Houston Defender: February 17, 2011

ment

NT

onal Black Caucus is the Black community on between education ve Conference (ALC).

80 Number 16 WalterVolume E. Washington

Houston’s Leading Black Information Source

FEBRUARY 17-23, 2011

| FREE

www.defendernetwork.com

a panel on “Exploring ral Government.” Sen. e future when it comes vote time into learning w jobs in the emerging

Massive growth in Black ncial businesses

From one

MOTHER to another

★CBC Page 3

Save the TSU Murals www.tsu.edu/giving or contact Wendy Adair University Advancement Adair@tsu.edu

dicted

by AFRO Staff While the results are not yet in on how well they are doing, the creation of Blacknst his relative, who’s owned businesses surged upon the of the econ the ward age ofeve 65. nomic recession.

According aces charges of False to the latest data from the to Obtain Credit, U.S. Census Bureau, from g with a 2002 to 2007, the number of these firms increased by ental Record, Theft, 60.5 percent to 1.9of million, Misapplication tripling the national growth Property.

Three of rate of 18 percent. es are first degree According to the Census Bureau’sHarrison “Survey of Busihat expose Black-Owned ears orness lifeOwners: in prison.

Businesses: 2007,” the h is a state jail felony receipts produced by Black businesses also increased 55.1 percent to $137.5 bil★INDICTED, Pageconducted 3 lion. The survey, by the Census every five years, provides in-depth information about Black firms’ sales, receipts, paid employees and payroll.

“Black-owned businesses continued to be one of the fastest growing segments of our economy, showing rapid growth in both the number of businesses and total sales this time period,” dationduring by city staff to extend Census Bureau Deputy the contracts of Di-Star rector Thomas Mesenbourg Concessions and Hudson said in a statement.

Retail Sales - two defines firms with The Census Black-owned businesses ties to prominent as firms inincluding which AfricanDemocrats, State Americans possess nearly Rep. 51Helen Giddings and percent or more of the

By ReShonda Tate Billingsley DEFENDER

TChad Holley’s mom

exas Southern University’s president has come up with a plan he hopes will put an end to a controversy surrounding the painting overPres. ofBarack some hisObama toric murals on the campus of the historically Black university. But some students and community members wonder if his contribution of $50,000 for a Preservation plan is enough to undo the damage. University officials say they know it’s not enough, but it’s a first step.

“We know $50,000 isn’t enough for the whole project.

It’s just enough to bring in a conservator to analyze the

Obama’s budget “painful”

talks about beating

By ReShonda Tate Billingsley Defender

★ T

★MURALS, Page 7

(TriceEdneyWire.com) - President Barack Obama he mother of the teen released his proposed $3.7 beaten by Houston Police trillion budget on Monday, Department officers is with the $1.1 million in cuts out,think talking aboutthe Mural Preservation Let us knowspeaking what you adout over the next 10 years as son,@ herdefendernetwork.com. feelings about his beat- We want to hear promised in you! his State of the on her Friday from ing, and her quest for justice.

Union Address.

Jewell Holley said she was As the months progress shocked to learn that her son Chad and budget debates begin in Holley – then 15 years old – had earnest, it will become clearer been beaten by police after being what specific social, educasustional and economic programs pected of might be threatened. Congress breakwill debate for months – at ing and least through June. The new entering. fiscal year begins Oct. 1.

It was March, 2010, when police At the outset, some prochased Holley and several other posed cuts that could drastiyoung men from a crime scene.

Ofcally affect African-Americans The Houston community is remembering included significant capital ficers caught up with Holley, then an are as follows: a longtime political High School sophomore, near Proposed cuts to low investments, duringElsik a periactivist who died Sept. 11, income heating assistance a self-storage facility on Cook Road od of uncertainty following 2010. Beulah Shepard, programs. in Alief and allegedly handcuffed the 9/11 terror attacks ultimade him on the ground and 89, began hittingher mark both Proposed cuts to summately failed to carry the him. and kicking locally and nationally asmer a school funding from Pell Grants and new limits on argument. tireless fighter for civil Pell Grants during the reguIn the three years since H MOTHER, Page 4 political jusrights and lar semesters; although new U.S. Congresswoman Eddie the council first embarked increases in Pell Grants to tice.

BUSINESSES, Page 3 a Helen Eddie Bernice on its Love Field modernBernice HJohnson - without Funeral services will $5,500 be a year to help 9 million students will stay in place.

Giddings Johnson competitive bid. ization plan, the concesheld at 10am at Galilee A freezeBeaulah on annual doThe essence of the city sions contracts have MBC, 6616 D.S. Bailey Shepard mestic spending for the next staff recommendation that the no-bid contracts emerged as by far the most contentious issue, five years, including commuLane. Pastor Edwin would be appropriate given the incumbents’ and have led to accusations of political nity service blockHouston grants and Davis, officiating. Interment: community action programs experience, the desirability of minimizing dis- favoritism on both sides.

(CAPS), in order Page to reduce4the ★SHEPARD, ruptions during the renovation and the hard busiliquor to be sold on Sundays. convenient for people to buy a legal Defender News Services deficit by more than $400 bilness risks taken by the incumbents, which ★AIRPORT CONTRACTS, Page 4 Texas is one of 14 states that prohibit substance. lon on the next decade. the sale of liquor on Sundays.

Under the It’s estimated that the additional AUSTIN – In an effort to put a dent “This freeze will require painful cuts,” Obama said in proposed bill, it would be sold from 10 sales would bring in $7 million in new in the state’s multi-billion-dollar budthe State of the Union. “I’ve a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. Ellis sales tax over a two-year period. Texas get shortfall, State Sen. Rodney Ellis proposed cuts to things I care currently faces a $15 billion dollar bud(D-Houston) has filed Senate Bill 595. If said that every little bit helps the shortdeeply about, like community

@

defendernetwork.com

ontracts divide DallasEXCLUSIVE! REMEMBERING uncil in Race debate Beulah Shepard Photo by: Bob Levey

Bill proposes sale of liquor on Sundays INTERVIEW

Kickin’ back with K’Naan

passed, the bill would pave the way for

fall, and that the bill would make it more

get gap.

State Sen. Rodney Ellis

Michael Oher flips “The Blind Side”

butions by the likes of Damian Marley, Mos Def, Chali 2na, Kirk Hammett of Metallica and Adam Levine of CONTRIBUTING WRITER00 Maroon 5.

During his early childhood, the Western music, which Somalia. The name alone conjures up images of

By Kam Williams in an Oscar-winningreached performance.

Here, Michael talkslimited about histo new K’naan’s ears was pretty much “Bob unbridled destruction, merciless warlords and ruthless Michael Oher was born on May 28, Oher currently lives in Maryland autobiography, I Beat the he Odds.

Marley and Tracy Chapman,” until at 10, became terror. A1986 place where nobody safe from the atrocities in Memphis, where heis negotiated where he is an offensive linemanby for the the hip-hop KW: You and the Ravens had an excellent fascinated being emitting from a tiny car of war, aand where year AK-47s likeRavens of the National Football season. How’d you feel when your season perilous patheight through the olds foster handle care Baltimore speaker. “I had heardended a rapinverse, but I had no idea what system, experiencing periods of homelessLeague.

After playing college football at Pittsburgh with that loss to the toys. When Forbes magazine recently unveiled their it was back then,” he recalls. ness. He eventually attended Briarcrest the University Steelers on a last-minute Roethlisberger TD “Most Dangerous Destinations,” Somalia, above Iraq of Mississippi for the Ole At 14,byK’naan and pass? his three best friends were attacked Christian School and met Sean and LeighMiss Rebels, he was drafted the Ravens and Afghanistan, topped the list. But it’s also “The Anne Tuohy, who became his adoptive in the first round ofby thewarlords, 2009 NFL Draft.

It wasn’tindelible a good feeling losingfor to just one of MO: countless images Nation of Poets,” where a poem can both inspire peace parents.

Following his first in the league, teenager. those guys.

It reallychased stung. them theyear impressionable Having and end wars.

His inspirational story is the he was named to both the Pro Football KW: What’d you think of the cornering Super Bowl? through the streets of Mogadishu, eventually Growing up, itsubject was both of these SomaliasWeekly that All-Rookie team and the USA of Michael Lewis’ MO: I just couldn’t bear to look at it. I the boys in an alley, the men began shooting. K’naan book, The K’naan Blind Side: Evolu- Today Team. He also earned NFL watched a total of about four minutes. informed musician/emcee Warsame, who All-Joe is avoided injury, but his three friends brutally tion of apath Game, was blend Rookieofofregthe Month honors for December KW: Let me startwere by asking how you forging his own musical viawhich a unique gunned down. adapted to the screen in and recently completed a second successmanaged to make it all the way to the NFL, gae, funk, pop, soul and, above all, hip-hop.ful Recorded 2009 as The Blind Side, season with the Ravens, making neighborhood you before came from and Certain thatthe it was given only the a matter of time her primarily in Kingston,starring Jamaica at Bob Marley’s home Sandra Bullock playoffs. studio, his second album, “Troubadour,” includes contriH OHER,Page Page 3 2 ★K’NAAN,

By Kam Williams

Click on Defendernetwork.com Click on Defendernetwork.com

al

ng in ctions?

H BUDGET, Page 11

Weekend Weekend

Weekend

Monday

Family Harry Alford

Living

Julianne Julianne Malveaux Malveaux

Are Black Voters Raising Eager Volunteer Slaves?

Monday

Places You Thought YouWalters Embracing Black Readers Ron Couldn’t Affort Economic History - A Scholar and a Gentleman

2

FEBRUARY 17-23, 2011| |DEFENDER DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010

K’Naan

continued from page 1 family met the same fate, K’naan’s mother would travel daily through the firefight to the U.S. embassy in the hopes of securing visas for her and her loved ones. Despite daily denials, she persisted, and on the last day the U.S. embassy was in Somalia, received visas to leave for America.

“You can’t even describe it,” says K’naan. “It is the most sensational, liberating feeling. There was the weight of a world of hope on your shoulder that has suddenly landed. It was only then that I started to get this certain value of life that I never had before.” With little possessions and no knowledge of English, K’naan and his family boarded the last commercial flight out of Mogadishu for New York before settling in Toronto.

The tunes on Troubadour reflect the sum of K’Nasan’s life experiences. Having spent the better part of the last two years on the road, visiting over 50 countries from Slovenia to Peru to Vietnam to Uganda, the album is the sonic document of an artist with much to share, and disproves rap music’s detractors who say that hip-hop has nothing new left to say.

The CD’s first single, “Wavin’ Flag,” has become an international sensation, and was the official anthem of the World Cup Championship hosted this summer by South Africa. Reaching over 150 countries, the signature song was featured on K’Naan’s FIFA-sponsored Trophy Tour, which saw the emerging rap star spreading his message to soccer fans in concerts staged all around the world.

K’naan has also re-recorded new versions of the track with Will.i.Am and French dance producer David Guetta and a bilingual versions with Spanish pop singer David Bisbal, French MC Fefe, AI Otsuka from Japan, Jackie Cheung and Jane Zhang from China, Tattoo Colour from Thailand, Nancy Arjam from Egypt, HHP from South Africa, and other artists in Greece, Turkey and elsewhere.

Kam Williams: Hi K’naan, thanks so much for the time.

K: My pleasure.

KW: What was the inspiration for Wavin’ Flag?

Musician/emcee K’Naan Warsame is forging his own musical path via a unique blend of reggae, funk, pop, soul and, above all, hip-hop.

K: I can’t remember specifically, it was just one of those moments when I had a melody in my head and a discontented, melancholy feeling. I just wrote that.

KW: Did it emanate at all from your childhood?

K: I think everything kinda’ does.

Everything is kind of shaped by life in general, so I guess it does feel like my childhood might have been an influence. But those things are pretty subconscious.

KW: Do you still feel a strong connection to Somalia?

K: Yes, I have many, many memories, which have impacted my life.

KW: Were you listening to a lot of American music while growing up?

K: You could live in Somalia forever and never need music from outside Somalia.

There are a lot of different styles and a variety of musical ideas developing right there.

KW: What did it mean for you to have Wavin’ Flag become the anthem of the World Cup? K: I used to get very excited watching the World Cup on TV as a child. So, to have any kind of involvement with the World Cup is a big, big honor.

KW: Are you a soccer fan and did you play

soccer in your youth?

K: Yes I am, and I did play, like most other children.

KW: How have you been received by the American hip-hop community?

K: Great! You can tell from what’s been happening for me. They’ve all been very supportive and showing love for what I do.

KW: Where do you think hip-hop is headed?

K: I think it will always go through phases, like how philosophy in ancient times would celebrate the body and the physical for a while, then focus on the mind and the spiritual. I think that those phases happen to us as well, and hip-hop is one of the best barometers of what is happening, because it reflects the feeling of young people. I see my music as following the feeling.

KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

K: [Chuckles] Interesting… I often try to find the face of my teenage years. I don’t know whether it’s like this for everybody, but I can’t find it.

KW: What is your favorite dish to cook?

K: It probably would be good if I cooked more, but I just don’t do it very often. When I do, I find it very enjoyable. I made a dish

about a year ago. It was stir-fried vegetables with Szechuan sauce. I made it a little too spicy, I admit, but I think everybody enjoyed it, aside from all the sweating.

KW: How do you think African music will influence the rest of the world in the coming years?

K: I think it’s actually already affecting the world in a big way now. People just aren’t aware of it. For instance, there’s a great tune by Coldplay called “Strawberry Swing.” It’s essentially Afro-Pop music.

And most of Vampire Weekend’s music is Afro-Pop. Africa has influenced many of the biggest bands. So, I believe Africa has already crept in and changed music in the West. People just don’t know to call it African.

KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be?

K: Wow! That would be for a sudden shift in my country from war, distrust and death to peace, love and harmony.

KW: Are you ever afraid?

K: Yes I am, but not of what people ordinarily fear, fortunately. My fears are all internal. I’m afraid of my own self more than of anything external.

KW: Are you happy?

K: Happiness, I think, is one of the most elusive things on the planet. I believe that happiness is only appreciated in retrospect.

So, I’m always happy, given that I later find out that I was.

KW: How can your fans help you?

K: By being understanding of the fact that I don’t make music for them, but that I make music that’s about my past and about my most honest internal instincts. They need to understand that more than anything else. Wherever I go, it’s not about them, but where the music takes me.

KW: What has been the happiest moment of your life?

K: The birth of my first son.

KW: Do you have any regrets?

K: I guess I do have some regrets, but none big enough to obsess about.

KW: How do you want to be remembered?

K: As someone who was always interested in walking through life in a positive way and in affecting people in a positive way.

KW: Thanks again for the interview, K’Naan, and best of luck on your world tour.

K: Thank you so much, Kam.

33

FEBRUARY 17-23, DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 –2011 22,| 2010 | DEFENDER

CBC Oher continued from page 1

Gaddafi Remarks on ‘Blackening’ Europe stirs concerns, anger

that it takes, giving them although obviously there Businesses the confidence. were some adjustments, Continued from page 1 Continued from page 1 KW: Your story is not since the Tuohys had a green industry. just about beating the different lifestyle from equity, interest or stock of The Congressional Black Caucus your challenging childodds; it’s nothing short of what I was accustomed the business. The data is Foundation, which funds the legislative conhood? a miracle. Can we engineer to. But there was a lot broken down by U.S. metference, wants to ensure that the Black comMO: There’s a big difropolitan areas, industry miracles – without the help of love, and that’s what munity is aware of the changing job market, ference between where I and size of business. of angels? helped to spark a great new jobs and how to prepare for them. came from and the NFL. According to the MO: That’s the same relationship.

“So many people will never return to the Things like this don’t report, New York holds as asking do you believe KW: Are you still close jobs they lost,” said Rep. Elijah E. happen to people from the top spot for Africanwith the The CBC wants to ensure that the Black community is Tuohys? aware of the chang- in God. Of course, we Cummings (D-Md.), honorary co-chair of American firms, with there often.

It just took all need angels. I had to MO: Yes, they’re still this year’s events. “It’s our responsibility to ing job market, new jobs and how to prepare for them. nearly 204,032 Blackaincrease lot of their hardability work to and family. We talk every day, have one over my head do the jobs that are

By Shantella Y. Sherman owned businesses. The dedication, staying on throughout my life, even and Scott they added. come to every SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER available to them.” row donation. informed,” state also accounted theThey rightwill path, believing be holding several town hall The sessions will include “Beyond a Also,one for of themy firstgames. time in its history, right the now. The odds of for 10.6 percent of all in myself, and having my making(NNPA) it were- In slim Do you have what appearsBlack-owned to be a racially incendiary meetings throughout the an week to discuss National AIDS Strategy: Next Steps in the conference KW: is partnering with any the National businesses inner drive.

Muammar Gaddafi, jobs and education, said Cummings.

Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Black America” Black contact Justice Coalition hold an LGBT to none. move, So youLibyan have toleader Colonel with yourtobirth in the nation. Georgia KW: Why you writeof the CBC and “Sister Speak: Reducing HIV/AIDS in leadership offered steady influx of Africans Elsie Scott,didpresident summit. The coalition is the only have an recently angel. You haveto stem thefollowed mother? with 183,874 your autobiography?

Was need to know the Black Community” and “Beyond Blood: nation-wideMO: into various European nations in an effort keep Foundation, said that people Black gay civil to believe.

We’re not rights as organizaBlack-owned firms,towhile itthat because and Gaddaficame toldinItalian Prime federal you jobs felt are misavailable, but it’s no Bone Marrow Donation Among African tion. close as we used to be KW: Europe Do you white plan to becivilized.Florida just berepresented byofThe Blind Minister Silvio Berlusconi on a recent trip to Rome that longer a matter taking a civic exam and Americans - A Health and Wellness The but, goal hopefully, of this summit is toget bring attena foster or adoptive parwe’ll hind with 181,437.

Side? the European Union (EU) should him at least 5bn having an application read by a supervisor.

Luncheon.” tion to back issues to pertaining to gays and lesbians; ent? where we once In pay the WashingtonMO: I kinda wantedadvances in the ($6.3 stop illegal African immi“There’re technological “CBC Foundation has an ongoing project including their for equality. The ulti- MO: euros I can’t saybillion) right a year toMaryland-Virginia were in fight the future. to clear some things up “A computer to increase AIDs awareness with fulltime mate goal is and avoid a “Black Europe.” hiring process” Scott said. forDo people to be aable to come metropolitan area, the now. I’dgration have to see down KW: you have after I goteach thousands of looking for key research on how to prevent the spread of this together Massaging old racial wounds andofgrowing concerns, now scans application and have open and honest discusnumber Black busimessage of hope for young the road. But I’d love to letters from people who hoped to capitalize on fears that millions words and phrases and we want the commu- disease,” Scott said. “We have a grant from sions. people who are in a similar look intoGaddafi nesses increased to 95,526of it and, hopelooked up cognizant to me, tellin 2007 from 67,213 in of Africans, who once lived under the subjugation nity to be of these changes to the Centers for Disease Control and are parSaidpredicament Sharon Lettman-Hicks, executive fully, save a life as well. to the one ing me Itheir waschances.” such an 2002.

Black businesses European colonial rule and who were made citizens of increase ticipating with other Black organizations to directorthat of the coalition, “Black communiKW: What would be the you were in? accounted for 34.6 percent inspiration, and that they those nations, would continue to migrate to their This year’s conference will also attempt to get out more attention to the public.” ties are in crisis.

It’s critical that we support one thing you would most MO: Like I said of all businesses in Baltiwanted to follow in my “Mother Country” and without clear break down the complex new healthcare law This year the conference will have at least the empowerment anyoneneed who desireslike to to change about the impoverished, before, youofdon’t more City in 2007, while means of employment. through a Cliff-notes-type something positive to rebuilding footsteps.

And that if I guidebook. Free one workshop focusing on Black women. contribute foster care system? to win the lottery or for in Washington D.C., they healthcare screenings, panel “But we want all aspects of the community our families, including LGBTsave people.” could do it, they could do discussions, MO: I think there’s a somebody to come Oher wants to clear up some things with his book “I Beat the Odds.” accounted for 28.2 percent ★GADDAFI, Page 6 andI forums it. wantedontoserious send medical out a issues in the especially those at a higher risk to be need for more oversight you. I’m a living testiof all businesses that same Black community be positive message will and let story out there. Now we connected to them and by social workers, bemony to that. If you want year. featured.

But that thereyou willdon’t be them know need others to share their maintained those relacause there are a lot of to do it, it is possible.

The report also found particular focus need a wealthy familyon to stories and let everybody tionships. That scene in foster parents who are KW: Your story is that nearly four in 10 HIV/AIDS andsave bone marcome in and you, know what the real deal is incredibly moving and it’s the movie was just Holjust collecting checks.

Black-owned businesses like they saw in The and that it is possible to lywood.

They need to look closely a joy to see your success. in the U.S. in 2007 were Blind Side, because I felt beat the odds.

KW: What do you think Many African-American into the backgrounds of in the healthcare and sothat I always had an inner can be done on the nationKW: You have a percial assistance, repair and youth who have not been the people whose hands drive deep,from downpage inside. maintenance, and laundry al level to increase aware- sonal story that seems like blessed with the same continued 1 you’re putting the kids So, I just want to be an services fields. the stuff of an epic saga. ness about the size of the good fortune of a lovinto and then continue to that carries a voice punishment encouraging for Other findings Where do you weigh in on foster system in America ing adoptive family and monitor them. of up to twodon’t years believe in state those who include the number of the relative importance of and to help kids caught up benefactors suffer from KW: Are you happy? prison.

Black-owned businesses they can make it. destiny, luck, and persein it? an incredible achievement MO: Very.

Harrison, 54,movie, has not with receipts exceeding $1 KW: In the verance?

MO: As you know, I gap, mostly due to lack of KW: When was the been charged in his offimillion or more increased there is a restaurant scene put a lot of the unfortuMO: All of them are educational opportunities. last time you had a good cial capacity, and the alleby 35.4 percent to 14,507 where you embrace a nate statistics in my book. important factors. I’d say How do you think we can laugh? gations do not involve from 2002 to 2007. Also, young waiter who turns you need all three.

But there are a ton of us help them?

MO: I have a good any loss to Harris County. out of the 1.9 million out to be your brother.

KW: What was it like who’ve been through the MO: By devoting the laugh all the time. Very Still, Harris County Judge Black-owned businesses Have you reconnected being Black and joining a foster care system who time to sit down with a often.

Ed Emmett said he wants in 2007, 106,824 had paid with your biological sibwhite family? are successful. Basically, kid, one-on-one, and just KW: What was the last Harrison removed from employees, up 13 percent lings?

MO: That really I hope I’ve started someletting them know that book you read? from 2002. the job.

MO: I’ve always been thing off by putting my wasn’t a big deal for me, they can do it. That’s all MO: I Beat the Odds.

“Looking at the importance of that position for this county, at this time, bond ratings and all those things, I think it’s very important that he either be suspended or step down in some form or fashion,” Emmett said.

Harrison denies the charges, saying he is confident his innocence will be proven.

Emmett said if Harrison won’t step down willingly, he says he plans to make sure Harrison is suspended until the charges work their way through the court system.

Harrison wife has also been charged.

Indicted

VOLUME 79 • NUMBER 47 SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Editor Von Jiles Associate Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Cale Carter Columnist Yvette Chargois Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Webmaster Corneleon Block The Houston Defender Newspaper published

by The Houston Defender Inc. Company (713) 663-6996. The Defender audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscriptions, send $60.00 — 1 year, to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288.

Payment must accompany subscription request. All materials covered by 2009 copyright... (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

Elsie Scott, president of the CBC and “Sister Speak: Reducing HIV/AIDS in leadership summit. The coalition is the only Foundation, said that people need to know the Black Community” and “Beyond Blood: nation-wide Black gay civil rights organizathat federal jobs are available, but it’s no Bone Marrow Donation Among African tion.

4 longer a matter of taking a civic exam and Americans - A Health and Wellness The goal of this summit is to bring attenhaving an application read by a supervisor.

Luncheon.” tion to issues pertaining to gays and lesbians; He wishes he never did it. I ever worried about someMother “There’re technological advances inlike the this happening?

“CBC Foundation asked has anhim ongoing their fight for equality. The ultiwhyproject he did it.including He thing Continued from page 1 hiring process” Scott said. “A computer to increase AIDs awareness withhisfulltime mate goal is for people to be able to come hated when dad passed Holley: No. away.

He was angry.

He Defender: How do you now The scansbeating each application looking for key research on how to prevent the spread of this together and have open and honest discuswas caught have anything better your sondisease,” cope? Scott said. didn’t words and we want thehelp commu“We have a grant from sions. on tapeand byphrases the storage facilito do. He wasn’t thinking.

I take him to Holley: ty’s surveillance camera and nity to be cognizant of these changes to the Centers for Disease Control and What are parDefender: would Said Sharon Lettman-Hicks, executive church. We all keep him showed one officer deliverincrease their chances.” ticipating Black director of the coalition, “Black communitellorganizations other Black to mothpretty close now.

We with makeother you ing at least seven kicks to ers with sons who couldties be are in crisis. It’s critical that we support This year’s conference will also attempt to get out more attention to the public.” him stay in the house, play Holley while another officer confronted with the same games.

He goes to therapy. break down the complex new healthcare law This year the conference will have at least the empowerment of anyone who desires to punched Holley five times. issue?

That’s helping him a lot.

Holley, who has since been through a Cliff-notes-type guidebook. Free one workshop focusing on Black women. contribute something positive to rebuilding Holley: I really don’t Defender: How do you convicted the break-in, is discussions, healthcare inscreenings, panel “But we want all aspects community know.of Ithe know how I feelour families, including LGBT people.” maintain faith in the judicial not seen on tape struggling and forums on serious medical issues in the especially those at about a higher risk atoclose be it. Keep with the officers or resisting system after going through watch and constantly talk something like this?

Black community will be arrest. to their sons about staying Holley: I don’t. I have The tape featured.

But was therenot willmade be out of trouble. I’ve never no faith in the judicial syspublic until recently, and particular focus on been through nothing like tem. I never dreamed this has sparked outrage across HIV/AIDS and bone marthis before. I went through kind of stuff would happen the community. Jewell Holley says like the public, she was stunned to see exactly what her son endured.

Defender: When did you continued page 1 first see yourfrom son and what condition was he in? that Jewel carriesHolley: a punishment He was in shape there. of auppretty to twobad years in state Iprison. first saw him on March 24th, that’s when I first saw Harrison, 54, has not him. He came out; I saw beenbruises charged in hisHeoffithe on him. was cial capacity, and the his allelimping and holding side.

He do toldnot me he got beat gations involve up by the cops and I took any loss to Harris County. him on to the hospital. I Still,pretty Harrisupset.

County Judge was Ed Emmett said he was wants Defender: What your reaction when your Harrison removed fromson first told you what hapthe job. pened?

“Looking at the imporHolley: I screamed up tance of that position the place.

I yelled, hol-for this county, at this time, lered.

How bondDefender: ratings and all has those your faithI helped you during things, think it’s very these trying times? important that he either Holley: I go to church, be suspended or I can stepget that’s the only way down inthis. some form or through Defender: When did you fashion,” Emmett said. see the video and what was Harrison denies the your reaction once you saw charges, saying he is conit? fident his innocence I saw it onwill Holley: be proven.

Friday or Monday. I think it was Friday, were Emmett saidthey if Harrison getting up for school and won’t step down willingmy sister called and told ly, to heturn saysthehetelevision plans to me makeWesure on. saw itHarrison Friday onis the television.

I blew up, suspended until the I got nervous and scared. charges work their wayI couldn’t believe it. through the court system.

Defender: As the Harrison also mother of a wife younghas Black been charged. man, were you at any time

Indicted

VOLUME 79 80 ••NUMBER 16 VOLUME NUMBER•47 FEB 17-23, SEPTEMBER 16 – 2011 22, 2010 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Editor Von Jiles Associate Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony CaleFernandez-Davila Carter Columnist Yvette Chargois Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Webmaster Corneleon Block The Houston Defender Newspaper published

by The Houston Defender Inc. Company (713) 663-6996. The Defender audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscriptions, send $60.00 — 1 year, to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288.

Payment must accompany subscription request. All materials covered by 2011 2009 copyright... (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

to him and it makes me scared. I just don’t believe it still. I’m scared for him, myself and my whole family. We can’t do the things that we normally do. We just stay on the dreary side.

Defender: There are some people who argue that if your son hadn’t been committing a crime, this never would’ve happened.

What do you say to that thought?

Holley Yes, I agree to that. I wish he never did it.

some things with my other boys, but nothing like what Chad went through. I’ve never had to cope with anything like this. I really don’t know how to take it.

Defender: What would you like to see happen at this point?

Holley: I’d like to see them go to jail. I would like for them to get what’s coming to them for what they did to my son and what they have probably done to other people too.

recently offered to stem the steady influx of Africans into various European nations in an effort to keep Europe white and civilized. Gaddafi told Italian Prime FEBRUARY 17-23, 2011 | DEFENDER Minister Silvio Berlusconi on a recent trip to Rome that the European Union (EU) should pay him at least 5bn euros ($6.3 billion) a year to stop illegal African immigration and avoid a “Black Europe.”

Massaging old racial wounds and growing concerns, Gaddafi hoped to capitalize on fears that millions of Africans, who once lived under the subjugation of European colonial rule and who were made citizens of those nations, would continue to migrate to their “Mother Country” impoverished, and without clear means of employment. ★GADDAFI, Page 6

35

FEBRUARY 17-23, DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 –2011 22,| 2010 | DEFENDER

Remarks So…Why Celebrate Black HistoryGaddafi Month?

CBC

continued from page 1

green industry.

The Congressional Black Caucus parents could also learn to like, The Buffalo Soldiers promise you an exciting tive accomplishments of ue to treat this month with

By Ronald C. funds Greenthe legislative Foundation, which conread and calculate math.

Museum; The Houston and informative visit at African-Americans.

Black a heighted reverence and Houston City Controller ference, wants to ensure that the Black comSo many stories, in Museum of African Amerany of these venues.

History is rich history we must continue tellmunity is aware of the changing job market, Houston alone! ican Culture; and the Black History Month without the need of a ing the stories of African The new jobs and how to prepare for them.

Houston is preserving African American Library is an occasion to celcolor attachment.

African American achievement answer to “So many people will never return to the our past through edifices at The Gregory School.

I ebrate the many invenAmericans should continfor decades to come. the title jobs they lost,” said Rep. Elijah E. is simple The CBC wants to ensure that the Black community is aware of the changCummings (D-Md.), honorary co-chair of actually, for this year’s events. “It’s our responsibility to ing job market, new jobs and how to prepare for them. the same increase their ability to do the jobs that are

By Shantella Y. Sherman reasons we SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER available to them.” row donation. informed,” Scott added.

They will be celebrate holding several town hall The sessions will include “Beyond a Also, for the first time in its history, the Women’s (NNPA) - In what appears to be a racially incendiary meetings throughout the week to discuss National AIDS Strategy: Next Steps in the conference is partnering with the National History Month, Hispanic move, Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, jobs and education, said Cummings.

Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Black America” Black Justice Coalition to hold an LGBT Heritage Month,president Asian of the CBC and “Sister Speak: Reducing HIV/AIDS in leadership summit. The coalition is the only recently offered to stem the steady influx of Africans Elsie Scott, Pacific-Americans into various European nations in an effort to keep Foundation, said that Heripeople need to know the Black Community” and “Beyond Blood: nation-wide Black gay civil rights organizatage Month,jobs American Europe white and civilized. Gaddafi told Italian Prime that federal are available, but it’s no Bone Marrow Donation Among African tion.

Indian Which Minister Silvio Berlusconi on a recent trip to Rome that longer aHeritage matter of … taking a civic exam and Americans - A Health and Wellness The goal of this summit is to bring attenis, of course, to celebrate the European Union (EU) should pay him at least 5bn having an application read by a supervisor.

Luncheon.” tion to issues pertaining to gays and lesbians; the many contributions of euros ($6.3 billion) a year to stop illegal African immi“There’re technological advances in the “CBC Foundation has an ongoing project including their fight for equality. The ultithat particular group to gration and avoid a “Black Europe.” hiring process” Scott said. “A computer to increase AIDs awareness with fulltime mate goal is for people to be able to come American History.

Massaging old racial wounds and growing concerns, now scans each application looking for key research on how to prevent the spread of this together and have open and honest discusI feel very strongly Gaddafi hoped to capitalize on fears that millions of words and phrases and we want the commu- disease,” Scott said. “We have a grant from sions. that young people deserve Africans, who once lived under the subjugation of nity to be cognizant of these changes to the Centers for Disease Control and are parSaid Sharon Lettman-Hicks, executive an accurate history of European colonial rule and who were made citizens of increase their chances.” ticipating with other Black organizations to director of the coalition, “Black communitheir country and their those nations, would continue to migrate to their This year’s conference will also attempt to get out more attention to the public.” ties are in crisis. It’s critical that we support community—good and “Mother Country” impoverished, and without clear break down the complex new healthcare law This year the conference will have at least the empowerment of anyone who desires to bad— the Emancipation means of employment. through a Cliff-notes-type guidebook. Free one workshop focusing on Black women. contribute something positive to rebuilding Proclamation, Brown healthcare screenings, panel discussions, “But we want all aspects of the community our families, including LGBT people.” v. Board of Education, ★GADDAFI, Page 6 and forums on serious medical issues in the especially those at a higher risk to be the Montgomery Bus Black community will be Boycott, the Birmingfeatured. But there will be ham church bombing particular focus on and lynching’s, events in HIV/AIDS and bone marAfrican American history that are significant in U.S. history.

I know from talking continued page is1 a with peoplefrom that there real desire to know more that carries a punishment about the African Ameriof up to two years in state can heritage—in Houston, prison. and Texas and the United Harrison, 54, has not States. been charged in his offiThat’s why we celcial capacity, and the alleebrate Black History gations do not involve Month. any loss to Harris County.

Almost a century ago, Still, Harris County Judge Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Ed Emmett said he wants Kentucky-born, Harvard Harrison removed from educated historian spoke the job. of the lack of attention “Looking at the imporpaid to Black Americans, tance of that position for and in 1926 began a this county, at this time, series of lectures, symbond ratings and all those posiums and exhibitions things, I think it’s very in order to arouse interimportant that he either est for the little known be suspended or step Negro History Week in down in some form or February. Dr. Woodson’s fashion,” Emmett said. campaign was successful, Harrison denies the and before long maycharges, saying he is conors and governors were fident his innocence will issuing proclamations be proven. honoring Negro History Emmett said if Harrison Week. Fifty years later— won’t step down willingin 1976, the nation’s ly, he says he plans to bicentennial--the occasion make sure Harrison is was expanded to a month suspended until the with President Gerald R. charges work their way Ford urging Americans through the court system. to “seize the opportunity Harrison wife has also to honor the too-often been charged. neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

February was highly appropriate for us to celebrate our achievements.

VOLUME 79 • NUMBER 47 It would come to pass, SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 that February would have many memorable occasions: passage of the 15th Publisher Amendment giving Black Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Americans the right to vote; the election of the Editor first Black Von Jiles U.S. Senator, Hiram Revels; the foundingAssociate of the NAACP. Editor Closer toBillingsley home in ReShonda Houston, we have our gallery of notable Black Art Director achievers—Barbara Cale Carter Jordan, Mickey Leland, John Coleman, Edith Columnist Irby Jones, Lee Brown…

Yvette Chargois again, so many! Whenever I think of the imporSports Editors tance education, one MaxofEdison gentleman Darrell K.always Ardisoncomes to mind: Rev. John Henry (Jack) Yates. Shortly Contributing after being appointed the Writers first minister of Antioch Aswad Walker Baptist in 1868, Jack Webmaster Yates began a school for Block theCorneleon children so they could learn their Three R’s, just Houston Defenderchildren Newspaper published asThe the white were

by The Houston Defender Inc. Company (713) 663-6996.

Defender audited by learning in The their schools.

Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subAndscriptions, he did sendsomething $60.00 — 1 year, to:of Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288. nearly equal importance: Payment must accompany subscription request. All materials covered by 2009 he began night classes copyright... (No material herein may be without theso written permission at reproduced the church their

on ‘Blackening’ Europe stirs concerns, anger

Indicted

of the publisher).

6

FEBRUARY 17-23, 2011 | DEFENDER

SPORTS

SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 | DEFENDER

SEPTEMBER 16 ––2011 22,| 2010 2010 DEFENDER FEBRUARY 17-23, DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 22, || DEFENDER

Max Edison

on Sports Max Edison Edison Max on Beall is the Man Sports What happens when you blister an opponent for a

career high 195 yards rushing

Gray returns to the Titans Beall is thecarries.

Man Beall is the Man on just 19 You’re

WeC-USA reported itwhen first last What happensOffensive when you What happens you named week and it has come to pass. blister an opponent for blister an opponent for Player of the Week and aathat Former UT All-American and career high 195 yards yardson rushing career high 195 rushing honor was bestowed talNFL standout Jerry Gray has on justCougar 19 carries. carries.

You’re on just 19 You’re ented Jr. running been named defensive coordinanamed C-USA Offensive named C-USA Offensive back Bryce Beall. tor of the Tennessee Titans.

Player ofscored the Week Week and that Player the that Beallof threeand touchGray joins the Titans after honor was bestowed on talhonor bestowed taldownswas tying a career on best and spending one season as the ented Cougar Jr. running ented rattledCougar off runsJr.ofrunning 43, 35 and secondary coach with the Seattle back Bryce Beall. back Bryce Beall.

31 yards in helping Houston Seahawks.

He spent five years Beall scored three touchscored three touchto Beall a 54-24 win over UTEP in as defensive coordinator with downs tying aa career career best and and downs tying the conference opener.best the Buffalo Bills of from rattled off runs runs 43,2001-05.

35 and rattled off of 43, 35 and Texas Bowl Announces Class His defenses in 2003 and 2004 31 yards in helping Houston 31The yards in helping Texas Bowl Houston each rankedwin second in UTEP the NFLin to 54-24 over to aa 54-24 win over UTEP in Committee recently for yards allowed, and both were the conference opener. the conference opener. announced the 2010 class of rated in the top 10 in points alTexas Bowl Announces Class Texas Texas Bowl BowlAnnounces Gridiron Class lowed.

His 2004 defense led the The Texas Texas Bowl by The Bowl Legends presented NFL in takeaways with 39 and Committee recently Committee recently Wrangler Cavender’s ranked fifthand in red zoneclass defense. announced the 2010 of announced the 2010 class of Boot“Jerry City, has which includes a number of Texas Bowl Gridiron Texas Bowl Gridiron Pro Football Famers qualities that I Hall thinkof are assets Legends presented byJoe Legends presented by Raymond Berry and for this role.

He played the Wrangler and Cavender’s Cavender’s Wrangler and Greene, University game, he former coached aincludes position of Boot City, which Boot City, which includes Texas defensive stars Bill group and he has coordinatPro Football Hall of Famers Famers Pro Football Hall of Bradley and Bob Moses, and ing experience,” said Raymond BerryTexas andTitans Joe Raymond Berry and Joe Aldine native, A&M head coach Mike University Munchak. “Iof Greene, former Greene, University star and former Houston respected him as a playerBill and of Texas defensive stars Texas defensive stars Bill Texan Aaron Glenn. coach andand he was someone Bradley Bob Moses, that and I Bradley and Bob Moses, and Texas Bowl Gridiron knew right away that I wanted Aldine native, TexasbyA&M A&M to Aldine native, Texas Legends presented talk to about the position. star and former former HoustonIt was star and Houston Wrangler andduring Cavender’s evident to me interview Texan Aaron Glenn.

Texan Aaron Boot City all individuals process thatare heGlenn. will fit well Texas Bowl Gridiron conTexas Bowl Gridiron who made a significant with us.

He is familiar with our Legends presented byof footLegends presented tribution thetype game system andtothe ofbyplayers Wrangler and Cavender’s Wrangler and ball we in the state of roster.

Texas,He is that have onCavender’s the Boot City are all individuals arehigh all individuals either at the colaBoot greatCity teacher and aschool, great perwho made significantlevel. conwho made aa significant legiate or professional son, and I think the playersconwill tribution toarguably the game gamethe of deepfoottribution the of foot“Thiswell isto respond to his style.” ball in the state of Texas, ball in the state of Texas, est and most star-studded A 14-year veteran of NFL either at Gridiron the high high Legends,” school, colcoleither at the school, class of coaching, Gray started his legiate or professional level. legiate or professional level. said Texas Bowl executive NFL coaching career in 1997 “This Heather is arguably arguably the deepdeep“This is the director Houston. as a defensive quality control est and most star-studded est andfor star-studded “Each ofmost these five men left coach the Tennessee Oilers. class of Gridiron Gridiron Legends,” class of an indelible markLegends,” onforthe He held that position two said Texas Bowl executive said Bowl executive gameTexas inbefore Texas and we are seasons, being promoted director Heather Houston. director Heather extremely proud toforbetheassocito secondary coachHouston.

1999 “Each of seasons. these five menhisleft left “Each of these five men ated2000 with each of them.

I diand Under an indelible mark on the an indelible mark onand theBlaine want toSamari thank the Gridiron rection, Rolle game inearned Texas and we are game in Texas and we Legends selection committee Bishop All Pro andare Pro extremely proud to be associextremely proud tojob be associfor thehonors wonderful they’ve Bowl in 2000; and as a ated with with each of of them.firstII in ated each them. group, the Titans ranked ★EDISON, Page 6 want to thank the Gridiron want to thank the Gridiron H EDISON, Page 8 Legends selection committee Legends selection committee for the the wonderful wonderful job job they’ve they’ve for

Darrell★EDISON, ArdisonPage 6 ★EDISON, Page 6

on H.S. Darrell Ardison Darrell Ardison Sports on H.S. Houston’s top high school Galveston Ballcontinued head boys volleyball teams Sports basketball coach Jerald Temple

their winning ways recently. employed a different halftime In the Class 5A division, strategy following his team’s Houston’s top high high school Houston’s top school top-ranked Cypress Woods lethargic first-half performance volleyball teams continued volleyball teams continued swept District 17-5A foes against rival LaMarque. their winning ways recently. recently. their winning ways Cy-Fair and Cypress Falls to a crowd ofdivision, more than In With the Class Class 5Aon division, In the 5A improve to 26-1 the sea5,500 fans at Hofheinz Pavilion top-ranked Cypress Woods top-ranked Cypress Woods son. and the District 24-4A champiswept District 17-5A foes swept 17-5A No. District two Klein Oak,foes 22-2, onship at and stake, the BallFalls High to Cy-Fair Cypress Cy-Fair Cypress Falls defeatedand Cy-Fair to win theto Tornadoes trailed by asthe many improve to 26-1 on seaimprove to 26-1 on the seaKingwood Tournament chamas 15 points (28-13) in the first son. son. pionship. half as the 3-2 zone No. twoCougars’ Klein Oak, 22-2, No. two Klein Oak, 22-2, Cy Woods is currently defense forced perimeter shots defeated Cy-Fair to win the defeated Cy-Fair to win ranked No. three in the the that weren’t falling.

Ball was Kingwood Tournament chamKingwood Tournament chamcoaches’ state 5A poll while particularly ineffective from pionship. pionship.

Klein Oak jumped toarc No.in the beyond the three-point CyOther Woods is currently currently Cy Woods is five.

Houston-area first twoNo. quarters. ranked threeinclude in the the Katy ranked No. three in schools La Marque’s prowess on coaches’ state 5A poll while coaches’ 5A poll while at No. 11state andglass No. 15 The the offensive provided Klein Oak jumped jumped to to No. No. Klein Oak Woodlands. plenty of secondand thirdfive.

Other Houston-area five.

Other Houston-area Magnolia is the top chance opportunities thatarea the ranked schools include Katy ranked schools include Katy school in the Class 4A state Cougars were able to capitalize at No. 11 and No. 15 The at No. 11 and No.with 15 The poll three on inattheNo. game’s early going.

Woodlands.

Woodlands.

Friendswood, Brenham and All that changed after Magnolia isfalling the top top area Magnolia is the area Barbers Hill in line Temple surprised his team at at school in the six.

Class 4A state state school in the Class 4A four through Stratford is intermission. poll at No. No. three withupstart poll at three with ranked No. nine and While barely raising his Friendswood, Brenham and Friendswood, Brenham Pearland Dawson is Pavilion No.and 11. voice in the Hofheinz Barbers Hill falling in line at Barbers Hill falling in line Dawson is 21-6 after regislocker room, Temple remindedat four through six.

Stratford is four through tering a dramatic comeback his players thatsix. the Stratford game was is ranked No. ninePark andlast upstart ranked No. nine and upstart win over Deer supposed to be fun. He told Pearland Dawson is No. 11.

11.

Pearland Dawson is No. week.toThe Eagles prevailed them enjoy playing before a Dawson is 21-6 after regisDawson is after regis19-25, 27-25, 25-10, huge crowd at 21-6 a20-25, college facility tering dramatic comeback tering aaasdramatic comeback 15-12 outside hitter and most of all to relax. win over Deer Park last win over Deer Park Yewande Akanbi ledlast the way Temple’s pep talk gave the week.

The Eagles prevailed week.

The Eagles prevailed in the match with 22 kills.

Tornadoes renewed vigor on the 19-25, 27-25, 20-25, 25-10, 19-25, 25-10, After27-25, finishing in limited the top defensive end as20-25, they 15-12 as outside outside hitter 15-12 as hitter 10 at the prestigious Pearland La Marque to 14 second-half Yewande Akanbi led the the way way Yewande Akanbi led Tournament lastjust month, points, including three in in the match with 22 kills. in the match with 22 kills.

Dawson serving the fourthisquarter, en notice route tothat a After finishing finishingwas in the the top After in accomplishment notop 61-51 victory.

10 at the the prestigious Pearland Pearland 10 at fluke.

Ball’sprestigious win, its second in Tournament last month, Tournament last month, Magnolia earned itswith 20thLa two district showdowns Dawson is season servingthe notice that Dawson is serving notice that win of the with a 21Marque, improved Tors to accomplishment was no accomplishment was no 25, 25-10, 25-16, and 25-15 27-3 on the season 9-1vicin fluke. play. It also clinched the fluke. district ★ARDISON, Magnolia earned its its Page 20th 6 Magnolia earned 20th win of of the the season season with with aa 2121win 25, 25-10, 25-16, 25-15 vicH ARDISON, Page 8 25, 25-10, 25-16, 25-15 vic★ARDISON, Page Page 6 6 ★ARDISON,

5

New Attitude Texans Offense Yields Results New Attitude Lance Blanks Texans Offense Yields Results SPORTS

57 5

Former local star leads as Phoenix Suns GM W W

By Max Edison DEFENDER

by Max Edison

It’s a long way from the Cambridge Village neighborhood of Southwest Houston to the desert oasis of Phoenix, but former University of Texas standout and local area basketball superstar Lance Blank has made the trek, with a number of stops in between. Blanks is in his first year as the new general manager of the Phoenix Suns.

After a successful run at UT and being drafted in the first round of the 1990 NBA draft to the Detroit Pistons, Blanks enjoyed a brief NBA career and played internationally before trading his sneakers in for business attire as a scout for the San Antonio Spurs in 2000. Although many former players have had great difficulty making the transition into the workforce, Photos courtesy of the Texans Blanks’ transition has been as smooth #1 Right guard Antoine Caldwell, above, (college photo) and left tackle #76 as his three-point jumper at UT. Duane Brown, below are key components of the Texan new rushing attack.

“I think my success or perceived success up to this point in my career Photos courtesy of the Texans Former local star Lance Blanks is now the GM Photos courtesy of the Texans has#1 been a culmination of a number Right guard Antoine Antoine Caldwell,ofabove, above, (college photo) and left left tackle tackle #76 #76 the NBA’s Phoenix photo) Suns. and #1 Right guard Caldwell, (college of Duane differentBrown, factors,”below Blanks are said.key components of the Texan new rushing attack.

Duane Brown, below are key components of the Texan new rushing attack.

Blanks acknowledges some “Going overseas, learning what it’s of the influences that have helped like to make a team and be cut was formulate his philosophy as a NBA a factor. Being an entrepreneur and executive. owning a business for a couple of “The organizations I’ve worked years after my playing career was with off the court and their suclike a two-and-a-half year business cess has truly rubbed off on me in a degree. There were many similarities positive way,” he said. “People like between running and organizing a Danny Ferry and his influence. In business and executing the duties it San Antonio, guys like R.C. Buford takes to be successful in a front office (Spurs G.M.) and Coach Greg Popoof a basketball franchise.” vich (Spurs head coach) and their His tenure at San Antonio with great leadership.

Joe Dumars, a guy I the Spurs proved to be the perfect played with, has been a phenomenal foundation to launch his post-playing friend and mentor. These are just career. some of the folks I think I have drawn “Playing overseas and playing greatly from as a front office profesminor league basketball and undersional.” standing how those leagues function Blank’s five-year stint in San and the talent that plays there really Antonio paved the way for his next helped prepare me for my career in move, assistant general manager in scouting and personnel evaluation,” Cleveland.

Blanks explained.

ell, it’s only the first game of the season, but By Max Edison Max Edison you have By to be excited about the way the fightDEFENDER DEFENDER in’ Texans dismissed their old nemesis, the Indy Colts, last weekend at Reliant. Of course, there was a sellell, it’s it’s only the first game of the season, but ell, first game out crowd that wasonly morethe than amped upof forthe theseason, kick-offbut of you have to be excited about the way the fightyou have to be which excitedlongsuffering about the wayTexan the fightthe NFL regular season, fans in’their Texans dismissed their old nemesis, nemesis, the the Indy Indy in’ Texans their old hope will be firstdismissed visit to the playoffs.

Colts, last weekend at Reliant.

Of course, there was a sellColts, Ofatcourse, there was a sellYou last alsoweekend have to at beReliant. enthused the intensity level the out crowd that was more than amped up for the kick-off of out that was morequite than amped the kick-off of teamcrowd displayed, which franklyup hasforbeen somewhat the NFL regular season, which longsuffering Texan fans the NFL regularon season, Texan fans underwhelming far toowhich many longsuffering occasions when the team hope will be their their first visit visit tooutcome the playoffs. playoffs. hope be first the takes will the field.

Normally, theto is very predictable, Youfat also have to to be be enthused enthused at at the the intensity intensity level level the the You also have a big loss. team displayed, which quite frankly has been somewhat team displayed, which quite frankly has been somewhat No, this was a different group of fightin’ Texans. On underwhelming on far far toowith many occasions whenled thebyteam team underwhelming on many occasions when the defense, they came outtoo a surly attitude, his takes the field.

Normally, the outcome is very predictable, takes the field.

Normally, the outcome is very predictable, “royal highness of surliness,” safety Bernard Pollard. big fat fat loss. All-World defensive end Mario Williams aaEven big loss. potential No, this was different group of fightin’ fightin’ Texans.

Texans. On On No, ready this was aa different of came to dominate, andgroup did just that. defense, they came out with a surly attitude, led by his defense, they with that a surly led simply by his The real keycame for theout squad, madeattitude, yours truly “royal highness of surliness,” safety Bernard Pollard. “royal highness of surliness,” Bernard giddy with joy, was the way thesafety vaunted Texan Pollard. offense Even potential All-World defensive endJohnson Mario Williams Williams Even potential defensive end Mario performed.

NowAll-World we all know that Andre is one of came ready truly to dominate, dominate, and did just justand that.Matt Schaub is a came ready to and did that. the world’s dominant receivers The real key for the squad, that made yours truly simply The real QB, key for squad, yours Pro-Bowl whothe can pass that withmade the best of truly them.simply What giddy with joy, was the way the vaunted Texan offense giddy withunsure joy, was the way vaunted Texan offense we were of was if thetherevamped offensive line performed.

Now wearound all know knowinthat that Andre Johnson isprovide one of of performed. we all Johnson one could moveNow folks theAndre trenches and is the world’s truly dominant receivers and Matt Schaub is the world’s dominant Matt Schaublanes is aa Schaub withtruly enough time toreceivers pass andand create running Pro-Bowl QB, who can pass with the best of them.

What Pro-Bowl who canFoster. pass with theI’m best of them.

What for runningQB, back Arian Well, pleased to report we were unsure unsure ofthewas was ifwith the flying revamped offensive line we the revamped offensive line the were O-line passedof testif colors, for at least could move folks around in the trenches and provide could move folks around in the trenches and provide week one.

Schaub withknow enough time to pass pass and create create running lanes Schaub with enough to running lanes Now we thetime Texans can and score points in bunches, for running back Arian Foster.

Well, I’m pleased to report for back Arian I’m pleased report but running it traditionally has Foster. been anWell, air based attack.toAgainst the Colts, O-linethey passed the test testthe with flying offense, colors, for for at least least the O-line passed the with flying colors, at introduced balanced which feaweek one. week tured one. the running of Arian Foster and the outcome was a Now we we know know the Texans Texans can can score score points points in in bunches, bunches, Now the record-setting afternoon. but it traditionally has been an air based attack.

Against butConsider it traditionally hasArian beenFoster’s an air based attack. yards Against this: RB 231 rushing on the Colts, they introduced the balanced offense, which feathe Colts, they introduced the balanced offense, on which fea33 carries (three TD’s) were the second-most Kickoff tured the running running of Arian Arian He Foster and the the outcome was aa tured the of Foster and was Weekend in NFL history. recorded theoutcome first 200-yard record-setting afternoon. record-setting afternoon. rushing performance in franchise history. Foster rushed Consider this:in RB RB Arian Foster’s 231125 rushing yards on this: Foster’s 231 rushing yards on forConsider 191 yards theArian second half and yards in the 33 carries (three TD’s) were the second-most on Kickoff 33 carries (threeHouston’s TD’s) were second-most on Kickoff fourth quarter.

257therushing yards represented Weekend in NFL history.

He recorded the first 200-yard Weekend in NFL history.

He recorded the first 200-yard just the second 200-yard rushing performance in team hisrushing performance in franchise history.

Foster rushed rushing performance in franchise history.

Foster rushed tory. forIt’s 191 yards inover the and second half and 125 yards for in the the for 191 yards the second and yards in been saidin overhalf again that125 in order fourth quarter.

Houston’s 257 rushing yards represented fourth quarter.

Houston’s 257 rushing yards represented Texans to achieve their goals this season, they must feajust the secondbalanced 200-yardoffensive rushing performance performance in team team hisjust second 200-yard rushing in histure the a more attack. In other words, tory. tory. improve a rushing game that was simply abysmal in 2009.

It’sback been said Foster over and and over again that in inthe order for the the It’s been said over that order for Big Arian saysover the again team heard comments, Texans to achieve their goals this season, they must feaTexans to achieve their line. goals this season, they must feaespecially his offensive ture“We’ve moreheard balanced offensive attack.

In other other words, ture aa more balanced offensive attack.

In words, this whole offseason about how our run improve a rushing game that was simply abysmal in 2009. improve a rushing game that abysmal in 2009. game wasn’t as efficient last was year simply and how if we had a run Big back Arian Foster saysthis the and teamcould heardhave the comments, comments, Big back says the team heard the game, weArian could Foster have done done that,” Page 8 H BLANKS especially his offensive line. especially his offensive line.

“We’ve heard heard this this whole whole offseason offseason about how how Page our run run “We’ve about our ★TEXANS, 6 game wasn’t as efficient last year and how if we had a run game wasn’t as efficient last year and how if we had a run game, we we could could have have done done this this and and could could have have done done that,” that,” game,

H.S. Football Games of the Week H.S. girls’ basketball update H.S. Football Games of the Week ★TEXANS, Page Page 6 6 ★TEXANS,

By Darrell K. Ardison

By Darrell K. DEFENDER Ardison

played with a renewed sense of confidence, combining to score 18 Both schools had area high Several Houston

By Darrell Darrell K.toArdison Ardison points as they shook off something to prove.

By K. schools projected earn a spot DEFENDER the demoralizing loss to was went into their DEFENDER inWheatley the playoffs Worthing. coming a 36-point third off game of the season still Several Houston area high high It was in the fourth loss to District 22-4A Several area seeking thatHouston first victory. schools projected to earn a spot quarter that Sophus put the rival Worthing, minus schools projected to earn a spot After advancing to the Class in the playoffs went into their team on her back with an its in best player, and the playoffs went into their 4A state semifinals last year, third game of the season still array of devastating crossstillthird within reach of game of the season still Pearland Dawson was one of seeking that first victory. over dribbles to the basket a district championseeking that first victory. those schools after losing to After advancing to the theSprings Class as she weaved through the ship and 5A a berth in theClear After advancing to Class Class stalwarts Lady Eagles’ defense.

4A state semifinals last year, playoffs with Booker 4A state semifinals last year, and Conroe Oak Ridge.

Wheatley and WorthT. Washington standing Pearland Dawson was one of Pearland Dawson was one of DAWSON (1-2) vs. NIMITZ (1-2) ing had one loss apiece squarely in the way. those schools after losing to those schools after losing to Dawson broke into the wingoing into the final week Magnolia wanted Class 5A stalwarts Clear Springs Class 5A stalwarts ning column with aClear 28-0 Springs victory of the regular season and to prove a home win and Conroe Oak Ridge. and Conroe Oak Ridge. 4A powon the road at perennial both schools will advance against rival MontgomDAWSON (1-2) vs.

NIMITZ (1-2) DAWSON (1-2) vs. NIMITZ (1-2) led erhouse Dayton.

The Eagles to the playoffs. ery21-0 was no fluke, with a Dawson broke into the winDawson broke into the Steve winat halftime behind At the end of the share ofcolumn the district ning column withtitle 28-0TD victory ning with aa 28-0 victory Orisakwe’s three-yard run, Magnolia-Montgomery at stake on the Lady on the road at perennial 4A powon road at11-yard perennial 4A powTrethe Oliver’s scoring run game, both schools were Bears’ home floor. The erhouse Dayton.

TheTD Eagles led erhouse Eagles and an Dayton. eight-yard run led by champions.

With the return of 21-0 at halftime behind Steve 21-0 halftime behindTDSteve PaytonatJones.

A 40-yard pass Austin (dark uniforms) hopes to improve to 3-0 this week against rival Milby. Here they faced Yet Magnolia junior junior guard DiamoniOrisakwe’s three-yard TD run, Orisakwe’s run, Scarborough last week in a 50-0 victory. from Garry three-yard Kimble to TD Randall Shaq Fuselier nailed two shaTre Sophus back from Tre Oliver’s 11-yard scoring run Oliver’s scoring was run Weeks in the11-yard third quarter crucial throws with a two-game absence The clock is running and time is almost over for girls basketball. and an eight-yard TD run by and an eight-yard by he purposefully set up a tough Garner rushed for 164 yards and 3 loss to Elkins in free the only scoring in TD the run second the 2010 sea24 seconds remaining duePayton to academic issues, Payton Jones.

A 40-yard TD pass Austin (dark uniforms) hopes to improve to 3-0 this week against rival Milby.

Here they faced in Austin (dark uniforms) hopes improve 3-0 this week Milby. Dayton Here they faced half. Jones. A 40-yard TD pass non-district schedule to help pre- to added twotoadditional scoresagainst to sonrival opener, couldn’t the game to seal a 52-48 Wheatley found the gofrom Garry Kimble to Randall Scarborough last week in a 50-0 victory.

Wheatley head coach the Wheatley Sophus pro-overcome Scarborough last week inReua 50-0 from Garry Kimble to Randall pare DAWSON VS. NIMITZ for district games down the victory. give SFA an lineup, advantage they four first-half victory and steal some of the ingWeeks a littlein easier while saddling a Weeks in the third quarter was pulled ceeded to make behind-the-back turnovers despite rushing for 178 the third was ben The Eagles look quarter to continue line.Stiff “You havehistostar getguard through would never relinguish. thunder from Montgomery’s co72-53 loss on the Lady Eagles. the only scoring in the second he purposefully set up a tough Garner rushed for 164 yards and 3 loss to Elkins in the 2010 seaof the game for a up brief chat passes to teammate the scoring in the he purposefully setto tough Garner 164Ariel yards and 3yards loss in to the Elkins in the 2010 seatheironly winning ways thissecond week out some tough games getabetter,” Milbyrushed will befor trying to getTaylor into game’s first 24 minchampionship.

Sophus scored a game-high half. non-district schedule to help preadded two additional scores to son opener, Dayton couldn’t discussed the importance of added that resulted inatlayups that gave half. non-district to help pretwo additional scores to son when they take on Aldine and Wells said. schedule “There isn’t an easy the win column the expense of utes. opener, Dayton couldn’t “Shaq was Lady 34 DAWSON points, including 19 in the VS. NIMITZ pare for district games down down the give give SFA an advantage advantage they overcome overcome four huge,” first-half acting as a facilitator for her the Lady Wildcats momentum.

DAWSON pare for games the SFA an they four Nimitz. VS. TheNIMITZ Cougars notched her week fordistrict us.” their long-time rivals.

Buffs’ Angleton turned the first-half tables in Bulldogs coach Erika Ritter fourth quarter, to look overcome a The Eagles to continue line.

“You have to get through would never relinguish. turnovers despite rushing for 178said. until her started “It appeared like our kids Thefirst Eagles lookweek to continue line.

“You have to shot get through would never relinguish. turnovers despite rushing for 178 their win last by rally- teammates AUSTIN (2-0) vs MILBY (0-2) quarterback Lawrence Putman the “She second half. this Senior quarterwanted game so bad. sluggish start when she missed their winning ways this week some tough games to get better,” Milby will be trying to get into yards in the game’s first 24 minplayed moreberelaxed and their winning thisroad week some to get better,” Milby will trying getwith into yards in the game’s first 24 mining from behindways on the to falling.

Thistough is angames old-fashioned rival- and dimunitive wideto receiver backAnd Quandre Diggstell (91when yards on you could she four of her first five shots in the when they they take13-9. on Nimitz Aldine Wells Wells said.

“There isn’t an easy the winconfidence column at atwill the expense of utes. utes.

“She (Sophus) hadn’t played more when Sophus when take on Aldine said. isn’t an easy win column the expense of defeat Conroe ry game so“There you can throw the the Sergio Bautista have their 30 carries) on a one-yard picked itscored up defensively, it in just contest.

Nimitz.

The Cougars notched week for us.” their long-time rivals.

Buffs’ Angleton turned the tables tables in a while, and her conditioning came back in the game,” Stiff Nimitz.

The Cougars notched week for us.” their long-time rivals.

Buffs’ Angleton turned the in trailed 9-6 withseeing less us than two records out the window. team primed for confrontation. sneak to capour a 53-yard, 15-play brought whole team momen“Man, I cried lose their firstremaining win last last week week byfourth rally- wasn’t AUSTIN (2-0)a vs vs MILBYto (0-2) quarterback Lawrence Putman the second half. Senior Senior quarterit needed toimprove be so I quarterback said. “When weALIEF played Worthing their first win by rallyAUSTIN (2-0) MILBY (0-2) Putman second half. quarterminutes in come the SFA where has chance ANGLETON (2-1)Lawrence vs.

ELSIK (2-1) the drive in the quarterswing.” to give tum, intothird aDiggs different to Worthing, so I hadonto ing from behind the road to This is an old-fashioned rivaland dimunitive wide receiver back Quandre (91 yards on decided to give her a break,” Stiff and she wasn’t out there, the kids ing from behind on the road to This is an old-fashioned rivaland dimunitive wide receiver back Quandre Diggs (91 yards on quarter when Torian Amos to 3-0 after demolishing The Wildcats played possum in his team a 17-10 edge.

Fuselier finished with a back and doConroe my thing,” Sophus defeat 13-9.

Nimitz ry game so you can throw the Sergio Bautista will have their 30 carries) scored on a one-yard said.

“It was a good time to get looked a little lost since she’s our defeat Conroe 13-9.

Nimitz ry game so you can throw the Sergio Bautista will have their 30 carries) scored on a one-yard hauled in a to 65-yard touchdown Scarborough 50-0 at Barnett the first quarter against Dayton.

The Wildcats12were at and it again team-high points seven said, referring the less Lady Wildtrailed 9-6Flavies with than two records out the window. window. team primed for confrontation. confrontation. sneak to cap cap quarter.

53-yard, 15-play her backout inMustangs’ shape for quarterback the postonly returning varsity playerthe fromsneak trailed 9-6 with less than two records the team primed for to aa 53-yard, 15-play pass from Heffner at the Stadium.

In the opening 12 minutes, in the fourth steals – none bigger than the one cats’ 75-39 loss to Worthing a minutes remaining in the the gamefourth season.

SFA Davis has chance to improve improve ANGLETON (2-1) vs. ALIEF ALIEF ELSIK (2-1) drive drive in Jackson, the third third who quarter to give give She’s our leader and we last season.” minutes remaining in fourth SFA has aa tossed chance to ANGLETON (2-1) vs.

(2-1) in the quarter to 1:58earlier. mark to told provide Casey three touchBroncos dictated theELSIK game’s Ryan rushed fortwo she turned into a layup with week “I my team that quarter when Torian Torian Amos Amos expect to 3-0 after demolishing TheImana Wildcats played possum in his his team team aa 17-10 17-10 edge. edge. apasses lot of her.”

Lancelin and Taylor quarter when to 3-0 after demolishing The Wildcats played possum in winner. down and ran for two tempo and jumped out to an early minutes, fourwere seconds for I owed them apologytouchdown and that hauled in an 65-yard Scarborough 50-0 back at back Barnett the first quarter against against Dayton.

The Wildcats at it it left again Upon insertion into the were particularly effective hauled in aacoach 65-yard touchdown 50-0 at Barnett first quarter The Wildcats were at again Dawson Eric Wells said Scarborough more whileher running Tavares 10-0 advantage.

After a Dayton. toughand 8Magnolia advantage. a 44-42 wepass had to come out on top.” ★H.S. FOOTBALL, Page 6 It from Flavies Flavies Heffner Heffner at at the the Stadium.

Stadium. Mustangs’ Mustangs’ quarterback quarterback In the the opening opening 12 12 minutes, minutes, the the in in the the fourth fourth quarter. quarter. pass from In 1:58 mark mark to to provide provide the the gamegame- Casey Casey Davis Davis tossed tossed three three touchtouch- Broncos Broncos dictated dictated the the game’s game’s Ryan Jackson, Jackson, who who rushed rushed for for 1:58 Ryan H H.S. GIRLS, Page 8 winner. down passes and ran for two tempo and jumped out to an early winner. down passes and ran for two tempo and jumped out to an early Dawson coach coach Eric Eric Wells Wells said said more more while while running running back back Tavares Tavares 10-0 10-0 advantage. advantage. After After aa tough tough 88Dawson ★H.S. FOOTBALL, FOOTBALL, Page Page 6 6 ★H.S.

SPORTS

8SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 | DEFENDER

Edison

Max Edison

on Sports the NFL in fewest passing and

Continued from page 7

total yards allowed.

In 2001, Gray went with Beall is the Man Gregg Williams from the What happens when you Titans to Buffalo to become blister an opponent for a defensive coordinator, when career high 195 yards rushing Williams became head coach on just 19 carries. You’re of the Bills. He rejoined Wilnamed C-USA Offensive liams’ defensive staff at the Player of the Week and that Washington Redskins in 2006 honor was bestowed on talas secondary coach and would ented Cougar Jr. running stay for four years. In his one back Bryce Beall. season at Seattle last year, Beall scored three touchsafety Earl Thomas registered downs tying a career best and a fantastic rookie campaign as rattled off runs of 43, 35 and he totaled fivehelping interceptions 31 yards in Houston and started all 16 games. to a 54-24 win over UTEP in “I am excited to have this the conference opener. opportunity,” said Gray. “IClass Texas Bowl Announces have known Mike for a numThe Texas Bowl ber of years and if he Committee recentlyis a head coach like hethe was2010 a player orof announced class aTexas position coach, we are going Bowl Gridiron to be in great shape, because Legends presented by he has had so success Wrangler andmuch Cavender’s and everything he does.

I am Boot City, which includes looking forward to really getPro Football Hall of Famers ting to know our personnel Raymond Berry and Joe on defense and creating a defenseof Greene, former University that takes advantage of our Texas defensive stars Bill strengths.and Bob Moses, and Bradley “I am an old-school Aldine native, Texas A&M guy that to get after the star andlikes former Houston opponent, but you also have Texan Aaron Glenn. to Texas have the players to do that Bowl Gridiron – you can’tpresented force those Legends bythings.

Our defense will fit what Wrangler and Cavender’s we canCity do well.

I also want Boot are all individuals to thank Coach Brown andconwho made a significant University of Texas.

I know tribution to the game of footthe timing this of isn’t ideal, ball in theofstate Texas, but thisatwas that Icoleither thesomething high school, couldn’tor turn down.” legiate professional level.

“This is arguably the deepLady picked in est andTigers most star-studded class of Gridiron Legends,” softball said Texas TexasSouthern’s Bowl executive softball director Heather Houston. team, coached

by Worley “Each of men Barker, hasthese been five picked to left an indelible mark on the repeat as the Southwestern game inConference Texas and West we are Athletic extremely proud to be associDivision champs. ated The withTigers each received of them.11 I want to thank Gridiron first-place votes,the most of any Legends selection committee school in either the East or for the wonderful job they’ve West divisions. TSU finished one point ahead of Southern ★EDISON, Page 6 in the league preseason poll.

Alcorn State, which won the SWAC Tournament Darrell Ardison last year and advanced to the NCAA Tournament, was picked to win the East. Alcorn and Mississippi Valley each received 10 first place votes.

Alcorn had 87 points, and MVSU 86. top high school Houston’s Grambling was predicted volleyball teams continued to finish third inways the West, their winning recently. andInreceived one5A firstdivision, place the Class vote.

GSU was followed by top-ranked Cypress Woods Arkansas-Pine who also swept DistrictBluff, 17-5A foes received place Falls vote, to Cy-Fair one and first Cypress and PrairietoView improve 26-1was on picked the seafifth. son.

Alabama StateOak, was third No. two Klein 22-2, in the East,Cy-Fair followed Jackdefeated toby win the son State andTournament Alabama A&M. Kingwood chamTSU infielders Giana pionship.

Robinson, Tenesha Skrine Cy Woods is currently and Jessica were ranked No.Haynes three in theall coaches’ state 5A pollSecwhile named to the preseason Klein OakAll-SWAC jumped tosquad, No. ond Team five.

Houston-area as wasOther outfielder April White. ranked schools TSU did notinclude have anyKaty at No. 11selections. and No. 15 The first team Woodlands.

Alcorn State’s Jasmine Magnolia the top area Hubbard was is chosen as the school in SWAC the Class 4A of state preseason Player pollYear. at No. three with the Mississippi Valley’s Friendswood, Brenham and Kimberly Spivey was named Barbers Hillpreseason falling in line at the league’s Pitcher four of thethrough Year. six. Stratford is ranked No. nine and upstart Pearland Dawson is No. 11.

Dawson is 21-6 after registering a dramatic comeback win over Deer Park last week. The Eagles prevailed 19-25, 27-25, 20-25, 25-10, 15-12 as outside hitter Yewande Akanbi led the way in the match with 22 kills.

After finishing in the top 10 at the prestigious Pearland Tournament last month, Dawson is serving notice that accomplishment was no fluke.

Magnolia earned its 20th win of the season with a 2125, 25-10, 25-16, 25-15 vic-

on H.S. Sports

★ARDISON, Page 6

5 FEBRUARY 17-23 | DEFENDER

New Attitude Texans Offense Yields Results

Blanks

Continued from page 7

not stopped. Even today when I have big decisions that I’m mulling over I always reach out to my dad. He always has great words of wisdom and his understanding of sports and the sports world is second to none. I owe a lot to both of my parents and my dad’s influence in my life has been a huge driver in any success I’ve had.”

The Phoenix Suns, as a franchise, have enjoyed tremendous success over the past 15 year, but appear to be

ter we still have guys like Steve Nash and Grant Hill that are still playing at a high level. Steve may not be playing at an MVP level, but is playing at a level that allows him to compete with any point guard in the NBA. Everything we do is based around Steve, in terms of players we’re bring in. We made the first step earlier this season in the big trade we had with Orlando.”

“We feel like we got a great player in Marcin Gortat (26, 6’11” 240 lbs.). We acquired a

“I worked with Danny Ferry in San Antonio and we got to be pretty close,” Blanks said. “When Danny got the general manager’s job in Cleveland he called me and asked me to be one of his assistant general managers. I jumped at that opportunity and have spent the last five years with the Cavaliers, trying to build them into a championship team. We had a high level of success in Cleveland.

The opportunity presented itself to come to Phoenix as general manager and I think after deliberating on it for a long time, it was the best move for me and my family.”

Blanks also acknowledges the role his parents have had in his professional development, especially Suns Coach Alvin Gentry (left) and GM Lance Blanks (rt) his father, former address the media.

Houston Oiler running back Sid Blanks.

Photossuccessful courtesy of the Texans historically at a crossroads after losing veteran “The influence of my dad #1 Right guard Antoine Caldwell, above, (college photo) and left tackle #76 in Vince Carter. We also got and my mother, in her own way, All-Star power forward Amare Duane Brown, below are key components of the Texan new rushing attack.

Stoudemire to free agency. The Michael Pietrus, who can cannot be overstated,” he said. playoffs are in sight, but are not defend on the perimeter and “My dad and I have had a lot of guaranteed. Blanks believes they make shots. All three of those fireside chats over the years. He have the core pieces in place to guys have been on teams would discuss and explain with that have been vying for me the right way to compete and sustain the franchise during this important transition period. championships. We’ve got an play the game, with basketball “My approach is to tweak infusion of talent we feel can or any sport. Also the work ethic and retool this organization. My begin the process for the long that it takes to be successful in plan is to do it around veterans term and we’ve got guys that whatever you do, whether it’s that I think can still play at a can help us compete in the sports or business.

“Those conversations have high level. If you look at our ros- short term.”

Ardison Continued from page 7 outright District 24-4A championship for the state’s No. 3-ranked Class 4A school.

The game was originally scheduled at Ball High School, but was moved to the University of Houston because of the expected large crowd. Their previous meeting (Jan. 17) was held at Phillips Fieldhouse in Pasadena and sold out 2,500 seats in one day. Ball prevailed 81-76 in that contest.

Ball forward Terran Petteway said his team was flat and nervous at the beginning of the game and that La Marque took

advantage of it. Saddled with foul problems, Petteway was forced to the bench with three minutes, three seconds left in the first quarter.

Upon his return to the Tors’ lineup seven minutes later, Petteway helped spark a 12-2 run that pulled Ball within 30-25 at halftime.

Petteway had six points, three rebounds and a steal during the spurt. He finished with 23 points, 12 rebounds and four steals.

The tenacious Ball defense held Julien Lewis, a Texas signee, to 11 points. Lewis came into the contest averaging 27 points a game. Ranked No. 4 in the state, La Marque slipped to 26-3 on the season and 7-3 in district play.

H.S. Girls

14 points for Montgomery, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the team’s 24 Continued from page 7 turnovers. marked the Lady Bulldogs’ “We made some critical first lead since late in the turnovers down the line that second quarter. really hurt us,” said MontMagnolia surged ahead gomery coach Alicia Jordan.

50-44 with 49 seconds “Yet there’s not another remaining in regulation, team on the planet that I’d but Montgomery closed to rather coach. We could not within two points (50-48) have played with more with 29 seconds to go. heart and intensity.”

By Max Edison That’s when Fuselier hit Montgomery earned a DEFENDER both halves of a one-andplayoff berth for the first one to put the game away. time since 2003. ell, it’s only my the team first game of the season, but “This is what The district title havesaid. to be“They excited about the way the fightdoes,”you Ritter Magnolia and MontgomTexans dismissed their old nemesis, the Indy never in’ give up. They always ery shared is the first for Colts,fight. last weekend at Reliant.

Of there was a sellNo matter whether course, both schools under their out crowd that was more than amped up for the kick-off of we’re up, whether we’re current head coaches. the NFL regular season, which longsuffering Texanwill fansface down, they’re going to go Magnolia hopeand willget be their first visit to the playoffs. it.

Willis in the bi-district You also havesotoproud be enthused intensitywhile level Montgomthe “I am of the at the playoffs, teamway displayed, which quite frankly has been somewhat they withstood the ups ery has either Humble or underwhelming many occasions when Park. the team and downs on of far thetoo game.”

Kingwood takes the Montgomery field. Normally, the outcome is very predictable, trailed a bigby fatasloss. many as six points No,twice this in was different group of fightin’ Texans. On thea first half bedefense, came out with a surly attitude, led by his fore they closing strong.

Bianca CLASSIFIEDS “royal highness gave of surliness,” Mumphrey the Lady safety Bernard Pollard.

EvenBears potential All-World a 27-23 edge atdefensive end Mario Williams camehalftime ready to with dominate, and did just that.  a three-point  The realatkey the squad, that made yours truly simply play thefor buzzer.  giddy with wasBears the way Texan offense Thejoy, Lady led the by vaunted         performed.

Nowtwice we allinknow that Andre Johnson is one of six points the third  the world’s dominant receivers and Matt Schaub is a quartertruly before enduring a      Pro-Bowl QB, who can with the best of them. What  back-and-forth finalpass stanza  we were unsure up of short was if offensive line and coming onthe the revamped   couldscoreboard. move folks around in the trenches and provide      Schaub with enough time to pass and  create running lanes Leslie Coupe, who      for running back Foster. pleased   to  report   came into theArian contest aver-Well, I’m  the O-line passed theper testgame, with flying colors, for at least  aging 18 points  weekfinished one. with nine points         Now knowshooting. the Texans can score points in bunches, on we 4-of-19 Devon  but itTunning traditionally been an air based attack. Against scoredhas a game-high  the Colts, they introduced the balanced offense, which featured the running of Arian Foster and the outcome was a  record-setting afternoon.  Consider this: RB Arian Foster’s 231 rushing yards on  33 carries (three TD’s) were the second-most on Kickoff      in        Weekend NFL history.

He recorded the first 200-yard      rushing performance in franchise history. Foster rushed    for 191 yards in the second half and 125 yards in the            fourth quarter.

Houston’s 257 rushing yards represented    just the second 200-yard rushing performance in team his tory.  It’s been  said over and again that in order for the over      to achieve  their        Texans goals this season, they must feature  a more balanced offensive attack. In other words,   improve a rushing game that was simply abysmal in 2009.         Big back Arian Foster says the team heard the comments,   especially his offensive line.              “We’ve heard this whole offseason about how our run  game wasn’t as efficient last year and how if we had a run game, we could have done this and could have done that,”

W



★TEXANS, Page 6  

 



H.S. Football Games of the Week 

                                                                               

By Darrell K. Ardison DEFENDER

Several Houston area high schools projected to earn a spot in the playoffs went into their third game of the season still seeking that first victory.

After advancing to the Class 4A state semifinals last year, Pearland Dawson was one of those schools after losing to Class 5A stalwarts Clear Springs and Conroe Oak Ridge.

DAWSON (1-2) vs. NIMITZ (1-2) Dawson broke into the winning column with a 28-0 victory on the road at perennial 4A powerhouse Dayton. The Eagles led 21-0 at halftime behind Steve Orisakwe’s three-yard TD run, Tre Oliver’s 11-yard scoring run and an eight-yard TD run by Payton Jones. A 40-yard TD pass from Garry Kimble to Randall Weeks in the third quarter was the only scoring in the second half.

DAWSON VS. NIMITZ The Eagles look to continue their winning ways this week when they take on Aldine Nimitz. The Cougars notched their first win last week by rallying from behind on the road to defeat Conroe 13-9. Nimitz trailed 9-6 with less than two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter when Torian Amos hauled in a 65-yard touchdown pass from Flavies Heffner at the 1:58 mark to provide the gamewinner.

Dawson coach Eric Wells said



  

                                                    

               

                           

                                                     

              

                 

Austin (dark uniforms) hopes to improve to 3-0  this week against rival Milby. Here they faced Scarborough last week in a 50-0 victory. he purposefully set up a tough non-district schedule to help prepare for district games down the line. “You have to get through some tough games to get better,” Wells said. “There isn’t an easy week for us.”

AUSTIN (2-0) vs MILBY (0-2) This is an old-fashioned rivalry game so you can throw the records out the window.

SFA has a chance to improve to 3-0 after demolishing Scarborough 50-0 at Barnett Stadium. Mustangs’ quarterback Casey Davis tossed three touchdown passes and ran for two more while running back Tavares

Garner rushed for 164 yards and added two additional scores to give SFA an advantage they would never relinguish.

Milby will be trying to get into the win column at the expense of their long-time rivals. Buffs’ quarterback Lawrence Putman and dimunitive wide receiver Sergio Bautista will have their team primed for confrontation.

ANGLETON (2-1) vs. ALIEF ELSIK (2-1) The Wildcats played possum in the first quarter against Dayton.

In the opening 12 minutes, the Broncos dictated the game’s tempo and jumped out to an early 10-0 advantage. After a tough 8-

3 loss to Elkins in the 2010 season opener, Dayton couldn’t overcome four first-half turnovers despite rushing for 178 yards in the game’s first 24 minutes.

Angleton turned the tables in the second half. Senior quarterback Quandre Diggs (91 yards on 30 carries) scored on a one-yard sneak to cap a 53-yard, 15-play drive in the third quarter to give his team a 17-10 edge.

The Wildcats were at it again in the fourth quarter.

Ryan Jackson, who rushed for ★H.S. FOOTBALL, Page 6

9

FEBRUARY 17-23 | DEFENDER

Celebrating Black History Month

Black Leaders of Political Thought Challenges facing Blacks attracted unique leadership styles

By Maco Faniel

T

oday’s Black leadership and political thought owes much to those men and women who laid the foundation years ago. Men such as Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, Marcus Garvey, and A. Phillip Randolph were international figures who made it possible for our current leadership to serve the needs of Black America and the broader human race. Without the groundwork and sacrifices of those four men we would not have past and present leaders such as Benjamin Mays, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Marc Morial, Benjamin Jealous, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, Malik Zulu Shabazz, or even President Barack Obama. As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important for us to recognize and understand the history of Black leadership and political thought. Contrary to popular belief, there has never been one Black leader. Just as Black people in America are diverse, so are the leadership needs of the people.

Therefore, Washington, Du Bois, Garvey, and Randolph represent very distinct leadership styles and political thoughts.

However, each one worked tirelessly to help solve the “Negro problem” that arose after slavery and worked to ensure full attainment of rights for Black Americans. Here is a look at how they each made a difference.

Booker T. Washington

spreading his strategy for Black unity in Harlem. He started as a soapbox orator and then toured the South. In Leadership: 1881-1915 1918, he began his weekly publication Negro World, the On Sept. 18, 1895, Booker voice of the UNIA. He later T. Washington rose to national had a grandiose idea to create prominence with his speech at a Black-owned steamship the Cotton State Exposition in company that would employ Atlanta. The speech was sarcasand serve only Blacks, and tically described as the “Atlanta eventually transport them Compromise” by Du Bois, and back to their homeland. He has been called that every called his company the Black since. Du Bois and many others Star Line. felt that Washington’s speech Garvey biographer encouraged Blacks of the time Colin Grant says in his book to work hard and be patient and Negro with a Hat…The Rise assured whites that Blacks were and Fall of Marcus Garvey loyal and would not rebel. But that “Garvey supporters history has failed to understand looked upon his success, at Washington in the context of his his momentum and felt, for time and through his political the first time, that they had thought. signed on with the winning Washington was the princi- King (left) seen here with (from left to right) E. Frederic Morrow, White House administrative officer; President Eisenhower; A. Phillip Randolph, side. Early on Marcus Garvey AFL-CIO vice president; Attorney General William Rogers and Roy Wilkins, the executive secretary of the NAACP. pal and founder of what is now had championed the idea that known as Tuskegee University. real emancipation would come By then, Du Bois was becoming more radiWashington biographer Professor Robert through economic independence; the mighty cal, supporting voluntary segregation while J. Norrell said in his book Up From Hisdollar was the great leveler in American the NAACP called for all out desegregation. tory that the political thought of Booker T. society.”

Along with being an intellectual, writer, and Leadership: 1894-1963 Washington was a “materialist strategy for Black Star Line’s first ship, the SS Yarorganizer, Du Bois is also considered the racial uplift… ”turn[ing] inward an emphamouth, sailed from the U.S. to the Caribbean father of Pan-Africanism. The goal of PanW.E.B. Du Bois was a man who epitosis on race consciousness, self help, and in September of 1919.

Africanism was to give Blacks in the U.S.A. mized the term public intellectual, and did group solidarSuccess for Garvey did not last long. an identity connected to the larger African ity rather than so by studying racism and going far beyond Charges of mail fraud landed him in jail and community and also to connect all persons mere investigation. He used academia, mepolitical acexile from the U.S. He was also naïve, first of African descent across the globe. He was tion,” and “to dia and social action organizations to attempt taking for granted the diversity and vastness an early member of the Socialist Party, and to solve the race problem in America. give whites of Africa, and second in not understanding later in life joined the Communist Party.

Du Bois attended Fisk University and a new way In all of his greatness and contributions, the University of Berlin.

He received his H BLACK HISTORY, Page 10 of viewing Du Bois was also flawed.

He led a relentless bachelors and PhD from Harvard University, Blacks.” And campaign to sully the image of Booker T. becoming the first Black to earn a doctorate Washington Washington and Marcus Garvey. And his from the institution. used TuskeAs a professor he taught students how to biographer made allegations of adultery. gee UniverDu Bois’ lasting legacy is that he sity as his pri- think – using history and classical studies to was committed to solving racism and as help explain present calamities. As a writer mary vehicle his biographer said, Dubois “attempted he used his pen to constantly tell the story of to execute virtually every possible solution to America’s race problem. As a sociologist he his political Booker T. Washington the problem of twentieth-century provided empirical data defining the probstrategy. racism – scholarship, propaganda, lem, and as an organizer he brought together Washington aimed to create the best the best minds to discuss it and offer a politi- integration, national self determinaimage of the Blacks of his time, one that tion, human rights, cultural and economic cal agenda for solving it. would not agitate whites, but one who Marcus Garvey separatism, politics, international commuIn 1905, Du Bois led a group of 30 would defy the stereotypes and caricatures nism, expatriation and third world solidarmen in forming the Niagara Movement. created by Thomas Dixon in his book The ity.”

They came together to create a program Clansman. This model Negro would use his academic and moral learning and economic that would address the growing civil rights concerns for Blacks and also to serve as a pursuits to help himself and his race. competent group to combat the conciliatory He was a master politician who atLeadership: 1916-1940 practices of Booker T. Washington. The tempted to shape public opinion and uplift a race at the same time. He used public ora- group disMarcus Garvey was a journalist, banded three tory, literary works like his book Up From publisher, business owner, and a years later Slavery, and the press to sell his political charismatic leader who promoted with many strategy and to promote a pretty image of Pan-Africanism. He was a Jamaiof the memBlacks in America. He created a confercan who came to the U.S. wanting bers joining ence showing Black farmers how to best to emulate the works of Booker T. cultivate their land and how to manage their the NAACP. Washington in his native country. personal and financial lives. He advised Du Bois He stayed for many years building U.S. presidents and was responsible for was a founda national movement around Black Black political appointments. ing board pride.

But there was a cost to his political member of He began his career as an apthought. His health worsened as a result of the NAACP prentice to a Jamaican printer in bad eating and the exhaustion of leading and found1901. He started his first paper a race and being the voice of racial logic. ing editor at age 22. Seeking to learn From the outside he was seen as a person of the Crisis more about the world, he travtrying to make Blacks equal to whites. magazine, eled to Costa Rica, Panama From the inside he was seen as weak and a publicaand London. In 1914 he accommodating. Washington died in 1915 tion of the formed the United Negro W.E.B. Du Bois due to health complications. His lasting NAACP. He improvement Association legacy is that he worked to lift the veil of would remain (UNIA). slavery and Jim Crow through education. the editor of the Crisis until 1932 when he Garvey began left the NAACP over differences of opinion.

W.E.B. DuBois

Marcus Garvey

10 4

SEPTEMBERFEBRUARY 16 – 22, 2010 17-23| |DEFENDER DEFENDER

he had a meteoric rise to fame and a precipitate fall to disgrace.

Moseley Braun considering run for Chicago mayor A. Phillip Randolph

By Kathy Chaney

Special to the NNPA from the Chicago Defender

CHICAGO (NNPA) - Carol Moseley Braun Leadership may put her hat in the ring to succeed outgoing 1910-1979 Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, sources said.

The former U.S. Senator was flooded with Asa Phillip Randolph is calls on the day Daley made the surprise considered the pioneer of the announcement that he would not seek a seventh Civil Rights Movement, yet term in office –– encouraging her to mull a run he is also for the mayoral post.one of the movement’s most unsung Braun, who made history inheroes.

1993 as the first attention Most of the African-American female U.S. has Senator said that focusedconsidering on Martin Luther she is “seriously it.”

King Jr., came on the Braun’s political who career spans more than two scene in the late 1950s, but decades.

Randolph’s activism began Carol Moseley Braun After leaving the U.S. Attorney’s office as a before King was born. Randolph was a union organizer, journalist, publisher, Socialist and civil rights leader.

His political activism continued from page 1 began with the Socialist Party “I think what happened is, we’ve been working on “I’m hoping that it (politics) did not play a of America in 1910. Randolph and his longtime friend Chanthis for three years, even before I came on the counA.Phillip Randolph role...

I want to be able to say that he did it dler Owen founded a monthly cil,” said Councilwoman Carolyn Davis, who voted called the Mesin favor of the no-bid contracts. “And so I went with for the citypublication of Dallas.” the group to criticism and senger in 1917.

The Messenger Councilwoman staff recommendation. I’ve always supported staff – Dallas ultimately led to its demise. was a way to publicize their Carolyn Davis recommendation, but we didn’t win. It takes eight Garvey’s also came at Continued 9 views and approaches to the votes to win from here atpage the Horseshoe, and thefall eighth the sneaky hands of J. Edgar race problem in America. His votepolitical won.” and social ramithe Hoover and his cronies at werethey’ve radical and out through of Hudsonofisapart-owned

by Giddings and by a trust the parking ideas garage, been 9/11, fications controversial the agency that later became step with the Black leadership. that manages of Johnson. Star is owned by they’ve been through the remodeling of the terminal, meeting withthe theassets Ku Klux theAranza.

FBI. Garvey was[and] also the alsogoing caughtthrough the attention prominent Democratic donor Gilbert they’reHenow another remodelKlan. victim of strong criticism of of J. Edgar Hoover and was ToGarvey’s some, it was the direct some say heavy-handing.” brand of Pan a small cadre of Black leadlater charged with breaking the ed - involvement of Mayor Tom Leppert that turned Davis expresses similar feelings.

Africanism included a “Back ers who began the “Garvey Espionage Act. Paula F. PfeftheAfrica” tide. In campaign.

April, Leppert “We also felt that they had never missed a payto Hebegan his campaign to stop Must Gothem Campaign.”

Theythey had fer says her bookand A. Philip the deals from being approved, calling too ment, paidinon-time, I asked the queswanted to re-colonize Africa included A. Phillip RanRandolph, Pioneer of the concessionaires Civil sweet for the incumbents and bad for Dallas’ image tion, ‘How much money had these with Blacks from America dolph, Dubois, and Robert Rights Movement, that Ranas a other fair place to doHe business. given the city of Dallas?’” she said. and nations. was apAbbott (Chicago Defender). dolph “ attacked established “These contracts, lasting 19 years, would award The answer to her questionthe soon became evident. pointed provisional president They saw Garvey as a bufBlack leaders’ lack of concern major portions of our new terminal to the two incum“They have given the city a lot of money. Lots of of Africa and made plans foon and hisvetted programmoney. unat- If you with theaBlack masses and their got good bent concessionaires without having been own building and you’ve to settle in Liberia, but that tainable. financial dependence on white throughthat theacompetitive This has short-cir- tenants, you just don’t say, ‘Well, I’m going to kick meant non-native process. was Garvey was byout a because capitalists.” cuited new ideas and concepts and discouraged com-driven them I think I want someone else who is claiming leadership of the desire to unite Black people Randolph began efforts petitors, including firms owned by minorities, going to give me more or pay mehis more,’ you tend to continent without consulting as leader from across the globe and of the Brotherhood of women and emerging entrepreneurs,” Leppert said in keep the good paying tenant,” Davis said. its existing leaders.

Car Porters (BSCP).is encouraghelp them an opinion “What theySleeping were trying to accomplish Under letter.

Garvey’s leaderThe Pullman porters werethe renovation, full rights “I’m it [politics] did notattain play the a role,” ing of the incumbents to stay through ship thehoping UNIA that suffered a citizenship.

With thisand desire Davis said of Leppert’s involvement.

“I want to be then having space in the new terminal at a rate comedy of errors that opened H BLACK HISTORY, Page 11 able to say that he did it for the city of Dallas.” that was more than what the consultants even recomDavis, along with six of her council colleagues, mended,” said Oakley. “The remaining space would was impressed by the incumbents’ track record as be bid out, and if [the new tenants’] rates were hightenants, their post-9/11 hardships and the unanimous er than what [the incumbents] were paying, the recommendation of the transportation committee that incumbents’ rent would automatically escalate to the deal go forward. match. How is that not fair?”

“They’ve been through thick and thin out there,” In another victory for the mayor, three council said former Councilman Ed Oakley in support of the members on the losing end of the vote eventually incumbents. “They’ve been through the building of crossed over to side with the majority on an 11-4 vote

Airport contracts

Black History

federal prosecutor in Chicago in 1977, she was elected state representative the next year. In 1987 she was elected Cook County Recorder of Deed.

Five years later, history was made in the U.S. Senate. Braun held the post for one six-year term.

She served a U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa from 1999 to 2001 under the Clinton administration.

During the 2004 U.S. presidential election, Braun was a candidate for the Democratic nomination.

Braun currently runs her Chicago-based company, Good Food Organics, the parent company of Ambassador Organics, which manufactures several products including coffee, food spices, olive oil and tea. She founded the company five years ago.

to put all of the concession space up for bid once the airport renovation is completed in 2014. This made the final outcome appear less racially polarized.

Both Hudson and Star have been tight-lipped about how they will respond. Through its public relations firm, Hudson would only disclose, “At this point, the Dallas City Council has approved a plan for the allocation and process for awarding concessions at Love Field. Hudson will continue to work with the city staff based on the plans approved by the city council.”

Aranza of Star Concessions could not be reached for comment.

For Davis and others, what stands out about the council’s decision is the second-guessing of city staff, which Davis says is unprecedented during her three years on the council.

“This has been the only time since I’ve been on the council, that my colleagues have gone against city staff,” said Davis. “Remember, coming out of the transportation committee we voted 10 to 0. Being a newbie on the council, I looked to [the committee chair’s] leadership on what we should do, because I just hadn’t been briefed on the Love Field situation.”

Davis’ recollections also suggest that the council’s deliberations weren’t always as contentious as they eventually became. Indeed, before the August meeting there was literally no argument since the option to grant the no-bid contracts was the only one then on the table. It was at the urging of the mayor during the June council meeting that voting on the proposal be postponed so that other options could be added.

“There was never an argument. Most of the contracts were going out for bid anyway,” Davis said.

“We just wanted the incumbents who [had] been there through 9/11 to stay there and recoup their investment, with the amount of money they put into that airport.

Shepard

continued from page 1 National Cemetery.

Shepard was an outspoken Democrat who moved to Houston from Louisiana nearly 60 years ago and lived for decades in Acres Home, where she unofficially known as the “Mayor of Acres Homes.”

“Beulah was a woman of guts, purpose and presence,” said state Rep. Sylvester Turner, D-Houston. “If she thought it, she said it. She was direct. That was Beulah Shepard. You didn’t have to guess what she was thinking.

She loved politics, she loved the process and she loved participating in the process. If you sought political office, you sought her out. She had the power.”

Shepard enjoyed rare 24hour access to Texas governors and other state and local politicians, and was invited to the White House a few times, meeting at least a handful of presidents, including John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.

Shepard, who worked as a constituent liaison for former Harris County Commissioner Squatty Lyons for some 20 years and then Sen. John Whitmire, D-Houston for about 10, was gifted at reading people and politics at play. In fact, it was Shepard who convinced Turner to run for political office in the late 80s.

“I told her, ‘Ms. Shepard, I have no interest in running. To which she replied, ‘You have no idea what you’re interested in.’ She was literally the one who put the idea in my head,’?” he said.

Shepard’s love of politics was evident in her constant efforts to get people out to vote.

“She knew the value of the vote because she had been denied the right to vote,” Turner said.

Shepard's survivors include seven children, 30 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great children.

By Darrell K. Ardison

AUTO NEWS

2010 Dodge Caliber This is the uptown version.

The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown small wagon is the answer for buyers seeking fuel economy, safety and versatility.

I remember two years ago when we were heading for Niagara Falls, Canada and Buffalo, New York, the Dodge Caliber was the vehicle of choice when it came to rent cars.

We test droved the Dodge Caliber for a week prior to going on vacation.

Then when we arrived in Buffalo, the Caliber was our first option as a rental car. It seemed like the Caliber was the vehicle of choice.

With a 2.o-liter, four-cylinder engine matched with a continuously-variable transmission, the Dodge Caliber had more enough power to transport us everywhere we wanted to go.

The cargo space was more than adequate, and we travel large.

Between my wife and daughter, we travel with everything except the kitchen sink.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning with automatic temperature control, power windows with driver’s one-touch feature and SIRIUS satellite radio.

Other standard equipment includes heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and tilt steering column.

We drove the 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown from Houston to Austin for the annual high school baseball state tournament without incident. In fact, we enjoyed our drive, with smooth riding on I-10 leading up to Highway 71 into the state capital.

My partner, Big John, mentioned that there was no road noise and the car handled like a mid-sized sedan. This is a vehicle that lists for less than $20,000.

There is an information display that tells you what direction you’re heading, the temperature outside and how fast you’re traveling. You can also see what you’re fuel economy is and what your tire inflation-level is.

The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown is a crossover vehicle waiting to happen.

Exterior features include 17-inch aluminum wheels, power-heated exterior mirrors, fog lamps and a bright front grille.

Optional equipment includes a power express moonroof, media center and 6.5-inch touch screen navigation win-

dow.

The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown gets five-star government safety ratings in the frontal driver, crash passenger, side front seat and crash rear seat categories. It also rates four stars in the rollover division.

Warranty coverage includes a fiveyear or 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and 24-hour towing assistance.

Big John told me this is a vehicle for college students starting out or newlyweds getting out of the starting gate.

I tend to agree

CALIBER: HIGHLIGHTS MSRP base price $19,995 (as tested- $22,965) Engine 2.0-liter four-cylinder Safety equipment Speed sensitive power locks

Fuel economy

23 miles per gallon (city), 27 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost $1,560

11

FEBRUARY 17-23 | DEFENDER

Budget

Black History

Continued from page 1

Continued from page 10

action programs. The Secretary of Defense has also agreed

to cut tens of billions of dollars in spending that he and his generals believe our military can do without.”

Both Republicans and Democrats will strongly oppose parts of the budget.

Republican lawmakers will call for deeper cuts as they set the stage for the 2012 elections. Democrats will fight to protect their interests in social programs for their constituents, as promised by the Congressional Black Caucus.

Committing to work with the Administration in finalizing the budget, CBC Chairman Emanuel Cleaver said the Black Caucus will watchfully do its job: “I want to see everybody get a sip. I think the President agrees with me that everybody should sip out of the glass.”

considered the elite of Black labor, but their job status did not transfer to elite treatment or benefits. The BSCP was officially organized in August of 1925. Through the Black Worker publication, Randolph was able to teach Blacks how to be the best Negro possible and publicize the achievements of Pullman porters.

Randolph then organized the March on Washington Movement to promote access to defense jobs for Blacks and integration of the armed forces. Randolph called off a march of 10,000 Black people in Washington, D.C., because

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order No. 8802, the Fair Employment Practices Committee.

Still concerned about discrimination in the military, he began the Committee Against Jim Crow. Randolph urged youths to resist induction into a segregated military establishment and

also set up local units to disseminate information and organize young people.

President Harry S Truman succumbed to pressure by Randolph and issued executive orders establishing fair employment practices within the federal government and the armed forces.

In the late 1950s Randolph joined forces with Dr. King to organize marches for equal rights and integration, and included a coalition of labor, liberals and the church.

Randolph laid the foundation for work that would be done in the fight for civil and human rights.

Maco L. Faniel is a blogger, writer, and speaker. His writing covers political and social commentary and is infused with themes from hip-hop, religion, and literature. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University and is currently a graduate student at Texas Southern University studying African-American History.

Annual KidzReK, Inc Cheer and Drill Team Tryout Prep Classes LEARN THE FUNDAMENTALS, GET THE TECHNIQUES, LEARN WHAT THE JUDGES LOOK FOR, BUILD SELFESTEEM, AND GAIN ADVANCED SKILLS! • 6th -Through 11th Graders (Special classes for Elementary students) • Saturdays February 26 - April 2, 2011 • 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Knowles-Rowland Gym at St. John’s Downtown 2019 Crawford Street • Costs: $40 for the entire six weeks!

• REGISTER TODAY AT

www.kidzrek.webs.com

Contact Ms. Allie 713.410.3046 kidzrek@gmail.com

12 8 4

MAY 23FEBRUARY – 29, 2010 | DEFENDER SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2010 | |DEFENDER 17-23 DEFENDER

Moseley Braun considering run for Chicago mayor

Shepard

continued from page 1

National Cemetery.

Shepard was an outspoken federal prosecutor in Chicago in 1977, she was Democrat who moved to elected state representative the next year. In 1987 Special to the NNPA from the Chicago Defender Houston from Louisiana nearly she was elected Cook County Recorder of Deed.

60 years ago and lived for CHICAGO (NNPA) - Carol Moseley Braun Five years later, history was made in the U.S. decades in Acres Home, where may put her hat in the ring to succeed outgoing Senate. Braun held the post for one six-year term. she unofficially known as the Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, sources said. She served a U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand “Mayor of Acres Homes.”

AN EVENING WITH A The former U.S. Senator was flooded with and Samoa from 1999 to 2001 under the Clinton LIFT EVERY VOICE…….The Houston STAR……..Tony Award winning play“Beulah was a woman of calls on the day Daley made the surprise administration.

Association of Black Journalists (HABJ)treated wright and performer, Sarah Jones, guts, purpose and presence,” During the 2004 U.S. presidential election, announcement that he would not seek a seventh th recently celebrated Anniversary solo Houstonians with its her25multi-character said state Rep. Sylvester Honoree D’Artagnan Bebel, Kathryn Griffin and Melton, for Honoree Charles Scottnomiand Jose Grinan term in office –– encouraging her Howard to mullJefferson a run Braun wasSharron a candidate the Democratic Awards“Bridge Dinner & andTunnel.” chose theThe theme “Lift show show was Turner, D-Houston. “If she for the mayoral post. nation.

Every Voice,” becauseoff-Broadway of a small, but by inspired originally produced thought it, sheSarah said it.Jones She was Braun, who in 1993 as the first Braun currently runs her Chicago-based com- Jr., Playwright Audrey, Rev. Billmade and history Roxanne Lawson John Guess, group of African-American journalists Oscar-winner Meryl Streep and went on to direct.

That was Beulah African-American female U.S. Senator said that pany, Good Food Organics, the parent company and Melanie Lawson who assembled in Houston 25 years ago become a critically acclaimed, long-running Shepard.

You didn’t have to she is “seriously considering it.” of Ambassador Organics, which manufactures to just that and speak forstirring those who hitdo on-Broadway.

In this production, guess what she was thinking.

Braun’s political career spans more than two several products including coffee, food spices, were discriminated against, she examined Jewish and ignored Africanand American She loved politics, she loved olive oil and tea. She founded the company five decades. misrepresented.

HABJ also lifted all of our relations in America that was developed the process and she loved parCarol Moseley Braun After leaving the U.S. Attorney’s office as a years ago. spirits by honoring several outstanding and especially for the final event of a fabulous ticipating in the process. If you dedicated Black TheMuseum honoreesof debut season forjournalists. the Houston sought political office, you included Sonceria Messiah-Jiles, CEO No African American Culture (HMAAC). sought her out. She had the and Group; one publisher, can reflectDefender on that Media better than Sarah, power.” to put all of the concession space up for bid once the D’Artagnan Bebel, president, who is a product ofvice a Black father and a Shepard enjoyed rare 24airport renovation is completed in 2014. This made continued from page 1 general manager, Fox26 KRIV-TV, KTXHJewish mother.

HMAACMY has20 had an hour access to Texas governors the final outcome appear less racially polarized.

“IDeborah think first what happened we’ve been working on “I’m hoping that it (politics) did not play a TV; Duncan, KHOU-TV Channel incredible season and is, is quickly estaband other state and local politiBoth Hudson and Star have been tight-lipped thishost/senior foritself threeasyears, even came on the coun11, producer, Great DayIHouston Sharron Melton, Honoree Deborah Duncan and Jose Grinan The Jiles Family, Clyde, Honoree Sonceria Messiah and Jodie lishing a place thatbefore attracts national cians, and was invited to the about how they will respond. Through its public relarole...

I want to be able to say that he did it cil,”Charles said Carolyn and Scott, KPRC-TV news Davis, talent and Councilwoman initiates thought-provoking dis- who voted White House a few times, tions firm, Hudson would only disclose, “At this in favor of the “And so I went with for the city of Dallas.” photographer andno-bid editor.contracts.

Pierreand Thomas, cussions about people, places times. meeting at least a handful of point, the Dallas City Council has approved a plan Councilwoman staff recommendation.

I’ve Melanie always supported staff Lindsey, Lou and Linda Lorrell – DallasGregory HABJ’s Pinnacle Award-winner and ABC Ayesh Mutope Ray and C. B. Claiborne Spotted at the show included including John F. for the allocation and process for awarding conces- Ellenpresidents, News senior justice correspondent, delivered Carolyn Davis sions at Love recommendation, but we didn’t win.

It takes eight andField.

Calepha Johnson Lawson, HMAAC Chairman of the Board Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Hudson will continue to work the keynote address.

HABJ isJr. a non-profitand the eighth votes to win here Guess, at the Horseshoe, of Directors, John Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. with the city staff based on the plans approved by the organization with vote won.” of media HMAAC/CEO, Rev.professionals Bill and Audrey Shepard, who worked as a city council.” members in every facet of print, broadcast and by a trust the parking garage, they’ve been through 9/11, Hudson is part-owned

by Giddings Lawson, Roxanne Lawson, Vanessa constituent liaison for former Aranza of Star Concessions could not be reached and media, and corporate thatonline manages theeducation assets ofVanessa Johnson.

Star is owned by they’ve been through the remodeling of the terminal, Williams, Alyce Coffee, Gilmore, Harris County Commissioner for comment. communications.

The organization provides prominent Democratic donor Gilbert Aranza. [and] they’re now going through another remodelSharon Owens, Roxanne Chargois, Lisa Squatty Lyons for some 20 For Davis and others, what stands out about the quality programs and services, professional To some, it was the direct - some say heavy-hand- ing.”

Chargois, Janice Beal, Linda, Lindsey years and then Sen. John council’s decision is the second-guessing of city development, honors excellence in Leppert ed -Lou involvement ofMichael Mayor Tom Davis expresses similar feelings. and Gregory, Helm, Ellen that turned Whitmire, D-Houston for about staff, which Davis says is unprecedented during her journalism, scholarships toPinkett our ABC News Correspondent Pierre the tide.

In awards April, Leppert began his future campaign “We also felt that theyThomas had never missed a payRay, C. B. Claiborne, Carole and to stop NABJ President Kathy Times and HABJ 10, was gifted at reading people three years on the council. and Mary Benton and Lorraine White Elaine and Gene Norman journalist and cultivate them to be successful President Mary Benton the deals from being approved, calling them too ment, they had paid on-time, and IIrvasked the quesCarol, Carolyn and John Guess, III. and politics at play. In fact, it “This has been the only time since I’ve been on the communicators.

The Four Seasons Hotel sweet forShow!.......PUMP-Athe incumbents and bad for was Dallas’ image tion, ‘How much money had these concessionaires Fabulous was Shepard who convinced council, that my colleagues have gone against city packed media gurus including as a fairwith place to do business. given the city of Dallas?’” she said.

LICIOUS…….Putting their bestNABJ foot forTurner to run for political office staff,” said Davis. “Remember, coming out of the National President Kathy Times, James “These contracts, lasting 19Dr. years, would award The answer to her question soon became evident. ward, about 200 ladies attended the 2010 in the late 80s. transportation committee we voted 10 to 0. Being a Ward, Arita andofBob Lorraine majorOut portions ourNicholas, new Luncheon terminal toby the two incum“They have given the city a lot of money. Lots of Kick Kidney Disease “I told her, ‘Ms. Shepard, I newbie on the council, I looked to [the committee and White, Elaine and Gene Norman, bentIrvconcessionaires without having wearing their pump-a-licious shoes.

Thebeen vetted money. If you own a building and you’ve got good have no interest in running. To chair’s] leadership on what we should do, because I Linda Brown, Khambrell Marshall, Lady Merele Gail Smith, Rhonda Adams and Florence Love through the competitive process.

This has short-cir- Michael tenants, Helm you just don’t say, ‘Well, I’m goingChair to kick event was chaired

by Merele Yarborough which she replied, ‘You have just hadn’t been briefed on the Love Field situation.”

Christina Ware, Jr., Roxanne Chargois Yarborough who knows first-hand about this terrible cuited newCalloway, ideas andKenneth concepts and discouraged com- and them out because I think I want someone else who is and Honoree no idea what you’re interested Davis’ recollections also suggest that the council’s Alex Green, Okereke Uba, Myra disease andincluding the need to kickErnie itowned outCollins, of exispetitors, firms by minorities, going to give me more or pay me more,’ you tend to Rega in.’

She was literally the one deliberations weren’t always as contentious as they Naomi Hines, Denisewere Bates, Lloyd Gite,Leppert said in keep the good paying tenant,” Davis said. tence. theemerging scene Terri Phillips, womenOn and entrepreneurs,” who put the idea in my head,’?” eventually became. Indeed, before the August meetClyde Jiles, Jodie Jiles,Kidney Max Edison and Board Chair/National Foundation an opinion letter.

“What they were trying to accomplish is encouraghe said. wife, Melinda Spaulding and Carmen andplay a role,” ing the incumbents to stay through the renovation, ing there was literally no argument since the option Serving Southeast Nicole Sonnier, “I’m hoping thatTexas, it [politics] did not Shepard’s love of politics to grant the no-bid contracts was the only one then on Dale name a few.

Emcees for “I want to be and then having space in the new terminal at a rate Regional Vice Crystal Wright, DavisLockett, said oftoPresident, Leppert’s involvement. was evident in her constant the table.

It was at the urging of the mayor during the the were Jose and Marion Johnson, Myra Rega, Phyllis ableevent to say that he Grinan did it for theSharron city of Dallas.” that was more than what the consultants even recomefforts to get people out to vote.

June council meeting that voting on the proposal be Melton. salutewith HABJ Mary Williams, Clarease Yates, Douglas, Davis,We along sixPresident ofKeryl her council colleagues, mended,” said Oakley. “The remaining space would “She knew the value of the postponed so that other options could be added.

Benton and the entire dinner committee for record Don Regina Carrington, Gail Smith, Rhonda was impressed by the incumbents’ track as and be June bid out, and and if [the new and tenants’] were highRosette Patricia Mayorrates Don Cravins Donna Rosette, Brian Rosette and Pamela Cortez vote because she had been “There was never an argument.

Most of the conaAdams, very successful event.

Congratulations Florence Love,hardships Ebele Iloanya, tenants, their post-9/11 and the unanimous er than what [the incumbents] were paying, the denied the right to vote,” tracts were going out for bid anyway,” Davis said. and continued success!..........HEART Stacy McIntosh and Elouise Jackson,committee to recommendation of the transportation that incumbents’ rent would automatically escalate to Turner said.

“We just wanted the incumbents who [had] been BALL…….The J. S. Clark Alumni name a few.

Adding a special touch to the the deal go forward. match. How is that not fair?”

Shepard's survivors include there through 9/11 to stay there and recoup their Association-Opelousas, LA, held their 2ndthin out there,” luncheon included greetings from Deborah “They’ve been through thick and In another victory for the mayor, three council seven children, 30 grandchilinvestment, with the amount of money they put into annual Heart Ball inChannel celebration of Valentine’s Duncan, KHOU 11Oakley Great Day said former Councilman Ed in support of the members on the losing end of the vote eventually dren, 24 great-grandchildren that airport.

Day. The face ofposter-boys education inErrick Opelousas for building of crossed over to side with the majority on an 11-4 vote Houston, HFD Presley incumbents.

“They’ve been through the and 10 great-great children.

African Americans was athefabulous image offashion a twoand Aaron Bond and story buildingby name, Old St. Landry Parish presentation Neiman Marcus.

John W. Johnson, Jr. Ebele Iloanya Nicole Sonnier, Errick Presley School for Coloreds.

In 1953, a new identify Continued Success!.....MENTORING and Linda Johnson and Stacy McIntosh and Marion Johnson would emerge with akick-off new name the school.

MIXER………To thefor2010 Black J. S. Clark School was named in honor Expo, the High Houston Area Urban League of Joseph Samuel Clark, first president of hosted a mentoring mixerthe welcoming Southern and A&MEmeritus Scotlandville, Susan L.University Taylor, Publisher of Ann Linton, Mary M. Hailey, Dorothy Prejean and Georgia Rosette Guillory Keith Bynam, Gloria Stelly and Sawyer Bynam Baton Rouge, and a proud body would Essence Magazine to thestudent city and honoring forgeoutstanding ahead to establish their own five mentors.

The tradition. honorees The schoolCharles existed from 1953-1969.

After all included Savage, Executive these years, remained close relationship Director of there the Fifth WardaEnrichment among the folks whoScott-Davis, attended the school, Program, Executive This is theAlgenita uptown version. so last year the alumniHabitat was established in Director of Houston for Humanity, The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown Houston. Why Houston?

Well, because Lawrence Allen, Director/Special Projects small wagon is the answer for buyers of itsHISD, proximity to Louisiana and more for Dr.economy, Jonita Reynolds, CEO /Gulf seeking fuel safety and verOpelousans live hereServices than anyAssociation other city. Don Coast Community and satility.

Rosette, classWilson, of 1961,Vice serves as president Dr. Frazier President/Shell I remember two years ago when we of the Alumni. Foundation.

About 200 folks attended Oil Company were heading for Niagara Falls, the event including Don Cravins Sr., mayor Congrats!......NEWEST CHAPTER…..

Canada and Buffalo, New York, the of Opelousas and his wife,Cy-Fair Patricia, June of The recently organized Chapter Irma Backer, Hilda West and Trudy Dupre Shirley Rosette Brown and Michael and Deneeka Brown Dodge Caliber was the vehicle of Rosette, Shirley Rosette Brown, Deneeka Terri Phillips and Deborah Duncan Kicking Out Kidney Disease the National Women of Achievement choice when it came to rent cars. hostandtheir Michael Brown, Irma Backer, Hilda ed first event, “Sister II Sister” Health We Trudy test droved the Dodge Caliber West, Dupre, Donna Rosette, Brian & Wellness Breakfast at Good Hope for a week prior to going on vacation.

Rosette, Pamela Ann Linton, Mary Baptist Church.Cortez, In addition to a delicious Then we Prejean, arrived in Buffalo, the Hailey,when Dorothy breakfast, the guests wereGeorgia treated Rosette to a panel Caliber our Bynam, first option as aStelly rental Guillory,was Sawyer Gloria discussion presented

by Venisha Shepard, car.

It seemed like the Caliber was the and deejay Keith Bynam.

Great event!....... nutritionist, Dornne Burnside, pharmacist vehicle of choice.

DEBUTANTE BALL……Resplendent in and Officer Rachelle Holman. Although With a 2.o-liter, four-cylinder engine their white ball gowns, 22 beautiful young new, the chapter has already surpassed their matched adebut continuously-variable ladies madewith their to society at to thethe eldexpectations in providing service transmission, the Dodge Caliber 26th Biennial hostedShould byhad the erly, veterans,Debutante youth andBall, women. more enough power to transport us Houston & Jill contact of America, you wishChapter to join of theJack chapter, Helen everywhere we wanted to go.

Inc. Moreatthan 1,000 guests or attended the ball Johnson 281-852-4405 Chapter spaceLicia wasGreen-Ellis. more than adethatThe wascargo chaired They President Anneby Harris at 713-937-3320. quate, we travel large. include and Hannah Lawson, Morgan Ross, Congratulations and continued sucBetween my wife daughter, we Arianna Guidry, Erin and Parker, AmberBaptist Lilly, cess!........

KUDOS…….Mt. Horem travel with everything except the Kristinafamily Cashin, Shannon Aldridge, Church and Minister ThomasLeah F. Arlener Poydras, Susan Taylor and Phyllis Bailey Charles Savage kitchen sink. Story, Morgan Miller, Ivanna Allen, Krstyn Freeman celebrated their 60th Annual and Algenita Scott-Davis Standard equipment includes Twenty-Two Jack & Jill of America Debutantes Miles, Kathryn Drexler, Alana Smith, airfirst Women’s Day Program…….Houston’s conditioning withCongregational automatic temperaSavannah Williams, Lindsay Buchanan, African American Church ture control, power windows with driAlyson Sterling, and Senior PastorJaeci Rev.Roberts, MyronLauren E. Cloyd ver’s one-touch feature and SIRIUS Auzenne, Kara Smith, Allison Wells,with a celebrated its 106th year of service satellite radio.

Whitley McDowell and Kirstin dedication and unveiling of theBlack.

Official Other standard equipment includes by Congratulations!...........KUDOS…….Parents Texas State Historical Marker presented There is an information display that dow. heated seats,Commission leather-wrapped CALIBER: HIGHLIGHTS Magazine has announced the Children’s the Texasfront Historical and the tells you what direction you’re heading, The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown steering wheel and istiltthesteering column.

Museum of Houston No. 1 children’s Harris County Historical Commission and the temperature outside and how fast gets five-star government safety ratings We drove the 2010 Caliber museum in the Parker nation.

Every day named they offer Mayor Anise hasDodge been one you’re traveling. You can also see what in the frontal driver, crash passenger, MSRP base price 23 miles per gallon (city), 27 Uptown from Houston to Austin for theto new“The mind-blowing, family-engaging ways of World’s Most Influential People” $19,995 (as tested- $22,965) mpg (highway) you’re fuel economy is and what your side front seat and crash rear seat cateannual high school baseball state tourlearn more about this exciting, ever-changing by Time magazine……..

Have a great weektire inflation-level is. gories. It also rates four stars in the Engine Estimated annual fuel cost nament without incident.

In fact, world.

Congrats!.........Have a great weekwe on The 2010 Dodge Caliber Uptown is a rollover division. and remember to watch CROSSROADS 2.0-liter four-cylinder $1,560 enjoyed our drive, with smooth riding and remember to watch CROSSROADS Channel 13 Sunday morning with Melanie crossover vehicle waiting to happen.

Warranty coverage includes a fiveon I-10 leading up to Highway 71 into Channel Sunday morning with Lawson for13your event covered

by Ms. Safety equipment Exterior features include 17-inch alu- year or 100,000-mile powertrain limitthe stateAlso capital.

Melanie Lawson for out yourour event covered Chag. check website at by minum wheels, power-heated exterior ed warranty and 24-hour towing assisSpeed sensitive power locks My partner, John, that Ms. Chag.

AlsoBig check outtomentioned our website at defendernetwork.com view the “Event mirrors, fog lamps and a bright front tance. there was no road noise the to car defendernetwork.com toChag’s viewand the “Event of the Week.”…..From Place grille.

Big John told me this is a vehicle for handled like a mid-sized sedan.

This is of theplace, Week.”…..From Chag’s Place to your Dr. Jonita Reynolds Joe Arrington and Jerome Love Yvette Pawnell your Ciao Darling!

Optional equipment includes a power college students starting out or newlyFuel economy aplace, vehicle that lists for less than Ciao Darling! and Dr. Frazier Wilson and Deanna Santiago express moonroof, media Cashin, center Leah and Allen weds out of the starting gate.

Jacei Roberts, Christina and getting Arianna Guidry Allison Wells, Kara Smith, Alana Smith, Morgan Miller and Elise Drexler $20,000.

6.5-inch touch screen navigation winI tend to agree

By Kathy Chaney

Airport contracts

AUTO NEWS

2010 Dodge Caliber

By Darrell K. Ardison