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Volume 85 | Number 9
JANUARY 7, 2016 | FREE
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OBITUARY NATALIE COLE rmourned by family, fans
P6
SPORTS KAREEM JACKSON helps Texans make playoffs
P14 HS ZONE ALEX FONTENOT scores for George Ranch
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TOP EVENTS
Melinda Spaulding and Tina Knowles at Franklin Beauty School celebration
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REMEMBERING COMMISSIONER
EL FRANCO LEE H PAGE 8
Mayor Turner
President Obama
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner ushered in a new era of leadership during his recent inauguration, and talked about making the city greater. See why he believes dreams can come true. Learn about plans for tackling finances and filling potholes.
President Barack Obama is determined to fight for more gun control, and announced his use of executive orders to make progress on the hotly debated issue. See who’s supporting his actions. Read what he says about the right to bear arms in America.
takes office
seeks gun control
H PAGE 2
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 7 | 2016
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newstalk
AARP Texas names state president
Mayor Turner wants opportunity for all and safely repair each reported pothole within a 24-hour period. For Speaking at his inauthose potholes where guration, Mayor Sylvester safety and infrastructure Turner said he envisions will require additional Houston as a city of opportutime, the public works nity for all. director will provide a “It matters not whether priority report that I will you are a Democrat or Repersonally monitor and publican or whether you’re will share with the memBlack, Brown, white or bers of City Council,” Asian,” Turner said durhe said. ing a packed ceremony at Turner also said Jones Hall. “Whether you’re that in the coming weeks rich or poor or in between; and months, he will ask whether you’re educated or stakeholders “to join uneducated. What matters to Mayor Sylvester Turner was accompanied by his daughter Ashley and sworn in by with me at the table me is that we are all Houston, Judge Vanessa Gilmore. with the single objective and we will stand and work of producing a sustainyou never give up, your dreams can come for Houston and for its future.” able plan to manage the city’s costs while true. And when you work hard and when Turner, who became Houston’s secbalancing the city’s budget.” you give it your very best your work will ond African-American mayor, was sworn make a path for you.” He cited the need for more police in with new Controller Chris Brown and officers and firefighters, quality neighborIn listing his goals for the city, 16 City Councilmembers, five of them hood parks, better and stronger communiTurner vowed to tackle troublesome isnew. He was accompanied by his daughties and economic opportunities. sues such as potholes. ter, Ashley. Performers included gospel “I am committed to rebuilding neigh“Houstonians deserve a safe, viable great Yolanda Adams and the Houston borhoods that have been overlooked for infrastructure,” he said. “And I want to Symphony. years and years,” Turner said. “I am comannounce that two weeks from today, the Turner recalled growing up in Acres mitted to making sure that we do not have potholes that are properly reported to the Homes and dreaming big. “My mama two cities in one: of haves and have-nots. City’s 3-1-1 Help and information line said that when you dream big, big things We are all Houstonians and we deserve will be assessed and addressed by the can happen,” he said. “And I believe the right to improve and move forward next business day. what Yolanda Adams just sang: that if “Our goal is to effectively, efficiently together. I am committed to that.” By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
Charlene Hunter James, a long-time volunteer and community advocate in Houston, has been named AARP Texas state president. James will lead the AARP Texas Executive Council for at least the next two years. She also will work with AARP staff and volunteers to establish strategic goals and objectives on a local level that are consistent with AARP’s national strategies. James has been a volunteer and state executive council member for AARP since 2008. She holds a master’s degree in public health from the University of Texas. She worked for the Houston health department for much of her career, and served as director of the local Area Agency on Aging. “I grew up in a family in which we were taught a duty and responsibility to serve others, particularly those who are less fortunate,” she said. “I’m looking forward to working with the other executive council members, along with staff and other volunteers so that we can help AARP members realize their real possibilities.”
localbriefs MORE THAN 1 MILLION TEXANS received coverage during the first seven weeks of open enrollment in Obamacare. “Consumers want quality, affordable health coverage and when they learn they have new options under the Affordable Care Act, they are eager to enroll,” said Mimi Garcia, Texas State director for Enroll America. “We now know that hundreds of thousands of Texans will ring in the new year with health coverage that allows them to get the care they need, including medications, emergency room visits, and free preventive care. The deadline for enrollment is Jan. 31.” For more information visit www.enrollamerica.org........THE HARRIS
COUNTY Department of Education Head Start will showcase its new Humble Head Start Center with an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Jan. 15 from 2-4 p.m. at 130 Atascocita Road in Humble. Head Start, a federal program, empowers preschool children ages 3-5 and their families with school readiness skills. HCDE provides services for families in Northeast Harris County through 16 Head Start centers which serve 1,250 students. For more information call 713-672-9343 or visit www.hcde-texas.org/HeadStart ........SCHOOL OF THE WOODS, Houston’s oldest continuously operating Montessori school, will put the spotlight on its elementary grade
classes this month. The school, located at 1321 Wirt Road in Spring Branch, will host an evening event focusing on grades 4, 5 and 6 at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12. Grades 1, 2 and 3 will be highlighted at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, and early childhood will be the focus on Tuesday, Jan. 26, at 7 p.m. For more information call 713.686.8811……..THE TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION Child Care Services department has created an online parent website as a new resource for families seeking information on early childhood education, quality child care, children with special needs and child care financial assistance. Visit TexasChildCareSolutions.org.
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Pickens named VP at TSU Eva Pickens has been named vice president for university advancement and media relations at Texas Southern University. Pickens has served TSU in a number of management and leadership roles for nearly 25 years, including as interim vice president since last September. In her new position, Pickens will have oversight of alumni relations and special events, development and fundraising, communications and marketing and community outreach. During her career Pickens has won numerous awards, including an award for feature writing from the Associated Press and a first-place award for TSU’s Image Campaign from the National Collegiate Marketing and Advertising Association. A graduate of Southern University in Baton Rouge, Pickens received a B.A. in journalism. After five years with a New York Times subsidiary, the Opelousas Daily World Newspaper, Pickens moved to Houston to pursue a master’s in public relations management. The fact that TSU didn’t offer the program at the time did not slow down Pickens’ progress as she, along with the dean of TSU’s School of Communications, proceeded to create it. During Pickens’ first stint at TSU she engineered the university’s TS-YOU image-building campaign that helped increase enrollment by 22 percent and fundraising by 12 percent. She left TSU in 2005 and returned in 2008. One of the initiatives she is most proud of was launching a campaign to take 200 student musicians to Canton, Ohio to perform at the NFL Hall of Fame induction ceremonies for TSU alumnus Michael Strahan.
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Obama starts year with gun control plan TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM
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resident Barack Obama, citing the thousands of people who are killed each year by guns, gave a tearful address before the nation, pleading for Congress to pass “common sense” gun control legislation and announcing his use of executive orders to make progress. “Every single year, more than 30,000 Americans have their lives cut short by guns President Barack Obama speaks with government –30,000. Suicides. Domesofficials about executive actions he can take to curb gun tic violence. Gang shootouts. violence. Accidents. Hundreds of thousands of Americans have rights leaders. The proposals lost brothers and sisters, or “The year is less than a week • Mandatory background checks by buried their own children. old, and already more than 120 gun sellers or they will suffer criminal “Many have had to learn people have been killed by guns,” penalties. to live with a disability, or said National Urban League Presi• Funding for 200 new Alcohol, Tobaclearned to live without the dent Marc Morial. “Gun violence co and Firearms agents and investigalove of their life,” Obama has outpaced automobile accidents tors to help enforce gun laws. said in the East Room, suras a leading cause of death.” • Allocation of $500 million for inrounded by hundreds of The 40-minute speech outcreased of mental health treatment and victims of gun violence or lined specifics of Obama’s promandatory reporting to the background supporters of gun control. posed gun measures, including a check system. “A number of those refutation by Republicans claiming • Shape the future of gun safety people are here today. They his executive orders would violate technology through research by the can tell you some stories. In the Constitution’s Second AmendDepartments of Defense, Justice and this room right here, there are ment right to bear arms. Homeland Security. a lot of stories. There’s a lot “No matter how many times of heartache. There’s a lot people try to twist my words of resilience, there’s a lot of around, I taught constitutional law, strength, but there’s also a lot of pain. And this is just I know a little about this,” he said to applause. “But a small sample.” I also believe that we can find ways to reduce gun Obama’s stance drew immediate praise from civil violence consistent with the Second Amendment.”
Black Press foundation targets human trafficking January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month and the National Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation (NNPAF) is launching a campaign titled “UNDress,” which stands for Undermining Nationwide Demand for the Recruitment, Exploitation and Sexual Solicitation of women and children. The campaign will target those who buy and traffic women and children by placing public service announcements in places where buyers typically ‘shop’ for sexual services. “The NNPA Foundation is in a unique position to address this issue, because we can generate education and awareness by utilizing our own media products,” said Kimberly Johnson, the foundation’s executive director.
“The issue of human trafficking, particularly sex trafficking, is partly fueled by salacious images in media,” Johnson said. “We plan to counter the effects of those images through our own content and resources. We are looking to partner with other organizations in this effort.” NNPA will hold its mid-winter conference Jan. 27-30 in Coconut Grove, Fla., where the foundation will announce its initiative. The foundation also plans to host human trafficking town hall meetings in 2016, including one in Washington, D.C. during Black Press Week in March. NNPA is the trade association for the more than 200 African American-owned newspapers.
EDUCATION SECRETARY Arne Duncan recently stepped down. Former New York State Education Commissioner John King is taking charge of the federal education department in President Obama’s final year in office. Duncan, who has been education secretary since Obama came into office in 2008, is set to move back to Chicago, where he was superintendent before joining the Obama administration. Duncan said it was a privilege to work with “this extraordinary team and with educators and our partners in states and communities across the country.” He said improving education is the civil rights issue of our time, and vital to the success of the nation…….. AS PART OF AN END GUN VIOLENCE campaign, some of the NBA’s top stars, including Carmelo Anthony, Stephen Curry, Chris Paul and Joakim Noah, are focusing on the Americans killed and injured every day by guns. They appear in a series of public service announcements directed by Spike Lee that have begun airing during NBA games. “All over America people are tired of daily gun violence,” said Anthony of the New York Kicks. “Basketball brought me to a different route in my life, but every kid should have an outlet to reach his or her full potential. Using this platform to speak out, I know we can keep guns out of the wrong hands and save lives,” he said……..CHICAGO ATTORNEY Janice Mathis, the vice president of Rainbow/PUSH, has been named executive director of the National Council of Negro Women, an 80-year-old civil rights organization focused on women and families.. “This is a chance to lead something that has an 80-year history that was founded by Mary McLeod Bethune and carried out by Dorothy Height,” Mathis said. “To be considered in the same sentence with them is the opportunity of a lifetime for a Black female.”
VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 9 JANUARY 7, 2016
Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila
Print Editor Marilyn Marshall Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Contributing writers Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon
The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is 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 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).
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Sugar may increase risk for breast cancer tumors The high amounts of dietary sugar in the typical Western diet may increase the risk of breast cancer and metastasis to the lungs, according to a study at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Metastasis is when cancer spreads from the part of the body where it started to other parts of the body. The study findings were published in Cancer Research. “We found that sucrose intake in mice comparable to levels of Western diets led to increased tumor growth and metastasis, when compared to a non-sugar starch diet,” said Peiying Yang, Ph.D., an assistant professor. Identifying risk factors for breast cancer
Breast cancer risk linked to gum disease
is a public health priority, said the study’s authors. The per capita consumption of sugar in the U.S. has surged to over 100 pounds per year and an increase in consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages has been identified as a significant contributor to obesity, heart disease and cancer. The MD Anderson team conducted four different studies in which mice were randomized to different diet groups and fed one of four diets. At six months of age, 30 percent of mice on a starch-control diet had measurable tumors, whereas 50 to 58 percent of the mice on sucrose-enriched diets had developed mammary tumors.
Women with periodontal disease have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, especially if they’re smokers or recently quit smoking, a new study shows. “We have seen associations between periodontal disease and chronic diseases, including stroke and heart attacks,” said Jo Freudenheim, a professor at the University at Buffalo. “Our hypothesis was that it would also be
associated with breast cancer.” The study analyzed data from more than 73,000 postmenopausal participants in a federally funded long-term study. The women were followed to determine who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Among women who were smokers or who had quit smoking in the previous 20 years, those with periodontal disease had a 36 percent higher risk of breast cancer.
Researchers say there are multiple possible causes for the connection, including the fact that bacteria from the oral cavity can get into the bloodstream after tooth brushing, flossing and chewing. “This is a new area, so we have to be careful in how we interpret our findings. We can’t say, ‘If you treat periodontal disease it will reduce cancer,’ ” Freudenheim said.
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Natalie Cole mourned by family, fans Grammy award-winning singer Natalie Cole died of congestive heart failure on Dec. 31 in a Los Angeles hospital. She was 65. “May her soul rest in peace,” tweeted Rev. Jesse Jackson. “A voice from heaven has been called home,” added Cher in a tweet. Cole, the daughter of legendary crooner Nat King Cole, kept quiet about her health problems according to her twin sisters, Timolin and Casey Cole. “She was very protective of her family and her close friends, and I don’t think that she wanted people to start feeling sorry for her,” Casey said. “She really thought and prayed that she would overcome this.” Cole rocketed to stardom in 1975 with her debut album, “Inseparable.” It earned her a No. 1 single, “This Will Be,” and two Grammy Awards. In 1977, Cole scored a No. 1 hit with “I’ve Got Love on My Mind” from her third release, “Unpredictable.” Her fourth album, “Thankful,” also went platinum and featured the hit, “Our Love.” Cole marked a career milestone in 1991 with the release of “Unforgettable…With Love,” featuring a duet with her late father. It earned six Grammys and sold more than 14 million copies. In 2001, she played herself in “Livin’ for Love: the Natalie Cole Story,” which detailed her fight with drug addiction. Cole was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2007 and received a kidney transplant in 2009. Other survivors include her son, Robert Yancy.
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JANUARY 7| 2016 | DEFENDER
entertainment
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Gugu Mbatha-Raw
co-stars in ‘Concussion’
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By KAM WILLIAMS Special to the Defender
orn in Oxford in the United Kingdom, Gugu Mbatha-Raw trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Her first professional role was in a production of Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” After more stage roles and work on British television, she starred in the NBC series “Undercovers,” for which she was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. In 2011 she landed her breakout big screen role in “Larry Crowne,” directed by Tom Hanks and co-starring Julia Roberts. More recently, she played the title character in Fox Searchlight’s highly-acclaimed period drama “Belle.” Here, Mbatha-Raw talks about her latest role playing Will Smith’s wife in “Concussion,” a drama about the NFL’s attempt to discredit Dr. Bennet Omalu, the Nigerian pathologist whose research uncovered the link between hits to the head and the early onset of neurological disorders in football players. KW: I really enjoyed “Concussion,” including your performance. How did you enjoy making the film? GMR: It was a really great experience. [Writer/director] Peter Landesman was so passionate about the movie and about Bennet’s story. And having an opportunity to work with Will Smith was huge, obviously. I was also excited about transforming in this role. And it was fun working in Pittsburgh, the home of the Steelers, since I’d never been there before. I found the city and its history quite fascinating. KW: Will Smith was famous for memorizing his co-star’s lines early in his career. If you watch episodes of “The Fresh Prince,” you can often see him mouthing other actors’ lines as they speak. Did he do that with you? GMR: I can safely say he doesn’t do that anymore. Will is such a phenomenal actor. Everyone knows his personality as a movie star, but he really transformed himself into Bennet for this film. It was a very powerful, dramatic role for him. KW: How was it working with him?
Gugu Mbatha-Raw enjoyed working with Will Smith in the film “Concussion.”
GMR: It was a really joyful experience. He’s such a professional. He’s very hard-working, but he also has a great sense of humor. He was a fun person to be around on the set. KW: How does Dr. Omalu’s battle resonate with you personally? GMR: I really respect Bennet, because his journey is a fight for exposing the truth. I love that kind of David and Goliath story where you see the underdog rise and do what’s right. I can really relate to that morality challenge. Also, as an immigrant to the United States myself, I can relate to the journey of being a foreigner in a new country. I think that can be good when you see things from a fresh perspective, since you’re not being numbed by the culture you grew up in. You’re seeing things anew. KW: What’s the biggest difference between who you are at home as opposed to the person we see on
the red carpet? GMR: Makeup and nice clothes. I’m pretty casual in my day-to-day life. KW: Is there anything that you promised yourself you’d do if you became famous, that you still haven’t done yet? GMR: Am I really famous? I don’t know. That’s not something I’ve ever thought about. I believe you’ve always got to live life fearlessly. I don’t think you should wait to be recognizable to do the things you love. KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? GMR: Make your own path. You definitely have to stay true to who you are. Following in someone’s footsteps is a nice idea but ultimately, there’s only one you, and you have to make your own way.
what’sup STEVE HARVEY recently broke his silence following his blunder last month as host of the Miss Universe pageant. Harvey mistakenly announced that Miss Colombia won the pageant, but Miss Philippines actually won. “Did I make a mistake?” Harvey asked. “Yes I did, wholeheartedly. And at this point in the game, I’m not in the finger-pointing business and rolling people under the bus. So, I did what I was trained to do by my father. You make a mistake and you own up to it. And I tried to fix it, I tried to fix it right there,” he said……..KEVIN HART and ICE CUBE reunite
in “Ride Along 2,” which comes to theaters on Jan. 15. Cube reprises his role as a lawman and Hart is his future brother-in-law. In the sequel, the two men track down a drug lord (BENJAMIN BRATT) in Miami.……..“American Idol” recently premiered its 15th and final season. Looking back, original judge RANDY JACKSON said his goal on the show was to be honest. “I wanted to be somewhat encouraging but if you’re really delusional and have a terrible talent I’m gonna say you have a terrible talent,” he said. Jackson also talked about the elimination that pained him
the most on the show. “JENNIFER HUDSON was my wow card, and I was gutted when she got eliminated because with her and FANTASIA and LATOYA LONDON, it was like we had our own version of the SUPREMES up there. And it gutted me because I really thought [Hudson] could go all the way. But she’s proven that she could and she has,” Jackson said……..BOUNCE TV reported that its viewership continued to soar in 2016, and that it finished ahead of BET and TV One. Three of its sitcoms, including “Mann & Wife,” set network records for viewership.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 7 | 2016
cente
Reme Comm
EL FRA
Friends, collea State Sen. Rodney Ellis
“El Franco was a personal friend and mentor – someone I always turned to when considering big decisions in my life, so I’ll miss him greatly. His legacy will be that of public service, as he was always a stalwart advocate for Harris County and Precinct One. He positively impacted the lives of countless residents each whether through the Street Olympics, public park up or senior programs. El Franco used the power of his for the greater public good, and our community is be thanks to his dedication and desire to serve.”
Street Olympics Cha Yvette Chargois
“I knew El Franco for wel 30 years. I got involved with his campaign for county commissio He was a dedicated public serva there will never be another pers him. He had so many good qual and he was a man of his word.”
H
By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
arris County Precinct One Commissioner El Franco Lee is being remembered as a compassionate and effective political leader who shunned the spotlight. Lee died of a heart attack on Jan. 3 at the age of 66. As a testament to Lee’s public service, a health center, community center and park all bear his name. Lee, a native Houstonian, grew up in Kashmere Gardens and graduated from Phillis Wheatley High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Southern University School of Technology and pursued postgraduate studies at the TSU School of Public Affairs and the University of Houston. He began his political career in 1979 when he was elected Texas state representative for District 142. In 1985, Lee was elected as the first African-American Harris County commissioner. Here, the Defender looks at Lee’s political legacy while those who knew him share their thoughts.
Former Sheriff Adrian Garcia
“Commissioner El Franco Lee was a public servant whose dedication, which I personally observed through his dedication to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, touched more lives than anyone will ever know. As sheriff, I was always proud to stand with him while working on issues helping disadvantage underserved populations, as well as his commitment to in an effort to break cycles of violence and recidivism a continued the legacy of compassion learned from his m Congressman Mickey Leland.”
defendernetwork.com • Serving t
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ANCO LEE
agues pay tribute
year, pgrades, office etter off
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ll over s first oner. ant and son like lities
ed and o youth, as he mentor,
Business/community leader Jodie Jiles
Lee leaves rich legacy • As Harris County commissioner, oversaw the development of millions of dollars in construction and the redevelopment of numerous roads, bridges and parks. • With assistance of the Harris County Flood Control District, provided Precinct One citizens with flood-prevention projects along Clear Creek and bayous such as Halls, Sims, Brays, Hunting, White Oak and Greens. • Developed partnerships with other governmental entities, private businesses and social/ community-based agencies to combine resources to control costs and increase services for citizens. • Began Precinct One Street Olympics as a summer youth program in 1986. It developed into a network of recreational, educational and health programs that include the Harris County Aquatics Program, Bright Futures, the Discovery Camp and the Northeast Adolescent Program (NEAP). Street Olympics now serves more than 10,000 Harris County youth each year and NEAP serves several thousand youth each year through teen health clinics.
“El Franco was one of the most compassionate and caring people that I’ve ever known. I knew of El Franco because we both went to Wheatley. I got to know El Franco during his first race for county commissioner and we became great friends. El Franco was “Mr. Quality of Life,” because he improved the quality of life for all. He improved it with the Street Olympics program, he improved it with the program for seniors, he improved it with healthcare through his strong support of the hospital district, he improved it with parks and roads in Precinct One, and much more.”
• Participated in the SPARK Park Program leading to the establishment of the Finnigan Park Project, which has been successful in completing comprehensive upgrades and construction involving nine precinct parks. • Sponsored the Leadership Experience & Employment Program, which places high school graduates and college students in internship positions in county departments and private firms, and promotes personal growth, academic excellence and professional work experience. • Promoted seniors programs to enhance the well-being of older adults, including exercise classes, computer instruction, day trips, writing workshops and arts & crafts. • Served on numerous boards, including the Texas Conference of Urban Counties, National Association of Counties and National Organization of Black County Officials. • Worked with the Urban Outreach Program and the Northeast and Metro branches of the YMCA. Raised funds for the American Diabetes Association,
treet t One S Precinc youth. e th d a nde Lee fou s to benefit are Olympic
Mayor Sylvester Turner
“I first met El Franco more than three decades ago when he was serving in the State Legislature. In 1984, we ran against each other for commissioner and he beat me. El Franco was a beloved public servant who never sought the limelight, preferring a low-key approach that put the needs of his constituents above self-promotion. His passion was helping seniors and improving quality of life for underserved youth and young adults in the inner city…El Franco served Harris County well for 30 years and will be greatly missed.”
El Franco Lee made history on the Harris County Commissioners’ Court.
Former Congressman Craig Washington
“El Franco was a courageous, forward thinking, energetic, people-person. The first thing that came to my mind was that a giant redwood has fallen in our forest. El Franco was the quintessential urban county commissioner. He took a page from our state Constitution and made it alive and real for modern-day Houston. He built hike-and-bike trails, parks, tennis courts and other places where kids could stay out of trouble after school. He laid the blueprint for what we should be doing in the future. He was a visionary who always led with his heart and he did it without fanfare. You never saw El Franco running to get in front of the camera. He wasn’t about grandiosity. He will be remembered for what he did for other people.”
the Houston area for over 80 years
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Lee joined othe r community le aders and members at a ribbon-cutti ng ceremony for the Julia C. Hester House Wellnes s Center.
l Franco his son, E e (l. to r.) thel Kaye. d lu c in ivors ife, E Lee’s surv ranchelle; and w r, F daughte
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 7 | 2016 defendernetwork.com
FBISD seeks small business participation ported these bond projects, and The Fort Bend ISD Board we look forward to beginning of Trustees has approved a construction on three new eleSmall Business Enterprise mentary schools and one middle Program for construction serschool this summer,” said Board vices projects in the amount of President Grayle James. $50,000 or greater. In conjuncThe district will open new tion with the district’s $484 elementary schools in Rivermillion, 2014 bond program stone, Sienna Plantation and the construction and renovation Grand Parkway area. Classroom projects, the District’s Business additions at six elementary Opportunity Services Team Dr. Charles Dupre schools are also part of new will hold a kick-off meeting. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. construction projects set to begin in June 2016. “We want to make sure that everyone in 19, at 1 p.m. at the Fort Bend ISD Purchasing the construction services industry – prime conand Facilities Management Offices, 555 Julie tractors, sub-contractors and small businesses, Rivers Drive in Sugar Land. The meeting will provide information on how to do business with as well as program managers – knows about the Small Business Enterprise Program, its the district. key features and how to participate in the bond “Fort Bend ISD intends to continue to program construction projects,” said Board reach out directly to small businesses and let Member Jim Rice. them know about the district’s program well in advance of the start of construction projects,” The SBEP is a goal-oriented program, requiring contractors to whom FBISD awards said Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre. prime contracts for construction services to “The Business Opportunity Team will use “good faith efforts” to use certified small conduct monthly workshops and meetings businesses as sub-contractors. Fort Bend ISD, where certifying agencies can assist small not the prime contractors, is the “owner” and business representatives with their certification responsible for the program. For more informaprocess,” Dupre said. tion call 281-634-1841. “Our community overwhelmingly sup-
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Make five resolutions for better business The new year is the perfect time to reaffirm your business lifestyle and make changes for the betterment of your business. Here are suggestions to help you get started from the SBA. 1. Hire new employees the right way. If the new year means new hires for your business learn more about the process from start to finish, beginning with the job description to making sure the lines of communication are open with clients and existing employees. The key to this resolution is transparency. Keeping the lines of communication open between all parties benefits everyone in the end. 2. Review your benefits package. Tailor your benefits plans to the needs of your staff and your pocketbook. Remember that health coverage and retirement plans are the top two most-valued employee benefits. Having a well thought out, robust plan can be a draw for gaining new employees and maintaining existing ones. Of course you must stay within your means, but reviewing your options before the enrollment period especially with a growing workforce is best. 3. Invest in marketing. Now is the perfect time to take stock of the previous year and set some new goals for this year. Investing a little more time and money can go a long way. Set a few goals and be sure to check in regularly to make sure you stay on track. 4. Reach out more. While you’re chugging along with day-to-day business it’s easy to forget about the smaller things that can make a real impact on your company. Take some time out to schedule things like networking and training for you and your employees. 5. Get serious about expansion. There are a number of ways to expand your business. Learn how to decide what the right choice is for your business and how to get started.
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opinion
RushCard empowers people to help manage money By BENJAMIN F. CHAVIS JR. NNPA Columnist
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he financial services industry is a vast matrix of banks, credit and debit cards products, venture capital and mortgage companies, investment firms, and other financial institutions that compete to provide services to 326,346,200 people in the United States and millions more around the world. For 100.4 million African-Americans and Latino Americans combined who spend in excess of $2.4 trillion annually as consumers in the U.S. marketplace, the daily and hourly financial management of our money is an important issue. The RushCard developed by Russell Simmons is an effective and efficient money management tool potentially for millions of “unbanked” and “underbanked” people throughout the United States. According to a 2014 FDIC report, 22 percent of unbanked households used a prepaid card, compared with 13 percent of underbanked households. I have always emphasized and promoted greater diversity and inclusion in the financial services industry. But inclusivity also means more than limiting involvement primarily to be only customers or users of financial products and services. We also need more people of color and others to be owners and entrepreneurs in the growing financial services industry. Russell Simmons is a global entrepreneur. I have personally known Russell for more than three decades. He continues to have the highest possible integrity and commitment to help people improve their quality of life. His entrance into the financial services industry was timely and providential. For over the past ten years the RushCard has steadily
emerged as an invaluable money management prepaid debit card for hundreds of thousands of card users across the nation. RushCard is owned by Simmons’ company, UniRush, LLC. Notwithstanding recent computer software glitches that have now been resolved concerning the use of the RushCard, it is my opinion that the RushCard today will be a productive and very useful prepaid debit card to use for each member of your family. Why? First, because the RushCard meets the Visa Clear Prepaid standards for clearly communicated fees and consumer protections. Second, if you go to www.RushCard.com you will see a very user-friendly online process that explains how you can apply for the prepaid debit card. The mission of the RushCard is publicly affirmed to “Empower our members by providing products and services that enable them to achieve control and realize their personal hopes and financial goals.” Third, the RushCard has been around lon-
ger than most prepaid cards and has achieved over the past decade a number of innovative first in the industry to better serve its card users including but not limited to the following: • One of the first prepaid cards to offer direct deposit. • One of the first prepaid cards to offer check-writing capabilities to its members. • One of the first prepaid cards to offer cash loading at more than 35,000 MoneyGram locations nationwide. • One of the first prepaid cards to offer comprehensive money management tools that make it easier to track balances, create monthly budgets and analyze spending. There are a wide variety of prepaid debit cards available for people to have an opportunity to select for their personal and family use. My family members use the RushCard because it is userfriendly and we use the RushCard because of Russell Simmons’ trustworthy leadership in the financial services industry. Russell recently stated, “As a thank-you for sticking with us and to support your cash needs, [through] February 29, 2016, you can use your RushCard without incurring any fees from our fee schedule. You don’t need to take any extra steps to participate in this special offer. Just pull out your RushCard and use it...” Current and new RushCard holders don’t have to pay any monthly, transaction or ATM fees for using the RushCard from now until February 29. Again, we all should strive to get better control over how we manage our money. I have found that using the RushCard does in fact help to manage savings, investments and spending. Financial empowerment will be the result of proper financial management.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 7 | 2016
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Follow tips to keep New Year’s resolutions It can be daunting when your list of New Year’s resolutions is as long as a holiday shopping list. In addition to the post-holiday slump, not being able to keep your resolutions by February, March or even late January may increase your anxiety. However, it is important to remember that the New Year isn’t meant to serve as a catalyst for sweeping character changes. It is a time for people to reflect on their past year’s behavior and promise to make positive lifestyle changes. “Setting small, attainable goals throughout the year, instead of a singular, overwhelming goal on January 1 can help you reach whatever it is you strive for,” says psychologist Lynn Bufka, Ph.D. “Remember, it is not the extent of the change that matters, but rather the act of recognizing that lifestyle change is important and working toward it, one step at a time.” Here are five tips from the American Psychological Association. 1. Start small. Make resolutions that you think you can keep. If, for example, your aim is to exercise more frequently, schedule three or four days a week at the gym instead of seven. If you would like to eat healthier, try replacing dessert with something else you enjoy, like fruit or yogurt, instead of seeing your diet as a form of punishment. 2. Change one behavior at a time. Unhealthy behaviors develop over the course of time. Thus, replacing unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones requires time. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that you have to reassess everything in your life. Instead, work toward changing one thing at a time. 3. Talk about it. Share your experiences with
family and friends. Consider joining a support group to reach your goals, such as a workout class or a group of coworkers quitting smoking. Having someone to share your struggles and successes with makes your journey to a healthier lifestyle that much easier and less intimidating. 4. Don’t beat yourself up. Perfection is unattainable. Remember that minor missteps when reaching your goals are completely normal and okay. Don’t give up completely because you ate a
brownie and broke your diet, or skipped exercising for a week because you were busy. Everyone has ups and downs; resolve to recover from your mistakes and get back on track. 5. Ask for support. Accepting help from those who care about you and will listen strengthens your resilience and ability to manage stress caused by your resolution. If you feel overwhelmed or unable to meet your goals on your own, consider seeking professional help.
Kick off a year of good health FAMILY FEATURES
A fresh beginning with a new year is the perfect time for a health assessment to ensure you are ready to take on the 12 months ahead. Even if you’re feeling great, it’s a smart practice to take time to identify potential problems before they become more serious health concerns. Early detection of ailments, such as cardiovascular disease, can significantly impact an individual’s ability to cope with the disease, allowing you to make adjustments such as changes in diet and lifestyle, or when necessary, drug therapies and other medical treatments. Delaying detection of this serious disease until its more advanced stages can have dire consequences. With these three steps, you can get a better picture of your cardiovascular health and identify silent, hidden risk factors (like plaque in your arteries) that you may not even know are there. 1. Get your blood pressure checked. Blood pressure measures how much force blood is putting on the artery walls as the heart pumps. High blood pressure,
or hypertension, occurs when your heart has to work extra hard to pump blood throughout the body. Many people do not experience symptoms of high blood pressure, so it’s important to have your blood pressure checked periodically. A normal systolic reading is between 90 and 119, and a normal diastolic reading is 60-79. 2. Get your cholesterol checked. A simple finger-stick screening measures total cholesterol as well as three different kinds of lipids in your blood (HDL, LDL and triglycerides), which are important in determining your heart health. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is known as the “bad” cholesterol and can build up in the walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is known as “good” cholesterol because it carries LDL away from
the arteries and back to the liver, where it’s passed from the body. A high HDL level helps prevent heart disease, while a low HDL level increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. 3. Learn about other risk factors. Many people in the early stages of cardiovascular disease are asymptomatic, meaning they have no symptoms to indicate their health is at risk. Some common risk factors include age (55 and older), family history, tobacco use, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Preventive health screenings can give you a fuller picture of how risk factors may be stacking up. For more information visit lifelinescreening.com.
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JANUARY 7 | 2016 | DEFENDER
Five tips for better financial health in the New Year Family Features
A
s the calendar turns over a new year, it’s a good time to take stock of your finances. Evaluating what missteps you made with your money in the past year, determining how you can correct those errors and setting a realistic budget will put you on your way to better financial health in 2016. A top New Year’s resolution is putting money into a savings account each month, according to one recent survey of working adults. Leading money management priorities include paying down debt (28 percent), saving for retirement (25 percent) and building a savings account for emergencies (15 percent). Workers surveyed also reported that they blew their budget on dining out (24 percent), food/ groceries (19 percent), entertainment (15 percent) and other consumer goods (15 percent), among other things. Their top financial blunders included not saving enough (20 percent), accumulating credit card debt (11 percent) and spending outside their means (9 percent). Achieving better financial goals starts with setting a budget that you can reasonably follow, said Kevin Morris, a vice president of retirement and income solutions. “It’s not surprising to see that American workers continue to blow their budget dining out,” Morris said. “It’s easy to spend $30 here and $40 there on a meal and not think twice about it. “But what if they put that money toward something more long-term, like retirement? Or building up their savings? Over time, those pizza deliveries and nights on the town add up and can make a huge difference in your budget.” Getting your financial house in order doesn’t have to be a burden. Follow these tips to establish a budget and begin building healthier money habits: 1.Account for incidentals.
When listing all the people and places you owe money, it can be easy to overlook other expenses that really add up. Things like a work wardrobe, toiletries and personal hygiene items are necessary purchases that should be reflected in your budget. 2. Expect the unexpected. Even the best planned budget can fall apart when unexpected expenses arise. Ensure that you’re not only directing a sum of money to your savings account each month, but that you’re earmarking some of that money for emergency car repairs, an unplanned visit to the veterinarian or a critical home repair. 3.Don’t treat your budget like a bad diet. Like a crash diet, being too restrictive with your budget will leave you discouraged and exhausted. And maybe hungry. The key is to be honest with yourself about your spending. Look at your spending history – you might be surprised to see where your money goes. Be sure to set a reasonable budget each month that allows you manage your finances without falling off the wagon. 4. Leverage rewards. It may seem counter-intuitive to use a credit card for expenses you don’t need to buy on credit. But if you use a cash back rewards credit card for your regular essential purchases and even bills, you’ll have some extra income each month. Deposit those rewards in a savings plan or allocate them to help pay down debt each month. Just remember that this approach only works to your advantage if you pay the balance each month. 5. Research all your money management options. A solid budget is the foundation of a good money management plan, but the type of accounts you use can also influence your financial situation. A financial advisor can help you understand the benefits and limitations of various types of checking, saving and investment accounts, as well as other products to help maximize your savings and minimize debt.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 7 | 2016
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sports
Outstanding defense helps Texans make the playoffs
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By MAX EDISON Defender
n a phenomenon reminiscent of being raised from the dead, the Texans won the AFC South Division championship and punched their ticket to the playoffs. The team will host the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, Jan. 9, in the first round of the playoffs in a rematch of the season opener. After starting the season 2-5, with shameful losses to Atlanta and Miami, Coach Bill O’Brien’s troops have righted the ship and turned their season around. The Texans finished the season 9-7 for the second consecutive time. Houston has now Linebacker Whitney Mercilus liked the way the team bounced back. won the AFC South three times in the past five years (2011, 2012 and ary] back end. You got to have that swagger. 2016). We have that confidence in ourselves as “The last thing I read was the funeral that we were a group.” going to have on Kirby,” O’Brien said. “Hopefully, we put Linebacker Whitney Mercilus a hold on that funeral.” is also proud of what the Texans “I’m proud of these guys,” O’Brien continued. “These have accomplished, especially guys worked hard. We’re in here early in the morning. We with the way they began the seapractice hard. They really put a lot of time in, so when you son. Mercilus finished his best year see their efforts rewarded, I think everybody feels good as a Texan with 50 tackles (32 solo), 12 sacks, 16 about that.” quarterback hits, 14 tackles for loss, two passes O’Brien also praised his coaching staff and stressed defensed, two fumble recoveries and one forced that his team should not rest on its laurels. “This is the secfumble. ond season and we’d like to try to keep it going,” he said. “Everybody counted us out the way the seaThe Texans were 7-2 over the second half of the son started off,” Mercilus said. “We just believed season. The turnaround can be traced back to the defense in our heart that we could get things turned playing up to its immense potential. Defensive coordinator around and make things happen and that’s Romeo Crennel’s players have stepped up their game and exactly what we did. kept the Texans in games despite playing with four different “It’s very gratifying,” Merstarting quarterbacks. cilus said. “We showed what Veteran cornerback Kareem Jackson talked about the we are capable of and that’s joy of turning the season around and winning the division how good teams are crown. defined.” “It feels great to be in this position, for us to bounce back, come together as a team and turn things around,” Jackson said. “We’ve been playing [defensively] up to the expectations that we set for ourselves. We knew we were capable of playing like this. We’re doing a great job of playCornerback Kareem Jackson ing together. We’re all on the same page, communicating said the defense is “on the well and you see the results.” same page.” There is a level of confidence that is apparent at every level, especially in the secondary. “As a defense you have to play with confidence,” defendernetwork.com Jackson said. “We work week in and week out to be confiKen Griffey Jr. should be first ballot dent in what we do on Sunday. We believe in our [second-
Coach Bill O’Brien is proud of his team for making the playoffs.
“I’m proud of these guys,” O’Brien said. “These guys worked hard. We’re in here early in the morning. We practice hard. They really put a lot of time in, so when you see their efforts rewarded, I think everybody feels good about that.”
Hall of Famer
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h.s.zone
Winners crowned at NRG’s championship weekend By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
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ood things can come in threes. A trio of Houston area high schools and their supporters rang in the New Year with football state titles won on championship weekend to top off the season at NRG Stadium. Unbeaten George Ranch won the school’s first state title in any sport in just its fourth year of varsity football competition. Resourceful North Shore overcame an early three-game losing streak to add a bookend to the Mustangs’ 2003 state Corey Bethle championship. y, Katy down. Katy won its eighth state footThe North ball title to tie Celina and Southlake Shore defense held Westlake allCarroll for the most in Texas high state quarterback Sam Ehlinger school history following consecutive Alex Fontenot, without a touchdown pass en losses in the finals. The 16-0 Tigers George Ranch route to a 21-14 overtime victory were later named national prep champions by the MaxPreps before 28,841 fans. Final Top 25 Poll. A blocked Westlake fieldLamar Consolidated ISD member George Ranch goal attempt by North Shore’s completed a 16-0 season with an impressive 56-0 thrashing Eric Monroe near the end of of Mansfield Lake Ridge in the Class 5A Division I title game regulation sent the game into before a crowd of 15,743. The rush-oriented Longhorns were overtime. nearly as impressive in a 42-23 win over Cedar Park Vista “I couldn’t have written Ridge in the state semifinals. a better script for how this “Our heart and soul is that we’re going to try and play game ended,” said North great defense while trying to establish the line of scrimmage Shore head coach Jon Kay. and run the football if we can,” said George Ranch head coach “This team has continued Ricky Tullos, the Touchdown Club of Houston’s high school to improve, prepare and coach of the year. hore , North S g n o compete throughout the L h “There are a lot of people throwing it around these days. ia Mac season. Without that early season adversity, I We’re still one of those teams that are going to stay physical, don’t know if we would have had the grit in us to finish a game play great defense and run the football,” Tullos said. like that.” The Longhorns’ trio of Darius Anderson, Josh Scruggs Katy was playing in its fourth consecutive state final, the and Alex Fontenot combined to rush for 413 yards and five last two back-to-back losses to Cedar Hill. Playing before a touchdowns in the title game. Galena Park North Shore (13-3) was down but not out fol- crowd of 43,718 at NRG, Katy defeated Lake Travis 34-7 in the lowing consecutive losses to state-ranked powerhouses Manvel, Class 6A Division II championship game with another superb effort from the Tigers’ defense. Spring Westfield and Euless Trinity in September. DE Corey Bethley, LB JoVanni Stewart, LB Paddy Fisher, An underdog to once-beaten Austin Westlake in the Class DB Collin Wilder, DL Michael Matus and DB Travis Whillock 6A Division I championship game, North Shore displayed the have been leaders on the Tigers’ defense all season. fortitude and determination that epitomizes the east Houston “When you go through a season and give up 62 total petrochemical community. points, you’re pretty dang good,” said Katy head coach Gary Mustangs quarterback Maciah Long scored on two oneJoseph. “This is the best yard runs, the second the gamedefense I’ve ever had in 34 winner in overtime. Linebacker defendernetwork.com years at Katy High School.” Andrew Hyacinth returned a See what players were named fumble 95 yards for a touch-
MVPs in state title games
JANUARY 7 | 2016 | DEFENDER
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sportsbriefs Championship game set It has come down to the final two in the college football wars and it figures to be a classic match-up. No. 1 Clemson will face off against No. 2 Alabama in the Arizona desert for the College Football Playoff National Championship. The game will be played Monday, Jan. 11 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. Clemson will bring a perfect 13-0 record to the championship dance. The Tigers are led by multi-talented quarterback Deshaun Watson, a Heisman Award finalist who has passed for 31 touchdowns and rushed for 12 more. Alabama, 13-1, is led by Heisman Award-winning running back Derrick Henry, who accounted for 2061 yards rushing and 25 touchdowns. The Tide also boasts college football’s most physical defense.
UH wins Peach Bowl University of Houston quarterback Greg Ward Jr. ran for two touchdowns and threw for another, leading Houston past turnover-plagued Florida State 38-24 in the Peach Bowl. Ward threw for 238 yards and ran for 67 yards as No. 14 Houston (13-1) scored the most points allowed by Florida State this season. The No. 9 Seminoles (10-3), who trailed 21-3 at halftime, tried to rally with two fourth-quarter touchdown passes by Sean Maguire. It wasn’t enough to overcome five turnovers. Maguire, who was carted off the field with a lower left leg injury late in the first quarter, returned but threw four interceptions. Houston safety Trevon Stewart and cornerback William Jackson III each had two interceptions.
George Ranch moves to 6A The George Ranch Longhorns capped off the 2016 high school football season with a 56-0 demolishing of Mansfield Lake Ridge in the Class 5A Division I championship game at NRG Stadium. With a current student enrollment of 2,416, the Lamar Consolidated ISD member school will move up to Class 6A following the University Interscholastic League reclassification and realignment in February. Instead of operating out of District 24-5A that includes Richmond Foster, Angleton, Rosenberg Terry, Rosenberg Lamar Consolidated and Port Lavaca Calhoun, George Ranch will likely move to either a district that includes Fort Bend ISD schools or Katy ISD schools. The road to the playoffs and through the postseason will be more taxing. The Longhorns will also have to replace star running back Darius Anderson, who will move on to the University of Missouri following graduation. Fortunately, head coach Ricky Tullos and his staff will return 21 players who recorded a statistic in the recent state title game. “We’re going to continue to be who we are,” Tullos said. “That’s doing little things right and trying to be better than anybody we play.”
Young, Joseph in hall Former Madison High School and University of Texas quarterback Vince Young and Katy High School head football coach Gary Joseph were among nine Texas High School Football Hall of Fame inductees for 2016. Other members include Stamford’s Kenneth West, San Antonio Lee’s Linus Baer, Euless Trinity’s Mike Baab, West Orange-Stark’s Kevin Smith, Southlake Carroll’s Bob Ledbetter, reporter-broadcaster Craig Way and Waco University High’s LaDainian Tomlinson.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 7 | 2016
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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
topevents
Sheila Jackson Lee, Deborah Duncan, Kim Roxie, Tina Knowles, Jackie VOICE YOUR INVISIBLE WOUNDS CONFERENCE…….. The 2nd AnAdams, Helen Eley, Kimberly Aitch, Angie Williams, Tamika Fletcher and nual Voice Your Invisible Wounds Conference returned to Houston to celebrate Corey Ford. The night also included a special performance by Kathy Burrell survivors overcoming abuse at the Norris Conference Center. Hundreds of men and sounds by DJ Primetime……..POLICE OFFICERS’ AWARDS GALA…….. and women connected with a circle of speakers to catapult them to the highest The African American Police Officer’s League (AAPOL) held its 6th Annual levels of healing and balance in their personal and professional lives with the Awards Ceremony and Gala at the University of Houston’s Hilton Hotel Balltheme of “Removing the Mask.” WE tv’s actress Phoenix White was the keynote room. In recognition of outstanding dedication to duty, performance, and support speaker and the event was hosted by founder Alissa Jones. Those in attendance for the goals of the Houston Police Department during 2016, included Carlos Wallace, Sarah Anderson, Kandice the AAPOL presented several awards. AAPOL also awarded Ewing, Aleesha Barlow, Lou Gary Hughes, Cherise Defender TOP EVENTS four, $1,000 scholarships to students from Houston Academy Riley, David Massey, Kandi Eastman, Nichole Villafane, More photos on defendernetwork.com of International Studies, Stephen F. Austin, Jersey Village Andrea Haynes and Jazmine Jones……..FRANKLIN See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ with Melanie Lawson Sunday Morning @ 5:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Dulles. Guests included Mayor Sylvester Turner, Eric BEAUTY SCHOOL CELEBRATION……..A Century Fagan, Tamra Hill, Jacob Webb, Eric Carr, Rhonda Wilwith Franklin event was held to honor local community liam, Sharome Williams, Bruce Owdley, Osa Robinson, Tiffany Jefferson, and beauty legends at 51Fifteen Restaurant and Lounge. The event hosted by Mr. Pastor Asa Sampson Sr., Chief M.A. Dirden, Chief Mattie Provost, Chief and Mrs. Ron Jemison Jr. celebrated 100 years of Houston history and also raised Troy Finner, Samica Knight and a host of others. funds for coats to benefit kids for the winter. Honorees included Congresswoman
Alissa Jones, Robbin Jones
Kandi Eastman, Connie Williams
Melinda Spaulding, Tina Knowles
Connie Willias, Kandi Eastman
Eric Carr, Bruce Owdley, J’Marcus Adams
Racquel Young, Dionsha McClain, Jamie Byrd
Miss Black America Roneisha Ray
Ron Jemison Jr., Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
Eric Carr, Dr. Love Ellis, Eric Fagan
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