Triangle Multi-Cultural Association, Inc. (the first branch of Houston’s YWCA), hosted its 2013 Living Legends luncheon. This year’s honorees included Dr. Alma Allen, Lynn Jackson Bell, Katherine Beck, Earline Bradford, Errol Brooks, Willie Burgs, Lynda Wright Gittens, Vivian Lois Harrison, Velma Jackson, Howard Jefferson, Deloris Jolivet, Dr. Bettye Davis Lewis, Ernestyne Bell Terry, Leroy Thornton Jr., Addie Marie Watts-Vester and Alice Walker…..

PRESIDENT’S GALA…..Texas Southern University President Dr. John M. Rudley hosted the 2013 TSU President’s Gala by honoring six distinguished alumni and six community partners who represent excellence in achievement. The alumni honorees receiving awards included Ricky Anderson, Winfred Frazier, Dale Hawkins Long, Alice G. Mendoza, Perry J. Miller, and Gerald W. Womack. Additional awards were presented to CenterPoint Energy, Keith J. Davis Sr., Houston Endowment, the Port of Houston, Rev. William A. and Audrey H. Lawson and Roosevelt Petry Jr. and Marlene Petry…..From Chag’s Place, Happy New Year!

Roxann Chargois, Constance Fitzpatrick Smith, Josie Daniels and Sharon Murphy…..

(The Links, Inc. Western Area Conference)

ry Levy…..(Anti-Defamation League)

Chair Booker Lynne Graves and board president Charlotte Bryant…..(Blue Triangle Multi-Cultural Association)

he Houston area for over 80 years

11

Saundra Wiley, Staci Fullmighter and Marianne Walker…..(Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston)

Tamesha Brown and Michael Stewart….. (Texas Southern University President’s Gala)

12

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 20123

defendernetwork.com

sports

Top 10 pro & college sports stories

By MAX EDISON Defender

It was a year of triumphant victories and agonizing defeats in pro and college sports. As 2013 prepares to hit the eject button, 2014 is taking practice swings in the on-deck circle. Before “Father Time” steps into the batter’s box, let’s review the year that was.

1. The Texans collapse

What else can we say? The disappointment of the 2013 Texan season has taken its toll on everyone. Expected to be a contender for the 2014 Super Bowl after a 12-4 record last season, the Texans are now a broken franchise. The team had endured a franchise record of at least 11 consecutive losses and the firing of head coach Gary Kubiak after week 14. The task now falls on GM Rick Smith to hire a new head coach, draft the right players and set this franchise back on a winning course.

2. Howard signs with Rockets

In a move that stunned the NBA establishment, free agent center Dwight Howard signed with the Houston Rockets. It’s not that the move didn’t make good basketball sense, but Howard turned his back on the Lakers. Who does that?! The move now makes the Rockets one of the elite teams in the Western conference on paper.

3. SWAC championship comes to town

The SWAC football championship was played in Houston for the first time on Dec. 7 at Reliant Stadium, and by all accounts, it was a tremendous success on and off the field. Fans witnessed an exciting game between Jackson State University and Southern University that went into two overtimes before the Jaguars won 34-27. They also were treated to an exciting battle of the bands at the game’s conclusion. A crowd of 38,985 enjoyed the festivities.

4. Houston, Rice go ‘bowling’

Gary Kubiak was fired as coach of the Texans.

It was a big year locally in D1 football. Both the University of Houston and Rice University are going to bowl games. The Cougars finished with a record of 8-4 and accepted an invitation to the BBVA Compass Bowl in Birmingham on Jan. 4. Rice won their first ever C-USA title with a 10-3 record. As a result they were given an invitation to play in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl on Dec. 31.

5. TSU basketball rules

Texas Southern University first-year head coaches Mike Davis and Cynthia Cooper-Dyke wasted little time showing the SWAC who the new sheriffs in town were in basketball. The men finished with a record of 17-14 overall, 16-2 in conference play, including a 12-game winning streak. They finished No. 1 in the conference, but because of NCAA sanctions were not eligible for post-season play.

Cooper-Dyke wasted no time establishing herself as one of the nation’s top women’s coaches. The Lady Tigers finished the season with a 20-12 record, 16-2 in conference and won the conference regular season crown. Cooper-Dyke was so good that she landed the top spot at her alma mater, USC. The program is now in the capable hands of former assistant coach Johnetta Hayes-Perry.

6. Grambling forfeits as players boycott

Grambling University, the gold standard in college/ HBCU football lore, had the unthinkable occur. They experienced a player boycott and forfeited a football game at Jackson State. It always comes back to funds or a lack thereof, and unfortunately, money was in short supply at Grambling. Football players had multiple complaints ranging from unsanitary practice and workout facilities to taking the bus for extremely long out-of-town games.

Eventually, a truce was forged with the help of Grambling legend and deposed head coach Doug Williams and the school administration. The Tigers finished the season 1-11, 1-8 in conference play. The sad state of affairs tarnished the legacy of the great Eddie Robinson.

7. Rockets battle in the playoffs

Who among us saw this coming? The Rockets qualified for the playoffs and gave Oklahoma City all they could handle before bowing out in six games of the first round. Boasting the youngest team in the NBA, the Rockets were a scrappy

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

Continued on Page 13

defendernetwork.com

DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

The Rockets sign Dwight Howard and land a big free agent prize.

TSU women’s basketball coach Cynthia CooperDyke wins, heads to USC.

13

The Rice Owls and playmaker Phillip Gaines get invited to a bowl game.

Former Grambling coach Doug Williams and team embroiled in controversy.

Pro Sports... Continued from page 12 team. Led by All-Star James Harden the team seems poised for greatness.

8. Serena Williams dominates

The hits just keep on coming Serena Williams continues to dominate in women’s professional tennis. for Serena Williams. She won the French and U.S. Open, her 17th 10. Astros continue to flounder 9. Simone Biles majors (4th all-time). She became Despite an energetic new manager in Bo becomes champ the oldest No. 1 in WTA history at Porter, the Astros have the distinction of being the Although her 32 years old, won 78 matches this accomplishment didn’t get worst team in Major League Baseball for the third season – 20 more than her previous consecutive year. The numbers don’t lie. For example, nearly enough attention, best – and went on a 34 match-winning the team had the lowest payroll in Major League it doesn’t overshadow streak, her personal best. She won 11 Baseball, $21 million. By comparison the Yankees had Manager Bo Porter and the Astros suffer her success. Gymnast titles, three more than her previous best through another losing season. four players make more than the Astros entire team Simone Biles, all 4-feet-nine of of eight in 2002, and earned a record $12.4 payroll. The Astros also set a new MLB record for her, is the reigning 2013 U.S. million in prize money, well above the previous high strikeouts in a season (more than 1530), tied the team National All-Around Champion and World Champion. The of $7.2 million won last year by Victoria Azarenka. record losing 11 consecutive games and lost more 16-year-old product of Spring, Texas, won the Women’s AllOther than that it was a pretty pedestrian year for Ms. than 100 games (111) for the third year in a row. It’s Around competition at the 2013 World Artistic Gymnastics Williams. depressing.

Championships in Antwerp, Belgium in October.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

14

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

defendernetwork.com

in memoriam

In memorian... Continued from page 2

defendernetwork.com B:4.79”

LEGAL NOTICE

Jean H. Caldwell,

who portrayed a detective on TNT’s “Rizzoli & Isles,” was found dead at his Los Angeles home on Aug. 19 after committing suicide.

He was 29. Young, who shot himself in the head, was taking medication for bipolar disorder and also suffered from depression.

Young appeared in such movies as “Friday Night Lights” and “Akeelah and the Bee.” He starred in Disney’s “The Famous Jett Jackson” from 1998-2001.

Dr. A.I. Thomas,

Game #

Game Name / Odds

$

Official Close of Game

End Validations Date

8/18/14

1532

Lady Bucks - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.18

$1

2/19/14

1533

Cash 2 Go - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.72

$1

2/19/14

8/18/14

1541

Find the 9’s - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.76

$1

2/19/14

8/18/14

1457

Kiss® - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.18

$2

2/19/14

8/18/14

1474

Veterans Cash - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.14

$2

2/19/14

8/18/14

who served as Prairie View 1494 Wild Card - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.21 $2 2/19/14 A&M president from 1966 1518 Cash Bam Boom - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.73 $2 2/19/14 to 1982, died Sept. 26.

1506 Star Trek™ - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.77 $3 2/19/14 Thomas coined the phrase, 1539 Bonus Ball Bingo - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.93 $3 2/19/14 “Prairie View produces 1456 Diamonds & Gold - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.33 $5 2/19/14 productive people.” Under 1505 Mucho Cash Fiesta - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.82 $5 2/19/14 Thomas’ administration, 1508 Money Mania - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.82 $5 2/19/14 two new residence halls and a dining facility were built.

1519 Stacks of Cash - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.83 $5 2/19/14 Other major construction For detailed odds and game information, visit txlottery.org or call 1-800-37LOTTO. Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket. The Texas Lottery supports Texas Education. completed included the fire © 2013 Texas Lottery Commission. All rights reserved. and security building, Farrell Hall Laundry, Burleson-Ware ROTC Building, Hobart Taylor Hall, the engineering building, and the Owens-Franklin Health Center. 1 TX8118_HNDF_EOG_AFAM_1226.indd

8/18/14

B:3.25”

a veteran Houston educator and the mother of Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell of Windsor Village United Methodist Church, died July 28 at the age of 83.

Mrs. Caldwell began her career as an audiologist with HISD. She spent 38 years as a teacher and guidance counselor at Phillis Wheatley High School, her alma mater. In 2005, HISD named a new elementary school in her honor.

Lee T. Young,

These Texas Lottery Commission Scratch-Off games will be closing soon:

8/18/14 8/18/14 8/18/14 8/18/14 8/18/14 8/18/14 8/18/14

It’s your future.

saved at

12-18-2013 4:23 PM

job info job # client headline/tag trim bleed live color setup vendor/pub media type die cut

from

LATENIGHT GRAPHICS’s MacBook

by

LATENIGHT GRAPHICS / Tommy Salazar

approvals TX8118 TEXAS LOTTERY JAN EOG AD 4.79” x 3.25” None None BW HOUSTON DEFENDER NEWSPAPER None

None None None NORMA VARGAS None

No matter your passion, HCC can help your dreams into reality. If you’re

DUE: 12/19 just getting PUB: 12/26

started, or starting a new

Fonts Helvetica Neue LT Std (65 Medium, 85 Heavy, 95 Condensed, 57 Condensed), Times (Regular) Images None Inks Black

chapter, we have the skills and knowledge that meet your goals and your schedule.

“Bum” Phillips,

one of Texas’ most iconic sports figures, died Oct. 18 at age 90. Phillips became the Oilers head coach in 1975 and eventually led the team to the first of threestraight playoff appearances. Phillips was larger than life during the “Luv Ya Blue” days and was known for his cowboy attire and white Stetson hat. He later coached the New Orleans Saints.

Leonel Castillo,

the first Hispanic elected to citywide office in Houston, died Nov. 4 at the age of 74. Castillo was elected city controller in 1971. In 1977, he was appointed commissioner of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service under President Jimmy Carter. He made an unsuccessful bid for mayor in 1979.

206 east ninth street • austin, tx 78701 t 512.479.6200 f 512.479.6024

Bishop Sarah Frances Davis,

HCC has convenient locations and

Prepared by LatinWorks Marketing, Inc. 2012. All rights reserved.

president of the Council of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, and vice president of the World Methodist Council, died Nov. 9 after a brief illness. She was only the third woman in the 218-year history of the AME Church to reach its highest level, the office of bishop, in 2004. At the time of her death, she was the presiding prelate of the16th Episcopal District. She was the first woman in Texas to lead a major AME church.

None

fonts & images creative dir art director copywriter account mgr proofreader

notes turn

printed at

hundreds of programs and degree plans. What are you waiting for?

Go get it. It’s yours.

Your journey begins here.

Classes start January 13 Register today at hccs.edu

Learn about our logistics program, and many more at HCC.

Its your future Defender Spring 2014 .indd 1

12/10/13 9:37 AM

defendernetwork.com DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

h.s.zone

15

Top 10

high school sports stories

By Darrell K. Ardison Defender

The superstition is that “13” is an unlucky number. High school student-athletes from the greater Houston area proved that 2013 was a very lucky and prosperous year in terms of winning team championships and individual awards. Houston area schools claimed state titles in football, basketball, baseball, track and field and volleyball. Here are the top 10 high school sports stories of 2013.

1. Katy wins again Tim Wilkerson, Katy

Katy (16-0) brought in the New Year by claiming the school’s seventh state football championship with a 35-24 victory over Cedar Hill before a crowd of 42,621 in the Class 5A Division II state title game at Cowboys Stadium (now AT&T Stadium) in Arlington.

Tigers’ running back Adam Taylor was named the game’s offensive MVP after rushing for 277 yards on 30 carries and scoring five touchdowns. Katy’s Matt Dimon was selected the game’s defensive MVP. Defensive end Tim Wilkerson was another stellar performer on the Katy team.

2. Houston claims titles

At the boys’ state basketball tournament in Austin, the Houston area claimed not one but two state titles and nearly came home with three. Fort Bend Travis came up short in 2012, but the Harrison twins were not to be denied in 2013. Andrew and Aaron Harrison had already committed to the University of Kentucky and would later be named McDonald’s All Americans, but refused to leave Fort Bend Travis High School without bringing home a Class 5A state championship. Rosenberg Terry knocked off defending Class 4A state champion Dallas Kimball 55-47 behind an MVP performance by senior post Derrick Griffin. Houston Yates lost to Dallas Madison 85-72 in the 3A title game.

3. The Woodlands is victorious.

Kolbi Brown’s mind was already at ease prior to arriving at Dell Diamond in Round Rock for last June’s state high school baseball tournament. He was an all-greater Houston first-team selection in football, had a 4.55 grade-point average at The Woodlands High School and had been accepted at Harvard University.

Then things got a little better. Brown slugged a walkoff solo home run to advance The Woodlands into the Class 5A title game with a 2-1 victory over San Antonio Northside O’Connor. The following day Brown went 1-for-3 with two RBI and a run scored as The Woodlands defeated Dulles 9-5 in the state championship game.

4. Wheatley girls make track & field history With senior University of Oklahoma signee Daye Shon Roberson paving the way with the odds stacked against them during inclement weather in Austin, the Lady Wildcats amassed 58 points to tie Lancaster and finish with a state co-championship. Coach Mareon Lewis received crucial contributions from Chanta Gosby, Ashely Howard, Alia Duncan, Keoni Franks, LaMetra Smith-Thomas and Daye Shon’s younger sister Takyera Roberson. Daye Shon won a gold medal in the 400-meter dash, placed second in the long jump and ran a leg on the gold-medal winning 4X100 meter Continued on Page 16

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

16

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

defendernetwork.com

Andrew Harrison, Travis H.S.

Clear Springs girls earn berth in 2013 tournament. Photos by Darrell K. Ardison

Kolbi Brown, The Woodlands H.S.

Daye Shon Roberson, Wheatley H.S.

Holton Hill and Kyran Mitchell, Lamar H.S.

High School... Continued from page 15 relay and the silver-medal winning 4X400 meter relay. Takyera ran a leg on both relays and placed fourth in the 200-meter dash.

5. Lamar advances

Houston Lamar went undefeated during the regular season in football for the second consecutive season in 2013. Lamar advanced to the regional semifinals in 2013 after making a trip to Class 5A Division I state title game in 2012. Coach Tom Nolen’s team was led by quarterback Darrell Colbert, defensive back Holton Hill and linebacker Kyran Mitchell.

6. The Woodlands girls are perfect

The Woodlands girls’ volleyball team won a state and national prep title in 2013. Led by Courtney Eckenrode, Courtney Quinn, Madison McDaniel and Morgan Eason, the Lady

Highlanders were 45-0. Head coach Leslie Madison saw her entire program (four teams) go 118-0 in 2013.

7. Summer Creek on top

Summer Creek won the boys Class 4A state track and field title by compiling 54 points to 40 for runner-up Fort Bend Marshall. Aaron Sharp won a gold medal in the 200-meter dash with a time of 21.19 seconds. Sharp also ran the anchor leg on the Bulldogs’ two gold-medal winning relays (4x200 and 4x400).

8. Clear Springs advances

Clear Springs advanced to the girls’ state basketball tournament for the first time after three consecutive trips to the regional tourney. Head coach Pamela Crawford guided her team to a 38-3 record led by Courtnie Latham, Brooke McCarty, Kaylin Roher and Ryshinique Ball.

Alaysh’A Johnson, Spring H.S.

9. Dulles finds success

Dulles High School advanced to the state baseball tournament for the first time since winning the title in 1989. Dulles defeated Jersey Village 5-2 in the regional final. With six African Americans on the roster, including three in the starting lineup, Dulles advanced to the Class 5A state championship game against The Woodlands before faltering by a score of 9-5 at Dell Diamond in Round Rock. During its playoff run, Dulles knocked off defending 5A state champion Cypress Ranch by sweeping a best-of-three series.

10. Johnson excels Alaysh’A Johnson of Spring High School was impressive at the annual state high school track and field meet. Johnson swept both girls’ hurdles races to bring home double gold medals.

She won the 100-meter hurdles in a time of 13.52 seconds and came back to defend her 300-meter hurdles state title with a clocking of 41.24 seconds despite falling at the finish line.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

defendernetwork.com

DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

Spring ISD steps up security following a fatal stabbing.

17

The University of Houston neglects the Black community.

Top 20 Local...

Continued from page 4 injured 13 on May 31. The fire was the single worst loss of life experienced by the Houston Fire Department in its 118-year history.

A public memorial service for the four victims was held at Reliant Stadium. Killed in the fire were Capt. Matthew Renaud, 35, who had been with HFD since 2001; Engineer Operator Robert Bebee, 41, who also joined the department in 2001; Firefighter Robert Garner, 29, who joined the department in 2010, and Anne Sullivan, 24, a probationary firefighter who graduated from the HFD Academy in April.

Mayor Annise Parker wins re-election.

Community rallies for justice

Hundreds of Houstonians gathered at Byrd Funeral Home in Third Ward to protest the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the death of Trayvon Martin. Demonstrators came from different sectors of the community but all echoed the same sentiment – the need for justice and unity. The local rally was one of many held across the country. “When the verdict was read, they did the African-American race a great injustice,” said one protester. The rally culminated with a march through the community beginning on Wheeler Street and ending on Texas State Highway 288.

Residents troubled by fires

Residents of South Park and Sunnyside were on high alert due to a rash of fires plaguing their communities in recent months. Businesses, homes and abandoned buildings all fell victim to an arsonist. Community leaders were joined by members of the Houston Fire Department at a town hall meeting to inform residents about the

Claims are dismissed against former HISD Trustee Larry Marshall.

fires that have been deliberately set. They learned that multiple fires have occurred in the area dating back to December 2012.

Student killed at school

Joshua Devon Broussard, a 17-year-old student at Spring High School, was stabbed to death on Sept. 4 on campus. Another student, 17-year-old Luis Alonzo Alfarao, was charged with murder and jailed. Following the incident, students returned to class amid tighter security.

At least 30 officers were on duty at the campus, part of increased security provided by Spring ISD police and local law enforcement agencies.

Only two entrances were open, causing long lines as students passed through metal detectors.

There were reports of racial tension between Blacks and Hispanics at the school.

UH neglects Black community

The improvement of the University of Houston’s academic ranking to Tier One status caused concern about the future of Black students at the university. Eleven percent of

UH students are Black, and the number of Black freshmen entering the university has declined.

Despite the fact that UH is located in Third Ward, its overall Black student enrollment has continued to drop, its number of black faculty has remained low and its vendor contracts with Black Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) has decreased.

Voters go to the polls

In the Nov. 5th election, Mayor Annise Parker defeated her closest challenger, attorney Ben Hall, by winning 57 percent of the vote.

Hall received 28 percent. Controller Ronald Green was re-elected. City Council incumbents Jerry Davis, Larry Green and C.O. Bradford held on to their seats, while incumbent Andrew Burks lost in a runoff. Dwight Boykins won the District D seat in the runoff. Outgoing Councilmember Wanda Adams won the HISD trustee position vacated by Larry Marshall.

In the race for Houston Community College trustee, incumbent Bruce Austin lost by 26 votes to Dave Wilson. Austin accused Wilson of deceiving voters into thinking he was Black.

Continued on Page 19

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

18

DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013

defendernetwork.com

Top 10 National Stories...

Continued from page 6

5-4 decision, and Justice Antonin’s Scalia’s dissent was particularly scathing, but the jubilant crowds gathered outside of the Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C., cheered their victory nonetheless. The gay rights movement as a whole is only becoming more popular nationwide, leading many to speculate that it’s the fastest-moving civil rights movement in U.S. history.

A July Gallup poll found that 54 percent of Americans think same-sex couples should be given the same rights as heterosexual couples.

9. Violence continues

This was again a year of mass casualties. In September, Aaron Alexis, a lone gunman armed initially with a shotgun, fatally shot 12 people and injured three others in a mass shooting at the headquarters of the Naval Sea Systems Command inside the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. It was the second-deadliest mass murder on a U.S. military base after the Fort Hood shooting in November 2009.

Earlier in the year, during the Boston Marathon, two pressure cooker bombs exploded, killing three people 6. Obama begins second term and injuring an estimated 264 others. The suspects President Barack Obama officially began his were identified later that day as Dzhokhar and Tamersecond term in 2013. For his second inauguration, Black voters see their political power threatened by an assault on voting rights. lan Tsarnaev. An unprecedented manhunt ensued on less than half of the estimated 1.8 million onlookers April 19, with thousands of law enforcement officers turned out for the 50th anniversary celebration of the March who crammed the National Mall in 2009 attended the public on Washington. The march included a more diverse coalition, searching a 20-block area of Watertown and putting the city ceremony. Obama made an impassioned plea for a more on a “shelter-in-place” advisory. The public transportation with the central themes resonating around voting rights, jobs, inclusive America. “Our journey is not complete until our system and most businesses and public institutions were shut gun violence and equality in minority communities. wives, our mothers and daughters can earn a living equal to down, creating a deserted urban environment of historic size their efforts,” he said. “Our journey is not complete until no and duration. Tamerlan Tsarnaev was later killed. His brother, 8. Voting rights threatened citizen is forced to wait for hours to exercise the right to vote.

Dzhokhar was arrested.

The Supreme Court ruled unconstitutional Section 4 of Our journey is not complete until we find a better way to wel- the Voting Rights Act, effectively gutting the federal “precome the striving, hopeful immigrants who still see America 10. Detroit enters bankruptcy clearance” mechanism that had protected millions of voters as a land of opportunity.”

After years of financial trouble, the city of Detroit filed by preventing discrimination in voting for more than four for Chapter 9 bankruptcy on July 18. It was the largest mudecades. With this decision, the floodgates have been opened 7. 50th anniversary march observed nicipal bankruptcy filing in U.S. history by debt, estimated to for state legislatures to put in place barriers to voting in the A half-century to the hour after Dr. Martin Luther King be $18-20 billion. Detroit’s population, which is more than 80 jurisdictions with the worst records of discrimination. Indeed, Jr. delivered his clarion call for justice from the Lincoln percent Black, has declined from a peak of 1.8 million in 1950 within days of the Court’s decision, we saw serious actions Memorial, the nation’s first Black president stood on that halto around 700,000. There are also thousands of abandoned taken against voters in several critical states that had previlowed marble step, hailing the 50 years of racial progress that ously been subject to Voting Rights Act preclearance. The U.S. buildings, vacant lots and unlit streets. Mayor Dave Bing premade his election possible but warning Americans that King’s Department of Justice has made efforts to challenge these new dicted the city would rebound from financial ruin. “I’m surely dream remains unfulfilled. In August, tens of thousands hoping that this will be a new start,” Bing said. discriminatory tactics.

defendernetw ork.com

health Defender Spe cial

JUNE 20 | 2013

| DEFENDER

1B

Edition

Start Your New Year In

Obesity proble m

plagues

Blacks

health

ork.com defendernetw

O

DER

| DEFEN AUGUST 15 | 2013

Good Health

1B

cial Edition

Defender Spe

By TIFFANY L. WILLIAMS Defender

finances and mental health. besity is one “Obesity is of the most associated with serious health impacting African as diabetes, multiple poor problems cardiov -Americans health outcom today.

Risks related associate profess ascular disease and es such cancer,” said to obesity range or at the Univer to infertility Lorna McNei Center. from sleep apnea sity of Texas to depression. ll, MD Anders up health insuran Obese people on Cancer McNeill said can drive ce costs and diet and exercis from employ face job discrim energy out” lazy. e are essenti ers who view of ination the body. ally “energy them as undisci “If you’re not in and Facts and figures plined and tell the story: as you get older physically active as • The Center a young s for Diseas activity at rates and you gain weight, you’re person or young adult, coupled with e to compensate not a lack of physica Control (CDC) cites poor for your energy engaging in physical Other health ventable death, nutrition l activity as the leading coming in second coronary heart concerns related to obesity intake,” she said. cause of pre• The Office to tobacco disease, stroke, include hyperte respiratory gallbladder African-Ameri of Minority Health reports use. problems. disease, osteoar nsion, can women thritis and Poor health are overweight that four out of five • According can also reduce or obese. to 2010 data, more missed residents in worker perform 71.7 percen days from work the t ance, resultin and leading A CDC report weight or obese,Houston-Baytown-Sugarlandof African American to higher medica g in titled “Vital MSA areas lence Among Signs: State-S l costs. percent of whites.compared to 77.8 percen were overAdults pecific Obesity t of Hispanics $1,429 per person ,” found that people Prevaand 62.5 Proper nutritio who are obese extra in medica normal weight incurred that if not properl n and physical health l costs compar . are fundamental ed to people The report also well as detrime y maintained can have of parts of life fatal health summed up ntal effects weight conseq on other areas the : “Obesity is uences, as of life, includi a costly conditi consequences of being and increases overng education, on that can the risk for reduce quality many serious ture death.” of life chronic disease defe nder netw s and prema-

ork.com •

Serv ing the

ssure High blood pre lacks lthtakes toll on B

Houston area

for over 80

year s

BER NOVEM

m

.co etwork

ern defend

hea De

1B

c pressure. It

on

ial Editi

Spec fender

ENDER

3 | DEF

21 | 201

measures the

two, is the diastoli ats or the heart at rest. lower of the numbetween heartbe mental facof a systolic blood pressure due to environ a family pressure consists less than be genetic or A normal blood c number of more than likely choices,” said Dr. Neha Shah, 120 and a diastoli the systolic number n Medical ber of less than tors and lifestyle n with Memorial Herman begins when number reads Prehypertension the diastolic medicine physicia smoking, 80. and 139 and pressure include is between 120 Group. is 89.

– also for high blood of salt, and a hypertension, Risk factors between 80 and dietary intake igh blood pressurension – also known as , and high 179 pressure and obesity, , High blood between 140 lack of exercise known as hyperte greatest s a pera systolic number 109. osition. of the classified by genetic predisp high blood pressure increase to the remains one between 90 and pressure can ng to African-AmerUncontrolled diastolic number a slightly elevated blood health threats of six times. Accordi s, Africanand risk by four to than 40 percent such as exercise as Dr. Shah says son’s stroke icans. More and Human Servicehave a lifestyle changes es such ans have high ent of Health be treated through more serious cases, medicin more likely to U.S. Departm African-Americ ckers can . In are 60 percent , and they also parts. dietary changes alpha-blockers, and beta-blo American adults counter blood pressure adult younger more s, at white rs are also calcium blocker physician. stroke than their develop the illnessother racial an stroke survivo affect variby a ty with activied to pressure can African-Americ be prescribed have difficul ages compar d, high blood without disabled and person goes If left untreate likely to become The longer a against of the body. pressure in African to the eyes, kidney, blood pushing of daily living. groups. it ous parts of high blood is the force of in the world. ties chances of damage more blood, The prevalence Blood pressure is the highest treatment, the heart pumps increase. walls. As the the United States are more likely to develop healthier lifestyle of heart, or brain Americans in the blood vessel . is, by making -Americans pressure, blood pressure d as two numThe good news lessen their chances In addition, African ed with high blood increases the is generally recorde blindness .

The first -Americans can associat Blood pressure or one on top of the other. kidney disease, choices, African high blood pressure statistic complications disease, blood heart is the as a ratio becoming another including stroke, pressure, which bers written number, the s the systolic by high blood and dementia. number measure heart contracts. The second -Americans plagued the Why are African pressure when year s it can to its cause but for over 80 pressure? one indication Houston area “There is not

H

By CIERRA DUNCAN Defender

defe nder netw

ork.com •

Serv ing the

ter t grea es a s k c Bla iabet

rd risk fo

Enjoy our 2013 digital Health Editions filled with information for the entire family on keeping healthy.

Visit us online at: http://bit.ly/1fLLN0I for our June 20th, August 15th and November 21st editions.

SPIN AUBE ESKA

By EL Defender

to eat What

betes. e 2 dia for Typ

) factor spinach ding risk broccoli, is a lea toes) e… (greens, obese Eat mor n veggies rots, sweet pota ight or gree the • Dark veggies (car overwe th, and Being betes Mon of the • Orange peas als berries ional Dia d to beware citrus, breakfast cere • Beans, r is Nat urge such as ovembe munity is • Fruits l, whole-grain tortillas 18.7 per-have com less… s or d, Eat – mea Black r brea ucts • Oat food million s or olde wheat meat • Fried dairy prod year disease. estimated 4.9 • Whole- fried) cuts of le milk pies aged 20 An (not • Fatty milk & who , crackers, ericans • Fish mers as,” . y crea , can-Am • Whole candy, cookies s in Tex yogurt etes Assn • Nuts nondair Services Diabete of all Afri milk & s an Diab garine, • Cakes, den of cent – . e Health ent, com• Fat-freeCDC, Americ dressing stick mar “The Bur ent of Stat : ks. ing, • Salad and diabetes artm 16.5 perc rt titled Sources ar red drin , shorten A repo the Texas Dep Blacks was ent for whites • Lard or fruit-flavo ed with sug d meats, perc ce for d by • Sodas coffee sweeten s, processe compile the prevalen Hispanics, 8.2 er chip les that years ly to suff ase • Tea or such as etables, pick s like 80 found 11 percent for al groups. e food er mor to renal dise • Salty soups & veg other raci ericans are pared for ov -stage 2.2 times ent for k Am as end canned area also n 6.9 perc ionally, Blac etes, such are to ks us Nat from diab utations. Blac . the Ho ations amp 12 diabetes rving complic extremity Page er die from ed on m • Se and low as whites to Continu rk.co ly as like etwo

N

defen

dern

Defender

Brought to you by:

defendernetwork.com

DECEMBER 26 | 2013 | DEFENDER

19

Metro rail is on the move with a new North/Red Line.

Top 20 Local...Continued from page 17 Teens die in party shootings

Three local teens were killed in two separate house party shootings which were promoted on social media. On Nov. 9, a deadly house party in the Cypress area left teenagers Qu’eric Richardson and Arielle Shepherd dead and some 20 people injured. About 100 people attended the party, which was promoted through Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and text messages. A week later, Braveon Terry, a 17-year-old student at Yates High School, died outside a Southwest Houston home after a disturbance escalated into gunfire. Police continued to search for suspects in the cases.

Claims dismissed against Marshall, HISD

A U.S. District Court judge dismissed claims in a lawsuit filed by a district contractor against HISD and Trustee Larry Marshall that alleged bribery and manipulation of contracts.

The civil suit accused Marshall, HISD and two construction companies of a bribery and kickback scheme involving lucrative contracts.

The district estimated it spent over $1.5 million over three years in legal and court fees since the suit was filed in December 2010. HISD Superintendent Terry Grier said he would encourage the board to pursue reimbursement for the legal fees.

Inmate’s appeal denied

The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals denied death row inmate Duane Buck’s appeal for a new sentencing hearing free from racial bias. Buck was sentenced to death in Harris County for two 1995 fatal shootings.

Sentencing came after his trial prosecutor elicited testimony from a psychologist indicating that Buck was more likely to be dangerous because he is Black. Though there is no question of Buck’s guilt, supporters say no one can be sentenced to death because of his or her race. The appeal filed by Buck cited a study that found racial bias in a disproportionate number of African-American death penalty cases in Harris County.

Blacks recruited for robberies

Violent bank robberies became a cause of concern. According to the FBI, 112 bank robberies took place in Houston since Jan. 1, and an alarming 82 percent were committed by African-Americans. During a two-month period, 27 African-American men were sent or sentenced to federal prison for their roles in the robberies.

Older individuals often recruit younger males to participate in committing robberies through the promise of “fast money.” The new recruits are often “groomed” and “manipulated” into committing violent crimes.

HISD forbids offensive mascots

The HISD Board took the first step in approving a measure that would prohibit offensive or culturally insensitive mascots.

The proposed policy affects four HISD high schools — Lamar High School Redskins, Westbury High School Rebels, Hamilton Middle School Indians and Welch Middle School Warriors. It would go into effect at the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year.

The new policy would allow schools to respectfully retire their existing mascot while also acknowledging the important role their related traditions and symbols have played in their community.

Metro unveils rail line

The new North/Red Line is open for business. The Metro North Line extends the existing Red Line by 5.3 miles and runs through the heart of the historic Northside, a neighborhood rooted in rail that came into being with the expansion of the Hardy Rail Lines in the 1880s. Starting at the University of Houston-Downtown station, the line runs north on North Main to Boundary, crosses east to Fulton, then proceeds north to Northline Commons Mall and the Northline Transit Center.

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80 years

20 DEFENDER | DECEMBER 26 | 2013 |

defendernetwork.com

A

t this time of year it is a joy to pause and say ‘Thank You’ for your patronage and goodwill throughout the year.

Best wishes and May GOD Bless you and your family in 2014.

Defender Family