Houston Defender: November 17, 2011

SPORTS HOUSTON ASTROS PREPARED TO CHANGE OWNERS, LEAGUES

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Houston’s Leading Black Information Source Volume 81 | Number 3

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Metro moves forward

WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17, 2011 |

NEWSTALK

REDISTRICTING MAPS cause legal flaps Judge Vanessa Gilmore

P6 OPINION ENTERTAINMENT

 PAGE 8

OPRAH’S

friend joining morning show

Gayle King

P7 H.S. ZONE

KATY TEAM

is on a mission

Rodney Anderson

Pres. Obama

releases agenda

During an African-American leadership conference at the White House, the Obama Administration released a report titled “The President’s Agenda and the African-American Community.”

The nine-point agenda outlines President Obama’s concerns, accomplishments and goals.

Priorities range from tax relief to support of Black businesses.  PAGE 4

Common talks about role

Hip-hop artist and actor Common has good things to say about his latest role. He plays Seymour in the animated film “Happy Feet Two.” Common said he is happy to be part of a family movie that can touch audiences of all ages. He hasn’t forgotten his recording roots and will release a new album, “The Dreamer, The Believer” in December.  PAGE 7

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Exec. Asst. Fire Chief Rick Flanagan & Dr. Sylvester Thompson at Barbados Assn. banquet

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

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Living

An Unforgettable Feast A Tuscan-Inspired Holiday Menu

My Long Trip Home: A Family Memoir

by Mark Whitaker

“My Long Trip Home” is a reporter’s search for the factual and emotional truth about a complicated and compelling family, a son’s haunting meditation on the nature of love, loss, identity and forgiveness.

This holiday, serve an inspired meal bursting with the rich flavors of Tuscany. With these recipes - a moist and tender turkey along with savory sides - you can create an unforgettable experience with family and friends.

Automotive

Question of the Week

highlight

Should North Forest ISD be annexed to HISD?

2011 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SUV

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North Forest district supporters continue fight

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

The North Forest ISD school board is determined to keep the district operating and accredited. Their plan includes using all legal means to vigorously battle the Texas Education Agency’s decision to close the district next year.

NFISD Superintendent Edna Forte, along with reinstated board members and an education attorney, convened a recent meeting where community members still optimistic about the district’s future gathered.

They wanted to make a case for why the district should stay open despite the TEA’s decision to close it officially on July 1, 2012.

Robert Scott, commissioner of the TEA, recently notified the school’s administration by letter that he was officially revoking the district’s accreditation after years of academic and financial woes. Scott originally gave notice of his intent to close the district in July.

“While it saddens me to take this action given the expectations of state law and my concern for the long-term education of the students served by the North Forest ISD, I am compelled to move forward with this process,” wrote Scott.

Under TEA’s plan, HISD will annex all North Forest schools. Yet, NFISD supporters are not willing to give up their fight.

At the recent meeting, the NFISD board argued that the district’s problems were caused by former district leaders, not the current group. They also outlined their plan to revitalize the district by making it academically acceptable within a year, and financially solvent within two years.

Forte contends that district improvements are taking place right now, but more time is needed for them to be recognized.

“It’s important to note that this year’s academic and financial improvements are not being considered as part of the appeals indicators. The work that is currently taking place in the 2011-2012 school year will be rated in 20132014,” said Forte.

Additional plans

allows a single person – Scott – to make such a decision.

“I believe there is a lot of evidence to challenge the TEA decision,” said Lee. “We need a fair and unbiased decisionmaker. I hope they appeal at every level. I want them to push forward and educate the children.”

“The TEA appears to be discriminating against North Forest, one of the last small, Black school districts in the state,” said Ivory Mayhorn, chairman of a task force to save the district. “Other schools are worse than ours and the TEA is not doing anything.”

The 7,500-student NFISD has been under the control and supervision of TEA officials for two years, a fact not lost on district supporters.

They believe the TEA contributed to the district’s failures, specifically by replacing NFISD’s superintendent and elected officials—a decision that resulted in 230 district employees being laid off and $1.5 million of funding going to pay the state-appointed employees, said Leroy Chevalier, the former attorney for the school district.

The day before the school board met, community leaders, students, parents and others gathered at a press conference at Shadydale Elementary School to declare their support of efforts to keep the district open.

Advocates for North Forest said they will take their U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee fight to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary.

In addition, community members have collected 7,000 signatures on a petition opposing the TEA’s decision to close the district that is 70 percent African American and 30 percent Latino, and requesting that the U.S. Department of Education investigate the proposed closing.

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee and Gary Bledsoe, president of the Texas NAACP, met with Scott in Austin to discuss the closure. The meeting, however, did not produce a reversal of Scott’s original ruling that included plans for HISD to annex the district.

Questions asked Lee went on to say that NFISD should appeal “How are you going to tell us that now we have to Scott’s decision on the basis of unfair due process and have the death knell, the penalty and the punishment discrimination, and declaring unjust the legislation that when you [TEA] were in charge for two full years?”

Continued on Page 11

localbriefs MINISTER LOUIS FARRAKHAN served as a guest lectuter at Prairie View A&M University.

Farrakhan’s appearance was part of the Students Participating in Transcendent (S.P.I.T.) Knowledge, an unconventional platform that offers a diverse genre of speakers to the students and community.

Farrakhan noted that his appearance might not have been welcomed on other college campuses.

“Education should prepare you to listen to anyone and judge them for yourself as to whether they are worthy to be listened to,” he said……..QUANELL X admitted that his two non-profit corporations have not filed the proper forms with the Internal Revenue Service. The organizations are the New Black

Muslim Movement and the New Black Muslims for Christ the Messiah. The activist said errors have been made and efforts were underway to correct them……..ZINA GARRISON’S ACADEMY & KIPP HOUSTON announced a partnership to construct a tennis and educational complex at KIPP’s Sunnyside Campus on Scott Street. Phase I will include 10 tennis courts and a temporary educational facility. Phase II will include a permanent educational facility and additional tennis courts……..

THE NUMBER OF TEXANS receiving federal food assistance (food stamps) has grown by 1.4 million in the last four years. Nearly 15 percent of Texans receive stamps. Though more Texans are

receiving assistance, the inability to access nutritious food remains a serious problem in the state……..

BUFFALO SOLDIER LICENSE PLATES were approved by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles board. The specialty plates will honor the famed allBlack Army units formed in the 1800s. The board also voted against the issuance of a controversial Confederate flag license plate supported by the Sons of Confederate Veterans and opposed by many members of the Black community. Dozens of Black Texans appeared before the board, and said that the flag represented bondage and brutality. Houston State Sen. Rodney Ellis applauded the board’s actions, and said the flag was “unworthy of the state’s honor.”

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

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U.S.briefs

Pres. Obama releases African-American agenda

P

By Afro Staff

resident Barack Obama held the first ever African-American Policy in Action Leadership Conference at the White House to coincide with the release of a report, “The President’s Agenda and the African-American Community.”

In front of a gathering that included Rep. Donna Edwards (D-Md.) Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory and Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, the president used the conference to lay out his policy achievements three years after winning the Oval Office with the solid embrace of Black Americans.

He also called for “persistence” in the face of tough times. He restated his belief that the 15.1 percent unemployment rate among African-Americans is “way too high” and touted the administration’s accomplishments in spite of the political resistance the administration has faced. “We’ve got a lot of work to do,” Obama said.

The conference was convened in the wake of a stream of criticism of Obama from Black pundits such as TV talk show host Tavis Smiley and African-American scholar Cornel West, who say his policies haven’t touched African Americans in the way many Black voters expected.

National Urban League (NUL) President Marc Morial, who was invited to the conference but was not able to attend, hasn’t been part of the chorus of critics of Obama but said a conference of this magnitude should have happened much sooner.

“Many of us would have preferred it if this had been held earlier,” Morial told The Root. “But that’s not the most important thing. The most important thing is that there’s a commitment by the White House to strengthen the dialogue with a broader group of leaders who are very interested in the direction of the country, and who represent communities that have been really taken for the worse in the recession.”

Obama says that we have been through tough times before, and with a little persistence, America can also rise from this recession.

President’s 9-point agenda for Black families Provide tax relief for working Americans

President Obama secured the Making Work Pay tax credit, expansions in refundable tax credits Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit for low-income families. The American Jobs Act will extend and expand tax relief for virtually every American family next year, including nearly 20 million AfricanAmerican workers.

Continued on Page 5

More cities are cracking down on Occupy protesters Protesters with the Occupy movement are wearing out their welcome, and various cities have shut down their encampments. Officials say the encampments have resulted in deaths, sexual assaults and drug deals. The movement, which began in New York as Occupy Wall Street, is designed to protest corporate greed and economic inequality. Recently, however, New York police in riot gear dismantled the encampment set up in a private park. The First Amendment protects speech,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg. “It doesn’t protect the use of tents and sleeping bags to take over a public space.” Mayors from Oakland to Portland also ordered the encampments dismantled.

Supreme Court to look at life in prison for juveniles The Supreme Court has agreed to decide whether juveniles convicted of killing someone may be locked up for life with no chance of parole, a followup to last year’s ruling barring such sentences for teenagers whose crimes do not include killing. The justices will examine a pair of cases from the South involving young killers who are serving life sentences for crimes they committed when they were 14.

Both cases were brought by the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Ala. The institute said that life without parole for children so young “is cruel and unusual” and violates the Constitution.

Groups call for federal funding protection for HBCUs Groups representing a coalition of more than 100 colleges and universities are fighting to persuade Congress and its deficit-reducing “Super Committee” not to cut $85 million or more in federal funding for the colleges and students. The coalition consists of the National Association for Equal Opportunity In Higher Education, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and UNCF. The proposed cuts would come on top of $30 million in cuts already made in HBCU funding. “The colleges that would have to absorb these cuts serve students who employers are counting on as the next generation of engineers, scientists, teachers, doctors and nurses,” said Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president and CEO.

VOLUME 81 • NUMBER • 3 WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17, 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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President 9-point... Continued from page 4

Subsidize jobs for lowincome adults and youth.

Through the Recovery Act, 367,000 low-income youth received summer employment and over 260,000 adults and youth were placed in subsidized jobs. The American Jobs Act supports summer jobs and pathways to work for unemployed Americans and youths.

Support Black-owned small businesses.

Obama has enacted 17 tax cuts for small businesses, and taken steps to expand AfricanAmerican-owned small businesses’ access to credit. The American Jobs Act would cut payroll taxes in half for every American small business, including more than 100,000 Black-owned firms.

Reform K-12 and early education

Obama created Race to the Top, designed to raise educational standards, improve assessments and invest in teachers. The American Jobs Act provides $30 billion for states to hire new teachers, rehire those laid off, and prevent lay-offs.

Increase college access and affordability

The President has increased Pell Grant funding created the American Opportunity Tax Credit to ease college costs, championed reform of student loans and secured $850 million in additional funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Keep Americans in their homes

The Administration’s programs have helped more than 4 million families permanently modify their mortgages so they can stay in their homes.

The Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program helps prevent homelessness for 1 million Americans. Project Rebuild which will invest in the communities hardest hit by the housing downturn.

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Expand health care access for families and workers The Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act expands health coverage to more than 4 million children who would otherwise go uninsured. The historic Affordable Care Act, when fully implemented, will expand health coverage to as many as 7 million African Americans.

Protect civil rights and promote criminal justice

Obama has signed major legislation such as the Fair Sentencing Act and the Claims Resolution Act, and worked to expand and enforce hate crimes prosecutions, reduce unfairness in sentencing, and counter employment discrimination.

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

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Redistricting maps causing legal flaps

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

HARRIS COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCTS

Redistricting maps at both the state and county level are coming under fire by minorities who view the proposed maps as attempts to dilute the Black and Latino vote in Texas and Harris County.

Voter redistricting plans recently approved for Harris County are at the center of a lawsuit, and a federal trial could determine if those plans need to be redrawn.

A special meeting called by Harris County Judge Ed Emmett at the request of the county attorney was recently held to discuss federal litigation involving the new redistricting map.

On the state level, a federal court in Washington, D.C. recently ruled that the GOPled Texas Legislature used an improper standard to measure the strength of minority voting when drawing the new lines, thus producing a state redistricting plan that would discriminate against minorities.

Moreover, the court denied the Texas attorney general’s request that the state’s redistricting plans be approved without a full trial. As a result, a court in San Antonio is drawing a set of temporary maps specifically for the 2012 elections.

In Harris County, over ardent objections from members of the Latino community, the controversial local map was approved a few months ago.

Opponents view the new boundaries as unfair representation of Latino voters, minimizing the opportunity to participate in the political process.

A lawsuit filed by members of the Latino community over the new district followed failed attempts to garner adequate support for a new Harris County map Federal Judge Vanessa Gilmore they proposed.

The map that did receive approval that is at the heart of the lawsuit will go to the Department of Justice for preclearance.

Harris County officials are working against the clock, however, to hammer out an acceptable redistricting plan by the deadline. County commissioners redrew precincts earlier this year, and now they must defend it in federal court.

At issue is Precinct 2, which includes neighborhoods

near Hobby Airport, among others.

“It’s far more complicated than you would ever think [to produce a redistricting map acceptable to Harris County and those who oppose the current plans].

This is a very difficult task and it looks to me like the judge is going to have to make a decision,” said Terry O’Rourke, first assistant Harris County attorney.

Federal Judge Vanessa Gilmore recently listened to the plaintiffs’ argument that the current map dilutes the Hispanic vote in Precinct 2 and violates the Voting Rights Act. Attempts at agreeing on a plan through mediation efforts between the plaintiffs and the county failed. Gilmore has requested that both sides find common ground on a temporary map, so that the 2012 county elections—including races for county sheriff and county district attorney—can proceed while the final ruling is worked out in the courts.

Ruling applauded

Meanwhile, the maps passed by the Texas Legislature are not allowed to legally exist unless approved by the U.S. Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division or the D.C. district court, a legal requirement imposed by the Voting

Rights Act to ensure that states with a history of segregation—like Texas—do not reduce opportunity for minority representation.

Attorney General Greg Abbott bypassed the Justice Department review, and took the fight over Texas’ maps to federal court in Washington.

As part of the process, the court asked lawyers at the Justice Department for their opinion of Texas maps and they told the court in a filing that they believed the maps were “adopted with discriminatory purpose.”

“The Texas Legislative Black Caucus (TLBC) applauds the ruling by the Washington, D.C., Federal District Court to deny the State of Texas request for quick approval of redistricting plans for the Texas House, Senate and Congressional delegations in the 2012 elections,” said Caucus chair State Rep Sylvester Turner (District 139).

The Court’s actions ensure that millions of Texans will not be disenfranchised by stopping the State’s illegal maps from moving forward.”

The TLBC argued before the D.C. court on Nov. 2 that due to overreaching partisan politics, Texas’ redistricting plans would undermine minority communities throughout the state.

Days later, the D.C. court concluded that the State of Texas used an “improper standard or methodology” in creating and identifying minority districts during the redistricting process, and denied expedited approval to Texas maps for the 2012 election cycle.

In short, the maps passed by the 2011 Texas Legislature cannot be used for the 2012 election.

“The actions of the Federal Court in Washington, D.C., demonstrate that we will no longer tolerate the disenfranchising of minority communities through the redistricting process,” said Turner.

“In the United States as a whole, but in Texas in particular, the political process can no longer be used to shortchange the voice of the people and in particular our minority communities. I look forward to a more fair and equitable construction of redistricting plans for the 2012 elections by the San Antonio Federal Court.”

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WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011 | DEFENDER

entertainment Common talks about his latest role

By KAM WILLIAMS Defender

B

orn Lonnie Rashid Lynn in Chicago on March 13, 1972, Common rose to prominence as one of hip-hop’s most poetic and respected lyricists, having garnered multiple Grammy Awards for his first eight albums.

Common’s ninth, The Dreamer, The Believer, will be released in December by Warner Brothers Records.

In 2004, he partnered with fellow Chicago native and rap music mega-star Kanye West to produce the album “BE,” which went on to garner four Grammy Award nominations.

Three years later, Common released his critically-acclaimed seventh album, “Finding Forever,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Album Chart and went on to earn him another Grammy. His eighth album, “Universal Mind Control,” was released in 2008 and was nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Rap Album.

Common’s film credits include “Smokin’ Aces,” “American Gangster,” “Wanted,” “Terminator Salvation,” “Date Night” and “Just Wright.” In addition, he

is set to co-star opposite Jennifer Garner next year in “The Odd Life of Timothy Green.”

On TV, Common enjoys a recurring role on the AMC Network series “Hell on Wheels.”

His memoir, “One Day It’ll All Make Sense,” was published in September by Atria Books. He is also the author of several children’s books.

In 2000, Common launched the Common Ground

7

Foundation, with the mission to empower disadvantaged youth in urban communities by mentoring them. Here, he talks about serving as the voice of Seymour in the animated comedy “Happy Feet Two.” KW: What interested you in playing Seymour?

C: The reason why I really wanted to play Seymour was because “Happy Feet Two” is a family movie that can touch people of all ages. So, I saw the opportunity to be in the movie and to work with [director] George Miller, who is an incredibly talented visionary, as a great honor and blessing.

KW: What is the acting process like when you’re voicing an animated character?

C: First of all, you start by finding the pulse of the character, because even though it’s animated, it still has a soul. George Miller creates characters who have heart, so you start by finding their essence. Then you bring that essence to the character, and add your imagination.

KW: You’re really branching out. What surprising role will you be tackling next?

C: God willing, I’ll be doing leading roles in some dramas, comedies and action films. My goal is to

Continued on Page 11

what’sup HEAVY D will be remembered during a private funeral at a Black Baptist church in his native New York. Sean “Diddy” Combs and the Rev. Al Sharpton were scheduled to speak at the funeral. The 44-yearold rapper died Nov. 8 after collapsing outside his Los Angeles home. He had gone to the doctor the day before complaining of flu-like symptoms. Born Dwight Arrington Myer, he and his group Heavy D and the Boyz recorded such hits as “Now That We Found Love,” ‘’Who’s the Man” and “Somebody for Me” beginning in the 1980s. This year he released a new album, “Love Opus,” and performed during the Michael Jackson tribute concert. He also acted in such films as “Cider House Rules” and most recently, “Tower Heist. He is survived by a 13-year-

old daughter. “He was a wonderful human being, who inspired and paved the way for a hip-hop generation,” Diddy said. “We were like brothers — I will miss him more than words can express.”……..GAYLE KING is scheduled to join CBS’ morning news show next year.

Though King is best known as Oprah Winfrey’s friend, she hosts a regular show on Sirius Satellite Radio and also has a show on Winfrey’s cable network, OWN. King, a Maryland native, began her TV broadcasting career in Washington, D.C. She met Winfrey later when they both worked in Baltimore, and they have remained friends for 30 years. Sources say Oprah might pop up on the morning show to chat with Gayle…….. TONI BRAXTON is now dating a white man and talked about it on Anderson Cooper’s show. The singer and

reality TV star told Cooper she had “never played in the snow before.” When asked what she meant, she replied, “Oh, he’s Caucasian.” Braxton has been separated from her husband Keri Lewis since 2009.

She said previously she would not file for divorce for fear of upsetting her children…….. NIA LONG has a new addition to her family. She and basketball player Ime Udoka welcomed a son named Kez.……..TYLER PERRY fans are using his website to disagree with his selection of Kim Kardashian as a cast member in his upcoming movie “The Marriage Counselor.” One fan wrote: “Mr. Perry, when I first heard you had selected Kim to star in a role in one of your movies, I dismissed it as a typo. I’m not sure what you expect her to bring to your set.”

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

coverpage

Metro moves forward

By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender

H

ouston’s Metro transit system construction plan will soon have the money to move full speed ahead with its comprehensive light rail plan, which will provide smarter, more energy-efficient transportation options in the form of five new rail lines.

On Nov. 28, Metro and federal officials will sign the long-awaited $900 million full-funding grants for the North and Southeast rail lines. The two grants total $450 million each.

Since the Southeast line will roll through a predominately AfricanAmerican part of the city, that community may be one of the first to benefit. Metro officials say, overall, the project means better service and a boost to the local economy during construction – allowing African-Americans to benefit from every angle.

A long time coming

In development since 2001, Metro Solutions is a comprehensive transit system plan to help solve the Greater Houston region’s Gilbert Garcia traffic congestion and air quality problems.

The plan was crafted with extensive input from the public, Metro’s regional transportation partners and mobility experts nationwide. The plan was adopted by the board of directors in July 2003 and approved by voters in November 2003.

It calls for major multimodal transit improvements across the region and extends through 2014 the General Mobility Program, which sets aside one-quarter of Metro’s one cent sales tax revenue for mobility projects in Harris County, the City of Houston and the Multi-Cities.

In addition, voters granted Metro the authority

to issue up to $640 million in bonds to fund the next phase of projects.

“Transit, isn’t just a matter of running a bus or train or Metro lift vehicle. It really does take a partnership with the community to make sure you’re providing the service they need,” said George Greanias, Metro President & CEO. “So we’re really focused on providing that kind of service commitment to places like Acres Homes, Sunnyside, the same thing we do across our service area.”

Station and travel through the historic East End to the Magnolia Transit Center. Southeast Line riders will also be able to transfer to MetroRail’s existing Red Line on Main Street.

In addition to providing transportation services, Metro says they are working to keep fares affordable.

“The first thing we’re doing is to make sure we have good service for everybody, being on time, keeping it affordable,” said Metro Chairman Gilbert Garcia. “When we first came in, we really focused to make sure we did the budget in such a way that we The Black community didn’t raise fares.

The Main Street Line, or Red Line, Houston’s “We just completed the budget, and there’s still first light rail line, already carries 45,000 passengers no increase.

So we’re doing everything we can to keep per day, making it the nation’s most heavily traveled it prompt, safe, affordable, reliable, for everyone.” per-track mile.

Metro board member Dwight Jefferson says the agency is also working to ensure the best transit service for the money.

“One of our seven operating principles is people,” Jefferson said.

“But we also look at cost control and sustainability.

We are replacing buses, bringing in 100 new buses every year and we’re trying to keep our buses up so they can be as new as possible to provide the type of service that everyone in the Dwight Jefferson George Greanais community needs.”

Metro officials are hoping for similar success with the Southeast Line, or Purple Line, which will primarily serve the African-American community.

The Southeast Line begins in downtown Houston and runs along Capitol and Rusk southeast to the vicinity of Palm Center at MLK and Griggs, going through the center of one of Houston’s oldest AfricanAmerican communities.

The approximately six-mile rail line connects downtown with local universities including Texas Southern University and the University of Houston.

The last portion of the track, shared with the East End Line, will enable riders to transfer at the Bastrop

Small businesses

Initially, the construction along the Southeast rail had some businesses concerned about disruptions. Metro says it’s working to ease those concerns through the Business Assistance Fund, a grant that helps small firms during the construction period with financial aid.

Eligible firms can apply for financial assistance to handle everyday expenses such as utilities, insurance, rent or mortgage payments and payroll.

“It pains me when I hear some of our businesses and the disruption,” Garcia said. “We’re do-

defendernetwork.com • Serving th

9 ing everything we can to speed up the process. We’re breaking up different construction into sections.

Doing a lot of business assistance and granting up to $25,000 in relief.

“We have outreach to make sure there are Metro people on the ground where the community can let us know if something is not going smoothly.”

The business assistance program also works to help raise awareness of the firms affected most by construction and to encourage customers to support their local favorites throughout the entire light rail expansion project.

Services available through the BAF include graphic design and photography, promotional banners, building signs, feature articles in regularly published newsletters and customized listings on goMetrorail.org’s Business Directory.

To qualify for Metro’s Business Assistance Fund, firms must be located directly on a Metro Solutions light-rail corridor. Metro defines a small business as an entity that has less than $1 million in revenue and 20 employees or less. (The Main Street Line, from Fannin South to UH Downtown, is not eligible.)

Metro also partnered with SCORE, a non-profit association dedicated to helping small businesses in the Houston community. Any entity along one of the Metro Solutions corridors is en-

he Houston area for over 80 years

couraged to attend SCORE’s free workshops on a variety of topics on everything from marketing to business plans.

A piece of the profit

The Metro project is expected to cost roughly $4.1 billion. And Metro says it is committed to making sure small and disadvantaged businesses get a piece of that pie. Their small business goal is 35 percent.

“We want to make sure everyone gets fair share, especially local firms,” Garcia added. “We’re doing a lot of things in the community, forums, workshops, to make sure people are aware of the opportunity and that they get proper requirements, get certified, etc.

“We’re also advertising more aggressively in minority papers to make sure people know about procurement opportunities.”

Jefferson says they are also working to assist small and disadvantaged businesses with whatever steps are necessary to be able to participate in the projects.

“We have a company that’s doing the construction that has contracted with subcontractors that have been going out and providing training and trying to find small and minority businesses that can participate in the projects. We’re going to try to maintain as close as we can to that 35 percent over the next couple of years,” Jefferson said.

Economic woes

Like many agencies, METRO recently found itself facing the prospect of severe belt-tightening.

“We were very open from June and July in how we would proceed in right sizing the organization when it came to reducing positions,” Greanias said.

“We let employees know so they could watch the board meetings so they’d have a clear understanding of what we were going to do.”

Greanias said they took their layoff process in steps.

“Unlike other governmental agencies that just lay people off, we offered a voluntary early retirement program for people that were eligible. We gave them the option of retiring and getting an additional three years credit on their pension, which they then received in annuity.

“A number of people, more than we expected, took advantage. Then we did a voluntary layoff where they got their standard severance package, which was four weeks of credit plus one week for every two years served up to 12, plus they got an additional six weeks.

So that turned out to be a pretty good financial package.”

In all, Greanias says they were able to reduce their workforce by about 80 people.

“We still have to eliminate 27 more positions, and we offered a job placement program to help them find other positions in the organization. Nine of those people are placed already, two or three retired. Six didn’t take advantage, because their skill sets allowed them to find employment in areas elsewhere and the others are still in the process.

“The number will level out around 15. We’ve worked really hard in a way that was fair and respectful of the people that worked here.”

10

DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

defendernetwork.com

opinion

pointofview

Obama finally uses his authority

By Rev. Jesse Jackson Special to NNPA from Washington Informer

F

inally, President Barack Obama has had enough of what he rightly calls an “increasingly dysfunctional Congress.”

He has begun to use his own authority to issue Executive Orders to move reforms the country desperately needs.

He’s issued orders that will help an estimated 1.6 million college students pay off their student loans, assist an estimated 1 million homeowners renegotiate their mortgages, and help thousands of veterans find a job.

He’s established an online center to help small busiPat Bagley, Salt LakeTribune nesses looking for export markets. And, he issued an Executive Order designed to help seniors with prescription drugs that are in short supply.

By issuing Executive Orders, the president takes the offensive, instead of waiting on Congress to act. When the Republican Congress repeatedly refuses to act on the president’s initiatives, the public sees a government that doesn’t work.

The tendency is to blame both sides, so the obstructionist strategy works. Congress has earned the lowest levels of public approval ever, but approval of the president has declined, as well.

If your overriding goal is to ensure that

Obama is a one-term president, as Senate Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announced, then obstruction of needed reforms makes a perverse sense, even if it virtually guarantees a stagnant economy, mass unemployment and declining wages.

But by acting, the president demonstrates what he is fighting for, where his priorities are — and he exposes what that partisan wall in Congress is blocking.

Governance

by Executive Order goes back to George Washington, who issued the first order in 1789.

Of all the presidents since Washington, Obama actually has issued the fewest Executive Orders. But the Constitution allows a president to protect the nation’s interest from a Congress in rebellion.

The orders allow the president to take initiative, but there are severe limits. The president cannot appropriate funds by executive order. Any order he issues can be erased by the Congress, the courts, or by a later executive order.

At the end of the day, we still need Congress to act to create jobs and get this economy going.

But Senate Republicans filibustered to block even a debate on the president’s jobs plan. In a stagnant economy, they have stalled action to extend the payroll tax cut and unemployment insurance and to keep teachers and cops on the jobs.

So, the president has no choice but to keep pushing.

Farewell to ‘Dialogue with Ada Edwards’ One of the casualties of Praise 92.1 going off the air is the end of the talk show “Dialogue with Ada Edwards.”

For almost 20 years, Ada Edwards has been on the front line in Black radio providing an opportunity for Houstonians to share information, exchange opinions and build community capacity.

When station General Manager Ernie Jackson gave Ada a chance to start a new career in radio, she had no idea it would span a couple of decades at both The Boxx- KBXX-FM and Praise 92.1. Reflecting on her legacy of service, Ada said that she was “trying to make the station an intricate part of the community.”

What distinguished Ada Edwards from many others in the radio business was simple: “It was about more than just talk.”

Instead of just supporting organizations and people with lip service, she rolled up her sleeves and rallied her troops to raise money. The benefactors include the South Africa movement, Haitian and Rwanda crisis, Shape Community Center, HIV awareness and many more.

Understanding that the radio stations Majic 102, The Boxx 97.9, and Praise 92.1 were built on the backs of African-American listeners, Ada explained that, “We were who we were because we were a part of the community”.

As Ada and Radio One separate and begin a new chapter, concerns are raised about whether the station still has a commitment to the African-American community.

The questions that surface include: Will there be programming directed at the African-American

community on the news station debuting soon? Will all the stations recognize the importance of a community relations director? Will African-Americans be placed in leadership/management positions?

Will the community demand a return on the investment of loyal listenership?

If these questions are not answered to the satisfaction of the community, the voice of the community will rise and the Defender will be at the forefront carrying their message.

When asked what suggestions Ada would give Radio One she stated: “ I think they should get back to the radio that Cathy Hughes [Radio One founder] led in the ‘70s and ‘80s. It was community-based.

I think it should be a voice for the people.”

Just because Radio One is a Black-owned company does not negate the fact that they should be held accountable. And just because they are a Black-owned company we should not forget that the station changes are about business, money and survival.

A win-win solution of quality public affairs programming plus a revenue-generating corporation can be accomplished if the stations work with the community to achieve the goal.

As we say farewell to “Dialogue with Ada Edwards,” we all know her voice will not be silenced.

Hopefully, Radio One does not lose sight of their commitment to the community and public affairs especially being a Black-owned station considering there are so few.

Farewell, Ada, as you close this chapter and begin another.

GOD bless you for your giving spirit.

nextweekonlineopinions Smokin’ Joe has gone to heaven

Harry Alford

George Curry

Stop the violence against women

Empowerment message from the Congo

Jesse Jackson’s legacy

Benjamin Chavis

Julianne Malveaux

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

defendernetwork.com | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011 | DEFENDER

11

Commons Talks.. Continued from page 7 develop into a great actor.

KW: When did you know that you had a future as a lyricist and poet?

C: I felt I had a future when I did “I Used to Love H.E.R.” When that was released, I was like, “Man, I really can do something.” I really felt strong about it.

KW: Through your lyrics and your comments, you’ve seemed to attract a bit of controversy over the years. Tell me how your journey has morphed you into the man you are today.

C: I put God first, and strive to do my best by being a loving human being, recognizing that sometimes I make mistakes and bad choices. But God is my guide

and love is the strongest element in the mix, so I try to not judge myself too much, knowing that at the end of the day, my greatest judge will be Jehovah God. KW: Do you think President Obama has made a good enough effort to create jobs, balance the budget and work with the Republicans in Congress to move this country forward?

C: I think the President is doing his best to create jobs and better situations for the American people. As far as working with Republicans, I believe he’s doing what he can to make that happen.

KW: Do you there’s something hypocritical and patently political about conservatives complaining

about you being an invited guest to the White House but being silent about you starring in a children’s film?

C: Yeah, their complaining about my being invited to the White House was just me getting caught up in politics. They didn’t even know who I really am.

KW: What message you want the public to take away from your memoir, “One Day It’ll All Make Sense?”

C: I just want people to feel like they can achieve something great in their lives. We all go through rough times, but love is the antidote. You’ve got to dream and just believe in yourself. And if you believe, you will achieve it.

North Forest...

Continued from page 3 asked Lee. “Why didn’t they fix the problems?”

“You don’t have the right to come in our house and pull us out,” said Ann Hillis, an NFISD parent.

Carol Mims Galloway, an HISD school board trustee, opposes HISD annexation of NFISD. “We in HISD do not have our house totally together. Why are we adding to it?” said Galloway during the gathering at Shadydale.

“There is a right to appeal to the federal courts, and there is a right to go to the United States Supreme Court. None of that has been included in the expression and the interpretation of this letter,” said Lee, referring to Scott’s letter to NFISD administrators announcing his intentions.

NFISD has 30 days to appeal the ruling, but has until July 1, 2012 to exhaust all possible appeals.

In their appeals, NFISD advocates plan to question several items, including the review process used to shut down the district, and why after two years under TEA’s leadership NFISD schools are still failing to perform.

Scott has remained firm in his belief that NFISD students would be better served in HISD. Though the U.S. Justice Department still must approve the deal, HISD officials have said NFISD students can start enrolling in the district now.

If NFISD is closed, HISD still must answer several major questions.

Will HISD keep the North Forest buildings or move some students into its own facilities? What, if any, NFISD debt will HISD have to assume? Will HISD hire any of the NFISD teachers?

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Call 1-800-WALGREENS (1-800-925-4733) toll-free or visit www.walgreens.com/findastore for the location nearest you. While supplies last. ©WALGREEN CO., 2011, all rights reserved.

12

DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

defendernetwork.com

business

So much more than a credit score…

By Michelle Thornhill

Early in my career, I remember sitting down with a family to help them prepare for buying a home. I asked them how their credit was, and the husband replied, “Our credit is very good. The creditors aren’t knocking on our door.”

My first instinct was to laugh with him, until I realized that he was very serious. As I look back, I understand why he would be confused. Many of us are misinformed when it comes to credit. For starters, being in “good standing” with your lenders does not always indicate that you have good credit. What’s even more surprising, having a strong credit score doesn’t readily mean that you are desirable to lenders.

Confusing? Let’s break it down.

Your credit report is compiled by the three credit reporting agencies: TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. Each agency collects information to produce their own report – this is why you have three separate credit reports.

In general, information in each credit report includes a listing of all credit accounts (past and present), inquiries (or requests for your credit report by third parties), payment history, as well as public record (name, addresses, employment history) and collection items.

Your credit score is a numeric summary — calculated by Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) — of your credit report. Your credit score is not generated by lenders or financial institutions. However, they will use this information in determining if you are creditworthy.

While credit

scores are important, they don’t tell the full story. Lenders take a more holistic approach

ing good credit is to keep your debt low, regardless of your credit

measured steps to repair them if necessary.

Wells Fargo offers a variety of free, online tools that can help you on your journey toward creditworthiness and financial success.

Among them is the Wells Fargo Smarter Credit Center, accessible at www.wellsfargo. com/smarter_credit/.

Make it your practice to contact the three credit reporting agencies at least once a year. To request

“While credit scores are important, they don’t tell the full story.” in determining if you are creditworthy that goes beyond just knowing your credit score. They consider how you’ve managed your finances and credit over time.

For instance, your payment history might keep creditors from knocking on your door because you’ve consistently made payments on time. On the other hand, lenders will also look to things like debt-to-income ratio when making credit decisions.

So while you may pay your bills on time, having high credit balances and other debts (in comparison to your income) can actually lead to higher interest rates or declined credit, even with a strong credit score.

Having multiple credit cards can be another misleading credit trap. Yes, a good credit score will likely get you another credit card, but do you actually need it?

Even if you don’t use it right away, having the “extra credit” can be tempting and can also make you appear risky to lenders because of your potential to spend and create additional debt.

Or, it can indicate that you are not as selective and cautious as you should be in making credit decisions. So a wallet full of credit cards can actually reflect irresponsibility, rather than creditworthiness.

One of the best approaches to establishing, maintaining or reestablish-

score. Be vigilant. Exercise sound personal financial habits. Proactively pay down debt to keep your balances low. Study your credit and debts regularly, and take

a free copy of your credit reports visit www.annualcreditreport.com (the report is free, but you will have to pay a fee to see your actual credit score).

Use these reports to monitor your credit and to develop a debt payment plan that fits into your budget. And remember, your credit score is not impacted when you request a copy of your credit report.

More important than a credit score is your peace of mind. Paying down debt not only positively impacts your credit

score but also provides a sense of self-assurance and pride knowing that each day you are a step closer to financial independence.

Stress related to finances is problematic to your social, emotional and physical well- being. This is why it is important to confront debt head on to begin taking control over a very important part of your life.

Yes, it’s okay to be proud of your good credit score, but don’t get caught up. Tackling debt is just as important.

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

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

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

                                       

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

                         

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

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defendernetwork.com | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011 | DEFENDER

Analysis: Equal credit elusive for minorities

By Charlene Crowell NNPA Columnist Federal regulators and lenders convened in Baltimore to review and analyze whether the goals of the nation’s Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and fair lending laws are being observed.

The annual event, now in its 15th year, attracted sell-out attendance to hear a series of expert presenters’ insights and analyses.

For Assistant Attorney General Thomas E. Perez, the annual colloquium became the occasion for a keynote address that reminded the audience that for communities of color, fair lending remains elusive.

“Regrettably, we have found” said Perez, “that all too often borrowers are judged by the color of their skin rather than the content of their creditworthiness.”

As head of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division since October 2009, Perez noted that more than half of the 2010 referrals received from other federal lending regulators involved discrimina-

tion on race or national origin.

Through the creation of a dedicated Fair Lending Unit at DOJ, over $30 million in direct compensation for individuals whose rights were violated has been secured. Also in 2010, the unit reached settlements or filed complaints in 10 pattern or practice lending cases. Of these ten cases, nine have been settled since last year.

Much of this enforcement, according to Perez, is accomplished in collaboration with the President’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force.

With representatives from DOJ and other federal agencies, as well as state attorneys general and local law enforcement, the task force investigates and prosecutes a wide range of financial crimes.

“Without a credible enforcement program,” said Perez, “we can never achieve full compliance with the law or fully level the playing field between responsible lending institutions and unscrupulous lenders.”

In 2011, a record number of cases have been filed under

the Equal Credit Opportunity to find solutions that would Act. Currently, there are seven allow them to remedy the harm authorized lawsuits and more done while also reaching new than 20 active investigations customers. involving redlining claims, In cases where Africanpricing discrimination, and American and Latino borproduct steering based on race rowers were charged more or national origin. than similarly qualified white In an effort to address the borrowers, the Civil Rights devastation of neighborhoods Division examined loan origiand home values, the Civil nation practices, guidelines on Rights Division is including in- how fees or interest rates were novative provisions to address the full scope of damage done, in addition to settlement terms stipulating more traditional remedies such as a marketing campaigns or establishing a physical presence in underserved communities.

For example, in a St. Louis settlement with Midwest Bank, the decree calls for assistance to help residents repair their credit and provide access to low-cost checking accounts.

Similarly, in the metropolitan Detroit decree with Citizens Bank, the lender must provide home improvement grants to current homeowners living in neighborhoods hard-hit by foreclosures. Both T:9.75” Citizens and Midwest agreed

set, and whether there was any documentation to explain differences in prices.

Summarizing goals for both current and future efforts, Perez called for transparent transactions, prompt decisions, fair lending, and open communication with all borrowers.

“It is the stubborn persistence of race as a factor in the pricing of loans,” concluded

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Perez, “even after you account for relevant creditworthiness factors that we seek to address through our enforcement actions.

“The disparity grows as you move up the credit score ladder. All too frequently, equal credit opportunity remains elusive for minorities, even upper-income minorities who are creditworthy.”

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DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

sports

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Astros set to change owners, leagues

T

By MAX EDISON Defender

he Drayton McLane era is set to come to an end after 20 years. McLane purchased the Astros for a reported $117 million and is prepared to sell the franchise to Houston businessman Jim Crane for approximately $680 million.

The sale is expected to be confirmed and ratified no later than Dec. 8 at the MLB winter meetings in Dallas.

In addition, the proposed MLB realignment would see the Astros move to the American League as early as 2013. The Astros celebrate the 50th anniversary of major league baseball in Of course Minute Houston during the 2012 season, all of Maid came about those in the National League. under Drayton’s The Astros held their annual Alums ownership.”

After 20 years Drayton McLane awaits confirmation Golf Tournament recently, bringing on sale of Astros to Jim Crane One key back many of the franchises great players. element that has They discussed what the tenure of Dray[Babe] Ruth built, while I been reported as ton McLane has meant to them and the city. was sitting there with the a hold-up to the Jim Wynn, the “Toy Cannon,” has complemenkeys to the Astrodome. sale’s approval tary words for the owner and his era.

“I won a World Series is the proposed “I respect Drayton McLane a great deal, not only as GM of the Yankees. league realignbecause of the things he’s done for me, but what he The ownership of Drayton ment. has done for the fans here in Houston,” legendary McLane has been fantastic “It seems like slugger Wynn said. “I’m personally going to miss to me. I’ve been blessed in we’re a victim Astros All-Time greats Bob Watson & Larry Dierker (top right) reflect him.” so many ways and I will on the McLane era of circumstance,” Former Astro Bob “Bull” Watson (1966-79) also forever be in his debt.”

Dierker said. felt that the McLane era was good for the franchise.

Larry Dierker’s name has become synonymous “The commissioner can’t force an owner to change “Before Drayton the club was simply existing; with the Astro franchise. He was a player from 1964- leagues, but if you’re going to change owners they it was entertainment so to speak,” Watson recalled.

77, a member of the team broadcast crew from 1979- can make it a condition for approval. I don’t think “Drayton wanted to make the team a champion and 96 and 2004-05, and manager from 1997-2001. they have leverage over anybody else. If they want he did everything in his power to do that.

The “Wrangler” believes that the McLane era five teams in every division it has to be us.”

“He did it within good business sense,” Watson was a good time for Houston baseball fans.

Watson, now a baseball consultant, acknowlsaid. “Houston is a mid-market club. He didn’t over“He put a good product on the field practically edges that a change could be imminent, but observes spend like a lot of clubs have done. Some small mar- every year,” Dierker said. “Of course we’re rebuildit’s not the end of the world. ket teams overspend and some big market teams that ing now, but during most of his ownership we were “The bottom line is baseball has changed. don’t spend. He did it with good business acumen.” in contention to make the playoffs almost every There’s no more just the National League,” Watson During the McLane era Watson became a part of year.” explained. history, becoming the first Black general manager in Minute Maid Park in Dierker’s opinion will be “I’m involved internationally and the AmeriMLB history. a lasting tribute to McLane’s contribution to major can League brand of play with a designated hitter “I was assistant general manager under John league baseball in Houston. is played all over the world. Little League, high McMullen. Drayton bought the club and gave me “Minute Maid Park is one of the best ballparks school, college, semi-pro, all over the world has the an opportunity to run the club,” the Bull explained. in all of baseball. I think it will stand the test of time. designated hitter. The people that will cry about the “He also gave me the opportunity to move to the The Astrodome was starting to get old and when they National League leaving Houston need to take a real New York Yankees to hold the keys to the house that took the scoreboard down it became kind of ordinary. look at the real world.”

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WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011 DEFENDER

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sportsbriefs

Katy Tigers on a mission to perfection

W

By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender

hen speaking with members of the Katy High School varsity football team, two significant factors come to the forefront with a direct correlation to the Tigers’ success throughout the 2011 season and heading into the area playoff game with Cypress Woods at the Berry Center.

Their last game of the 2010 season resulted in a devastating 38-35 last-second loss to eventual Class 5A Division I state champion Pearland in the Region III-5A title game was particularly disturbing.

“The day after that loss produced a horrible feeling throughout the Katy community,” said Tigers’ starting quarterback Brooks Haack.

“Through the summer we all worked hard and thought about that game. We knew how bad that felt and we never wanted to feel that way again. I think that showed tonight in the first round of the playoffs.”

Did it ever. Katy opened the 2011 playoffs with a convincing 63-7 road victory over Houston Madison at Butler Stadium. The Katy faithful filled their side of the stadium with banners supporting the team mounted at every possible location. It was as if they were at home in Rhodes Stadium, the site of so many Katy conquests over the past two decades.

What followed was the same kind of methodical beat-down that has happened on a weekly basis throughout the 2011 season. After throwing less than 10 passes to secure the District 19-5A title with a 38-7 win over rival Cinco Ranch, Haack opened the Madison game by throwing a 25-yard completion to Alan Grizzaffi.

Two plays later, freshman running back Rodney Anderson scored the first of his four touchdowns in the contest on a four-yard TD run.

Haack opened the next Katy drive with a 12-yard completion to junior wide receiver Kyle Fulks. Four plays later, Anderson capped the scoring drive with an eight-yard TD run.

Katy scored touchdowns on its first three offensive possessions to take a commanding 21-0 advantage and never looked back. The Tigers grinded out 307 rushing yards which leads to the second significant factor that has helped Katy ascend to the state’s top Class 5A ranking and the rise to the Top 10 in several national rankings.

“We have to be able to control the tempo of the game and the running game to be successful,” said Katy head coach Gary Joseph, before the season began.

“I’ve been around here long enough to understand that and appreciate it.”

Katy lost top

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returning running back Adam Taylor to a season-ending leg injury in the season’s early stages and senior Cody Gomez wasn’t available for the team’s first-round playoff game.

“When Adam went down, the receivers took it upon themselves to hang around after practice and work on the passing attack with Brooks,” said Jordan Thompson, the Tigers’ leading receiver. “It opens up the running game when we can complete some passes.”

Six different backs touted the ball against Madison and all of them recorded positive yardage.

“When you can get 300 rushing yards in a game, you’re guaranteed a victory,” Haack said. “Being successful in the passing game enables us to do that.”

Madison keyed on Thompson early in the bi-district round of the playoffs and Haack answered by going to Fulks.

“They [Madison] concentrated on J.T. and Brooks came to me and I was able to make plays on the ball,” Fulks said. “A receiver is always happy when the quarterback is looking his way.”

Fulks hauled in a 39-yard TD pass from Haack with four minutes, 28 seconds left in the second quarter that gave Katy a 21-0 edge. Following a seven-yard TD run by Grizzaffi to increase the lead to 28-0, Anderson scored his third TD on a two-yard touchdown run to give the Tigers a 35-0 lead at intermission.

“When Adam went down, I just wanted to come in and help the team in whatever capacity that I could,” Anderson said. “I practiced with the varsity during seven-on-seven over the summer and I was there during weight training so I really didn’t know what my role would be.

“The parents and students and my teammates have been so supportive that this has been an enjoyable season for the team and me personally. I just want us to reach our goal.”

Haack said the team reached its first goal by winning the District 19-5A title. The Katy defense, a formidable force all season, allowed a late touchdown to Madison with reserves on the field. A few more victories and the Tigers will bring home the school’s first state championship trophy since 2007.

That would duplicate another undefeated season.

“We’ve been focused on that since the final game of last season,” Haack said.

Katy wide receivers Jordan Thompson and Kyle Fulks (top) join quarterback Brooks Haack and running back Rodney Anderson to create a solid offense for the Tigers.

Cypress Falls edges nemesis for shot at state title The Greater Houston area hasn’t won a state volleyball title since Cypress Falls accomplished it in 2000. The 41-7 Eagles return to the state stage after disposing of District 17-5A rival Cypress Woods in three sets to win the Class 5A Region III championship. Cy Falls joins Coppell, McKinney Boyd and San Antonio Johnson in the 5A state semifinals Friday at Strahan Coliseum in San Marcos. Defending region champion Cypress Woods (42-6) won both district matches against Cy Falls, but the Eagles had their full complement of players of players back from injuries at the best possible time of the season.

Cy Falls swept the match in sets of 25-22, 25-22 and 25-19 with Alexis Austin, Chanel Clark-Bibbs, Mylan Eugene, setter Kelly Bailey and sophomore Patricia Van Pelt leading the way.

The Woodlands record-setting defense tested in win The Woodlands Highlanders’ football team set a school record by ending the 2011 regular season with four consecutive shutouts. Somebody forgot to tell firstround playoff opponent Klein Collins. It took the Tigers less than five minutes to dent the scoreboard at Turner Stadium and the Highlanders were in for the fight of their lives. It wasn’t until the final nine minutes of the game that The Woodlands’ heralded defensive unit made its presence felt and forced two fumbles to secure a 4231 victory over Klein Collins in the Class 5A Division I region II bi-district contest. After allowing an average of 11.1 points per game entering the game, the Highlanders surrendered 24 points by halftime. Blake Webb caught seven passes for 199 yards and three touchdowns to lead The Woodlands’ offense.

Lucas sponsors celebrity lockout game for charity Former NBA player and coach John Lucas recently is hosting a charity game featuring a number of NBA stars.

The “Houston Lockout Celebrity Basketball Game” will be played, Sunday, Nov. 20, at 5 p.m. at Delmar Stadium.

More than 20 current players will participate, including Oklahoma City forward Kevin Durant, Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose, Dallas Mavericks guard Jason Terry and Houston Rockets players Chandler Parsons, Jonny Flynn and Kyle Lowry. NBA Hall of Famer Moses Malone and seven-time NBA Champion Robert Horry will serve as coaches. The proceeds from the game will benefit charities including the John Lucas Foundation, which helps athletes who need after-care or wellness services and programs.

Rockets form multi-layered partnership with Cricket The Houston Rockets and Toyota Center recently announced a multi-layered partnership with Cricket Communications, Inc. As part of this partnership, game and concert attendees will be able to visit Cricket’s new Muve Music Lounge – open year-round inside Toyota Center – to try out phones, win prizes and maybe even meet a few celebrities. “This partnership allows us to extend a unique opportunity for our fans and concert goers to experience this game-changing technology of Muve Music,” said Rockets and Clutch City Sports & Entertainment CEO Tad Brown.

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16

DEFENDER | WEEK OF NOVEMBER 17 | 2011

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chag’splace

A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE......The Delta Education and and Educational Foundation hosted their annual Bounty Ball at Charitable Foundation of Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The sorority is dedicated to providing of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presented “Fly, Fabulous greater service to our community by relieving some of the & Fierce: A Walk on the Wild Side” Scholarship Luncheon & financial stress of young adults and their parents who seek higher Fashion Show at the Houston Marriott Westchase Hotel with education. Over 200 guests attended, including Shawntae Nix, Leisha Campbell, Nikola Renaud, nearly 600 in attendance. The organization Join Yvette Chargois Tamira Pierson, Micha Morton, Angela recognized sorors with 50-plus years in Washington, Shaundria Woodard, Sylvia Delta, including Wilhelmina Ballentine, Events of the Week LaVerne Morgan Battle, Jacqueline Higgins, Justin Jordan and Dorothy and More photos on defendernetwork.com Bostic, Mary Ann Garrett, Dr. Edith Bethel Nathan. Kudos to chapter president, See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s Crossroads Irby Jones, Zoia Lemelle Jones, Betty Carolyn Williams, gala chair, LaShonda with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 11 a.m.

Morgan, Ella Newsome and Zerline Johnson, foundation chair, Dolly Spencer Prater. We salute chapter president, and chapter members. Continued success to Pamela Cashaw, committee chairs, Maureen Gordon, Terri you also!........BARBADIANS CELEBRATE...... The Barbados Lynch, Fraulyn Baiey and Bessye Clark and chapter members Association of Greater Houston celebrated their 45th year of for making this a fabulous afternoon. Continued success!............... Independence Banquet and Scholarship Awards Ceremony by HELPING STUDENTS....Gamma Sigma Chapter of Sigma honoring several students with scholarships. Their members provide hundreds of hours of volunteer service to assist the Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and the Gamma Sigma Charitable

Chapter President Pamela Cashaw, Linda Shankle and Fraulyn Baisey

Shawntae Nix, Leisha Campbell and Nikola Renaud

Cheryl Thompson and Natalie Young

Jacquelyn Blossom, Barbara Branch, Maureen Gordon, Shaundra Simmons, Daphne Moss and Courtney Smith

LaShonda Johnson, Carolyn Williams and Dolly Spencer

Exec. Asst. Fire Chief Rick Flanagan and Dr. Sylvester Thompson

hungry, elderly, disadvantaged, and youth, in our area, as well as abroad. Program participants included the Honorable Denis St. Elmo Kellman, minister of Industry/Small Business & Rural Development, St. Michael, Barbados, chapter president, Shontelle Hunte, gala chair and treasurer, Cheryl Thompson, Dr. Sylvester Thompson, comedian, Rich Williams, performers from New York, Judi Allman and Deborah Carrington, and Jose Grinan, who served as emcee for the event.

Congratulations!...... KUDOS.....Former Houston Mayor Lee Brown’s grandsons, Ashton and Ryan Clark, have launched UTicketIT.com, a new, interactive online ticketing and event registration and management website. UTicketIT is designed to help nonprofits that do not have online ticketing systems sell out their open seating events. The two graduated from the University of Illinois last May with B.S. degrees in accountancy and minors in technology and management (engineering.) For more info call UTicketIt at 1-888-362-4788. Congrats!.......From Chag’s Place to your place, have a blessed week!

Maureen Gordon, Terri Lynch, Fraylyn Baisey and Bessye Clark

Bethel Nathan, Dorothy Nathan and Justin Jordan

Honorable Denis St. Elmo Kellman and Shontelle Hunte

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