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Volume 86 | Number 39
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NEWSTALK CHRIS OLIVER HCC Trustee convicted of bribery
Charles Hudson, Donna Franklin and Ernest Walker.
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Hilary Green
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The Harris County justice of the peace is facing permanent removal after the Texas high court suspended her over admissions of sexual misconduct and pillpopping. The embattled judge, who recently won re-election, calls the suspension unfair. H PAGE 2
It’s being called the biggest offseason move to date, and now Rockets officials are confident the acquisition of the nine-time All-Star point guard will give them a championship caliber team. Paul says he’s ready to make that happen. H PAGE 10
suspended from bench
Dr. Chido Nwangwu and Mary Tombiri-Ero at the Best of Africa Awards.
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Black elected officials under fire
Judge Hilary Green suspended Defender News Services
Harris County Justice of the Peace Hilary Green could permanently be removed from the bench. A judge will make the decision on whether she should be formally removed from office after the Texas Supreme Court suspended her over sexual misconduct and pill-popping. The suspension, effective immediately, was based on allegations that Green illegally abused prescription drugs, sent sexually explicit texts to a bailiff while on the bench and paid for sex. Green has been under fire since May, when the state supreme court asked for Hilary Green the unusual emergency action. The State Commission on Judicial Conduct presented a 316-page report summarizing evidence it had collected in its own investigations of previously secret complaints made against Green from 2012 to 2015.
It’s the first time any Texas judge has received a temporary suspension in at least a decade in a contested matter, the commission says. The commission alleged that in its own closed proceedings, Green admitted to many allegations against her, including illegally obtaining prescription drugs and using marijuana and Ecstasy while she was presiding over low-level drug possession cases involving juveniles in her south Houston courtroom. As a justice of the peace for Harris County Precinct 7, Place 1, Green handles thousands of lowlevel criminal and civil matters a year, including traffic tickets and evictions. In its one-page ruling, the supreme court agreed with the judicial conduct commission that the evidence, including
Green’s own admissions, justified her immediate removal as the state watchdog agency prepares for a longer civil trial that’s required under Texas law to remove any elected judge from office. Commission lawyers also argued in court filings that there are ample grounds to conclude that Green brought discredit upon the judiciary and should permanently be removed from office, including evidence that she used “her assigned bailiff in an effort to illegally obtain prescription drugs.” Green is also been accused of lying about allegations that she abused her authority in eviction matters to favor a friend, a con man and five-time felon. Green complained that the commission practiced “assembly line justice” and treated her unfairly. She maintained she had stopped abusing prescription cough syrup about three years ago, and provided evidence of having passed several recent drug-screening tests. Green’s attorney, Chip Babcock, argued against suspension, noting that voters had a chance to review and “forgive” misbehavior outlined in the commission’s allegations, some of which were published in newspaper stories, before they opted last year to re-elect Green.
HCC Trustee Oliver pleads guilty
A trustee at Houston Community College will soon learn his fate after being convicted of bribery related to his position at the institution. Chris Oliver, 53, could face up to 10 years in prison after admitting that he accepted cash payments and Visa gift cards totaling $12,000 for promises to help another person secure contracts with HCC. Oliver pleaded guilty in May, having been charged in March. The federal documents were just recently unsealed. In 2015, HCC reached a settlement with the former system chancellor, who, in a lawsuit, said she was fired when the HCC Board of Trustees learned she talked to the FBI about potential misuses of bond money and efforts by trustees to steer money and business to friends
and political allies. Although rumors swirled throughout Houston political circles for months that Oliver was being targeted by the feds, prosecutors kept the case under wraps until now. Oliver is due to be sentenced in August. Board President Eva Loredo said she was “shocked” at the news. “I’ve never been on the board when something like this has happened,” she said. “I’ll have to research on it and talk to the [HCC trustee’s] attorney and see what we do next.” The next time the trustees are scheduled to meet is Aug. 10. Oliver was first elected in 1995 and is the longest-serving HCC trustee.
Chris Oliver
localbriefs EIGHT PEOPLE HAVE BEEN ARRESTED in the fatal overseas attack on 22-year-old Bakari Henderson, an Austin resident and recent graduate of the University of Arizona. Henderson, a former Texas Capitol intern, was on the Greek island of Zakynthos when he got into a confrontation at a bar. Henderson, who was in Greece to launch a clothing line he started, was beaten after he was unconscious. He died at a nearby hospital…….DESPITE FIVE FINDINGS OF DISCRIMINATION, the Department of Justice reversed its six-year position on the Texas voter ID law. The Jeff Sessions DOJ said that changes enacted by the Texas Legislature during the 2017 legislative session removed the discrimina-
tory effects of the law enacted by Texas Republicans in 2011……A MAJORITY OF TEXAS STUDENTS successfully completed the five State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) end-of-course exams, according to statewide results released by the Texas Education Agency. The results reflect passing rates for the spring 2017 administration of STAAR. In statewide results for the 2016–2017 school year for all testers, Texas students posted the highest statewide passing rates – above 90 percent – in U.S. History. Texas students are required to pass five STAAR end-of-course exams – Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History – to receive a high school diploma……..THE PARKS
AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT has received a $40,000 grant through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Community Outdoor Outreach Program. The funds will enable around 3,400 inner-city youth to participate in Houston PARKS Adventure, a collaborative, community-based program that promotes nature education, conservation, and outdoor recreation through innovative and affordable programming designed to spark their interest in nature-based activities. Children participating in HPARD’s After School and Summer Enrichment Programs at 25 community centers in Houston will have the opportunity to learn about the natural world through instruction, camping, fishing and more.
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1,000 ministers plan to march on Washington Defender News Services One thousand ministers are expected to converge on the nation’s capital next month as part of Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network (NAN) Ministers March for Justice. The march will go from the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to the Department of Justice on Monday, Aug. 28. The ministers, from all denominations, will convene in Washington, D.C., to reaffirm their commitment to the social justice movement and to stand in solidarity in the spirit and legacy of Dr. King. Organizers said clergy will hold the Trump administration and Rev. Al Sharpton is coordinating ministers for an Aug. 2017 march for justice. Attorney General Jeff Sessions accountable in the wake of an increase Freedom. It was held on Aug. 28, 1963 and Dr. King in hate crimes, mass incarceration and discrimination. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech during The faith leaders will unite to send a message that the march. religious communities will not stand by idly as rights “Fifty-four years ago, a clarion call for voting are stripped from people in their congregations includrights and economic justice was issued by Dr. King ing voting rights, health care, economic opportunity, and today under the current administration many of the criminal justice rights and more. same issues are prevalent –voter disenfranchisement, “We are in grave times that call for vigilance and a economic disparity, discrimination, and the need for mobilized effort to confront the Administration around criminal justice reform,” said NAN. issues that are taking us backwards,” said Sharpton, Founded in 1991, NAN “works within the spirit president and founder of NAN. and tradition of Dr. King to promote a modern civil “Faith leaders will be summoned to reaffirm the rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of call to their congregations that faith will drive the justice, decency and equal opportunities for all people movement for justice in today’s times.” regardless of race, religion, nationality or gender.” This year’s march coincides with the 54th anFor more information visit www.nationalactionniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and network.net
Trump Justice Dept. nominee under fire Civil rights activists are concerned about President Donald Trump’s nomination of Eric Dreiband to head the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. Critics say that as a private D.C. labor attorney, Drieband defended major corporations and others against discrimination lawsuits. He represented Bloomberg in a pregnancy discrimination lawsuit, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. in an age discrimination case and Abercrombie & Fitch in a Supreme Court case involving a Muslim woman who was not hired because she wore a headscarf. Leon W. Russell, chair of the NAACP Board, said there are too many backward steps being taken on issues such as voting rights and police reform.
“It is the persistence of these all-too-familiar problems that remind us of the importance of institutions like the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division – and today, they also serve as proof that President Trump’s nomination of Eric Dreiband to head this office is exactly the wrong choice for this moment,” Russell said. “The evidence is clear. For the past 20 years, Dreiband has been on the wrong side of issues that the Civil Rights Division oversees as part of its core mission.” Drieband also served as general counsel of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under President George W. Bush.
U.S.briefs AN OFFICER HAS SUED BLACK LIVES MATTER leaders after he was wounded in a shooting rampage in Baton Rouge, La. The lawsuit named DeRay McKesson and four other Black Lives Matter leaders as defendants and sought at least $75,000 in damages, accusing them of inciting violence that spurred the attack. Black Lives Matter leaders have denied accusations that their movement promotes violence against police. The officer wounded in Baton Rouge, who was not named in the lawsuit, was shot by “a person violently protesting against police, and which violence was caused or contributed to by the leaders of and by ‘BLACK LIVES MATTER’,” the filing said…….PROTESTORS SHUT DOWN A KU KLUX KLAN rally in Charlottesville, Va. The Klan had gathered to protest a city council decision to remove a statute honoring Confederate General Robert E. Lee. The group was guarded by scores of police and outnumbered by hundreds of counter-protesters who waved signs denouncing racism. Anti-KKK protesters raised their voices in chants and shouts, drowning out speeches from the white supremacists, live video feeds on social media showed. There were no initial reports of violence at the rally that lasted less than an hour……..HIRING SURGED IN JUNE in a surprising show of U.S. economic vitality eight years into the recovery from the Great Recession. Pay gains remain weak, though, a stark reminder of one of the economy’s key shortcomings. Employers added 222,000 jobs last month, and hiring in the previous two months was revised much higher. Job gains have now averaged nearly 180,000 a month this year, only slightly below last year’s pace. Unemployment ticked up to 4.4 percent from 4.3 percent, but mostly for a good reason – more Americans started looking for work. The unemployment rate was 7.1 percent for Blacks, compared to 3.8 percent for whites.
VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 39 JULY 13, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby
Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Jasemine Knowles Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison
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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Texas Southern University’s long and storied history of art lives on in a new set of student-produced murals recently hung in the school’s Wellness and Recreation Center. World renowned artist and founder of TSU’s Art Department, the late Dr. John Biggers, came to TSU in 1949 and instituted a departmental requirement early in the program’s founding that all graduating seniors paint a mural. The cost-saving move of using the walls of Hannah Hall as the students’ canvases launched what has become a tourist attraction for global art students who come from everywhere to pay homage to Biggers and the work of his students. A moratorium had been issued on the painting of murals on campus, thus ending a long and proud tradition, which was only recently rescinded, and by accident at that. In search of artwork to give added life to TSU’s Recreation and Wellness Center – known by students as the Rec Center – its director, Iisha Voltz, originally looked at other companies to provide artistic works to adorn the building’s walls. “Then one day I said, ‘Wow; we have an art department on campus. Maybe we can partner with them to produce some murals,’ ”
recalled Voltz. “Seeing that the Rec Center is a student-funded facility, what better way to showcase TSU art students and their skills than to have them produce something that will remain a fixture on this campus for decades. These works will be something they and their families and children can come back to and see the mark they left on campus.” To get the ball rolling, Voltz ventured to the university’s Art Department and began asking whoever she saw for leads on muralists. She was eventually directed to Jesse Sifuentes, a TSU art professor and instructor of the school’s mural painting class. “With the moratorium on murals, my students were just painting murals on canvas,” said Sifuentes. “Thank goodness for Ms. Voltz. She went in art classes looking for students to paint murals. When I told her I have a mural painting class next semester who can help out, she said great. “She gave us the opportunity, and we jumped on it. Ms. Voltz needs to be commended. She’s either a troublemaker or a hero; but definitely a hero in my book,” Sifuentes said. The students who produced the works are Derrick Brown, Nathaniel Donnett, Frederica Grant, Christopher Hicks, Robert Riojas, Isaiah Thomas and Faith Schwartz.
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DEFENDER | JULY 13 | 2017
‘NEW’ KTSU-FM makes big changes
K
By ASWAD WALKER Defender
TSU 90.9, Houston’s first Black FM radio station and one of the nation’s foremost promoters, preservers and repositories of America’s original art form (jazz), is celebrating its 45th anniversary with upgrades for the station, its listeners, Texas Southern University students and the entire Houston community. When KTSU hit the airwaves in January 1973 after receiving FCC approval in June 1972, the station’s meager 10 watts didn’t allow for many listeners outside of the Third Ward area. Today, KTSU’s 18,500 watts sends its sounds across the city, and even the world (streaming live at www.ktsuradio.com). The station’s 390,000-plus listeners (276,000 via radio; 117,000 online) are treated to Houston’s most eclectic mix of sounds, including jazz, classic R&B, neo-soul, reggae, Latin jazz, hip-hop and gospel, the station’s biggest draw. To thank its faithful supporters, the station is enjoying some long overdue enhancements that have already started paying dividends.
NEW LEADERSHIP
Massive changes for the station were initiated when Ernest Walker was brought in as the new general manager in February 2016, and staffers such as KTSU Program Director Donna Franklin are pleased with the results. “In the nine years that I’ve been here the impact that has been made in such a short time with our new general manager has been nothing short of phenomenal,” Franklin said. “Not taking away from previous general managers, but we are now moving in the direction we should be going. And this past year of explosive growth is just the tip of the iceberg,” Franklin said.” Walker came to KTSU with more than 20 years of industry experience as a producer, director, musician and fundraiser. His resume includes work with the late Al Jarreau, Quincy Jones, Chante Moore, Radio One, TV-One and the Kennedy Center.
He has musically produced the inaugurations of the mayors of Houston for the past decade, and the city’s Freedom Over Texas Fourth of July celebration for the past six years, while also serving as president/CEO of Walker Entertainment Group. Walker’s greatest attribute might be his personal KTSU roots. “As a child I remember the very first station to play our family’s [the Walker Family] first record was KTSU,” recalls Walker, a Yates High School alumnus. “KTSU still embraces young, up-andcoming artists. You can come in, and we will listen to your music, offer you constructive feedback, and then, if you go back and put in the work, we will give you an opportunity to play your music on the radio.” Grammy Award-winners Yolanda Adams (gospel) and Kirk Whalum (jazz) have similar stories, and other successful artists with Houston roots are generous with 45th anniversary praise. “KTSU was the first station that broke my records,” said jazz musician Kyle Turner. “It’s been invaluable to my career, and the place where I can hear today’s new artists and current affairs.” “KTSU has been the number one gospel outlet for years, supporting us by playing our CDs and keeping us abreast of all things gospel both locally and nationally,” added gospel artist Kathy Taylor.
NEW VENTURES
Walker has KTSU’s sites gazing forward, which is evident in the station’s willingness to break new ground, participating in events that had been inaccessible before Walker’s arrival. They include Houston Recovers, a local event with a decidedly country & western flavor designed to raise funds for the Greater Houston Storm Relief Fund and Freedom Over Texas. “Participation in those events was huge for us,” Franklin said. “You usually don’t see community stations getting that kind of exposure, introducing KTSU for the first time to the broader community, and opening doors that have never been open,” Franklin shared.
Community co
KTSU/HTV Collaboration – Summer public media entities, coming together to m munity. The official news conference annou take place later this summer. KTSU Streaming Channel 2 – KTSU operated by students of TSU. Preparations a with the streaming station set to launch duri KTSU/KHOU Hurricane Season Coll 2017, KTSU will simulcast KHOU Channel weather emergency to keep the community in weather, traffic and news. Gospel Music Workshops w/ HISD – HISD, the Keeping the Music Alive Founda Month to offer gospel music workshops to a gether to bring the history of the genre to th gospel music as an art form that has influenc Thanksgiving Day Parade – This Than hand as a community partner in the annual H ing at 9 a.m. in downtown Houston.
As someone who grew up at KTSU, the station Operations Manager Rev. Charles Hudson is personally enjoying the new direction. “As a graduate of TSU, it means a lot to me to see KTSU on the brink of greatness once again,” said Hudson, who has seen five different general managers and six different university presidents come and go over the course of his KTSU tenure. “Each general manager took the steps necessary to move this institution forward,” Hudson said. To see it now become global, with former interns working at CNN, Warner Bros., and with the Tavis Smiley Group, and others who started their own media and consulting companies, it’s just amazing.”
NEW EQUIPMENT
One of the most impactful upgrades the station has experienced during its anniversary year has been replacing outdated software with stateof-the-art equipment, improving programming capabilities, listener engagement and student preparation capabilities. “This is something the station has been trying
to get done for 13 years,” you look at the fact that K FM station in Houston, h and empower our commu 45-year legacy. In order tinue, this upgrade takes KTSU replaced its o 2000-compatible Scott S considered the latest tech system by industry profe computers were replaced “These changes give remote programming, so emergency, we would sti programming changes, th air space,” Hudson said. The new equipment
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(Top) KTSU is getting state-ofthe-art equipment upgrades. (Left) Charles Hudson, Donna Franklin and Ernest Walker. (Bottom right) Staff member Sinclair Ridley working with Turner Elementary students in KTSU’s Recording Studio.
ollaborations
r 2017 will find KTSU and HTV, two make a greater impact upon the comuncing details of the joint venture will
will launch an online station totally and initial staffing will begin this fall, ing the spring 2018 semester. laboration – During hurricane season l 11’s news broadcast in the event of a safer by providing the latest updates
This fall, KTSU will partner with ation and Gospel Music Heritage area schools. The groups will work tohe schools, sharing information about ced other genres of music. nksgiving, Nov. 23, KTSU will be on HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade start-
” Walker said. “When KTSU was the first Black how we educate, inform, unity is a huge part of the for that legacy to conus into the future.” obsolete, Microsoft System with Wide Orbit, hnology and automation essionals. All connecting d and upgraded as well. e us the capability to do o if there were a weather ill be able to perform hus eliminating any dead also allows listeners the
ability to see the name of the artist and song on their car radios, and access current and past playlists via the station’s website. “The upgrade is not just about the equipment,” Walker said. “It’s about people and community. Most don’t know that almost 80 percent of KTSU staff are volunteers, on-air personalities and others, giving so many volunteer hours per week, 24 hours per day, to keep this station going. So, when we say ‘Your Community Station,’ it really is.”
On-air personalities Chef Tim JAZZ
Chilly Bill Smith R&B
Deon Haywood JAZZ, R&B
DJ Uncle CARIBBEAN VIBES
James “Gentle Giant” Eaglin FRIDAY OLDIES
Jimmy Chop Star Jones OLD SCHOOL HIP-HOP
Kirk Whalum JAZZ TALK SHOW
Marilyn Bolden Grant GOSPEL
Melanie Ms. Melodic Murphy JAZZ, NEO-SOUL
NEW OPPORTUNITIES
The biggest impact of equipment and programming upgrades may be felt by TSU students. “TSU School of Communication students will now be able to work on equipment comparable to what is being used in the real world today instead of working on [outdated] technology, allowing them to compete with the best,” Walker said. “Second, KTSU will now be able to launch a student-run, streaming radio station. The station will be structured just like KTSU, with a general manager, programming director, etc. Each student will get hands-on experience running the station while being mentored by their KTSU counterpart,” Walker said.
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Netflix adds shows with Black stars Defender News Services
It’s summer, and that means new titles are heading to Netflix. This July, the streaming service is releasing several programs – both original and acquired – that feature talented Black stars. From the inimitable Jessica Williams as the leading star in the film “The Incredible Jessica James” to Keegan Michael-Key in the comedy series “Friends From College,” there’s no shortage of picks to choose from. Check them out below. “Code Name: The Cleaner” – Starring Cedric the Entertainer, “Code Name: The Cleaner” follows Jake, who may or may not be an undercover agent. Wrapped up in a government conspiracy and being followed by mysterious assailants, Jake is stuck in a bit of a pickle. “Friends From College” – Keegan-Michael Key stars in this Netflix comedy about a group of college friends facing their 40s, their complicated relationships, adulthood and nostalgia. College was long ago, but sometimes growing up can be hard. “Last Chance U” – This docu-series examines the lives of NFL hopefuls, facing unique struggles on and off the field. However, the season takes an unexpected turn and the football team must take a deeper look at their unconventional methods. “The Incredible Jessica James” – Jessica James, played by Jessica Williams, is an aspiring New York playwright on the rebound after a breakup. Soon, James finds herself befriending a guy who could change all that. “Being Mary Jane” – The fourth season of BET’s hit series is coming to Netflix, so clear your calendar for a weekend of messy drama via Gabrielle Union’s Mary Jane.
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“The Incredib le
Jessica James ”
“Being Mary Jane”
what’sup An Atlanta rapper recently recorded actress MAIA CAMPELL at a gas station, dressed in a bra and biker shorts, asking for crack as she recalled a rape story. The former “In the House” star was missing teeth and seemed to have relapsed after previous drug recoveries. Campbell, who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, has had run-ins with the law surrounding drug and prosititution charges. In 2012, she moved herself into a residential treatment center and then appeared on “Iyanla: Fix My Life.” The rapper was unapologetic about the filming, but Campbell’s former co-star, LL COOL J, asked people
to help him find the 40-year-old Campbell…….AVA DUVERNAY is bringing a series about the Central Park 5 to Netflix in 2019. The director, who released her documentary “13th” through Netflix last year, will write and direct a five-episode drama series based on the 1989 sexual assault case which resulted in five innocent New York City teenagers serving up to 13 years in prison. At the time, DONALD TRUMP took out a full-page ad in the New York Times calling for the execution of Kevin Richardson, Raymond Santana, Yusef Salaam, Antron McCray and Kharey Wise, who were between the ages of 14 and 16 at the
time of their arrest. The series will span from 1989 to 2014, when the men were officially exonerated of any crimes.…….Actor NELSAN ELLIS, best known for his memorable portrayal of Lafayette Reynolds on HBO’s “True Blood,” has died at the age of 39 from complications of heart failure. Ellis appeared as MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. in Lee Daniels’ “The Butler,” and as singer Bobby Byrd in the JAMES BROWN biopic “Get on Up.” He also appeared in “The Help,” and his castmate OCTAVIA SPENCER mourned his death on Instagram. “My heart breaks for his kids and family,” she wrote.
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Take huge strides at the largest college in Houston.
Houston Children’s Chorus seeking young singers The Houston Children’s Chorus, an internationally acclaimed, diverse, performance chorus, announces open registration for its Preparatory Choir (grades 2 and 3) and auditions for its Concert Choir for students moving into grades 4 through 8. The Chorus, which places an emphasis on diversity in its music and choir membership, is comprised of up to 200 children and seeks newcomers from Houston and the surrounding areas. Choir membership includes weekly rehearsals that emphasize personal and musical growth, discipline, teamwork and cultural exposure. The cost of the being a chorister is nominal and scholarship applications are available. Past performances include 32 U.S. presiden-
tial performances, the Houston Symphony, Houston Symphony Pops, Thanksgiving Day Parade, 2004 Super Bowl ceremonies with Josh Groban, Celine Dion, F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Competition at Minute Maid Park, an annual summer program in Galveston and regular National Anthem performances for the Rockets, Astros and Texans. The Chorus has performed in New Zealand, Hong Kong, Russia, Italy (the Vatican), Great Britain, Ireland, Japan, New York’s Carnegie Hall and more. The next open auditions resume in mid-July and are held on Monday and Tuesday evenings. A $50 registration fee applies toward tuition, upon acceptance. To register, parents should visit www.houstonchildren.org or email info@ houstonchildren.org or call 713-650-3800 for more information.
REGISTER NOW! Lone Star College is affordable, close to home, and offers Associate Degrees, certifications for work in high-demand industries, and credits that enable you to transfer anywhere to jump start your career.
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Rockets get busy in offseason
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By MAX EDISON Defender
he Houston Rockets were eliminated from the playoffs by the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals on May 11. It was a disappointing end to a season that saw the team overachieve under the direction of first-year head coach Mike D’Antoni. Despite finishing with the third best regular season record in the NBA (55-27), the franchise brain trust has not stood pat during the offseason. Their aggressive approach once again underscores their commitment to compete on a championship level. The biggest offseason move to date was the Rockets’ acquisition of nine-time All-Star point guard Chris Paul in a multi-player trade with the LA Clippers. “Since winning back-to-back championships [1994, 1995], the pursuit of a third title has remained the ultimate goal for our franchise,” said Rockets owner Leslie Alexander. “We feel that combining two of the league’s greatest players in James Harden and Chris Paul, operating in Coach D’Antoni’s system, gives us a championship caliber team that will compete at the highest level for years to come.” With Paul in the fold, the team once again locked up its resident superstar and face of the franchise, James Harden. In a stunning move the Rockets recently signed the MVP runner-up to a four-year contract extension which will run through the 2022-23 season. The fouryear extension carries a value of $170 million and is the richest extension in NBA history. The Rockets have made the playoffs in all five of Harden’s seasons with the team, while posting a winning percentage of .612. He has been named First Team All NBA in three of the past four seasons and finished second in voting for the Most Valuable Player award in both 2014-15 and 2016-17. “It’s my pleasure to announce we’ve reached agreement with James Harden on a long term contract extension,” Alexander said. “Since he arrived in Houston, James has exhibited the incredible work ethic, desire to win, and passion to be the best that has made him one of the most unique and talented superstars in the history of the game. “Houston is home for me,” said Harden. “Mr. Alexander has shown he is James Harden
Chris Paul
fully committed to winning and my Carmelo Anthony teammates and I are going to keep putting in the work to get better and compete for the title.” The Harden contract is a clear indication to other free agent prospects that the Rockets are a franchise that is stable and committed to its future. After giving up four rotation players from the 2016-17 season, GM Daryl Morey is actively working to add quality depth to the Rockets’ bench. The team re-signed back-up center Nene to a new threeyear deal worth an estimated $11 million dollars. Morey also recently signed former Texas standout P.J. Tucker. A six-year NBA veteran, Tucker is a 6-foot-6 small forward known to be a defensive standout. He also is a close friend Reports out of of Chris Paul. NYC indicate ‘Melo Reports are is willing to waive that Tucker Houston Astros represent in his no-trade clause signed a All-Star game to come to Houston four-year, or Cleveland. Word $32 million from the Rockets is they would love to have him. The deal. uncertainty is what the Rockets would be willing to As the NBA offseason give up versus what would the Knicks accept to move continues the only real question their disgruntled star? that remains is where will New York The NBA offseason is hot and the Rockets are Knicks talented small forward Carmelo smack dab in the middle of it. Stay tuned. Anthony wind up?
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h.s.zone High school track stars discuss summer plans
me,” he said. Allison was considering early enrollment and possibly taking some classes this summer. “champion” by any other name wouldn’t be George Ranch (54 points) finished second in the Class 6A Champion Allison. boys’ team standings to The Woodlands (60). The George Ranch High School senior made Kesean Carter has big plans for the summer after leading a name for himself at the UIL state high school The Woodlands to the 6A team title with gold medals in the track and field meet over the course of his prep 100-meter dash and anchoring the gold medal-winning 4X200 career. meter relay. Allison’s final performance at the 2017 event was simply The junior beat a senior-dominated field in the 100 with scintillating as he took home gold medals in both the 400-meter a time of 10.32 seconds. Jeffery Hulon Jr. of Beaumont West dash and the mile relay. Brook (10.41) placed second and His time of 45.87 seconds Walter Boyd of Cy Fair (10.60) in the 400-meter dash placed him won the bronze medal. Find out about The Woodlands ahead of silver medalist Sean Ethan Bonner, Jacob Barrett head track coach Hooper of Keller Fossil Ridge and Jake Lanier joined Carter on (45.92) and third-place finisher the Highlanders’ 4X200 meter Jon Maas of Northside Clark relay that set a school record (47.15). (one minute, 23.81 seconds) while winning the gold medal. Allison ran the anchor leg behind teammates Jayson “We just kept getting better and better,” Carter said. “We Baldridge, Avery Vesieh and Faybian Marks to secure the got a taste of this experience when we came up here for the gold medal in the 4X400 meter relay with a clocking of three Texas Relays. Now we’ve shown that we deserve the gold minutes, 11.19 seconds. medal.” DeSoto (3:11.44) and Conroe Oak Ridge (3:13.13) placed Carter plans to juggle football and track activities this second and third, respectively. summer. “This was my last high school meet and after this I’ll be The Woodlands varsity football team was a Class 6A state going to the University of Alabama,” Allison said. “This is championship game finalist during the 2016 season. probably the best meet that I’ve ever run. I’ve never been so “Things didn’t work out for us in football but we got the nervous in my life.” rings in track,” Carter said. Allison chose Alabama over Baylor University and Texas “I plan on playing 7-on-7 football and maybe run summer A&M University. track,” he said. “I want to attend some football camps along “I felt really comfortable there and I was advised by a with some camps in track so I can work on my technique. I person close to me that the coach would never turn his back on want to be ready for my senior year.”
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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
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JULY 13 | 2017 | DEFENDER
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sportsbriefs Mayweather has tax issues Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s nickname is “Money” and if you have money, there’s a chance you could have IRS issues, which Mayweather does. He alleges he can’t pay off his 2015 tax liability until after he gets money from his Aug. 26 fight against UFC champ Conor McGregor. Mayweather recently filed a petition with the IRS. “Although the taxpayer has substantial assets, those assets are restricted and primarily illiquid,” the petition said, according to the legal website Law360. “The taxpayer has a significant liquidity event scheduled in about 60 days from which he intends to pay the balance of the 2015 tax liability due and outstanding.” It’s not known exactly how much Mayweather owes for 2015, but in his case, more money equals more problems.
Kaepernick traces roots While everybody discusses why former 49er QB Colin Kaepernick has not been offered an NFL contract, Kap is simply going about his business living his life. He recently travelled to Ghana, where he discovered his “personal independence.” He posted video of his trip on social media on the 4th of July and posed the question, “How can we truly celebrate independence on a day that intentionally robbed our ancestors of theirs?” Kaepernick has traced his ancestral roots to Ghana. Social media has been his venue of choice to discuss his feelings on racial injustice. He had earlier visited Egypt on his trip to the Motherland.
New coach at Pearland James Farmer will take over as interim head football coach at Pearland High School following the surprise retirement of longtime coach Tony Heath. Farmer, 47, has been a 13-year assistant coach at PHS and most recently served as defensive coordinator for the past three seasons. Farmer expects very few changes for the 2017 season. “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” Farmer said. “Tony spent 20 years getting this program where it is, and I’ve spent 13 years trying to help him. My goal is to continue rolling with what he’s built.” Farmer arrived in Pearland in 2003 following coaching stints at Brazoswood and Fort Bend Elkins. He was part of the Pearland coaching staff during the 2010 state championship and again in 2013 when the Oilers advanced to the state finals. Farmer graduated from La Porte High School and played college football at Southwest Texas State University (Texas State) in San Marcos. Heath recommended Farmer for the job. “He relates to the players very well and he’ll do an excellent job,” Heath said. The head football coaching position at PHS will be re-opened to other applicants in January of 2018.
Rogers sparks Oregon Former Kinkaid High School standout studentathlete Raevyn Rogers sparked the University of Oregon’s women’s track team to a rare triple crown recently. After winning her fifth gold medal in the 800-meters, Rogers anchored the Oregon mile relay to another gold medal and enough points to claim the women’s team outdoor title. The Oregon women swept the national cross country, indoor and outdoor titles in one calendar year. Champion Allison
Kesean Carter
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DEFENDER | JULY 13 | 2017
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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
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AFROBEATS DANCE MASTERCLASS…….LydRock and SoundBox Waobikeze, Dr. Ify Nwabukwu, artist Shuleydee, and guests Donna Epkins, Dance Studios hosted renowned choreographer, dancer and actress Sherrie Simmer Harry, Urenena Polk, Dr. Christian Ulasi, Adey Harris, Toyin Silver’s Afrobeats Dance Masterclass. The Houston leg of the world tour allowed Harris, David Willoughby, Paulina Ademuwagun and many others........ local dancers of all ages, both professional and amateur, the opportunity to “DON’T SHOOT” DIRECTOR/CAST MEET & GREET........Film director participate in a dance workshop led by Silver who is known across the globe Justin Milton hosted a powerful meet & greet and discussion on the filmmaking for her infectious energy, uplifting work and viral dance videos. An incredible, industry at Cafe Brasil. Weather did not permit the screening of Milton’s latest spirited workout and learning opportunity was had by all participants including movie “Don’t Shoot.” Undeterred, attendees focused their energies on the other Lekechia Maza, Ronny Johnson, Micaela Tellitt, aspects of the gathering – getting firsthand information on Deborah Queen, Wes Holloway, Bekema Ruth, Akayla the movie-making process, and how to find employment in Defender TOP EVENTS front of or behind the camera. “Don’t Shoot” cast members Gardner, Natasha Bentubo, Kristyl Crayton, Joy Diggs More photos on defendernetwork.com Brooklyn Lowe, Ian Haywood, Braylon Alexander, and many more……..BEST OF AFRICA AWARDS…….. Jessica Law-Davis and Rayvn Johnson mixed and Celebrating its 25th anniversary, USAfrica hosted its Best mingled with attendees. Talent management representatives of Africa Awards honoring individuals who have achieved academic and/or professional success, as well as individuals engaged in successful Tracy Thompson, Julie Denkins, Mee Mee Montgomery and Quanta White were on hand auditioning individuals for future projects. Also in ventures between the U.S. and countries on the African continent. Held at the attendance was Qasim Barnes, Franchesska Melonson, Apryl Haller, Hilton Westchase, the event featured live music, a fashion show and plenty of food. Attendees included USAfrica CEO Dr. Chido Nwangwu, honorees Hope Kiaya Scott, Anthony Howard and others.
LydRock, Sherri Silver
Dr. Chido Nwangwu, Mary Tombiri-Ero
Bree Rowland, Natasha Bentubo, Rita Fyfe
Lekechia Maza, Ronny Johnson, Micaela Tellitt
Tolu Sholeye, Shalewa Olowokere, Toyin Harris, Folake Vaughn
Ian Haywood, Justin Milton, Franchesska Melonson, Qasim Barnes
Tracy Thompson, Quanta White, Julie Denkins, Mee Mee Montgomery
Simmer Harry, Urenena Polk
Orianna Jenkins, Rayvn Johnson
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