NEWSTALK
HURRICANE HARVEY VICTIMS BENEFIT FROM TAX RELIEF BILL. P2
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Volume 87 | Number 11 JANUARY 18, 2018 |FREE
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NEWSTALK
B L A C K R O D E O FA N S A S K I N G
RAY SHACKELFORD seeking support for the Houston Urban League
WHO IS LEON BRIDGES?
P2 NATIONAL DONALD TRUMP racist comments may help immigrants stay in U.S.
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H.S. ZONE YUMON SIMIEN fills void for Madison Lady Marlins
P11 TOP EVENTS
Robbie Tolan tells his story
Ernest Walker, Connie Cochran and filmmaker, Stanley Nelson Jr. at the KTSU screening of “Tell Them We Are Rising.”
P12
The former rising baseball star and Bellaire resident has had a long road to recovery after being shot by a police officer in his own driveway. Now, he’s penned a book about how he is picking up the pieces of his life, even as he fights for justice.
Jadeveon Clowney Pro Bowl bound
The Texans’ Clowney has been a one-man wrecking crew. A stabilizing force on the defense, he’s had to pick up the slack for a team riddled with injuries. And now, his success on the field is paying off as he heads to the Pro Bowl.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 18 | 2018
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newstalk
Urban League sponsors Join Week
Harvey victims can benefit from tax relief Defender News Services
As income tax return filing season approaches Hurricane Harvey survivors should be aware that they’re eligible for several tax breaks. The Hurricane Tax Relief Bill was signed into law in late 2017. It’s designed to help people directly affected by hurricanes. “The [bill] is targeted for those who were impacted by Hurricane Harvey or Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Maria,” said Sen. Ted Cruz, who cosponsored the legislation. He also said it will benefit millions of people in Texas, especially the Houston area. “Number one, if your home was damaged in the storm, and you have property casualty losses from the damage, under this tax relief legislation that passed, you can deduct those damages on your taxes,” said Cruz. He explained that it would add up to billions of dollars in tax savings for hurricane
survivors. Second, the bill allows hurricane survivors to dip into their retirement savings and use it to rebuild without penalty. Third, the legislation removes the charitable giving deduction limit for anyone who gives to charities that focus on hurricane relief. Finally, the bill helps businesses hit hard by the hurricane. “The employers did the right thing,” said Cruz. “They made the right decision to keep the paychecks coming. Look, the employees may have had their living room under water, but the business was under water too.” Congress has also passed two waves of disaster relief funding so far. Cruz says the third and biggest wave of funding is being negotiated in Congress now, and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner added that he is hoping for another wave after that to help get southeast Texas back on its feet.
Dixon launches campaign
Bishop James Dixon, pastor of Community of Faith Church, launched a new hoodie campaign called the “Coolest Scholar in the City.” Dixon, who leads the Good Gang USA, started the campaign in response to backlash over an H&M ad some Blacks viewed as racist. A hoodie worn by a young Black male model read “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle.” Dixon hopes the Good Gang and the hoodie campaign will help in changing the narrative. Visit www.thecommunityoffaith.org.
By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
The Houston Area Urban League is asking area residents to help make a difference by supporting the nonprofit agency. As part of an effort to increase involvement and exposure, the HAUL Young Professionals, an auxiliary group, is sponsoring Join Week from Monday, Jan. 22 to Sunday, Jan. 28. HAULYP’s members are ages 21 to 40. Ray B. Shackelford, Southern Region vice president for the National Urban League Young Professionals, encourages Houstonians of all ages to support HAUL through involvement in its programs, membership in its auxiliaries or by giving financially. “Everyone needs to find a way to get active and a space to get engaged and make an impact,” Shackelford said. “It’s not enough for us to just go to work and go home. In addition to being successful in our own right we should in turn give back.” Shackelford said HAULYP also promotes leadership, and alumni include City Councilmember Amanda Edwards and former Alief ISD board member Tiffany Thomas. HAUL, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary Ray B. Shackelford in June, focuses on five areas: education and youth development; workforce and economic development; workforce training; housing; and health and wellness. “When you look at the needs of our community across the board, involvement in the Urban League is much needed,” Shackelford said.
Join Week events
Jan. 22 – Advocacy Training, 6 p.m., HAUL Building, 1301 Texas Jan. 23 – New Member Orientation, 6 p.m., HAUL Building Jan. 24 – Mixer & Happy Hour, 6:30 p.m., Sterling House, 3015 Bagby Jan. 25 – Storytellers, 6:30 p.m., Ogun Art+Wine, 920 Studemont Jan. 27 – Voter Canvassing, 9 a.m., Westbury High School, 11911 Chimney Rock Jan. 28 – Church Service & Brunch, 10:30 a.m., Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, 3826 Wheeler For info visit www.haulyp.org.
localbriefs TEXAS WILL NOT JOIN THE LIST OF states fighting in court over the limits of partisan gerrymandering. The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed the efforts of Texas Democrats and other plaintiffs to revive a related legal claim in the ongoing litigation over the state’s political boundaries. The high court’s dismissal comes just days after it agreed to hear a case over whether Texas’ congressional and House district boundaries discriminate against voters of color. In that case, the state appealed a three-judge panel’s ruling against the state that included findings of intentional discrimination by state lawmakers, unconstitutional racial gerrymandering and violations of the Voting
Rights Act. Flagging two congressional districts and nine House districts across four countries as problematic, the panel sided with the voting and minority rights groups who accused Republican lawmakers of discriminating against voters of color, who tend to favor Democrats at the ballot box, in drawing the maps…….TEXAS LEADERS ARE TAKING THE FIRST STEPS to make long-awaited fixes to state hospitals built in the 19th and 20th centuries that serve Texans who need mental health services. The work includes planning for the total replacement of hospitals in San Antonio and Austin. Texas Health and Human Services officials said they are receiving the first $47.7 million to begin needed
construction for existing state hospitals. The funding is part of $300 million authorized by the Legislature during the 2017 session……..SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS are being accepted by Texas Appleseed, an Austin-based public interest justice center, for its Diversity Legal Scholars program aimed at diversifying the legal profession. The program helps low-income students expand their law school options through a scholarship that covers the full cost of a Kaplan (LSAT) preparation course, valued at about $1,299. The application deadline is Feb. 12. Scholarship recipients would take the LSAT on June 11. Visit www. texasappleseed.org/diversity-legal-scholars.
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JANUARY 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER
Keep marching March because “darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that.” March because “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” March because “hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” Comcast celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with an exhibit inspired by his words. Take a virtual tour of the artwork created by Philadelphia area students by visiting VoicesOf TheCivilRightsMovement.com.
Personality rights and copyrights of Dr. King are used with the permission of The Estate of Martin Luther King, Jr., Inc. Represented by Greenlight. © 2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.
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national
U.S.briefs
Trump’s ‘racist’ comments may help some immigrants Defender News Services
President Donald Trump’s disputed comments that the United States should try to attract immigrants from places like Norway instead of “s---hole countries” like Haiti or El Salvador weren’t just racist, as critics allege. They also expose his immigration policies to challenge in federal court, and may even allow some of the people he’s trying to deport to stay in the U.S. Trump, who denies making the vulgar remark, allegedly said it while A woman tears up during a New York rally against racism in opposition to President Donald defending his decision to Trump’s comments about Haiti and African nations. cancel Temporary Protected this administration is discriminating based on national Status – a designation that origin and race when I have a client who happens to offers deportation relief and work authorization to be from Haiti, El Salvador, or Africa,” said Luis Manpeople from countries afflicted by natural disasters cheno, an attorney for Bronx Defenders, a nonprofit or war – for hundreds of thousands of undocumented legal services group. “Or, honestly, anyone who’s not immigrants from El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and from Norway.” Sudan. No group has yet announced a legal challenge to Stripping people of TPS is well within the the Trump administration’s decision to cancel TPS president’s authority. But if Trump did so with the for countries he reportedly derided. But lawyers say intention to discriminate against them because of the comments could be used as evidence to support a their national origin or race (most Haitians are Black, while most Norwegians are white), his administration claim that Trump canceled the program with discriminatory intent. may once again find itself in federal court defending “This administration gives us an almost continual the constitutionality of its actions. flow of circumstantial evidence that would support Immigration lawyers who defend people facing a conclusion of racial discrimination and bias,” said deportation will be sure to cite Trump’s comments, Thomas Saenz, executive director of the Mexican too. American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. “I can guarantee I’ll be making an argument that
Car dealers discriminate against minorities Defender News Services
A new report found that car dealerships for some of the biggest brands in the U.S. racially discriminate against people of color when it comes to car sales and financing, according to the National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA). The new report, “Discrimination When Buying a Car: How the Color of Your Skin Can Affect Your Car-Shopping Experience,” found that 62.5 percent of the time, people of color who were more qualified than their white counterparts still received higher pricing offers from the dealer. The report also found that white people were of-
fered more financing offers, such as loans, than people of color, even though non-whites had the better credit rating. The study surveyed eight dealerships in eastern Virginia, and sent a white person and a non-white person with better credit rating to the same dealership. The findings are significant, the authors say, since in many parts of the U.S., Americans do not have public transportation options, so buying a car is a must. The NFHA report showed that on average, over the life of a loan, non-white participants have to pay an average of over $2,500 more for their vehicle than less-qualified whites.
PRESIDENT TRUMP MARKED HIS FIRST Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday largely out of sight, at his Florida estate for the long weekend, spending hours each day at his Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. Before he departed the White House, Trump encouraged the public “to observe this day with acts of civic work and community service in honor of Dr. King’s extraordinary life…and his great legacy” as he signed a proclamation recognizing Monday as the national holiday honoring the slain civil rights leader….. THE PARENTS OF THE YOUNG BLACK BOY who modeled what many felt was a racist hoodie in an H&M ad, say they’ve had to move out of their home because of the international backlash. Terry Mango and Frank Odhiambo, the parents of the model Liam Mango, say while they understand the reactions to the hoodie that read “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle,” they did not see it as racist. In fact, Terry Mango says she never gave the hoodie any thought until it went viral. The mother also says she doesn’t think the hoodie is racist, but doesn’t think people who do are necessarily wrong. The parents also say that despite the international uproar over the monkey hoodie, young Liam doesn’t really understand the fuss…….THE BLACK FOUNDER OF THE #METOO MOVEMENT is fighting for passage of the Child Victims Act, a measure intended to help sexual abuse survivors have an easier time with seeking justice through legal means. Tarana Burke is calling on New York lawmakers to pass the measure. Gov. Andrew Cuomo is expected to include a provision to pass the bill – allowing survivors to bring civil cases until their 50th birthdays and felony criminal cases until their 28th birthdays – in his proposed state budget. Currently, survivors can only present cases until their 23rd birthdays.
VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 11 JANUARY 18, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Strategic Alliance Manager
Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila
Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard
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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JANUARY 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER
entertainment
5
NEW BOOK DEBUTS
Robbie Tolan seeks justice story needed to be told from the actual victim. This book was needed for it to be a call to It has been nine years since Robbie Tolan saw his life change action. I had a friend say ‘why forever after a police officer confronted him as he pulled into the driveway didn’t I hear about this case?’ of his parents’ Bellaire home. I think it’s because I survived. Ten-year police veteran Jeffery Cotton suspected that Tolan – a risBecause of that, it was kind of ing baseball star, the cousin of Ken Griffey Jr. and son of Major League like, who cares? player Bobby Tolan – and his cousin, who was a passenger, It’s easy to get behind we’re driving a stolen vehicle. After the officer ordered them to those who have died, or are a get on the ground, Tolan’s parents, Marian and Robert Tolan, martyr. It doesn’t take anything came outside. but posting something on InsCotton pushed Tolan’s mother up against the garage door, tagram, there’s no work behind according to the police statement. Robbie moved and Cotton it. For me, its work. It takes turned and fired a shot into his chest, sending the bullet time and money. My parents through his lung and lodging it into his liver, where sold their home in Bellaire to it settled and threatened his life. pay for the appeal to take my Cotton claimed that he thought Tolan was case to the Supreme Court. In reaching for a weapon and reacted quickly in doing so, my case has helped self-defense. A jury later reached a not guilty thousands of other cases since “No Justice” available at 2014 since the Supreme Court verdict and Cotton was acquitted. While Tolan later filed - and won – a www.Amazon.com and ruling came down. civil suit, the damage from that night lives on. Defender: You are a www.BN.com Now, he’s telling his story in the book “No prime example of how police Justice: One White Police Officer, One Black brutality can happen to anyFamily and how One Bullet Ripped Us Apart one. (Center Street). Tolan: Exactly. I didn’t run with a certain type of crowd. I kept my nose Tolan talked with the Defender about the clean because I was this big baseball player. I knew that was my calling, my book and his fight for justice. destiny from a young age. So I made it a point to stay out of trouble and watch Defender: Long before the Black Lives the people I surrounded myself with and watch what I was doing when I was out Matter and #SayHerName movements, your in public. I thought I don’t fit the bill of the type of person that this happens to. case riveted the city of Houston. Why did you But it happened to me. decide to write this book? Defender: How has your life changed through all of this? Robbie Tolan: Part of it is therapeutic. It’s Tolan: My dream of being a baseball player died that day. But I take an outlet to get those feelings out. The other is nine comfort in the fact that God doesn’t make any mistakes. And while I think my times out of 10, when you hear these stories they destiny is one thing, my path was altered and that calling was shifted. It’s been a are often told from a third person’s point of view. long journey. I won’t lie and say it’s been easy but I’ve accomplished quite a bit The victim’s story is often told post-humously. The and I’m in a really good place. By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender
what’sup Not everyone wants OPRAH WINFREY to run for president in 2020. One man is so against the idea that he applied to trademark “NOprah” in order to cash in on the anti-O movement. The Arizona man who goes by “Lewis,” applied for the sole rights to sell NOprah merchandise such as jackets, shoes, pants, shirts as well as other garments. Lewis said he filed for the NOprah trademark because he saw what he considers solid opposition to Oprah running for POTUS against President Donald Trump. He said he is sick of celebrities in the Oval Office. Lewis is not sure if he will sell the merchandise
now or wait to see if she officially puts her hat in the ring. He said he actually likes Oprah but doesn’t think she should be president…….There’s more drama at the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” as KANDI BURESS is blasting KIM ZOLCIAKBIERMANN. Kim claimed that Kandi was trying to get at her, sexually. Kandi, who was watching the show, immediately tweeted, calling Kim a liar. Kim double-downed and the fight appears to be far from over. Actress TIFFANY HADDISH has parlayed her jokes about budgeting into a deal with Groupon. Last July, she appeared on
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and detailed a hilarious outing with WILL SMITH and JADA PINKETT SMITH. They took a Louisiana swamp tour using a Groupon, and Tiffany’s funny retelling of the situation caused the video to go viral. Eventually, the clip reached the folks over at Groupon and they loved it so much, they offered Tiffany to be their official spokesperson. In addition to being the face of Groupon, the company also hooked Tiffany up with an employee app and put some extra cash in her account. A Super Bowl ad starring Tiffany is scheduled during the fourth quarter of the game.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 18 | 2018
B L A C K R O D E O FA N S A S K I N
WHO IS LEON BRIDGE
By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSL Defender
ident and Mrs. Obama.
e for Pres Bridges performed at the White Hous
Bridges also was the
guest artist on “Satu
rday Night Live.”
defendernetwork.com • Serving t
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Soul singer Leon Bridges performs Friday, March 2 at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
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hen the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo antell him he should “add a little more funk.” nounced its headliner for Black Heritage Night, many “That’s not a bad thing, but that’s just not what I do. I’m more on the Black fans found themselves asking the same quessmooth side of soul. I’m coming from a Ginuwine and Usher background, tion: Who is Leon Bridges? slow and smooth songs. And that’s why I really connected to Sam Cooke, Fans who looked forward to Black Heritage because he was just very smooth. It’s not like the James Brown types, which Night every year swore off their attendance because is all great stuff, but he was totally set apart from those guys,” he said. rodeo officials had brought in an artist many people didn’t know. But those who did know the Fort Worth, Texas musician said this is one artist who A native of Fort Worth, Bridges grew up in a devout home, his mother deserved a chance to be heard. As for Bridges himself, he took the negative disapproving of secular music. feedback in stride. “Even though she didn’t allow it, I’d still turn on the radio. But I didn’t “It was kind of disappointing to hear the things people were saying,” have any albums,” he said. Bridges said. “But I totally understand where they’re coming from. That Painfully shy as a kid, Bridges describes his childhood persona as night, people might not want to discover someone new. They want someone an outsider. After his parents separated when he was seven, he split time they can sing along to, so I understand. It was disappointing at first, but it’s between suburban Fort Worth and inner-city Dallas, where his father worked all good. Me and my band at a community center. His are going to give 100 percent family was poor, and shortly either way.” after Hurricane Katrina, 10 It’s that positive attitude relatives from New Orleans that has made the 26-year-old temporarily came to live with 1994 Thu 2/24 Frankie Beverly & Maze/Gladys Knight soul singer a quiet force to be him, his mother and his half1995 Thu 2/23 Natalie Cole/Peabo Bryson reckoned with. He might not sister. He was surrounded by 1996 Sat 2/24 Gladys Knight/Kool & The Gang yet be a household name, but people, but still felt alone. 1997 Sat 2/22 Earth, Wind & Fire he’s well on his way. “I didn’t know where I 1998 Sat 2/28 Luther Vandross “I’m very happy about fit in,” he said. “I didn’t have 1999 Sat 2/27 Brian McKnight/Monica the success I have had so any friends at school. People 2000 Sat 2/26 Smokey Robinson far,” he said. “I’ve performed didn’t want to be friends 2001 Fri. 2/16 Diana Ross at the White House, I at[with me]. I had no place.” 2002 Fri. 2/22 Brian McKnight and Mary J. Blige tended President Obama’s last At a nearby commu2003 Fri. 3/7 LL Cool J and Ashanti birthday party, I’ve been on nity college, Bridges studied 2004 Fri. 3/5 Bow Wow, Omarion, Marques Houston, You Got Served Tour Saturday Night Live, so I’m dance, inspired by seeing his 2005 Fri. 3/4 Alicia Keys grateful for the success and dad moonwalk as a kid, he 2006 Fri. 3/3 Maze featuring Frankie Beverly/Raven opportunities that I’ve had, says. He picked up singing 2007 Fri. 3/2 Natalie Cole / KEM including performing at the and guitar as a hobby at first, 2008 Fri. 3/7 John Legend rodeo.” and eventually began play2009 Fri. 3/6 Gladys Knight and Solange Bridges’ debut album, ing at open mics and small 2010 Fri. 3/5 Mary J. Blige ‘Coming Home,’ was shows. His sound evolved 2011 Fri. 3/3 Janet Jackson released in June of 2015 to from neo-soul, to folky R&B 2012 Fri. 3/2 John Legend critical and public acclaim. In to traditional soul with horn. 2013 Fri. 3/1 Mary J. Blige fact, his debut song sparked He played in local bars 2014 Fri. 3/7 Usher a furious bidding war shortly for a few years – often to 2015 Fri. 3/6 John Legend after it premiered in 2015 on no more than 20 people. He 2016 Fri 3/4 Jason DeRulo taste-making blog Gorilla Vs. bused tables and lived at 2017 Fri. 3/10 Alicia Keys Bear. From there, he received home. After his mother lost rave reviews at Austin’s her medical-field job, he got South by Southwest Festival, a second one washing dishes. and earned big synchs in Then he met Austin Jenkins, guitarist from Austin psych-rock band White iTunes and Beats commercials. Denim, at a Fort Worth bar. He noticed Bridges’ singular ‘50s fashion style -crisp slacks, starched collars, high-waist jeans, exquisite vintage suits. Jenkins was blown away by his music. Though some have compared the young soul singer to Sam Cooke, “He’s singing to you, not at you,” says Jenkins, who co-produced ComBridges says he channels everyone from Bobby Womack to Ginuwine. He is frank about having no grounding in classic soul. ing Home with fellow White Denim partner Joshua Block. “He listened to “It’s crazy -- I didn’t grow up with any of this music,” said Bridges. “All Texas blues, gospel and R&B, and filtered it through himself. It’s authentic this shows that you can’t teach soul music. It has to be something already and direct.” inside you. It’s not something that you can try to do -- it’s who you are. “I’m not saying I can hold a candle to any soul musician from the ‘50s The Rodeo has been credited with launching the careers of artists like and ‘60s,” Bridges added, “but I want to carry the torch.” George Strait and giving artists like John Legend a platform before they beBridges decided to pursue the soulful side of his art once he realized came internationally known. Black Heritage Night is the most popular night “there’s a void out there, there’s no Black men making this kind of music. The for African Americans. Past performers have included everyone from Frankie only person I knew that was bringing it was Raphael Saadiq. It really spoke to Beverly and Maze to Alicia Keys. Bridges said concert-goers will be treated me, so I really studied it, listening to it and looking at the blueprint, and wrote to a night they won’t forget. my idea of what a soul song sounds like.” “It will be a night of good R& B music and some good energy. I’m Fans describe his music as an effortlessly fluid sound, embracing tenor proud to be a Texan and proud to be at the Houston rodeo presenting my art,” that doesn’t need to rely on melisma to immediately pull you in; warm blues said Bridges, adding that the negativity is just fuel for him to give the best melodies and simple but instantly familiar lyrics about love, losing love, his show ever. “I just take it all in. Its exciting that I can hopefully gain new fans mother’s “rich in love” upbringing. He may only be three years into the game, after the show.” but he exudes the quiet confidence of a seasoned veteran. Listen to Leon Bridges at www.DefenderNetwork.com And so far, those who hear him, love him, though he did have someone
Humble beginnings
Black Heritage Day Past Performers
A unique sound
the Houston area for over 85 years
A night to remember
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 18 | 2018 defendernetwork.com
Houston teens selected for Disney Dreamers Christiana Okafor of Houston, Ava Marie Easter, Mickey Mouse, Ayanna Adams, Marquis Thomas and Sean Smith appeared on “Good Morning America.”
classified Electrical Equipment Bid
Houston First Corporation requests bids from electrical equipment sellers to provide and deliver fused switches, step down transformers and distribution switchboard as part of the Wortham Theater recovery project. Please visit https://www.houstonfirst.com/do-business for full details.
The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD (formerly known as MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting proposals for the following:
Psychiatric Assessment and Medication Management via Telemedicine
Defender News Services
Two Houston students have been selected to be part of the exclusive Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine. Taylor Hayes and Christiana Okafor are among 100 youths from across the nation announced by Disney to participate in its immersive, transformational four-day program, March 8-11, at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Okafor dreams of becoming a doctor, graduating as valedictorian and attending an Ivy League
School. Currently, she has a 4.3 GPA and is involved in numerous extracurricular activities. She was recently nominated to represent Texas at the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. Inspired by speakers at the conference, she hopes to one day make breakthroughs to help those suffering from autoimmune diseases with no cure. “Each of these 100 girls and boys has proven themselves to be exceptional as students and as human beings, so it’s an honor to have them join us at Walt Disney World Resort,” said Tracey D. Powell, a resort vice president and Dreamers Academy executive champion.
Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Department located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7116 and/or via The HARRIS CENTER website www.mhmraharris.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/, beginning Tuesday, January 23, 2018. A Non-Mandatory Conference is scheduled for, Tuesday, January 30, 2018 @ 1:00 PM, at 9401 Southwest Freeway. Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Tuesday, February 6, 2018. Proposal documents must be submitted to Purchasing Services, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2018 in a sealed envelope marked "RFP FOR PSYCHIATRIC ASSESSMENT AND MEDICATION MANAGEMENT VIA TELEMEDICINE” -DO NOT OPEN UNTIL TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2018 AT 10:00 AM. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to James Blunt, Buyer II or E-mail questions to james.blunt@theharriscenter.org cc: sharon.brauner@theharriscenter.org., or via fax at (713) 9707682. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.
JANUARY IS SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH
Thank you, Fort Bend ISD School Board! You provide the leadership, vision, and oversight of our community’s public schools, where students are inspired and equipped to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine!
• Named 2017 Outstanding School Board at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards!
• Invested in instructional systems and programs to provide equitable education opportunities for ALL students
• Reduced tax rate by two cents, providing relief to all taxpayers
• Managed district growth, including oversight of successful 2014 Bond Program
• Adopted the FBISD Profile of a Graduate to ensure education of the whole child
• Engaged community at Listening Tours and Literacy Tours throughout the district
Kristin K. Tassin President Position 4
Jason Burdine Vice President Position 1
Addie Heyliger Secretary Position 6
Grayle James Position 2
Jim Rice Position 3
KP George Position 5
Dave Rosenthal Position 7
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JANUARY 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER
health
A Defender and Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Alliance
9
Sticking to healthy resolutions in 2018 By RICHARD HARRIS, M.D., Pharm.D.
A
lot of us start the new year by resolving to live healthier, whether taking off excess weight, making time to exercise, staying on top of recommended health screenings, or executing some other lifestyle change. Then by March, our good intentions have fallen by Richard Harris, M.D., Pharm.D. the wayside, and we’re back in the same rut. I have some tips that may help you achieve a healthier you in 2018. First, don’t beat yourself up if you’ve already blown your resolutions. It isn’t easy to change behavior. If you’re committed to it, however, you can make a new habit or behavior permanent. Don’t give up. The key to keeping one’s New Year’s resolutions involves picking a realistic goal, taking small steps toward that goal, and learning to take slip-ups in stride.
Track your progress
People who are successful in keeping their
resolutions typically track their progress. Research has shown the more monitoring a person does, and the more feedback there is about their progress, the better they will do. Tracking your calories in an online diet app or keeping an exercise journal can help motivate you to keep going.
Follow the three-weeks rule
Studies also have shown it takes about three weeks for a habit to develop. This means for three weeks you’ll need to be consistent with whatever health goal you’ve set for yourself. Start small and work your way up. Then once you’ve mastered these smaller steps, start adding more. But I recommend you first read “The Power of Habit,” by Charles Duhigg. It’s an excellent book that dives into the science of habits and how you can go about changing them.
My resolution recommendations
Also, don’t get too complicated with your resolutions. Commit to a health-improvement plan you’re more inclined to stay with. To help reduce your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and certain forms of cancer, I highly recommend that you:
• Walk 30 minutes a day at least three times a week, or 10 minutes twice daily five days a week. • Eat low-carb foods that are high in fiber such as berries and cruciferous veggies, such as arugula, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. Also include good fats such as avocados, coconut oil, olive oil, salmon, macademia nuts, pecans, eggs, and grass-fed dairy/meats. Avoid sugar, which produces empty calories. • Manage stress, which can lead to numerous health issues if left unchecked. • Get adequate rest. Most adults need about seven hours of sleep each night. Lastly, if you haven’t already, choose a primary care physician. You’ll be more likely to have recommended preventive health screenings that help catch diseases in the early stages when they are more curable. Dr. Richard Harris is an Internal Medicine physician at Kelsey-Seybold’s Katy Clinic who enjoys weight training, sports, and pharmacology. To schedule an appointment with him, call 713-442-0000.
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1/10/18 4:17 PM
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 18 | 2018
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Jadeveon Clowney a Pro Bowler despite team woes
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By MAX EDISON Defender
t was another frustrating year for Houston Texans fans. The season had a positive outlook as rookie quarterback Deshaun Watson exploded onto the scene and breathed much needed life into an offense that was dead on arrival. Unfortunately, the injury bug struck the team in a big way. An ACL knee injury in practice derailed Watson’s promising rookie campaign. Two of the Texans top three defensive playmakers, J.J. Watt and Whitney Mercilus, were injured in the same Clowney started all 16 games after two injury-plagued years. game and lost for the season. Jadeveon Clowney, the one healthy defensive playmaker, played at a Pro Bowl level. Clowney was a one-man wrecking crew for the Texan defense all season. Playing with the intensity that made him the top pick overall in the 2014 NFL Draft, Clowney was a stabilizing force on the defense. Whether it was rushing the quarterback or stopping the run, No. 90 was a dynamo. He started all 16 games and earned Pro Bowl honors after setting singleseason career highs in sacks (9.5), tackles for loss (21), quarterback hits (21), forced fumbles (2), fumble recoveries (two), total tackles (59). Despite having the best year of his career, Clowney keeps his focus on the overall production of the team, its wins and losses. “I think I had an okay season, but we were losing,” Clowney said. “At the end of the day it’s all about winning and losing. I’ve got to keep getting better and better each week, improving my tackles, sacks and tackles for loss. Whatever I can do to lead this team, get a win, whatever it is, I just go out there had to take on the role of a defensive leader in the and play hard and be physical.” locker room and on the field, a role that defensive Without Watt or Mercilus in the game, Clowney coordinator Mike Vrabel said fits him.
Texans defensive end Jadeveon Clowney is going to the Pro Bowl.
I think that (Clowney) has always been that type of guy. He’s got a great attitude, he’s got energy, he loves football,” Vrabel said. “There are different ways to lead. I think that JD’s going to lead by example and I tell him, ‘When you play as hard as you do and you’re productive, then you have to demand that type of effort out of everybody else during the games.’ So, you can’t sit there and force a leadership style on a guy. I think that he just has to continue to do what he’s been doing.” After two injury-plagued years, Clowney has been able to stay on the field and the results have been obvious. “The way he plays puts a lot of stress on the body because he plays hard, he plays fast and violent,” Vrabel said. “For him to be available is huge for us. I think that he understands that, that he’s got to come in there and be there week in and week out. He’s been a disruptive run player for us and he continues to work on his pass rush every week. “I think that he’s an instinctive player,” Vrabel continued. “One thing it’s hard to coach is instincts. You can try to coach instincts and awareness, but it’s difficult. You can coach technique and fundamentals, but it’s hard to coach instincts and awareness.” Cornerback Kareem Jackson has a birdseye view of how well Clowney played this season and has nothing but praise. “Jadeveon was unbelievable for us, a real beast,” Jackson said. “You could see it coming last year with what I thought was his breakout year. He just needed to stay healthy. This season he was dominant. A guy that offensive linemen have to account for on every play.” “I appreciate the kind words that folks have said about me, but I always had confidence in my ability,” Clowney said. “I have always worked hard to be the best. My goals for our defense, our team, are very high. The bottom line for me is winning.”
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JANUARY 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER
h.s.zone
sportsbriefs
Simien fills void for Madison Lady Marlins
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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
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Find out what super sophomore came to the rescue for state-ranked Yates boys
umon Simien saw the same signs her head coach was seeing. The Houston Madison High ranking and run with it,” Fields School Lady Marlins varsity said. “We’re enjoying it right basketball squad was in dire now.” need of a facilitator. So, the 5-foot-7 junior The Lady Marlins deshed the comfort zone of her shooting guard feated Houston Austin 56-14 at position and moved over to handle the point Barnett Fieldhouse on Jan. 9 to (guard). improve to 12-2 on the season “She was a little hesitant at first, but and 9-0 in District 24-5A. after about four games she saw that it was Simien scored 16 of her 18 working,” said Madison head coach Anthony points in the first half when the Fields. “She’s always been a shooter that could game was decided. Senior post handle the ball if she had to. She lacked confiPaige Taylor scored a game-high dence in her ball-handling. 22 points. “Now she’s developed that confi“I saw that Coach Fields dence and it’s made her a complete needed me and it was my ball player,” Fields said. “She job to step up and take can handle it, shoot it and see the position and hanthe court really well. It’s dle the ball,” Simien probably the position she’ll said. “I really had no play after high school.” choice. I had to step After a couple of up to the plate for single-digit scoring the team. outputs in the first five “When we games of the season, play against the Simien has blossomed really good teams, in the interim. She my team needs me had 29 points against Belto be a playmaker,” Simien laire, 21 versus Sterling, 33 said. “A little competition in a game with Worthing and is nothing to me and I’ll take a 36-point explosion against my shot when the time is right. Wheatley. I practice on my range all the “Yumon took two steps intime.” side the half court line and made Simien began playing basback-to-back 3-pointers against ketball when she was 4 years Wheatley,” Fields said. “She’s old and played her first orgaalways been a shooter and she nized ball in the second grade. torched them that night. She’s Her favorite basketball players figured out who she is and that are Kyrie Irving, Paul George, Birth date – Oct. 9, 1999 means running the team and still Derrick Rose and LeBron James. Birth sign – Libra providing scoring.” She enjoys playing for Fields. In the meantime, Madison “Yumon had the skills but Favorite subject in school – has gone from a No. 22 preseason she always played on teams Chemistry ranking in the Texas Association where somebody else handled Favorite meal – Pizza of Basketball Coaches Class 5A the ball or did some other Possible college major – state poll to No. 7 last week. things,” Fields said. “Now “Sometimes it’s better to be we’re seeing the total package Pre-law lucky than good so we’ll take that from her.”
about Yumon Simien
World problem she would solve – Prevent hunger
Sumlin lands in Arizona Kevin Sumlin, former Texas A&M University and University of Houston head football coach, was named coach at the University of Arizona. Sumlin compiled a record of 51-26 in six years at College Station. In four years at UH Sumlin was 36-17. Sumlin was 7-5 with the Aggies this season. “This is a tremendous day for Arizona Football, and I am thrilled to welcome Kevin to our family,” Arizona athletic director Dave Heeke said. “I am humbled and honored to join the Arizona Family,” Sumlin said in a statement. Longtime assistant coach Clarence McKinney is expected to join Sumlin’s Arizona staff.
Texans hire GM In the wake of the departure of GM Rick Smith, the Texans wasted little time finding his replacement. Brian Gaine was hired and becomes the third general manager in franchise history. It’s Gaines second tour of duty with the Texans. He served as the Texans’ director of player personnel from 2015-16 and director of pro personnel in 2014. He returns to Houston after spending the 2017 season as the Buffalo Bills’ vice president of player personnel. “Our committee was unanimous in praise for Brian Gaine and we are all aligned in our philosophy on how to continue to build our roster and win a championship,” Texans CEO Bob McNair said. In addition, the franchise gave head coach Bill O’Brien a five-year contract extension. O’Brien’s Texans were 4-12 in 2017.
Bellaire holds off Lamar Bellaire High School guard Toni Lott scored eight of her team-high 17 points in the fourth quarter to squash the comeback bid of upset-minded Lamar as the Lady Cardinals prevailed 59-43 at Butler Fieldhouse. Trailing 34-22 at intermission, Lamar pulled to within 41-37 to start the fourth quarter. Lott opened the stanza with a put-back basket and Bellaire continued to pour it on while the Lady Texans were mired in a scoring drought. Codi Fillmore had 13 points for the Lady Cardinals and Courtney Lathan added 11. Bellaire improved to 4-0 in District 18-6A and 11-8 overall.
Clear Lake boys win 20th The Clear Lake High School boys notched their 20th victory of the season with an 80-64 win over rival Clear Brook in District 24-6A action. The No. 23 state-ranked Falcons utilized a 10-0 run to end the first quarter and carry a 19-8 advantage into the second stanza. Lake led 38-28 at halftime and by as many as 15 points in the third quarter. Yet Brook closed to within 55-48 to start the fourth period. Nathan Chuong, Shane Porter and Caleb Chapman hit a 3-pointer apiece to fuel an 11-3 Brook spurt to close the third quarter. Ajare Sanni led five Clear Lake players in double-figure scoring with a game-high 26 points. Lake improved to 20-4 on the season and 3-1 in district play. Kendrick Christian led Brook with 20 points as the Wolverines slipped to 12-11 and 2-2.
CORRECTION
In the Jan. 4th edition, the Defender ran the wrong photo of LaDarius Owens in our Ten High School Players to Watch. In the Jan. 11 edition, Nigel Hawkins was listed as playing for Cy-Fair. The school’s name should’ve read Cy-Falls. We apologize for the errors.
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DEFENDER | JANUARY 18 | 2018
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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
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AFL-CIO CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS CONFERENCE……..Hundreds documentary that will air on PBS on Feb. 19. The Ocean of Soul’s drumline set of social justice professionals, labor activists and community leaders gathered things off before the viewing, which was followed by a Q&A session. Attendees in Houston for the AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human included emcee Melinda Spaulding, TSU President Dr. Austin Lane, Marcus Rights Conference. This year’s theme, “Reclaiming the Dream: Strategize, Davis, Corbin Burton, Ernest Walker, John Hughes, Dr. Serbino SandiferOrganize, Mobilize,” focused on building power so working communities Walker, Dr. Frankie Patterson, George Thomas, Bishop James Dixon, Karen and families can thrive. Along with workshops, there were several speakers Celestan, Chris Spellmon, Isoke Williams and others.…….. 30th ANNUAL including Mayor Sylvester Turner giving a response MLK SCHOLARSHIP BREAKFAST……..The Greater Houston to President Donald Trump’s “sh*thole” comments and Frontiers Club hosted its 30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Defender TOP EVENTS Rev. William Barber. Attendees included AFL-CIO Scholarship Breakfast. For the past 30 years the GHFC has awarded More photos on defendernetwork.com President Richard Trumka, Congressman Al Green, over $2 million in scholarship funds. GHFC president Donnell Fred Redmon, Claude Cummings Jr., Congressman Cooper and event chairperson Karen Levingston-Franklin Gene Green, Tinisha Thompson, LaTonia Benoit, Anthony Tubbs, Mamadou proudly awarded Emmy Award-winning TV producer Rushion McDonald the Bah, Evelyn Smith, Linda Foster, Nathan Waters and more……..TELL Drum Major Award for his professional excellence and commitment to education. THEM WE ARE RISING….. KTSU 90.9 FM hosted a sneak peek viewing of Attendees included emcee Len Cannon, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, filmmaker Stanley Nelson Jr.’s “Tell Them We Are Rising,” a film celebrating Mayor Sylvester Turner, HISD Trustee Wanda Adams, ZaDarius Webber, Nia the legacy of HBCUs. Though held on Texas Southern University’s campus, all Wesley, Andrew White, Ricky Anderson, Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan, HBCUs were honored, with several represented by alumni on hand to see the Debbie Dillard, Tracey Harrell, HPD Chief Art Acevedo and many others.
Congressman Gene Green, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Richard Trumka
Ernest Walker, Connie Cochran, Stanley Nelson Jr.
Rushion McDonald, Len Cannon
Beverly Davis, Janice Weaver, Evelyn Smith
Dr. Austin A. Lane, Harvey Buruca, Diane Paige, Dr. Serbino SandiferWalker
Judge Steven Kirkland, Debbie Dillard, Andrew White
Tinisha Thompson, John Bland, LaTonia Benoit
Dominique Flournoy, Larry Don Johnson
Donnell Cooper, Karen Levingston-Franklin
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