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CHECK OUT UPCOMING BACK-TO-SCHOOL HEALTH FAIRS SCHEDULED P3
Houston’s Leading Black Information Source Volume 80 | Number 41
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NEWSTALK
HARRY JOHNSON
PAULA HARRIS Under scrutiny at HISD
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Houstonian leads
NATIONAL
ATTORNEY GENERAL
MLK memorial project
Says Black journalists “essential”
Eric Holder
P4 SPORTS
BRYCE BEALL A Cougar on a mission
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Mary J. Blige looks back
Singer Mary J. Blige wrote and recorded the song “The Living Proof” for the film “The Help,” which takes place in Mississippi in the 1960s. Her inspiration for the song included an aunt who worked as a maid. Blige also recalls her childhood trips to Georgia, “and they would ship us down South every summer.” PAGE 5
Ray Seals has class
Legendary Madison High School football coach Ray Seals recently retired after a 46-yearcareer. Seals has always been the ultimate gentleman, with a classy demeanor and down-to-earth nature. Seals strived to instill such values in his players, and taught them the importance of being respectful and well-rounded. PAGE 11
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State Senator Rodney Ellis, Tom Joyner and Dr. John Rudley at The Power of a TSU Online Graduate Degree.
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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011
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The Cartoon of the week Keefe, The Denver Post
In The Book Corner Faith in the Fire: Wisdom for Life by Dr. Gardner C. Taylor
“Amazingly, many people of faith and members of the reading public have not heard of Gardner Taylor or his accomplishments. Publication of Faith in the Fire attempts to rectify this by providing an accessible introduction to Dr. Taylor’s enduring wisdom...
News & Opinion Democrats Need a Hot chocolate Party
George E. Curry
Question of the Week What is your opinion of an Anglo woman writing the movie “Help” about a Black woman’s struggle?
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Discover the New Look, New Size, New Content, New Attitude Designed for your convenience, the new Defender is packaged in an easy to handle tabloid size, with a colorful contemporary flair featuring more content as we celebrate 80 years of service to the African-American community. The new Defender logo with the large star reflects that “You Are the STAR.” Each week you are invited to share your opinions and comments on our stories and the issues confronting our city on the defendernetwork. com.. Let your voice be heard and invite others to join you. Look for the Defender at community locations, Krogers, Fiesta, Gerlands and soon CVS pharmacies.
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WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011 | DEFENDER
Paula Harris
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under scrutiny at HISD By ASWAD WALKER Defender
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review of the Houston Independent School District’s bidding procedures has been called for by school board vice president Anna Eastman following recent revelations of close relationships between vendors and trustees Paula Harris and Larry Marshall. At issue is the relationship between Harris, the board president, and friend and former business partner Nicole West and owner of Westco Ventures, a construction company that West started with her husband, Anthony. Harris and West traveled together to Italy in April during the district’s mandatory silent period, when trustees and potential vendors are forbidden from talking about looming deals. Harris said she and
West never discussed pending business, and did not do so during their trip. A few months earlier, board members had been sent two emails from the district’s then-procurement chief telling them to “cease immediately” talking to potential vendors about bidding to provide painting services— a project on which Westco Ventures bid. Less than two weeks after
Harris and West returned from Italy, Harris and her board colleagues voted to approve Westco and three other companies as painting vendors. The deal was worth up to $5 million, though no one firm was guaranteed the total amount. In May, one month after the April approval to become a painting vendor, Westco was approved by the board as one of four vendors to provide fencing services—a bid worth up to $3 million. “I am gravely concerned, and I hope my colleagues will join me in asking for a thirdparty audit of these processes,” said Eastman, also noting reports about Marshall, who had approached the district’s chief financial officer, Melinda Garrett, and Superintendent Terry Grier in January about hiring as a health-care consultant Kenneth Wells, a doctor Marshall has known for years and traveled with. Though the deal is not final, the school board in June authorized staff to negotiate a contract with Wells and his company for up to $640,000. Prompted by recent
localbriefs Texas begins early crackdown on intoxicated drivers The Texas Departments of Transportation and Public Safety are launching the annual Labor Day DWI crackdown on Aug. 19. Thousands of state troopers, deputies and police officers across state will be out in force as part of the “Drink, Drive, Go to Jail” enforcement effort and public awareness campaign which runs through Labor Day. “It comes down to making the right choices and planning ahead if you are going to drink,” said Carol Rawson, TxDOT’s Traffic Operations Division director. “No matter how good your excuse may seem at the time, it won’t save you when an officer pulls you over.”
Nancy Pelosi visits Power Center for seniors forum House Democratic Leader and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi joined fellow U.S. Representatives Al Green and Sheila Jackson Lee at the Power Center to speak about Social Security and Medicare. Pelosi told senior citizens there that she would fight to keep benefits at current levels despite efforts to reduce the federal budget. Pelosi said Republican lawmakers are using the deficit as an excuse to cut vital social programs, but insisted Democratic leaders would not budge. Pelosi has represented California’s 8th District since 1987. From 2007-10 she served as House speaker, and was the first woman to hold the powerful position.
Museum offers free vaccinations Thursdays in August Children under 18 in need of immunizations required by Harris County school districts can receive free vaccinations at the Children’s Museum of Houston, 1500 Binz. Texas Children’s Hospital will administer backto-school vaccinations to the first 150 visitors every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. during Free Family Night through Aug. 25. To qualify, parents and guardians will need their child’s immunization records. There is no need to pre-register. After the vaccinations, children and families are invited to stay and enjoy the museums various hands-on exhibits. For information call 713522-1138. August is designated as National Immunization Awareness Month.
Continued on Page 9
Back-to-school activities scheduled By ASWAD WALKER Defender
Summer vacation is almost over and the new school year is almost here. Various Houston-area organizations are gearing up for the start of school by providing children and their parents with everything from free school supplies to immunizations
Ampomaa Resources Connections Center, Inc. in partnership with the Texas Southern University Economic Development Center will host a Community Health Fair on Saturday, Aug. 13 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at TSU’s Jesse H. Jones School of Business, 3100 Cleburne. Sponsors include Schekinah Mentors International, H.E.B., the American Red Cross, BBVA Compass, the Houston Food Bank, Target, the City of Houston and Chick-fil-A. Screenings for oral health, vision, glucose, cholesterol,
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blood pressure and hearing will be offered, along with children’s immunizations. Amanda Jolivet, the public relations coordinator of the Fort Bend Family Health Center (FBFHC) said that there is a lot of activity because Aug. 7-13 is National Health Center Week, which seeks to inform the public of the quality healthcare and cost savings they can receive when using centers such as hers. In recognition of National Health Center Week, the
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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011
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Black journalists called ‘essential’ By Nicole Lockley Special to the NNPA from The Philadelphia Tribune
Attorney General Eric Holder recently visited Philadelphia to speak at the 36th annual National Association of Black Journalists’ convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Before Holder’s entrance, a video message from President Barack Obama was played. “America still needs the work that you do,” the president said about the need for Black journalists. “This isn’t just important to the African-American community, but for America as a whole.” Holder also thanked Black journalists for the work they do and called them essential partners to the U.S. Department of Justice. “You have the right to hold the nation’s leaders accountable,” he said. He then talked about problems the Black community faces — stories journalists need to tell. When looking at the large percentage of Black males in jail, Holder said journalists should instead question why Blacks are disproportionately victimized. He said light needs to be shed on why a large population of Black and Hispanic high school students read at the same level as a white eighth grader. “Solving this is not solely your responsibility. We both have a responsibility to expand fairness. We still have much to do,” Holder said. “Keep asking the tough questions and shining light on issues.”
During a multi-year HIV study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), young Black men who have sex with men (MSM) were the only group to show a significant increase in new HIV infections. According to the study, young MSM (18-29 year olds) were all affected, but Blacks were severely vulnerable. In fact, the infection rate among Blacks increased by 48 percent—from 4,400 infections in 2006 to 6,500 infections in 2009. “More than 30 years into the HIV epidemic, about 50,000
people in this country still become infected each year,” said CDC Director Thomas Frieden. “Not only do men who have sex with men continue to account for most new infections, young gay and bisexual men are the only group in which infections are increasing, and this increase is particularly concerning among young African-American MSM.” There were a number of factors that may have contributed to the spike. They include limited access to health care, the stigma of HIV and homosexuality and higher rates of sexually transmitted diseases among young Black men, which could help facilitate HIV transmission.
Maxine Waters, Black caucus members blast debt deal Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) blasted President Barack Obama’s brokered deal to raise the debt ceiling, insisting the rich will feel no pain. “The cuts will be deep, they will be lasting, and they will weaken an already-depressed economy,” Waters said during a House floor speech. After weeks of high stakes wrangling, Obama and congressional leaders hammered out a deal to raise the government’s debt ceiling while cutting spending about $2.4 trillion, avoiding a government default. House Democrats, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus, claimed the administration caved in to the GOP and left them in the dark.
Background checks contribute to high unemployment The Black unemployment rate remains at 16.2 percent. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recently met to examine criminal background checks and their impact on those searching for jobs. At the forum, policy and legal experts discussed the matter. “As the use of background checks expands, many employers are routinely excluding all job applicants with criminal records from consideration, no matter how minor or dated their offenses,” said Maurice Emsellem of the National Employment Law Project. “Background checks are meant to ensure a safe work environment, but many employers have gone way too far, shutting out highly qualified candidates…”
2012 stamp will honor late publisher John H. Johnson
HIV infections up among Black gays By AFRO Staff
U.S.briefs
Jonathan Mermin, the director of CDC’s Division of HIV/ AIDS Prevention, said the organization is “deeply concerned” about the alarming rate of young, Black gay and bisexual men. “We cannot allow the health of a new generation of gay men to be lost to a preventable disease,” Mermin said. “It’s time to renew the focus on HIV among gay men and confront the homophobia and stigma that all too often accompany this disease.” Even though Blacks represent 14 percent of the total population in the U.S., they accounted for 44 percent of all new HIV infections in 2009, the report stated.
The U.S. Postal Service will feature legendary businessman John H. Johnson, founder of Johnson Publishing Company, on its 2012 Black Heritage Stamp. Johnson established an empire that included Ebony and Jet magazines, radio stations and Fashion Fair Cosmetics. He died in 2005 at the age of 87. Past stamp honorees include Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., W.E.B. Du Bois and Justice Thurgood Marshall. Next month, stamps of 2011 honoree, the late Texas Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, will go on sale. Jordan’s stamp will be unveiled Friday, Sept. 16, at 11 a.m. on the Texas Southern University campus.
VOLUME 80 • NUMBER • 41 WEEK OF AUGUST 11, 2011
Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Editor Von Jiles Associate Editors Reshonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila
Columnist Yvette Chargois Sport Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Webmaster Corneleon Block
The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender audited By Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2011 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).
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Mary J. Blige vocal about ‘The Help’ M By KAM WILLIAMS Defender
ary J. Blige wrote and recorded an original song for the soundtrack of “The Help,” a film that takes places in Mississippi in the early sixties. Based on the bestseller of the same name by Kathryn Stockett, the movie chronicles the emotional journey of three very different women who embark on a secret writing project breaking societal rules and thereby putting themselves at risk. Here, Blige, a six-time Grammy Award-winner, talks about what inspired her to compose the “The Living Proof.” KW: You’re not old enough to remember the era in which “The Help” takes place. Did the events in the movie resonate with you anyway? MJB: Well, it resonated with me because I do know what was happening. She [Viola Davis’ character, Aibileen] is a survivor. She ended up surviving to be able to tell her story through her book. The only way she was gonna survive was through walking in love and forgiveness and that’s the only way I survived is through walking in love and forgiving people. And that’s what inspired the whole song. My Aunt Larruper was a maid when I was a child, and both my parents are from Savannah, Georgia. And they would ship us down South every summer, so we got a chance to see a little bit of the help. My aunt was one of those women and she worked for a wealthy white family that loved her to death, like really loved her and she raised their children just like Aibileen would say, too, to the little girl, “You’re smart, you’re kind, you’re important.” I believe my aunt was saying some of the same things to those children, so that’s how I related to the film. KW: I wonder whether young people today will fully understand that segregation was the norm back then and not just being made up for a movie. MJB: I think everyone should understand the history the same way we had to go to school and read about George Washington. I believe this generation should know their history and they should know that the struggle’s not over yet. For instance, you can’t get the cover of a magazine if your skin is too dark.
KW: What would you say to young people about where we are right now? MJB: I guess I would point out how in the movie Aibileen forgave them for treating her badly. Instead of getting angry and emotional, she walked off and she forgave them. So, I would say see the film based on learning how to live, how to walk in love and forgiveness I hope. You know, that’s basically what I would say to the kids. KW: What made you decide to write a song for the film? MJB:When I saw the film, I cried so much. I got angry. I went through so many different emotions but the thing that stood out to me the most is the courage that this woman had, the courage. Just based on that alone is what made me say, “I’m in.” If she had been portrayed as whimpering, like “Oh, master this and that,” and had simply conformed to the system that was trying to beat her down, I wouldn’t have had anything to do with it. But she was like, “I’m gonna stand!” And not only that, there was someone with white skin willing to help her. KW: Will you still be playing Nina Simone in an upcoming film? What attracted you to that project? MJB: That film got pushed back to October. Nina Simone was not only a great artist, but also an amazing woman, an amazing woman. She had a lot of courage. She was an activist. She stood up for what she believed in, and that’s where I can relate to her. She stood up for what she believed in but there was also a side of her that nobody saw, this human side which went through a lot. But yeah, that project’s happening.
what’sup Laurence Fishburne joins cast of
Never a dull moment for Fantasia,
Jay-Z denies rumors he had a fight with
Fresh from his role on television’s “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” Laurence Fisburne will reportedly portray nononsense editor Perry White in the new Superman movie, “Man of Steel.” Fishburne is the first African-American actor to take on the role of White, who runs the Metropolis newspaper, the Daily Planet. According to EW.com, Henry Cavill will play Superman, and other stars include Kevin Costner, Diane Lane and Amy Adams. For the last three years, Fishburne has portrayed Dr. Raymond Langston on the CBS hit “CSI,” but chose not to renew his contract. He is being replaced by Ted Danson this fall. Fishburne is perhaps best known for his role as Morpheus in the “Matrix” science fiction film trilogy. He received an Oscar nomination for portraying Ike Turner in “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”
Fantasia stays in the entertainment news. According to TMZ, a second child is not the only thing she’s expecting. Legal papers filed show she is being sued by a collection company for allegedly owing U.S. Bank money. The suit is asking for $25,000 plus interest. And, earlier this year, Fantasia denied being pregnant after gaining weight. Recently however, during a concert in Florida, she announced she was indeed expecting. “…I don’t live my life for folk,” she told the audience. “This child that I’m carrying, God has given me this child. And I don’t have to hide it from none of y’all.” Fantasia, who is single, isn’t identifying the baby’s father. In yet another twist, her boyfriend, Antwuan Cook, is still legally married and trying to sort out his separation in court.
Following rumors about a physical altercation between superstars Jay-Z and Kanye West, Jay shot down the claims during a recent radio interview on New York’s Hot 97. According to MTV News, reports alleged that the two began feuding after West wanted to spend big bucks on their upcoming “Watch the Throne” tour, in promotion of their album of the same name. Sources also claimed that the dispute turned physical. “I would never disrespect that man,” Jay-Z said on the radio show. “I have so much respect for him. Put my hands on him?” he asked rhetorically. “And if I did, it would be like the backyard, like brothers, and you would never hear about it.” He added that their only disputes are when they’re pushing each other to be greater in the studio.
Superman remake, ‘Man of Steel’
who has a lot going on in her life
Kanye West over tour expenses
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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011
coverpage
Harry Johnson
Houstonian leads MLK memorial project By ASWAD WALKER Defender
S
About Harry Johnson
pearheading Harry E. Johnson Sr. is president and CEO of the effort the Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National to bring the Memorial Project Foundation. long-awaited Originally from St. Louis, Johnson made his MLK Memoway to Houston specifically to attend the Thurgood rial in the Marshall School of Law, where he later taught. He nation’s capital to life also taught at TSU’s Barbara Jordan/Mickey Leland is someone with strong School of Public Affairs. Houston ties—Harry E. As a partner at the Law Office of Glenn and Johnson, he served as city attorney for Kendelton Johnson Sr. from 1996-99. Johnson is president Johnson is also a small business owner who and CEO of the Washinghas dedicated his time to community groups and ton, D.C., Martin Luther organizations, focusing on voter registration, blood King Jr. National Memodonations, HIV/AIDS, Boy Scouts of America and Big rial Project Foundation. Brothers. The memorial will He has received countless awards for public sersoon be on display as the vice, and is a recent recipient of the Trumpet Award. official week of dedicaIn addition, Johnson was named one of Ebony tion activities takes place Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Black Americans Aug. 25-28 thanks to the 2001-2004. Johnson recently delivered the keynote address leadership and fundto graduates at TSU’s summer commencement. He is raising efforts of Johngearing up for the dedication and grand opening of son, an alumnus of the the new MLK Memorial on Aug. 28, the 48th anniverTexas Southern Universary of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. sity Thurgood Marshall Johnson has led the foundation since 2002, School of Law. working to honor the charge given by the President The memorial will and Congress to erect a memorial on the National convey four themes that Mall in D.C. to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King. were central throughout Under Johnson’s leadership, the foundation Dr. King’s life—demochas raised $114 million of the $120 million needed to racy, justice, hope and complete the memorial. love. The centerpiece will national president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraterbe the “Stone of Hope,” nity. a 30-foot statue of Dr. King, with a 450-foot Defender: What made your participainscription wall that will be inscribed with tion personal? excerpts of his sermons and public addresses Johnson: Like all of us, I’ve benefited to serve as living testaments of his vision of from his service. Who should pay or who America. gains from a King memorial—anyone who The Defender recently spoke with Johnhas gained from his life and teachings. We son about the MLK Memorial. are all better because Dr. King lived in this Defender: When did you get involved world. How apropos that Dr. King changed with this project? history and the normality of life. There’s no Johnson: Early 2001 when I became
telling where we would be without his vision. Defender: What’s the value of this memorial to the Black community, and to Americans in general? Johnson: To Blacks it’s obvious. For the first time in U.S. history the National Mall will now become diversified, looking more aligned with this country. Right now, no memorial of this magnitude honoring a person of color exists there. It’s significant that for the first time this country will memorialize on the mall not a war hero, not a president, but a man of hope, a man of peace, a man of color. Also, in our history we don’t build memorials to men but to the ideals for which they stand. The Jefferson Memorial wasn’t built to honor Thomas Jefferson the man. He owned slaves. It was built because of his ideals—he stood for democracy over anarchy. The same is true for President Lincoln. At a time when this country was divided, Lincoln said, “We are the United States of America.” And when this country was going to be split in two, Black vs. white, rich vs. poor, Dr. King called this nation together. That’s why he’s important to the country, and indeed the world. Defender: What is the foundation doing to ensure that visitors feel and experience the four major themes of the memorial? Johnson: Upon entering the memorial, visitors will walk through a huge boulder split in three, representing a mountain of
Johnson oversaw the con and the fund-raising for t memorial being dedicate 28, 2011.
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nstruction the national ed Aug. 25 -
7 MLK Memorial public events: Thurs. Aug. 25 - Sun. Aug. 28 The Memorial, located at the intersection of West Basin Drive SW and Independence Avenue SW, will officially open to the public on Monday, Aug. 22 (11 a.m-10 p.m.). Official Week of Dedication events begin with an invitation-only International Salute Gala Dinner on Wednesday, Aug. 24. Listed below are events open to the public—some free, some requiring tickets purchased. n Civil Rights Pioneers Luncheon: Honors those who dared to stand with Dr. King and those who dare to stand for the dream today and tomorrow. Date: Thursday, Aug. 25, noon-2 p.m. Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center Attire: Business Cost: $85/Seat (limited ticket availability/sponsorship levels available)
Members of the Congressional Black Caucus get a preview of the national memorial before the celebrations get underway.
he Houston area for over 80 years
n Message in the Music Civil Rights Concert: Date: Thursday, Aug. 25, 8-10 p.m. Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center Attire: Cocktail Cost: $100, $65 Tickets (limited ticket availability/sponsorship levels available) n Women Who Dare to Dream Luncheon: Date: Friday, Aug. 26, noon-2 p.m. Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center Attire: Business Cost: $85/Seat (limited ticket availability/sponsorship levels available)
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder talks to Johnson about one of the exhibits.
despair. Upon emerging from there, they will then deal with the memorial’s four themes—democracy, justice, hope and love. The experience removes the specter of gender, race and economic status, allowing individuals to experience and deal with these powerful themes in a calm, serene setting. In this country we’re just now accepting the idea that Dr. King is an international hero. People all over the world already recognized this. There are statues all over the world honoring Dr. King. The world over, when people come together for justice and equality they lock arms and sing “We Shall Overcome.” Defender: What is your vision of how people will interact with and experience the memorial not just on August 28, but for years and generations to come? Johnson: Thus far, when people see it for the first time, no matter if you’re Congressman John Lewis, or any other member of the Congressional Black Caucus, the reaction is always the same. You’re awestruck. Then a tear wells up in your eye that a Black
n Partners in the Dream Public Expo: Includes information booths, performances and a tribute to the legacy of Dr. King. Date: Thursday, Aug. 25-Sunday, Aug. 28; various times) Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center Attire: Casual Cost: Free and open to the public
man is standing here in the National Mall between these presidents; that this Black man is deserving to be in this neighborhood with Jefferson, Lincoln and Washington. Defender: What type of activities are scheduled for the August 25-28 dedication weekend? Johnson: Just some of the events taking place include an international salute honoring Dr. King as an international leader. Several foreign heads of state will be present, and General Colin Powell will be speaking. On Thursday, there will be a Civil Rights Pioneers Luncheon honoring heroes and “sheroes” such as Dr. Wyatt T. Walker, former chief of staff for Dr. King, Houston’s Reverend Bill Lawson, and others who played integral roles in the Civil Rights Movement. Thursday night, there will be a Message in the Music Concert featuring Smokey Robinson, the O’Jays and others. On Friday, we’ll host the Women Who Dared to Dream Luncheon, paying honor to Coretta Scott King, Dorothy Height, Sojourner Truth and others past and present. Saturday at the National CatheContinued on Page 8
n Dream Gala: Date: Saturday, Aug. 27, Reception: 6-7 p.m.; dinner: 7-10 p.m. Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center Attire: Black tie Cost: $250, $125 Tickets (limited ticket availability/sponsorship levels available) n Pre-Dedication Musical Tribute: Date: Sunday, Aug. 28, 10-11 a.m. Location: West Potomac Park Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, softsoled comfortable shoes, sunscreen Cost: Free and open to the public n Official Dedication Ceremony: Date: Sun., Aug. 28, 11 a.m. Location: West Potomac Park Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, softsoled comfortable shoes, sunscreen Cost: Free and open to the public n Concert on the Mall: Date: Sunday, Aug. 28, 2-4 p.m. Location: West Potomac Park Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, softsoled comfortable shoes, sunscreen Cost: Free and open to the public
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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011
Back to... Continued from page 3 FBFHC is hosting a Back to School Health Fair on Aug. 13 from 9 a.m.-noon at Missouri City Center, 307 Texas Parkway. “As a non-profit, federally-qualified health center, the FBFHC is able to take Medicaid and Medicare, and Fort Bend residents can receive services for primary health care, mental health care and dental care at a sliding scale based on your income,” said Jolivet. “So even if you don’t have insurance we’re still able to see you and you’ll pay anywhere from $35-$50 dollars for all services, including lab work and x-rays. If you were uninsured and went to a private doctor you could be seeing a bill of upward of $1,000.” Jolivet said everyone is welcome at the event. “At the health fair, anybody and everybody, you don’t have to be a Fort Bend resident, can come and your kids can get free immunizations, dental and vision screenings, scoliosis checks and school supplies.” Jolivet added that though the screenings and school supplies are for children up to 18, family members of all ages can come out and enjoy games, food, popcorn and ice cream. HISD and the City of Houston recently hosted the inaugural Back to School Fest at the George R. Brown Convention Center. That, however, was far from the only one being held in the greater Houston area focused on getting parents and children ready for the upcoming school year. In West Houston, the Attitude Respect N’ Manners Learning Center hosted a Back to School Community Outreach event where school supplies and free health and dental screenings were made available for children. Representatives from the Texas Children Health Plan, Escape Family Resource Center, Houston Fire Department, Houston Police Department and Sonrisa Dental were in attendance. Members of Schekinah, a non-profit organization that provides mentoring and tutoring programs aimed at reducing high school and college dropout rates in the Greater Houston area, were also present for the event. “When we got to the venue, it was incredible to see that a lot of people were already lined up to get the supplies even though it was really hot on that day,” said Bosede Airhia, Schekinah’s founder and director. “We provided backpacks, school supplies, health and safety tips, and CHIP/Medicaid information to kids and their parents to prepare them for [new] school year, all things consistent with our mission to contribute to the educational, social and economic development of the society,” added Airhia. “It was so exciting seeing all the children out on the August 6 back-to-school event,” said Crystal Bonner, Schekinah’s program coordinator. “They were so happy getting their dental checkups and getting their backpacks. “One young man stopped at our table and just starting going through his backpack and for every item that he took out, his eyes just lit up. It just gives your heart such a warm feeling to know that even the smallest thing can brighten up someone’s day.” Interest in the Back to School Fest ran higher than expected. “The line was wrapped and wrapped around the building,” said Aisha Lowry, parent of two elementary-aged children. “People were leaving before they even got to the line.” Judging by the turn-out at events around the city, there is a great need for back-to-school resources. “There are so many children in the inner city that need assistance going to back to school with just the basic items, such as pencils and papers,” said Bonner. “We think that in order for a child to learn, they need to be well-supplied with the necessary tools. If we can get as many children as possible equipped with these tools, we have accomplished our goal.” For more information about the Fort Bend Back to School Health Fair, call 281-633-3103 or visit www.fbfhc. org. For more information about the Community Health Fair at TSU call 713-313-7785.
Harry Johnson... Continued from page 7 dral, there will be an Interfaith Prayer Service where Reverend Joe Ratliff of Houston will be on program as President Bill Clinton serves as the speaker. There will be a Dream Keepers youth forum on Saturday afternoon, sponsored in part by Education Secretary Arnie Duncan and the NBA, focusing on the importance of a college education. Saturday evening there will be a dinner honoring the nearly 70 companies that donated over $1 million each for the King Memorial. The dedication will take place that Sunday where President Obama has been invited to speak, followed by a concert featuring among others, Jamie Foxx, Stevie Wonder, and Aretha Franklin. It’s truly going to be a once-in-alifetime event. If you were in D.C. for the March on Washington in 1963, or if you weren’t but your parents were, you can’t miss this. When’s the next time another brother will be memorialized on the mall? When’s the next time a Black
president will be in office during such an event? This is probably the biggest event in this country in the last 50 years. Defender: What type of turn-out do you expect? Johnson: At least 250,000 to 400,000. Defender: Is there a Houston connection beyond your participation? Johnson: There are several, including Myles Construction, George Foreman—member of the Executive Leadership Council, Dr. Ratliff who is on the working board, and several others. Defender: Are their organized caravans going to the event from Houston? Johnson: Brentwood Baptist, Wheeler Avenue, and Pastor Ralph West’s Church Without Walls are the ones I know of. In fact, Pastor West will be on program at the Cathedral. Individuals interested in going should contact the churches directly. For more information, visit www.mlkmemorial.org or www.dedicatethedream.org.
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Paula Harris... Continued from page 3 public scrutiny of the deals, Harris stated that she would abstain from voting on bids involving West, whose construction firm has received at least $1.9 million from the district. In late 2010 the school board instituted a “code of silence” between trustees and vendors about pending bids in an effort to tighten its ethics policy. The silent period runs from the time the district sends an email about the start of the bidding process until the board votes. “No, I never talk of business during the code of silence with anyone,” said Harris. “I probably wasn’t aware [West] had bid on it. We don’t talk about what she bids on.” West, who also owns other companies that have done business with HISD, including an ambulance service, a private investigations firm and a tutoring company, was once Harris’ partner in Onsight Technology. Two months after Harris became a member of the board in 2008, they severed ties, and West renamed the company Onsite Technology. The newly named
company has provided tutoring for HISD. “I’m not voting on any more of her contracts. And although it’s not against the law for me to do so, it gives y’all so much to write about when I do. So, it’s to save some ink,” said Harris. Though Texas law does not require trustees to disclose friends who may be potential vendors, it does require them to disclose familial relationships. According to the website Texas Watchdog, Harris previously told the website’s representatives that she never discussed with HISD officials her friend West doing business with the district, and had said she knew only two people involved in the district’s procurement work — and thenprocurement chief Stephen Pottinger wasn’t one of the people she named. However, e-mails released by the school district show Harris had talked about Westco with Pottinger in mid-November—five months before the school board voted to approve $8 million in contracts including contracts with West’s company.
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Smart DeciSion HCCfacultyfacts.org
At HCC, our faculty knows the theory yet applies the practice of real-world experience in the very same classroom. We are preparing students to be the next generation of thinkers and doers.
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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011
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sports
Bryce Beall is a Cougar on a mission By MAX EDISON Defender
In the three years that Bryce Beall has been a Houston Cougar he’s seen it all. He’s seen the Cougars beat nationally-ranked opponents, break into the top 25, win a bowl game and become an integral part of the nation’s most prolific offense. He has also seen the Cougars lose a bowl game, get hammered by ranked opponents and witness a team decimated by injury. Now, as he prepares for his senior season, Beall wants to finish his University of Houston career on a high note. Beall (5’11” 215 lbs, Tatum, TX) exploded on to the scene as a freshman, becoming the first freshman to gain 1,000 yards (1,247) in the celebrated history of Cougar football. Beall’s numbers slipped to 670 as a sophomore, splitting time with fellow running back Charles Sims. As a junior, Beall gained 870 yards. Preparing for his senior year, No. 25 is simply trying to maintain a high level of consistency. “I want to finish how I started. I started good and I want to finish well,” Beall explained. “My problem in my career is sometimes I haven’t always finished the way I wanted to. That’s my biggest goal this year, staying consistent. I started my career with a really good year and I want to finish my career here the same way I came in.” Beall feels that his ups and downs at Houston have helped him to mature as a ball
carrier. “I have learned to maintain my focus; that’s what I didn’t have early in my career,” Bryce said. “I lost focus during my sophomore year after having a big year as a freshman. I’ve grown since I’ve been here. I think that adversity as a sophomore caused me to bounce back last year. I think that will motivate me this year.” Despite the pass-happy nature of the Cougar offense, Bryce feels the offense has helped him become a more complete back. “The way this offense works you learn how to pass block well and get out of the backfield and catch the ball as well. Of course as a running back you like running in between the tackles, but our offense has prepared me to be a better all around running back. “ Beall finds an appropriate role model in Marshall Faulk, who was recently inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. Faulk was known for being the total package as a running back, something to which Beall aspires. “Of course growing up in Texas you want to be Emmitt Smith, but the all-around game that Marshall had is so similar to what we try to do,” Beall said. “I watched the old film of him at San Diego State doing everything – running, blocking and catching the ball like a wide-out. His ability to do it all was really impressive because he was so advanced and it carried over into his pro career. That’s what you want to be as a running back. You want to be
all-around, not just a bruiser. Those type of guys are often unappreciated, but you ask your quarterback and offensive line about a back who can help in pass protection or flare out and catch the ball. I really take pride in that.” As a senior, Beall has one goal on his mind, one piece of unfinished business. And that’s winning the C-USA Championship. “Our class wants to leave a legacy here. We were as high as No. 12 in the country a few years ago and we fell off. We didn’t accomplish our goal by winning a conference championship,” he said. “We want to be consistent this year, stay the course and leave a great legacy here at UH for years to come. We want to be known as the class that won a championship. That’s our goal.”
“My problem in my career is sometimes I haven’t always finished the way I wanted to. That’s my biggest goal this year, staying consistent. I started my career with a really good year and I want to finish my career here the same way I came in.”
Running back Bryce Beall and the Cougars have one goal in 2011, C-USA championship
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WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011 DEFENDER
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sportsbriefs HISD high school football preview: District 20-5A
Ray Seals
Coach retires a true gentleman By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender When former Madison High School head football coach Ray Seals decided to retire less than two months ago following a 46-year career, the coaching profession lost the “ultimate” gentleman. That was never more evident than when I received an invitation to his June retirement banquet and noticed that I would be leaving town two days earlier on our annual summer vacation. “You’ve got to do what the wife wants you to do,” Seals said. “I know you’ll be there in spirit.” I had the privilege of witnessing the last 38 years of Seals’ coaching career first as a high school student, college student, sports journalist and high school baseball coach. I’ve seen him at mid-week practices, following emotional games, during a rare bad season and guiding his team to the state semifinals. There were always several constants – his down-to-earth nature, classy demeanor and spirit of a gentleman. During a preseason interview with Seals in 2009, he mentioned that a high percentage of his players came from
fatherless households and it was the duty of he and his coaching staff to teach them how to become well-rounded individuals as well as good football players. “They have to be respectful of females and carry themselves in a firstclass manner,” Seals said. “If they don’t do that, they can’t play for Madison High School.” When I became a head baseball coach in 2004, a former Madison head coach incorrectly reported the score to the media because he was angry with me. I made a telephone call to Seals and informed him of the incident. He was livid and told me that he would address the issue with the coach. “As coaches, we can never do anything that embarrasses the kids,” Seals said. That has always stuck with me. Prior to taking over at Madison in 1988, Seals received his first head-coaching job in 1983 at Milby. The Buffs went from doormats to competitive during Seals’ tenure. I was anxious to see what he could do with a better talent pool. What followed over the next 23 years is legendary. Seals compiled a career 212-96 record with 21 playoff appearances and was named the Houston Independent School District Coach of the Year 10 times. He was also named the 2008 NFL High School Coach of the Year and the inaugural Don Shula NFL Coach of the Year in February. Nine of his players went on to play in the NFL,
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including Vince Young, Broderick Thomas and Moran Norris. The Prairie View A&M graduate has been inducted into several halls of honor, including HISD, the Texas High School Coaches Association and the Greater Houston Football Coaches Association. “He’s one of the many legends in Houston ISD athletics,” said HISD Athletic Director Marmion Dambrino. “It’s going to be hard to replace him.” Fittingly, Seals will be replaced by his protégé for the past 16 years, Pat Reinecke. Seals appointed Reinecke to a position on his staff in 1995. I remember overhearing Reinecke and other members of the Madison coaching staff talking about how Seals demanded so much of his assistants. “I worked my butt off, and I feel like I picked a great coach to learn from,” said the 41-year-old Reinecke. Starting off as a freshman football coach and eventually working his way up to assistant head coach, Reinecke has also served as the head power lifting coach, head boys’ soccer coach and junior varsity baseball coach. HISD recognized Reinecke as the Assistant Coach of the Year four times, including 2010. He was also selected as the Houston Coaches Association Man of the Year in 2006. “Over the past five or six years, he has taken on a lot of responsibility for the program,” Seals said. “We knew he wanted to be a head coach, so he made sure he got prepared for it all. He has the coaching and administrative side down, and he has a love for the kids and the game. “I don’t think they could have made a better choice,” Seals said. “He knows the program. The kids love him, the parents love him and the community loves him.” NFL quarterback Vince Young hugs his mentor Coach Seals.
Lamar’s stranglehold on the district championship may be coming to an end in 2011. The Redskins lost four Division I players to graduation and Bellaire is looking to build on a breakout season in 2010. Perennial playoff qualifier Houston Madison has lost head coach Ray Seals to retirement and former Chavez head coach Mike Jackson has moved on to La Marque. The four schools with the largest enrollment, Bellaire (3,335), Lamar (2,995), Chavez (2,601) and Westside (2,932), could earn the four playoff berths. Bellaire linebacker Keith Ewing and Chavez quarterback Demun Mercer figure to battle for defensive and offensive MVP honors.
Etcetera: Houston-area athletes on the move, on the go • Bria’ Carter from Cypress Lakes High School has won a National Leadership Grant sponsored by NCSA Athletic Recruiting and the NFLPA. • Three Houston area youth baseball and softball teams are currently competing in the 19th annual Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) World Series in Minnesota. The MLB youth initiative is designed to give young people from underserved areas the opportunity to play softball and baseball. Twenty-four teams are competing in three divisions, including junior baseball (13-15 year olds), senior baseball (16-18 year olds) and softball (18-and-under). Los Angeles RBI won the girls’ softball division on August 7. The baseball divisions will culminate August 14 throughout the Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul). • Cameron Townsend of Rosharon has been selected to play for the USA under-15 team at the 2012 Eastbay Youth All-American Bowl set for Jan. 8, 2012 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The USA U-15 team will take on the U-15 team from Canada. • Paul Boyette of Humble High School is one of 100 studentathletes across North America to be selected to play in the inaugural Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl in Phoenix on Jan. 3, 2012. A defensive tackle, Boyette will showcase his talents in the game that will be nationally televised by CBS Sports. Boyette has committed to the University of Texas.
Texas Southern football practice open to the public The defending SWAC football champs, the TSU Tigers, have officially begun defense of their 2011 crown by beginning their pre-season practices. The practices will be held on campus and the public is encouraged to attend. The practice times are Monday-Sunday from 8-10 p.m. The Tigers will be led by interim head coach Kevin Ramsey. This is Ramsey’s third season at Texas Southern. He served as defensive coordinator the previous two years. He guided the Tigers “212 Degree Defense” to a No. 1 ranking among NCAA Division I FCS programs and his squad was named NCAA FCS Statistical Champions for total defense and pass efficiency defense.
NFL Hall of Fame welcomes the latest class of pros The NFL Hall of Fame opened its doors recently to accept seven new members. Deion Sanders and Marshall Faulk entered upon their first year of eligibility. Shannon Sharpe, Richard Dent, Chris Hanburger, Les Richter and Ed Sabol were the additional members of the class of 2011. Sharpe (Savannah State) and Dent (Tennessee State) were both HBCU products. Sanders and Faulk were both introduced by their agents, Eugene Parker and Rocky Arceneaux, both African-Americans, a Hall of Fame first. The event, which attracted over 13,000 enthusiastic fans, is always a very emotional event as inductees acknowledge those important individuals, teammates and coaches who helped them along the way.
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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 11 | 2011
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chag’splace
Dr. Ronald Johnson and Dr. Helen Green
State Senator Rodney Ellis, Tom Joyner and Dr. John Rudley
Thomas Joyner, Jr. and Oscar Joyner
Ebony and Brittany Scott
Kamau Marshall and Subria Lapps
Melanie and Steve Horn
Michelle Martin, Terrell Jenkins and Oyfmem Mendez
Winners Ashley Thompson, Bailee Anderson and Jordan Johnson
a focus on the energy sector. Attendees included Melanie THE POWER OF A GRADUATE DEGREE……. and Steve Horn, Eboni Barnes, Kamau Marshall, During a private networking event hosted by Tom Marine Buckles, Kaye DeWalt, Ebony Scott, Brittany Joyner and Texas Southern University, interested degreed Scott, Dorothy Clemons, Sabrina professionals with five years of work Ambroise and Dr. Frazier Wilson, experience learned about career paths Join Yvette Chargois to name a few. Visit Hbcusonline. and how TSU eMBA and eMPA online Events of the Week com for more information………… programs could position them on an More photos on defendernetwork.com CELEBRATING 25 YEARS……. executive path in as few as 16 months. See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads The Harris County Precinct One They mixed and mingled with Tom, his with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m. Street Olympics program celebrated sons, Oscar and Thomas Joyner Jr., its 25th Annual Summer Games State Sen. Rodney Ellis, TSU president Dr. John Rudley, Dr. Ronald Johnson, dean of the Jesse Final Event at Reliant Arena. Founded in 1986 by H. Jones School of Business, Dr. Helen Green, dean Commissioner El Franco Lee, the free summer games of the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public program takes activities traditionally played on the street Affairs, other administrators of the graduate programs and and turns them into an Olympic-style competition. These executives from the top public and private companies with activities give children the opportunity to develop new
Winners Juliana Estrada, Jose Caldron and Chase Angel, with Brian Rego
skills while competing in a fun-filled environment. The ceremonial torch was lit by Michelle Martin, Terrell Jenkins and Oyfmem Mendez, and the national anthem was performed by Doris Crisp. Several thousand youth participated for gold, silver and bronze medals in street games like hopscotch, jacks, basketball free-throw, shuttle relay, jump rope marathon, hula hoop medley, 50-yard dash, 100-yard dash, basketball dribble with obstacles and softball throw. Once the competition was completed, they attended the Bright Futures Fair where they learned about health, safety and careers with a “bright future.” Ms. Chag, chairman of the board of directors, would like to thank the board members, sponsors, participating agencies, Brian Rego, David Benson, staff and the hundreds of volunteers for a successful 25 years. Congratulations!........ From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!
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