Houston Defender: August 25, 2011

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MLK

WEEK OF AUGUST 25, 2011 | FREE

Memorial

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NEWSTALK

HOUSTONIAN Kappa Alpha Psi national president

William “Randy” Bates

Dream becomes reality

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The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be officially dedicated on Sunday, Aug. 28. It takes place on the 48th anniversary of the March on Washington and Dr. King’s historic “I Have A Dream speech.” There are numerous events leading up to the dedication, most of them open to the public. The memorial is the first on the National Mall to honor a man of color and a man of peace, and creates a visual line of leadership between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. It also conveys four fundamental themes throughout Dr. King’s life – democracy, justice, hope and love.

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MLK NATIONAL MEMORIAL SPECIAL PAGES 6-14

ENTERTAINMENT

SELENA GOMEZ

Unveils “Dream out loud” collection

SPORTS

MARQUIS JACKSON A dominant player on the TSU defense

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

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In The Book Corner

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Houstonian

newstalk

Leads Kappa Alpha Psi

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

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illiam “Randy” Bates Jr. of Houston was recently elected as the 32nd Grand Polemarch (president and CEO) of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. The election took place during the fraternity’s 80th Grand Chapter Meeting and Centennial Celebration in Indianapolis.

Bates hails from the Houston Alumni Chapter, winner of the 2011 Paul W. Caine Alumni Large Chapter of the Year. As the organization’s 32nd Polemarch elected during the fraternity’s 100th anniversary, Bates will lead the group into its second century of existence.

Professionally, Bates is a law partner with Bates & Coleman, PC, and is a member of the board of trustees of the Lone Star College System, a collective of educational institutions which serve more than 85,000 students.

Bates was elected board chair in 1996, 1998, 2008 and 2010. During his tenure, the system received nine separate credit upgrades from Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s. Currently, Lone Star is one of the few community colleges in the country with an AAA rating.

The Houston Alumni Chapter was chartered in 1928 by men who wanted to continue a formal association with the fraternity though they were no longer undergraduates.

The fraternity notes that they were living in the South only 63 years after the Emancipation Proclamation, yet all graduated from or attended college.

The Houston Alumni Chapter has produced six Southwestern Province Polemarchs or regional presidents: Dr. Charles W. Pemberton (1934-36), W.L.D. Johnson, Sr.,

(1944-46) Cornelius Ladner (1947-51), T.B. Allen (197173), Bates (1998-2003), and Ronald V. Julun (2007-present).

Houston’s chapter has also produced two national officers, C.B. Davis and Bates. In addition, Bates served as an elected at-large member of the Grand Board of Directors from 2003-07.

The Houston Alumni Chapter has also produced its share of Kappa award winners, including astronaut Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr., Dr. Bobby L. Wilson, Elder Watson Diggs, attorney Carl Walker Jr. and Willie High Coleman.

Kappa Alpha Psi is an international organization founded on the campus of Indiana University on Jan. 5, 1911. Since its inception, it has helped prepare more than 150,000 men for leadership roles in their communities and excellence in their academic pursuits.

The fraternity is headquartered in Philadelphia.

William “Randy” Bates Jr.

Back to school: Safety tips for drivers

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

Summer vacation is over, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding motorists to do their part in helping to increase safety around school zones and neighborhoods by using extreme caution when approaching a loading or unloading school bus.

Texas has more than 9,000 schools, with more than a million children and teens

dependent upon buses to get them safely to and from class daily.

Texas law states that a motorist can be cited for failure to yield to a school bus with flashing red lights, which indicates children are boarding or exiting the bus.

The fine for committing this offense could cost motorists up to $1,000.

Being ticketed for using a cell phone within an active school zone, another illegal act that places children and other pedestri-

ans in harm’s way, can result in a $200 fine.

To promote safer driving during this time of year, TxDOT offers motorists tips to help make the beginning of the school year safer. They include: • Slow down. Always obey the speed limit when traveling through neighborhoods and school zones.

• Be attentive. Watch for children gathering near bus stops and walking in the street,

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localbriefs Officers in videotaped beating want change of venue Lawyers representing three police officers accused of beating teenage burglary suspect Chad Holley asked for a change of venue in the case, saying their clients would not get a fair trial in Harris County.

The officers – Andrew Blomberg, Phil Bryan and Raad Hassan – were in the courtroom but did not appear before the judge. Surveillance video showed Holley, who was 15 at the time, being beaten by police after he was captured. “Unfortunately, if you see that video, you immediately make conclusions about it,” said Dick DeGuerin, attorney for the accused former officers. The judge reset the hearing.

3rd Ward residents concerned about recent homicides There were six murders in 45 days in Third Ward, and many residents continue to worry about the violence in their neighborhood. The Houston Police Department has asked for public assistance in leads to the cases. Though police believe none of the cases were related, the bodies were found less than a mile from each other. After reports surfaced about the murders, HPD officers joined community members and leaders at a town hall meeting to address the violence. Activist Quanell X also asked the public to help police solve the crimes, and suggested a community patrol to increase safety.

State unemployment rate rises even as Texas adds jobs The good news is that Texas had a net gain of approximately 29,000 jobs last month. The bad news is that the unemployment rate was the worst it has been in nearly 25 years. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) called the results “mixed” because the state gained jobs but the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 8.2 percent in June to 8.4 percent last month. “While nine of the 11 major industries registered employment gains over the month, Texas continues to feel the effects of a stagnant national economy as unemployment increased to 8.4 percent,” said TWC Chairman Tom Pauken.

Continued on Page 17

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

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Libya rebels, oil prices drop W

Defender News Services

hile fighting continued between Libyan rebels and troops loyal to Moammar Gadhafi, international oil prices fell with the prospect that shipments could hit the market again.

Oil shipments ceased six months because of the Libyan conflict, which damaged pipelines and fields and forced out foreign oil engineers who once helped export 1.5 million barrels of oil each day.

Once the oil starts flowing again, it should bring the price of gasoline down even further. Gas has fallen to $3.57 a gallon, and experts say it could fall as low as $3.25 in September.

In Libya, speculation remains that Gaddafi’s 40-year reign is on the verge of collapse. His whereabouts were unknown, and the mood in Tripoli ranged from confusion to euphoria.

NATO said that situation in Tripoli remained dangerous, and promised to keep bombing forces loyal to Gadhafi if they kept fighting.

President Barack Obama also addressed the issue and called the events taking place “extraordinary.”

“The situation is still very fluid. There remains a degree of uncertainty and there are still regime elements who pose a threat,”Obama said.

“But this much is clear: The Gadhafi regime is coming to an end, and the future of Libya is in the hands of its people.”

Obama noted that the regime unraveled in just six months.

“Earlier this year, we were inspired by the peaceful protests that broke out across Libya,” he said. “This basic and joyful longing for human

freedom echoed the voices that we had heard all across the region, from Tunis to Cairo.”

Obama added that for over four decades, the Libyan people have lived under the “rule of a tyrant” who denied them their most basic human rights.

“Now, the celebrations that we’ve seen in the streets of Libya shows that the pursuit of human dignity is far stronger than any dictator,” he said.

Moammar Gadhafi

Data recently released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation shows that over the last decade, there has been a significant decline in economic well-being for low-income children and families.

The official child poverty rate, which is a conservative measure of economic hardship, increased 18 percent between 2000 and 2009, essentially returning to the same level as the early 1990s.

This increase means that 2.4 million more children are living below the federal poverty line. Data also reveals the impact of the job and foreclosure crisis on children. In 2010, 11 percent

of children had at least one unemployed parent and 4 percent have been affected by foreclosure since 2007.

Some factors contributing to the increased poverty rates nationwide included teenage pregnancy. Another factor was the increase in teens that were not in school and did not have a job.

“The recent recession has wiped out many of the economic gains for children that occurred in the late 1990s,” said Laura Speer, associate director for Policy Reform and Data at the Casey Foundation.”

“Nearly 8 million children lived with at least one parent who was actively seeking employment but was unemployed in 2010. This is double

African Americans urged to support minority banks In what they are labeling “The People’s Economic Movement,” the National Bankers Association (NBA) and syndicated radio talk show host Warren Ballentine are mounting a drive to encourage consumers in urban areas to bank with minority-owned banks. “By investing their money in minority banks in their own communities, getting mortgages, small business loans or loans for college tuition…consumers begin a process of harnessing the economic strength of the masses in a way that creates direct benefits to their communities which are still suffering from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression,” said NBA President Michael Grant.

New Detroit program gives free homes to police officers In an effort to increase safety and repopulate the city, Detroit recently handed over the first set of keys to one of 200 homes being given to police officers.

The program is dubbed Project 14. “We are restoring a sense of community and pride in our neighborhoods by encouraging Detroiters to live where they work,” said Mayor Dave Bing. “We are rebuilding homes and strengthening neighborhoods with the help of financial institutions.” Half of Detroit’s 2,845 officers live outside the city. JPMorgan Chase Foundation is providing a $1 million grant to help move some of the officers back into Detroit.

AKAs get second chance at lawsuit against ex-president

More kids live in low-income families Defender News Services

U.S.briefs

the number in 2007, just three years earlier,” Speer said.

“The news about the number of children who were affected by foreclosure in the United States is also very troubling because these economic challenges greatly hinder the wellbeing of families and the nation,” she said.

The Casey Foundation recommends strategies it believes can move the nation’s low-income families onto the path for prosperity. They include strengthening and modernizing unemployment insurance, promoting foreclosure prevention and remediation efforts, strengthening programs that supplement poverty-level wages, and promoting responsible parenthood.

A three-judge panel of the D.C. Court of Appeals recently ruled that eight members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority can question what they claim were improper payments to AKA former president Barbara McKinzie. In 2009, the women sued the sorority and McKinzie, alleging she received $375,000 that had not been approved by members, and spent sorority money on clothing, jewelry and a wax statute of herself. A judge threw out the lawsuit in early 2010, citing problems with it. The D.C. Court of Appeals, however, said the first judge had erred and the lawsuit should be allowed to go forward.

VOLUME 80 • NUMBER • 42 WEEK OF AUGUST 25, 2011

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler 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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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

“I have a dream that one day on the red hills of georgia, sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.”

– Martin Luther King, Jr. August 28, 1963, Washington, D.C.

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On the anniversary of the “I Have a Dream” speech, history will once again be made on the National Mall. The Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial will be unveiled as the first and only tribute to a man of peace and to a person of color. This August 28th, why just read about history when you can be a part of it? Come to Washington, D.C. and celebrate what will forever stand as a testament to his timeless ideals and legacy of peace.

Awaken his spirit in all of us Chevrolet is honored to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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MLK Memorial Special

WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011 | DEFENDER

King presides over peace at memorial

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By TALIBAH CHIKWENDU Special to the AFRO

This started 26 years ago," said Harry Johnson, president and CEO of the Martin Luther King Memorial Foundation, with the vision of five members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. For years, he said, at each of the conventions, there would be a box, soliciting donations toward a national monument to one of the organization's most notable members. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was initiated into the fraternity in 1952 while at Boston University.

Alpha members George Sealey, Alfred Bailey, Oscar Little, Eddie Madison and John Harvey presented a proposal for a King Memorial to the organization's board of directors in 1984.

Those men, according to Dr. Ed Jackson, the project's executive architect, were the

principal drivers of the project on Capitol Hill, walking the halls of Congress generating support for the effort.

In 1996, President Bill Clinton signed legislation approving a memorial to Dr. King in the District and shortly thereafter the National Capital Memorial Commission recommended a location.

By the end of 1998, Congress had approved a site for the memorial. Coretta Scott King had agreed to head the project's honorary committee and the charter for the National Memorial Project Inc. was approved, readying the organization for the next steps.

The design of the monument was selected through an international competition, where a jury, headed by Dr. Jackson, evaluated more than 900 entries from over 40 countries. After selecting one they liked, the committee requested it be modified to include an image of Dr. King, which led to the final design.

Then, Johnson said, began the search for an artist with the expertise in the medium – granContinued On Page 8

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

MLK memorial special

King Presides...Continued from page 7 ite – and the talent to carve the image of Dr. King into the 30-foot-tall slab.

The selection committee went to a stone carver's symposium, and while there came across many people interested in doing the work. Johnson said, one name kept coming up, even from other carvers, as the best person for the job – Lei Yixin of China.

The campaign begins

Johnson took the organization's helm in the late 1990s and project fundraising quietly began, with General Motors being the first major sponsor.

"The week we were going to start the public [fundraising] campaign," said Johnson, "9/11 occurred. That set us back another year.”

While the fundraising phase of this project had been beset with a variety of issues – Jackson mentions Hurricane Katrina, tsunami, Haiti and the recession – it marched steadily on.

Along the way, many people of influence gave of their time and notoriety to promote the project and fundraising. In 2006. Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity set a

“The week we were going to start the public [fundraising] campaign,” said Johnson, “9/11 occurred. That set us back another year.” $300,000 annual fundraising goal for the memorial project, which they have met or exceeded every year.

As the project moved forward, not only did the fundraising come together, but so did a lot of other things. The site originally recommended and approved is not the final site of the monument. Based on comments from Dr. Jackson, this site is much better.

"This is one of the last major land parcels," he said, "that provides a wonderful vista ... a very contemplative environment.

You escape the city. You think that you are in the middle of a green forest."

With just days before the memorial is officially opened to the public, only a few people have actually seen the carving of Dr. King. Jackson says people will be pleased. He said the foundation was fortunate to find an artist with the skill to capture the image of Dr. King and present it in a stately way. He said the likeness has brought numerous visitors to tears.

Johnson concurred, decrying the controversy that has surrounded the selection of a Chinese artist for this project, saying people are awestruck when they see it. He confirmed that family members had been to the site several times and had seen the statue. "[Dr. King's family] are very pleased," he said.

It has been a long road, but on Aug. 28, 48 years after Dr. King delivered one of his most revered speeches, telling everyone of his dream for all men to live in peace and for them to be judged by the content of their character, a memorial honoring this man of peace and justice, within sight of where he stood when he shared those thoughts, will be revealed to the public.

Great leaders inspire us to do great things Wells Fargo celebrates the dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial You know it when it happens. An idea turns into a spark that ignites the spirit of a nation. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had that kind of idea. It was a dream of equality, service and progress for all people. Wells Fargo is proud to share these values. That’s why we’re committed to working with you and our community through national and local sponsorships, grants for nonprofit organizations and financial education programs. Because our goal is to always empower and improve our community.

wellsfargo.com © 2011 Wells Fargo Bank N.A. All rights reserved.

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WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011 | DEFENDER

a century has turned and still his dream leads us forward.

Maquette of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial’s Stone of Hope. Image credit: Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project

Generations have passed,

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At Toyota, we celebrate differences and the people who make them. On August 28, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial opens in Washington, D.C. May all who visit be inspired to carry on the legacy of Dr. King.

The dream continues. Toyota is a proud supporter of the Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc.

MLKmemorial.org Š2011

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

MLK memo

Facts and figu Why build a memorial?

More than a monument to a great humanitarian, the National Memorial honoring Dr. King will be a place for visitors from all over the world to be energized by its extraordinary power – the power that illuminated the faith of our founders and now impels us toward our destiny as a nation.

History

On Sept. 28, 1996, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Joint Resolution 70 authorizing Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to establish a memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor Dr. King. The Senate followed by passing Joint Resolution 426 on Oct. 3, 1996, and on July 16, 1998, President Bill Clinton signed a Joint Congressional Resolution authorizing the building of a memorial. The ceremonial groundbreaking occurred on Nov. 13, 2006.

Location

Situated on a four-acre site along the Tidal Basin, the King Memorial will be adjacent to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial and on a direct line between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials.

Leadership

Harry E. Johnson Sr. of Houston and CEO of the Washington, D.C Jr. National Memorial Project Fo

Design

In December 1999, the foundat national panel of architects and and coordinate the program of memorial. The design competit than 1,900 registrants and over were received from architects, l students, sculptors, and profess countries around the world. In S Entry #1403 by ROMA Design G was selected the winning desig Yixin was named sculptor of re

Cost

Completion of the memorial ha upon the Foundation’s “Build th raising the estimated $120 milli and maintain the Memorial. The more than $114 million of the go

Pictures of the National Mem

Sculpture

Inscription Wall

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

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orial special

ures Take a tour...

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tion formed an interd designers to develop requirements for the tion attracted more r 900 submissions landscape architects, sors representing 52 September 2000, Group of San Francisco gn. Then in 2006, Lei cord.

as been contingent he Dream” campaign ion required to build e foundation has raised oal.

he MLK Memorial is conceived as an engaging landscape experience to convey four fundamental and recurring themes throughout Dr. King’s life – democracy, justice, hope, and love.

Natural elements such as the crescent-shaped-stone wall inscribed with excerpts of his sermons, and public addresses will serve as the living testaments of his vision of America. The centerpiece of the Memorial, the “Stone of Hope,” will feature a 30-foot likeness of Dr. King.

Sculpture

At the entry portal, two stones are parted and a single stone wedge is pushed forward toward the horizon; the missing piece of what was once a single boulder. The smooth insides of the portal contrast the rough outer surfaces of the boulder. Beyond this portal, the stone appears to have been thrust into the plaza, wrested from the boulder and pushed forward – it bears signs of a great monolithic struggle.

On the visible side of the stone, the theme of hope is presented, with the text from King’s famed 1963 speech cut sharply into the stone: “Out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.” On the other side are inscribed these words: “I was a drum major for justice, peace and righteousness,” a statement suggested by Dr. King himself when describing how he would like to be remembered.

The boulder is the Mountain of Despair, through which every visitor will enter, moving through the struggle as Dr. King did during his life, and then be released into the open freedom of the plaza.

The solitary stone is the Stone of Hope, from which Dr. King’s image emerges, gazing over the Tidal Basin toward the horizon, seeing a future society of justice and equality for which he encouraged all citizens to strive.

Inscription Wall The element of the memorial which truly captures Dr. King’s legacy is the Inscription Wall – an element that transforms a mere monument into a living memorial. Fourteen of Dr. King’s most notable quotes are engraved on a 450-foot crescent shaped granite wall.

The quotes span the too-short career of Dr. King, the earliest taken from his rise during the Montgomery Bus Boycotts in Alabama, 1955. The latest quote, appropriately, was taken from his last sermon delivered in Washington, D.C., at the National Cathedral in 1968, four days before his assassination.

The quotes are not placed chronologically, allowing any visitor to begin reading form any location within the memorial, not requiring them to follow a defined path.

The quotes selected are those which are most representative Dr. King’s universal and timeless messages of Justice, Democracy, Hope and Love.

None of the inscriptions are from King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, for several reasons. Primarily, the entire memorial design is derived from King’s most memorable speech; given the limited room for sharing his message and the breadth of his work, the overall design itself is the mark Continued On Page 12

morial

he Houston area for over 80 years

Inscription Wall

Tree

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

MLK memorial special

Take a tour...Continued

from page 11

of respect for the moving words from 1963.

The other reason for not including the Dream Speech is that it is Dr. King’s best known speech out of the hundreds he delivered. It is the most taught piece of his work in schools, and, at minimum, the history books reference the famed speech when presenting Dr. King’s role in American history.

But key messages that have and will continue to withstand the test of time are lesser known, and this memorial presented the opportunity to shift the focus of attention from one example of Dr. King’s inspirational words to many.

Trees

Along the Tidal Basin, Yoshino cherry blossom trees have thrived since 1912 – a gift from Japan as a sign of peace and unity. For only two weeks each spring, their tiny blossoms surround the Basin in a cloud of delicate pink and white.

Spring resonates with the spirit of hope, rebirth and renewal; the King Memorial has added 182 cherry blossoms to the Tidal Basin’s collection. Poetically, each year the peak blooming period for the trees coincides with the anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination, April 4th.

To prolong the message of renewed hope embodied by the cherry trees, crape myrtles have also been planted in the memorial. Crape myrtles bloom throughout the summer months and into the fall, prolonging the burst of color and encouraging a sense of endurance and faith.

Along West Basin Drive and Independence Avenue 31, American elm trees have been planted, not only as the standard street tree of Washington, D.C., but also as a border surrounding the memorial, embracing Dr. King as an American icon.

Water

Drawing on its location at the edge of the Tidal Basin, water is used as an essential element that builds on King’s words and recalls most powerfully the theme of justice. The water appears only on either side of the main entry, not even visible until one has entered the memorial plaza.

It is the sound of water “rolling down” that will draw a visitor’s attention.

From this life-giving source, Dr. King’s message begins stretching away from the entrance, at once welcoming and yet daring the visitor to follow.

Source: Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial

The Church Without Walls represents Houston

By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender The MLK Memorial has become a reality because of the dedication and generosity of those who believe in Dr. King’s dream.

Across the nation, corporations, organizations, foundations, chuches and individuals have contributed to the project, with donations ranging from five dollars to millions.

In Houston, one of the churches that has provided support to the memorial is The Church Without Walls, which has three locations and more than 20,000 members.

TCWW Pastor Ralph Douglas West Sr. said the commitment to the memorial was motivated by the words of Jesus when He said, “Where your treasures are so will your heart be also.”

West noted the generosity of churches in general.

“At center of our faith is the mandate to be generous with the financial resources entrusted to us as a congregation. When millions of people visit the King Monument, they will see listed the names of billion-dollar-a-year corporations,” he said.

“But they will also see the names of churches who have sacrificed their finances to something that is bigger than the local congregation and the local community.”

The legacy of Dr. King includes the role of the Black church in the Civil Rights Movement. Countless ministers and their congrega-

tions helped lead the fight for equality, and the church continues its leadership role in the community today.

West said the significance of the MLK memorial is in keeping with the monuments of the Christian faith.

“In the Old Testament when God’s people prepared to enter into a new land prepared for them, they were instructed to select 12 stones as a memorial that God had crossed them over the Jordan River,” he said.

“The King Memorial will serve the same purpose and the church celebrates that reality.”

West said the memorial is important for other reasons.

“Tourists have stopped at the Washington Memorial and remembered its significance.

They have stopped by the Lincoln Monument and read the Gettysburg and reflected on its significance. Now, people and children in particular will see someone of color in that significant space,” he said.

“They will get to see not only a civil rights leader, but a preacher who happened to be a champion for the civil rights of all God’s people.”

Like Dr. King, West is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, which played an integral role in the development of the memorial.

Another Alpha, Houstonian Harry Johnson, spearheads the project, serving as president and CEO of the Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation.

“Harry was the right man for the right time,” West said. “He has given himself to this project and it is because of his commitment that I was moved to accept his challenge and to complete that commitment.”

West congratulates everyone involved with the memorial locally for a job well done.

“I am a Houstonian and Houston is a great city. We have some incredibly talented men and women in our metropolis,” he said.

“The imprint and the connection Houstonians will have on this monument regardless of our faith, affiliation or religion, is that we believe in something bigger and someone ‘Grander’ than ourselves.”

Rev. Ralph West Sr.

MLK Memorial public events: Aug. 25-28, Washington, D.C. The Memorial, located at the intersection of West Basin Drive SW and Independence Avenue SW, officially opened to the public on Monday, Aug. 22. Listed below are events open to the public—some free, some requiring tickets purchased.

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) 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 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) 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) 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)

Pre-Dedication Musical Tribute: Date: Sunday, Aug. 28, 10-11 a.m.

Location: West Potomac Park Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen Cost: Free and open to the public Official Dedication Ceremony: Date: Sun., Aug. 28, 11 a.m.

Location: West Potomac Park Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen Cost: Free and open to the public Concert on the Mall: Date: Sunday, Aug. 28, 2-4 p.m.

Location: West Potomac Park Attire: Cool, loose fitting clothing, soft-soled comfortable shoes, sunscreen Cost: Free and open to the public

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

WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011 | DEFENDER

13

August 28: honoring a legacy that inspires us all.

48 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream.

Now you can honor his legacy at the dedication of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial—a historic opportunity to reflect on his ideals of justice, democracy, and hope.

BP is supporting both the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Foundation and the King Papers Project, to help make sure his work continues to inspire. Find out more at mlkmemorial.org

beyond petroleum

®

© 2011 BP Products North America Inc.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011 DEFENDER

defendernetwork.com

entertainment

what’sup H Nick Ashford, one-half of duo

Ashford & Simpson, dead at age of 69

Songwriter-singer Nick Ashford died of throat cancer in a New York hospital on August 22. He was 69. Ashford and his wife Valerie Simpson were known for their soulful, elegant classics written for such artists as Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and Chaka Khan. Their compositions included “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “You’re All I Need to Get By,” “Your Precious Love,” and “I’m Every Woman.” They also wrote hits for Ray Charles, the Shirelles and the Fifth Dimension. Ashford & Simpson became R&B stars themselves in the ‘70s and ‘80s with such songs as “Solid,” “Don’t Cost You Nothing” and “It Seems to Hang On.” The couple met in the early ‘60s at Harlem’s White Rock Baptist Church. They were married in 1974. Ashford is survived by two daughters.

H Steve Harvey apologizes for

calling Smiley and West ‘Uncle Toms’ Comedian Steve Harvey says he shouldn’t have called Tavis Smiley and Cornel West “Uncle Toms.” Harvey made the remarks during a five-minute rant about them “hating on” President Barack Obama. “I wear so many hats that sometimes as a comedian, I cross the line, which I will continue to do. I apologize for referring to them that way,” Harvey said. Smiley and West criticized Obama for overlooking disadvantaged Americans, and embarked on a nationwide “Poverty Tour.” West responded to Harvey’s comments on Michael Baisden’s radio show. “When you are trying to talk about issues that affect the people, name calling gets in the way,” West said. “Name calling is nothing but another weapon of mass distraction.” Harvey still isn’t sorry for his overall statements, and believes Smiley has a personal vendetta against Obama.

H Will and Jada Pinkett Smith say reports of separation are untrue Entertainment power couple Will and Jada Pinkett Smith recently issued a statement denying a report suggesting they were separated.

“Although we are reluctant to respond to these types of press reports, the rumors circulating about our relationship are completely false. We are still together, and our marriage is intact,” they said in a statement issued to “Access Hollywood.” In what it called a “breaking news story,” In Touch Weekly claimed that an “insider” said the two had separated. Jada is currently the star and executive producer of TV’s “HawthoRNe.” Will, who has starred in some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, has a “Men in Black 3” film coming out in 2012. They’ve been married 13 years and have two children together, Jaden and Willow. Will has another son, Trey, from his previous marriage.

15

Selena Gomez:

Young star talks business

S

By Kam Williams Defender

elena Marie Gomez was born on July 22, 1992 in Grand Prairie, TX, to Mandy Cornett and Ricardo Gomez, but raised mostly by her mom from the age of five on, following her parents’ divorce.

She made her debut on TV at seven as Gianna on “Barney & Friends,” and in film soon thereafter in “Spy Kids 3-D.” Since then, Selena appeared on such TV shows as “Walker, Texas Ranger,” “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,” “Hannah Montana” and “The Suite Life on Deck,” before skyrocketing to fame starring as Alex on the Disney Channel’s Emmy-winning sitcom, “Wizards of Waverly Place.”

In 2008, the versatile teenager kick-started her singing career when she recorded three songs for the soundtrack of her Disney film, “Another Cinderella Story.” And she has gone on to make a dozen music videos and to record a variety of hit tunes, including duets with Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato.

In 2009, she formed Selena Gomez and the Scene, a pop band that has released three albums, including “When the Sun Goes Down,” just this past June. A single from the CD, “Who Says,” has already gone platinum.

Although Selena has recently been romantically-linked to fellow heartthrob Justin Bieber, the chaste chanteuse has taken a vow to remain a virgin until marriage. Here, she talks about the launch of her own clothing line, K-Mart’s “Dream Out Loud” Fall Collection.

(My intrepid intern, Richie von der Schmidt, ran a gauntlet through thousands of Selena’s rabid fans to conduct the interview, many of whom had waited in line overnight for a chance to meet her at K-Mart).

KW: What interested you in launching your own fashion line?

SG: I really wanted something for my fans. Honestly that’s where it all kinda started. A little girl had a picture of me, a paparazzi picture, and she went out and bought the same outfit I wore in the picture, which was really sweet. So, I wanted to come up with a line that would be affordable, classic and also really a lot of fun for my fans.

KW: How would you describe the collection?

SG: Very almost preppy, with a back-to-school kinda feel. We have a lot of plaids. We have a really cute plaid skirt that I actually wore in one of the shoots with a little shirt you can wear over it with boots. It’s pretty cool!

KW: What demographic was it designed for?

SG: It ranges for all ages. It’s safe to say from seven up to around my age.

KW: Which do you prefer, acting or singing?

SG: I don’t know. I love both for different reasons. I guess I would choose acting, if I had to pick one.

KW: Does privacy matter to you?

SG: Yes, it does. It is very hard to have. But it is very important to me.

KW: Are you happy?

SG: I am very happy, yes. I am in a very good place.

KW: When was the last time you had a good laugh?

SG: Yesterday. I saw “Final Destination 5” and this lady in front of me was so mad that her boyfriend made her see that movie and she was complaining the entire time. I was laughing pretty hard. It was pretty awesome.

KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure?

SG: The TV show “Friends.”

KW: What are you listening to on your iPod? SG: A little bit of everything. Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, Rihanna, Taylor Swift. A mixture of everything.

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

16

DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

The sTars have aligned.

You’re free To conTrol everY screen.

NCIS: Los Angeles ® available on XFINITY On Demand

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Watch your favorite movies and shows, anytime, anywhere. At the push of a button, access over 60,000 On Demand shows and movies, including hit HBO® original series, on TV and online at xfinityTV.com. Watch it all in stunning HD.

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Offer ends 9/21/11, and is limited to new residential customers. Not available in all areas. Requires Digital Starter TV, Performance Internet and Comcast Unlimited® service. After 12 months, monthly service charge goes to $109.99 for months 13-24. After 3 months, monthly service charge for HBO® goes to $10 until March 31, 2013, then regular rates apply. After 2 years, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast’s current monthly service charge for Digital Starter TV, Performance Internet and Comcast Unlimited® service is $129.99, for HBO® ranges from $19.95-$19.99, depending on area and for HD ranges from $8.00-$8.50, depending on area. After 3 months, monthly service charge for HD goes to regular rate. TV and Internet service limited to a single outlet. Equipment, installation, taxes, franchise fees, the Regulatory Recovery Fee and other applicable charges (e.g., per-call or international charges) extra. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service. On Demand selections subject to charge indicated at time of purchase. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. Voice: $29.95 activation fee applies. Service (including 911/emergency services) may not function after an extended power outage. Money-Back Guarantee applies to monthly recurring charges and standard installation. Two-year contract and automatic bill payments required with prepaid card offers. Cards issued by Citibank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa® U.S.A. Inc. and managed by Citi Prepaid Services. Cards will not have cash access and can be used everywhere Visa® debit cards are NPA82495 accepted. Call or visit comcast.com for restrictions and complete details. ©2011 Comcast. All rights reserved. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc.

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7/20/11 10:56 AM

WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011 | DEFENDER

Back to School...Continued from page 3 especially where there are no sidewalks. Also watch for crossing guards and remember, no cell phone use is allowed.

• Look for school bus “stop ahead” signs. Watch for a bus loading or unloading.

• Remain alert. Hurried children may dart into the street without looking for traffic.

• Be prepared to stop. Flashing red lights or an extended “stop” arm indicate children are loading or unloading a school bus. Motorists can continue driving once the bus has moved, the lights stop flashing or the bus driver signals it’s okay to pass.

Students are urged to help in the safety process by standing far back when waiting for the bus, sitting still while on the bus so the driver can pay attention to the road, and looking both ways when crossing the street after getting off the bus, or waiting for the driver to signal that it’s safe to cross the street.

“By keeping these tips in mind, motorists will help make

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                                                  T:4.79”

LEGAL NOTICE

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GAME #

GAME NAME / ODDS

$

Official Close of Game

End Validations Date

1318

Instant Powerball - Overall Odds are 1 in 2.80

$5

09/08/11

03/06/12

1270

Weekly Grand - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.91

$2

09/23/11

03/21/12

1327

Black Cherry Doubler - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.76

$5

09/25/11

03/23/12

1143

Double It! - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.87

$2

10/26/11

04/23/12

1258

Bonus Cashword - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.44

$3

10/26/11

04/23/12

1275

Big Money Bingo - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.62

$5

10/26/11

04/23/12

Yearly Yearly Up Up Up Up Up Up to to Up$Up to to Up to to Up to to Up to to Up$Up to to Up to to to to Up Family Income Up $ $ $ $ $ $ Family Income 21,780$29,420 29,420$37,060 37,060$44,700 44,700$52,340 52,340$59,980 59,980$67,620 67,620$75,260 75,260 Before Taxes $21,780 Before Taxes

1304

Double Dollars - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.31

$1

10/26/11

04/23/12

1306

Cactus Cash - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.31

$1

10/26/11

04/23/12

www.CHIPmedicaid.org| |1-877-KIDS-NOW 1-877-KIDS-NOW www.CHIPmedicaid.org

1319

Blackjack - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.85

$1

10/26/11

04/23/12

1320

3 Times the Money - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.85

$3

10/26/11

04/23/12

1344

Find the 9’s - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.60

$1

10/26/11

04/23/12

T:3.25”

ustonDefender_5n36x4.indd onDefender_5n36x4.indd 2 2

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

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

CHIP covers prescriptions, dentist visits, CHIPcovers coversprescriptions, prescriptions, dentist visits, eyeglasses glasses and CHIP dentist visits, eye and eye glasses and more.

And for $50 or more.And Andfor for$50 $50ororless lessa ayear, year,what’s what’snot nottotolike? like? more. less a year, what’s not to like?

11

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children’s ride to school safer by reducing the number of school bus-related injuries and fatalities each year,” said Kathi White, TxDOT spokesperson. “Keeping our children safe is important and requires vigilance around school buses and school zones.”

“Kids are excited going back to school, especially the smaller children who may be attending school for the first time,” said Houston Police Chief Charles A. McClelland Jr. “Motorists should be very careful since kids have a tendency to dart in and out of traffic.”

Motorists should be aware of three things in particular, added HPD Sergeant A.J. Washington.

They should know that flashing yellow lights mean school zone speeds of 20 miles per hour are in effect. If motorists see red flashing lights they should stop at least 300 feet behind the bus and wait until those lights are turned off before passing. Finally, motorists should obey the instructions of crossing guards.

Familiesmaking makingup upto to Families $44KKor $44 ormore moremay mayqualify. qualify.

Surprised?

Surprised?

Family Size Family Size (Adults + Kids) (Adults + Kids)

17

For detailed odds and game information, visit txlottery.org or call 1-800-37LOTTO. Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket.

The Texas Lottery supports Texas Education. © 2011 Texas Lottery Commission. All rights reserved.

4/12/1110:56 10:56 AM 4/12/11 AM

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E VERY THING YOUR

TX4919_HNDF_EOG_AFAM_0825.indd

Saved at

8-15-2011 1:40 PM

Job info

by

TOMMY

TX4919 TX Lottery SEPTEMBER EOG 4.79” x 3.25” None None BW HOUSTON DEFENDER Newspaper N

206 E. 9th Street • Austin, TX 78701 Tel 512.479.6200 Fax 512.479.6024

Tommy Salazar / Tommy

SMALL BUSINESS Approvals

Saluting the legacy and ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Congratulations to Harry Johnson and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity On this monumental achievement Job # Client Headline/Tag Trim Bleed Live Color Setup Vendor/Pub Media Type Die Cut

from

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Creative Dir Art Director Copywriter Account Mgr Proofreader

None None None ALVARO CIFUENTES None

Fonts Helvetica (Black, Bold), Helvetica Neue (77 Bold Condensed, 65 Medium, 85 Heavy, 57 Condensed), Times (Regular)

NEEDS TO GROW IS HERE. Notes

Due: 08/18 Pub: 08/25

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THE GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000 SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM IS IN HOUSTON. APPLY TODAY.

Prepared by LatinWorks Marketing, Inc. 2009. All rights reserved.

Goldman Sachs is pleased to announce open enrollment for the next 10,000 Small Businesses program in Houston. The program, led by Houston Community College, is designed to give local small business owners the resources to grow.

Participants in the 10,000 Small Businesses program will gain practical business knowledge, skills and insight that can be put to work immediately. The program also offers participants access to capital, experienced mentoring and unique networking opportunities.

10,000 Small Businesses is committed to supporting small businesses across the country to drive job creation and growth. Learn about the application process and apply today at www.hccs.edu/10KSB.

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18

DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

defendernetwork.com

sports

Marquis Jackson A TSU force to be reckoned with

W

By Max Edison Defender

e all know the backbone to any championship football team is a great defense. The Texas Southern Tigers, who led the nation (Div IAA) in total defense in 2010, are the manifestation of that theme. That’s why it’s no surprise they won their first SWAC championship in over 42 years last year. The big question now is, can they repeat?

The Tigers have elevated defensive coordinator Kevin Ramsey to the position of interim head coach for 2011. He has revamped the offensive coaching staff, starting with the highly respected former Alabama State head coach Charles Coe as his offensive coordinator.

They return five starters on each side of the ball and seven players with pre-season All-Conference designations. As talented as the Tigers are on offense, the key to their ability to repeat in 2011 will once again fall on the shoulders of their vaunted 212 degrees defense. The most dominant player on that defense is All-American candidate defensive end Marquis Jackson (junior, 6’5” 275 lbs.)

“We expect Marquis to be one of our leaders and the cornerstone of our defense,” Coach Ramsey said.

“He’s a tremendous athlete who could actually play outside linebacker if we used a 3-4 defense. Even though he played very well for us last year, we plan to turn him loose even more this season.”

One look at Jackson, both on and off the field, conjures images of former Tiger and Hall of Famer in waiting Michael Strahan. That’s a comparison that Jackson embraces and then some.

“It’s an honor to be mentioned in the same sentence with a great player like Mike, but my goal is to actually be better than him,” Jackson said. “I’m trying to break his records. I want to be known as a legend.

“In the future when people are recruited to Texas Southern I want them to say my name like they mention Strahan to me. That’s why I’m working and training hard; in the weight room, watching film, taking notes, whatever it takes to be a better player.”

The legacy of Strahan even led to Jackson choosing TSU.

“Coach Ram had told me about Michael Strahan playing here and that was a big influence on me,” Jackson continued.

“Coming out of [junior college] I had offers from USC, UCLA, and a lot of big schools.

“Texas Southern hit me up and I just decided this was the best spot for me to present my talent. It just felt like home.

I felt very comfortable with Coach Jack-

“As players, we’re brought here to go to school and play football. Everything else that may happen is beyond our control. We have no control over anything else. They brought in Coach Ram, they named him the new head coach and we never looked back.”

This season with a year and a championship under his belt, Jackson will have to play a bigger role in the leadership department.

“I’ve tried to step up my skills as a leader. Last year we had guys like Dejuan [Fulghum] and Curt [Thomas] and it was my first year. This year I’ll try to step up more, voice my opinion, make sure everybody’s on the same page and be a leader.”

With a dizzying array of playmakers on offense and the best defense in the nation, expect the Tigers to be the team to beat for the SWAC crown and a chance to be No. 1 in the Black College Poll.

If the Tigers are to repeat as conference champs they will need a great performance from Jackson (#7) and the defense.

son and Coach Ram. I felt like I could do big things here.”

Jackson is quick to give credit to his defensive coaches for the success the team had in 2010 and what it expects this season.

“It all has to do with coaching. We had Coach Ramsey [defensive coordinator], Coach [Tremaine] Jackson had the D-line, and Coach [Garrett] Cox had the linebackers, everybody on one page. That was the biggest thing. We practice hard, we swarm, we fly around and we transition that into the game.”

This year as the Tigers seek to repeat, the defensive goals have remained very high.

“We’re trying to be the best defense in history,” Jackson said. “In order to do that we must hold opponents to under 182.5 yards a game. That’s the number and that’s the challenge the coaches have extended to us. We believe we are capable of achieving it.”

Despite coaching staff changes beginning at the top spot, Jackson said that the team has stayed focused.

#7 Marquis Jackson leads the nation’s #1 defense at Texas Southern

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WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011 DEFENDER

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h.s.zone

sportsbriefs Houston-area 2011 high school football previews

Yates Lions

District 21-5A

expect to be tested early

By Darrell K. Ardison Defender A glimmer appears in the eyes of Yates head football coach Ronald Miller when asked about the prospects of his 2011 Lions.

Despite the loss of 17 multi-year lettermen, including quarterback Darveon Trahan and running back Rickey Jackson, the cupboard is far from empty for one of the Lone Star State’s most storied high school football programs.

“Maurice White is our starting quarterback and Arthur Lockett will be our starting tailback,” Miller said. “Arthur could be a kid that you’re talking about for a long time. He does a lot of things well on the football field.

“Jordan Bailey will be heard from at wide receiver and we have a big, young group on the offensive line,” Miller said. “We have a lot of good things working, but we just have to grow up.”

The youthful Lions are the consensus favorites to repeat as District 21-4A champions over the likes of Waltrip, Houston Austin, Sharpstown, Reagan, Houston sterling and Jefferson Davis.

However, it’s the first four games of the 2011 season that currently has Miller’s attention, including the Aug. 27 season opener against Booker T. Washington at Delmar Stadium (6 p.m.).

“We open up with a perennial powerhouse in Washington and follow that with Bay City, Madison and Wheatley,” Miller said. “So we’re playing four good teams Maurice White up front.

“The goal is to get better every week and if we can do that, we’ll improve enough to get ready for district and be successful.”

Miller says reports that Yates lost a multitude of players and moral was down at the school following a change at principal were greatly exaggerated.

“This team has something to prove. Some kids did leave and people were saying we had nothing left,” Miller said. “These kids are Yates Lions and they are going to play hard,

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North Shore head coach David Aymond returns eight starters back from an 11-2 squad that advanced to the Class 5A Division I regional semifinals. Six of those starters are on defense led by db/kr/pr Kevin Alexander, linebacker Jarius Moore and cornerback Keon Harvison. The biggest challenge for Aymond and his staff is to re-load at the skill positions that were hard hit by graduation. Wide receiver Larry McDuffey may be the team’s best overall athlete. Port Arthur Memorial could seriously contend for the district title with quarterback Terrence Singleton and tailback Nate Holmes spearheading the offense. Beaumont West Brook and La Porte should also be in the playoff hunt.

District 19-5A Eight starters return from a squad that lost only one game in 2010 (13-1), a heartbreaking 38-35 setback to Pearland in the regional final. Quarterback Brooks Haack, running back Adam Taylor, linebacker Bo Brown and defensive end Matt Dimon are the headliners and they have plenty of help. Part of one of the Houston area’s most-balanced districts, Katy, Cinco Ranch and Memorial have all advanced to the state semifinals over the past two seasons. Taylor (Katy), Jamel James (Cinco Ranch) and Boomer White of Memorial are three top-notch running backs. Katy Taylor, Morton Ranch, Seven Lakes and Mayde Creek also harbor playoff aspirations.

Yates quarterback Maurice White surveys the Jones defense in a recent scrimmage.

play physical and don’t do anything stupid. Give everything they’ve got on the football field when they get an opportunity.”

Five starters return on the Yates defense led by first-team all-district end James Paul Bryant.

“James is our leader and he’s a real good hard-working player,” Miller said. “He’s constantly trying to get better everyday. I’ve got some young kids at linebacker that we’re looking at and our secondary could be something special.”

Miller is counting on contributions from Xavier Morris, Josh Simmons and Gary Pervis in the Yates’ secondary.

“We lost some kids, but the kids that stayed are committed to being Yates Lions and that’s all we want,” Miller said. “We can’t cry about what happened last year with two principal changes in a short amount of time. We have an outstanding principal now so we need to move on and concentrate on getting better every week.”

Yates scrimmaged against Jones recently at Barnett Stadium and scored the first five touchdowns before yielding a score to Jones.

“We got some good work in and after beating up on ourselves for the

past two weeks, it was good to face some other competition,” Miller said.

“We made some mistakes, yet overall the kids did what we expected. This time of the year, we have to focus on remaining healthy and doing things the right way.”

A large crowd is expected Saturday at Delmar Stadium for the seventh annual Booker/Bryant Classic featuring Yates and Washington.

The series began in 2005 honoring former Yates coach Luther Booker and former Washington coach James “Bear” Bryant.

Yates leads the series 5-1 with Washington winning a double-overtime 18-15 victory in 2006.

Former Yates assistant coach Nathaniel “Puddin” Jones is the new head coach at Washington.

Jones has 11 starters back from a squad that advanced two weeks into the postseason a year ago.

Six-foot-5 starting quarterback John Gibbs figures to test the Yates defense after passing for 773 yards and seven touchdowns last season.

Yates has qualified for the playoffs 34 seasons in a row, the longest current streak for schools with similar student enrollments (1,200) or larger in the state of Texas.

The last time Yates failed to qualify for the postseason was in 1977 when only one school from each district advanced.

The Lions swept through district play undefeated (6-0) in 2010 and finished 9-3 overall.

District 18-5A Eisenhower always has talent and this season the Eagles have a new head coach in former defensive coordinator Kundre Thompson. The defense will be led by free safety Davonte Thomas, end Greg Jackson and nose tackle Michael Igwe. While the Eagles’ defense should be salty, the offense may need time to jell until a newcomer settles in at quarterback. Alief Taylor lost 17 starters to graduation and may be hard pressed to duplicate last season’s 10-win effort.

Elsik, Nimitz, Aldine and Hastings have at least 13 starters back and are primed for the postseason. Elsik running back Jerry Bynum rushed for 1,569 yards and 22 touchdowns last year.

Houston Astros sign top picks Springer and Armstrong One reason the Astros have the worst record in baseball is their unwillingness to sign many of their top draft picks earlier this decade. Well that was then, this is now. The team recently announced the signing of top picks, outfielder George Springer (first round) and right-handed pitcher Jack Armstrong (third round). Springer (UConn) was a NCAA Division I First-Team All-American in 2011who hit .343 (84x245) with 12 home runs, 31 stolen bases and 77 RBI in 66 games. The 6’7”Armstrong appeared in 13 games for Vanderbilt this season, posting a 0-1 record and a 2.65 ERA (5ER/17IP), while fanning 17.

Meineke Car Care Bowl selects Class of 2011 inductees The Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas (formerly the Texas Bowl) has announced its 2011 Gridiron Greats class. The class is headlined by Houston Texans owner Bob McNair and former Houston Oilers head coach Bum Phillips. Joining McNair and Phillips as Gridiron Legends are former Oilers quarterback Dan Pastorini, former Oklahoma and Port Arthur running back Joe Washington and former Katy High School head coach Mike Johnston. The Gridiron Legends, presented by Wrangler Jeans and Cavender’s Boot City, are all individuals who made a significant contribution to the game of football in the state of Texas, either at the high school, collegiate or professional level. The Bowl will kick off at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, and will be televised nationally on ESPN.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF AUGUST 25 | 2011

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For Event Coverage...visit

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Diedra and Terence Fontaine, Marguerite Williams and Soraya and Scott McClelland

Fannie Jordan and Karen Whitaker

chag’splace

Marcus Davis and Talk Show Host Wendy Williams

Catherine Mukes and Artist Corey Mukes

Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Stephanie Mills

Honorees Vernon Landers and Wayne DeHart

Estelle Heard and Sonya Butts

Mildred Chambers, Brandalyn Gill and Brenda Davis

Henry Williams, Phillip Hudson and Rod Mukes

Fontaine, board chair, Argentina James, board president, A PROUD PAST, A BOLD FUTURE……...The Ensemble Jackie Phillips and executive staff, Janette Cosley and Theatre chose the theme, “The Stars Come Home to Eileen Morris. This spectacular event was attended by Celebrate” for their 35th Anniversary Gala. They celebrated a proud past and a bold future by almost 500 guests. Congratulations and recognizing two of the theatre’s own continued success!..........CELEBRITY Join Yvette Chargois for their stellar commitments as artist TALK SHOW…….Wendy Williams and volunteer. Actor Wayne DeHart brought her fun and excitement of her Events of the Week More photos on defendernetwork.com received this year’s Founders Award popular daytime talk show, “The Wendy and board member Vernon Landers Williams Show,” on the road with her Say See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m. received the prestigious President’s It Like You Mean It Summer Tour. This Award. JPMorgan Chase was awarded multi-city tour made a Houston stop at with the distinct honor of being named the popular midtown eatery, the Breakfast Corporate Partner of the Year. The multi-talented Ntozake Klub where Marcus Davis, chief steward of the Breakfast Shange received the Playwright of the Year Award and Klub, welcomed the Fox TV network celebrity. The restaurant Stephanie Mills was awarded with the Lifetime Achievement was packed with fans, including Fannie Jordan, Karen Award. We salute gala honorary chairs, Soraya and Scott Whitaker, Mildred Chambers, Brandalyn Gill, Brenda McClelland, gala dinner chairs, Diedra and Terence Davis, Lauren White and Vernitta Lenor, to name a few.

Hope you enjoyed the wings and waffles!.........CAUGHT UP EN BLU’ EXHIBIT…….

Out of the Blue Expressions’ up and coming artist, Corey Mukes, recently hosted his art exhibit at BETZ Art Gallery. Corey’s collection was birthed from his passion of adding beauty, color, style and creativity to the world as a celebration of life. His art work dazzles you with his unique blend of talent, passion and perception expressed on canvas. Those spotted at this event included his wife, Catherine Mukes, Estelle Heard, Sonya Butts, Henry Williams, Phillip Hudson, Rod Mukes, Suzette Mukes, Brittany White, Norasha Williams and Dr. Mia Johnson.

Congrats!.......KUDOS…….KTSU-FM’s Larry Johnson has been inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame class of 2011. Larry, a veteran broadcaster, serves as director of Development at TSU’s KTSU. Continued success!........From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!

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