MILWAUKEE SEEKS CALM AFTER PROTESTS OVER POLICE SHOOTING P3
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ENTERTAINMENT WHITNEY WHITE finds success on YouTube
P4 FEATURE ANTHONY COLLIER wins business competition
P5 SPORTS P.J. HALL stands out at Sam Houston
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Malik Shabazz, Dr. Carolyn Shabazz and Larry McKinzie at Heroes of Houston gala
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WHAT TEACHERS WANT PARENTS TO KNOW H PAGE 6
Mayor Turner
Sanaá Dotson
Mayor Sylvester Turner is speaking out about his opposition to a proposed mixed-income housing project in the Galleria area. See why Turner isn’t supporting the project. Read his message to kids in Houston’s minority neighborhoods.
Sanaá Dotson of Memorial High School is a rising star in girls’ volleyball. Find out why she gets high marks for her jumping ability. See why her coach said she’s hard to stop. Learn why she paid close attention to the 2016 Olympics.
defends position
plays volleyball
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Turner defends project rejection in a letter that he planned to officially retire during the Aug. 23 board meeting, following criticism from the mayor and news that the Mayor Sylvester Turner is going city would not support the mixed-income on the offensive, not only rejecting project at 2640 Fountain View. criticisms hurled at him via an editorial “I value all neighborhoods of Houston for rejecting the Houston Housing and do not believe that only wealthy areas Authority’s (HHA) plans for a project on have value to our children,” Turner said. Fountain View in the Galleria area, but “We cannot and must not say to the also offering Houstonians a new way of kids in Fifth Ward, Second Ward, Sunnyside, defining quality neighborhoods. Denver Harbor or Acres Homes that unless "I plan to take the housing authority you move to the Galleria area you will forever in a new direction and believe that a be trapped at the bottom of the economic change in leadership will be beneficial in ladder and unable to take part in the American getting us there," Turner said. Dream.” "There is a tremendous need for Turner questioned the economics of the affordable housing throughout the city Fountain View project. He said the 233 units and transforming communities that have would have cost $56 million, which equates A mixed-income apartment complex in the Galleria area was opposed by Mayor Sylvester Turner. been overlooked and underserved for to $240,000 per unit. agency, pointing to the dearth of new affordable housing decades." “Only 23 of the units, just 10 percent of construction in the past decade and shuns plans he believes He later said he was “disappointed” by a Houston the entire project, were to have been designated for families are merely an “argument of helping the poor to advance the Chronicle editorial about his decision to reject HHA plans. living below the poverty line,” he said. interests of others who are interested in profiting.” Turner, who is tasked with appointing the HHA Board Gilliam expressed frustration with "the inability to Lance Gilliam, chairman of the HHA board, announced build new homes for the families we are blessed to serve." of Commissioners, called for new leadership over the By ASWAD WALKER Defender
Mother charged in death of children Defender News Services
Sheborah Thomas is behind bars awaiting a trial date for the murder of her 7-year-old son and 5-yearold daughter. According to authorities, Thomas calmly told an acquaintance that she drowned her two children in a bathtub in their Third Ward home. Thomas, charged with capital murder, is being held without bond. Authorities have not yet confirmed a cause of death and autopsies have been ordered on the children, Kayana and O'Raylan.
Sheborah Thomas
Thomas allegedly found it too difficult to bury her children, so she chose to hide their bodies under a neighbor’s house, HPD spokesman Kese Smith said. The acquaintance told authorities Thomas told him she needed help moving right away when he saw her dumping trash in a field. When the man asked about Thomas’ children, she said she killed them. A spokesperson for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services said state child welfare officials previously visited Thomas’ family but due to policy could not disclose the reason for the visits.
localbriefs HISD WILL OPEN SIX NEW SCHOOLS that were rebuilt as modern learning environments with flexible classrooms, increased access to technology, bursts of color and lots of natural light. The six campuses – Condit and Mark White elementary schools, Mandarin Immersion Magnet School, North Houston and South early college high schools, and Fonwood Early Childhood Center – will open their doors Monday, Aug. 22. Also opening to students this fall is a new classroom wing at Worthing High School……..A PROGRAM TO CURB ILLEGAL DUMPING in Harris County has led to multiple arrests. The Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s
Office set up hidden cameras in about five problem areas. Their message is very clear: If you decide you are going to dump your trash illegally, you will get caught, in most cases, red-handed. “They target this area because we are so close to all the expressways,” Houston City Councilmember Dwight Boykins said. The precinct has 65 cameras at its disposal. At least two cameras at each location are monitored 24 hours a day. Since the cameras went up in January, 178 people have been charged with illegal dumping.......FORT BEND ISD will explore the possibility of becoming a “District of Innovation,” a concept passed by the 84th Texas Legislature which allows
public school districts to access most flexibilities that are available to Texas’ open enrollment charter schools. To receive the designation, each public school district is required to follow specific procedures for adoption, including the creation of an innovation plan, community input and approval by the locally-elected board of trustees…….. METRO’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK is experiencing unprecedented growth. The period from September 2015 to July 2016 marks the largest ridership growth in a decade. Metro has experienced an increase of 4.5 million bus and light rail boardings since the start of its new network.
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U.S.briefs A RALEIGH, N.C. MAN is dead after being shot by a man claiming he was “on the neighborhood watch” and was going to “secure his neighborhood” from “hoodlums” and “frigging Black males with firearms.” Police said Chad Copley fired his shotgun from inside his garage toward the street, and struck 20-year-old Kouren Thomas, who had been attending a party nearby. Thomas died at the hospital, and Copley, 39, was arrested…….MARION CHRISTOPHER BARRY, the son of Washington, D.C.’s late Mayor Marion Barry, died from an apparent drug overdose on Aug. 14. He was 36. Barry’s father, who served as mayor of the District from 1979 to 1991 and 1995 to 1999, died in 2014. The younger Barry attempted to fill his father’s shoes, mounting an unsuccessful bid for his father’s seat on the D.C. Council in 2015 that saw him coming in at sixth place in the contest……. IF CURRENT FEDERAL WEALTHBUILDING policies remain in place, it will take the average African-American family 228 years to amass the same amount of wealth that white families have today and it will take Latino families 84 years to reach that goal, according to a new report from the Corporation for Enterprise Development. The report finds that by 2043, when households of color are projected to account for more than half the U.S. population, the racial wealth divide between white households and African-American and Latino households will have doubled from about $500,000 in 2013 to $1 million……..THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE’S recent scathing report on the Baltimore Police Department spelled out in exacting detail how the BPD violated the constitutional rights of Black residents through a series of brutal and abusive tactics. The DOJ made it clear that the culture of abuse was sanctioned, supported and protected up and down the department’s chain of command.
VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 42 AUGUST 18, 2016 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby
Editors Aswad Walker Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers ReShonda Billingsley Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon 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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Milwaukee calls for calm, Trump seeks Black vote Defender News Service
In the aftermath of unrest in Milwaukee following the police shooting of a motorist, law enforcement and elected officials called for calm while presidential candidate Donald Trump used the city as his backdrop to appeal to AfricanAmerican voters. In the hours after a Black Milwaukee police officer shot and killed Sylville K. Smith, also Black, who police say was armed and turned toward the officer, an hours-long confrontation between officers and community members Protesters damaged a police car during unrest in Milwaukee. occurred and included gun shots and a gas station set community, either.” ablaze. Community activists asked how officers were able to Everything started when Smith reportedly fled police tell by observations at a distance that Smith carried a stolen after a traffic stop. Officer body-cam videos have yet to be gun, and how they were able to determine how many released to the dismay of community members who want rounds were in the weapon while pursuing him. to know if Smith pointed his weapon at officers. Trump, who reportedly has one percent of AfricanAlderman Khalif Rainey, who represents the district American support, attempted to court Black voters by where the violence occurred, said Milwaukee’s Black delivering a message calling for "law and order" in the residents are “tired of living under this oppression,” and country. The speech received mixed reviews, with some added that Milwaukee’s racial problems are undeniable and calling it divisive and filled with contradictions, including need to be rectified. Trump’s choice of venues for delivering his Black voter“This stop took place because two officers ... saw focused speech—a predominantly white Milwaukee suspicious activity,” said Barrett, who asserted that police suburb. recognized Smith’s gun as one that had been stolen in a "I am asking for the vote of every African-American March burglary in suburban Waukesha. “There were 23 citizen struggling in our country today who wants a rounds in that gun that that officer was staring at. I want different future....The Democratic Party has failed and to make sure we don’t lose any police officers in this betrayed the African-American community," said Trump.
Baton Rouge seeks recovery from flood Defender News Services
Baton Rouge is still seeking relief amid continuing after-effects from recent flooding. Across southern Louisiana, residents scrambled to get to safety as rivers and creeks remained swollen from days of heavy rain that in some areas came close to two feet over a 48-hour period. Six people have been reported dead, according to Devin George, the state registrar for vital records. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards said that at least 20,000 people have been rescued so far, with emergency crews using high-water vehicles, boats and helicopters to get the job done. Edwards called
on people to refrain from going out to "sightsee" even as the weather gets better. "This is a serious event. It is ongoing. It is not over," said Edwards. Edwards declared a state of emergency, calling the floods "unprecedented" and "historic." He and his family were forced to leave the governor's mansion when chest-high water filled the basement and electricity was shut off. Some 5,050 people were staying in parish and Red Cross shelters, said Department of Children & Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters. Even more people were staying in private shelters like churches.
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Blacks enjoying YouTube success By JERICA DECK The AFRO
Y
ouTube, the billion-dollar social network, is allowing Blacks to find virtual success and even careers creating and sharing their unique talents and video content. Case in point: six college students cracking jokes and making beats turned into an Internet phenomenon with over 900,000 subscribers and videos with over 3 million views. The group of Atlanta comedians, known as Dormtainment, consists of Amanuel Richards, Jerome “Rome” Green, Members of Dormtainment make viewers laugh and shed light on social issues. Mike Anthony, Daunte “Tay” Dier, Chaz Miller and his brother Cameron Miller. to create their own content such as Logo and LIFT to promote them to the AfricanAfter viral videos like “Ass on the American and LGBT community. and claim to fame. Internet” and one of the first Black Harlem Whitney White’s successful natural hair channel Along with shake videos, they soon expanded their talent Whitney White promotes natural hair care. “Naptural85” found an audience amid the many make-up and making people laugh, past laptop screens. Dormtainment has also used hair tutorials out there. Both Dier and Green went to school for “You can do everything with your hair. Natural hair their sketches to shed light music, and the group created comedic mixtapes, albums and is amazing. It’s so versatile. You can have an Afro one day, on social issues such as police brutality and racism. music videos. Their albums “Broke and Famous” and “Broke straight the next. You can braid it up and even put on a wig. “It’s hard sometimes because we don’t know how to and Famous 2” went to No. 1 on iTunes. There’s so much you can do with natural hair it’s crazy,” joke about certain situations, especially like nowadays with Dormtainment also performs live comedy shows at said White, who has appeared in commercials, performed at everything going on,” Anthony said. “But we know with our colleges across the country and after moving to Los Angeles, comedy we help heal how people are feeling at the moment and Essence Fest and more because of her YouTube success. they’ve worked on a web series with Comedy Central called Although sexologist Shannon Boodram said she’s if we can hit on a little bit on what’s going on it can help them “Six Guys One Car.” sometimes lost jobs for talking about a topic some consider think about it and also maybe start a resolution.” YouTube has allowed users around the world to create and taboo, she has used her passion to rise to the top. She’s currently Internet sensation King Russell, commonly known by his share video content. Producers and performers have received YouTube username Kingsley, also finds his way to both discuss working with MTV and Trojan Condoms to create videos that numerous opportunities from YouTube including recording advocate safe sex. She’s also worked with AIDS health care, social issues and make people laugh. “We’re all vocal, spread contracts, acting careers, endorsement deals, and even earning BET, written a book, and is invited to this year’s VMA’s. petitions, and do anything we can to help. I think through us money from advertising. “We’re all here because of sex,” Boodram said. “I think doing it, it allows everyone else to help as well,” Russell said. Although many high profile YouTubers are white, unlike sex drives a lot of our behavior and our choices. It’s a major Kingsley is one of the most well-known YouTubers with mainstream media, YouTube has given Black users a platform part of lives.” over 3 million subscribers. He’s also worked with companies
what’sup Despite winning a gold medal, GABBY DOUGLAS had to deal with critics over her hair and behavior at the Rio Olympics. Douglas fought back tears when reporters’ questions about her performance turned to questions about a wide range of criticism that has been directed at her – much of it on social media – about her edges, her stance during the playing of the national anthem and her expression in the stands as her teammates performed. Douglas said she had avoided the Internet while in Rio because of the “negativity,” which she said she didn’t understand. One other person speaking out about all of the condemnation is the Olympian’s mother, Natalie Hawkins.
She said her daughter has been “bullied” and attacked……..Comedy Central has decided to pull the plug on “The Nightly Show with LARRY WILMORE.” According to Variety, Thursday, Aug. 18, will be the comedian’s last show and the network will instead air Chris Hardwick’s pop culture quiz show “@Midnight” in the 11:30 p.m. time slot. Network president Kent Alterman said the cancellation was a “business decision” explaining that the show hadn’t “resonated” with their audience. Wilmore said he was “grateful” to the network, Jon Stewart and the fans for the opportunity….….KEVIN HART and Eniko Parrish are officially married. Hart, 37, and Parrish,
31, became engaged about two years ago and tied the knot in California surrounded by friends and family. They shared a few photos from their special day on Instagram……..The hit summer drama series “Greenleaf” starring MERLE DANDRIDGE, LYNN WHITFIELD, KEITH DAVID and OPRAH WINFREY delivered OWN’s most watched Wednesday telecast in network history recently with 2.3 million total viewers and a 1.79 women 25-54 rating. It was also Wednesday night’s No. 1 cable telecast for women. “Greenleaf” is the summer’s No. 1 new series on all of TV across all key African-American demographics.
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TSU students win award Anthony Collier, a history and political science major at Texas Southern University, won first place in the International Competition for Entrepreneurs in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Collier, a junior, and his team of four other Texas Southern students – David Funchess, Shanique Brown, Aubrey Conley, and Ashytn Duncan – were recognized for RadBlok, an innovative electromagnetic chip idea. RadBlok is a 24K-gold chip designed to boost cell phone reception, conserve battery life, and keep the phone at a safe temperature while charging to avoid overheating. TSU was the first and only HBCU among 12 schools from around the world to be admitted into the competition.
FREEDOM TO SAVE FREEDOM FROM INTEREST FREEDOM TO CHOOSE
Anthony Collier
Crowdfunding seminars help small businesses
FORD CREDIT
FOR
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ACROSS THE ENTIRE LINEUP OF 2016 CARS, TRUCKS AND SUVS
add to our current resources and tools for small businesses,” said Alan Watkins, a community development officer. Traditionally, new small businesses have relied heavily on raising capital offline from friends, family and personal savings. With Texas’ new crowdfunding regulations now allowing small private businesses to raise up to $1 million online via approved equity crowdfunding portals, those same businesses can use the capital raised from friends, family, customers and neighbors to leverage loans from local financial institutions. “Offering free crowdfunding education to local entrepreneurs and non-accredited investors will lead to job creation and, ultimately, build better communities,” said Cynthia Nevels of ThinkCrowdFund.com. Visit www.ThinkFirstCrowd. com, www.liftfund.com or www.wellsfargo.com for more information.
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O N S P E C I A L LY TAG G E D V E H I C L E S
Not all buyers qualify for Ford Credit financing. 72 months at $13.89 per month per $1,000 financed regardless of down payment. Supply of vehicles with Smart Bonus is limited. Not available on Focus RS, Shelby GT350, F-650/750. See dealer or go to BuyFordNow.com for qualifications and complete details. For all offers, take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 9/6/2016.
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Wells Fargo is teaming with ThinkCrowdFund. com and LiftFund to conduct a series of workshops and trainings across Texas designed to help small businesses raise working capital online. Sessions will focus on crowdfunding, the practice of funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people, usually via the Internet. Crowdfunding is considered a form of alternative financing outside of the traditional financial system. The partnership provides free education and technical assistance to small and midsize businesses seeking information on how to raise capital for growth. The Houston crowdfunding town hall will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 23, from 10 a.m.-noon at the Houston Technology Center, 410 Pierce. Since its founding two years ago, ThinkCrowdFund.com’s education and outreach work has focused on no-cost solutions to increase access to capital and strengthen economic development in cities across Texas. “Wells Fargo’s new collaboration with ThinkCrowdFund.com and LiftFund is another important community initiative that will
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cente
BACK TO SCHOOL
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What teachers want parents to know By RESHONDA TATE BILLINGSLEY Defender
It’s time to for Houston-area children to head back to school. But as you’re buying new clothes, school supplies, and preparing for your kids to get back in the academic swing of things, what are some things you need to know? The Defender went straight to teachers to ask what they want parents to know. time. It makes a world of difference."
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Keep contact numbers current. This topped the list of what teachers want. “You’d be amazed at the number of parents we can’t get in touch with,” said fifth grade teacher Leslie Madden. “If your number changes, notify the teacher. And lock our numbers in so when we call you will answer the phone and not send us to voice mail because you think we’re a bill collector.”
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Don't wait to check grades. Many parents don’t concern themselves with grades until it’s too late. Teachers suggest that you check the posted grades regularly and don’t come seeking make-up work at the end of the grading period. Ensure your children perform the regular work all along.
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Remember there are two sides to every story. Incidents are bound to happen, these teachers say. Don’t always immediately take your child’s side. “Give us the opportunity to tell our side before you just side with your kids. Talk to us first,” said teacher Donyalla Manns. “Ask me what happened. I can guarantee that I don't ‘hate’ your child,” added Korrin Loo.
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Monitor homework. Homework was a big source of contention for many teachers. Parents are urged to check homework folders and backpacks daily. “If your child says they don't have any homework, make them read for 20-30 minutes. They'd usually rather do their homework,” said teacher Pia Duncan. “Oh, and please don’t insult our intelligence by doing your child’s homework…in your handwriting.”
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Buy extra school supplies now. Everyone knows you buy school supplies at the beginning of the year, but many teachers request that you buy enough now to replenish supplies midyear. “I don't think people really realize how quick the beginning of the school year supplies goes and many teachers are coming even more out of pocket for supplies for kids after the holidays,” said teacher Nikki Royal, who started a nonprofit for this very reason. “Folks are more focused on presents during that time instead of ensuring that their kids are equipped at school.”
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Show up and be involved. Another source of contention for teachers: Parents who aren’t involved. “Show up and not just to clown with teachers,” said teacher Lois Minor. “Show up just to surprise the students. Show up to check on teachers. Show up to volunteer. Many teachers say they go all year without ever hearing from or seeing the parents
he Houston area for over 85 years
of some of their students. Try to volunteer at your child's school or in their class at least one time during the school year. Believe me, it makes a difference and it means the world to your child. We thank you for showing up when your child participates in a program, but we would love to see you for academic purposes as well.”
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Make sure your children are prepared. From eating a decent breakfast to dressing properly to adequate hygiene, one of these teachers' biggest complaints is kids coming to school unprepared. “When you dress your kids, especially girls, keep comfort in mind,” said teacher Celia Anderson. “It's hard to run and play on the playground in dresses and sandals. A good pair of running shoes are the perfect school shoes. Oh, and put your child's name on all of their clothing. You won't believe how many blue jackets look the same.” Adequate sleep among students is something else teachers long for. “Make sure your child gets enough sleep and goes to bed on time,” said teacher Tomaiya Colvin. “[Many] children do not get enough sleep and this attributes to them misbehaving and exhibiting ADHD symptoms. Research how much sleep your aged child needs each night and make them go to bed 10 minutes earlier each night until their body adjusts to the
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Know your child. If your child is a "C" student, don't compare him or her to siblings or friends' kids who are truly "A" students. By the same token, teachers suggest that you stop equating "As" and "Bs" with mastery of content.
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Don't text/call your child in class (especially if it's not important). “Please do not contact your student on their cell phone during school hours,” Loo said. “It interrupts my lesson and distracts other students. It is difficult for teachers to enforce the no cell phone in class policy when they say, ‘My mom is texting/calling me.’ If you need to get a message to your student, call the office and they will forward it to them. And please check the school website for school beginning and ending times. Don't call the school for petty stuff tying up the phone lines. It's all on the website.”
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Talk to your kids. It’s the best way to keep your kids (especially teenagers) accountable. Talking helps you help your child stay on top of things. “Please, slow down to ask them how their day was,” said teacher Jodi Williams. “Even if the reply is always ‘fine.’ Learn from the teacher what the current curriculum is and engage them in conversation about the subject.”
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Sam Houston State flirts with greatness By MAX EDISON Defender
T
he classic hip hop anthem “All I do is Win” could have been written with the Sam Houston State Bearkats football team in mind. In 2015 the Bearkats (11-4), despite a slow start, advanced to the final four in the FCS playoffs, losing to playoff finalist Jacksonville State. This year the Kats are loaded again, seeking to win that elusive national championship. When it comes to sustained excellence over the past five years nobody has been better than the Kats. Sam Houston leads all Texas Division I football teams in victories since 2011. The Kats have won 56 games, followed by Baylor with 50, the University of Houston Defensive end P.J. Hall with 48, TCU with 45 and Texas A&M with third highest single season 43. total in school history. Sam Houston is one of only three teams that have “We have a great earned NCAA Division I Football Championship playoff running back. Corey Avery berths each of the last five years. The Kats have reached the looks really good,” Keeler semi-finals four of the last five seasons, advancing to the said. “He shared time and Championship Game in Frisco in both 2011 and 2012. ran for 1,400 yards. He’s Heading into the 2016 campaign Sam Houston is ranked No. 2 nationally in the preseason STATS top 25 poll, been really pushing this summer. Remus trailing only five-time FCS national champion North Dakota Bulmer and Javin Webb look phenomenal. Corey is in the best shape he has ever been in.” State. For the record they are also predicted to win the Avery will be accompanied in the backfield by Southland Conference crown. quarterback Jeremiah Briscoe who passed for 1,012 With such lofty expectations, third-year head coach K. yards and eight TDs in Sam Houston’s four NCAA C. Keeler is careful to keep his team focused. playoff games last season. “Every year is different. One person can change a lot. Yedidiah Louis, a second team all-conference I know expectations are high but we’re starting from zero,” talent, will be Briscoe’s No. 1 target among a talented Keeler said. “We have to take it one day at a time and keep and gifted group of growing as a team and wide receivers. hopefully have the season defendernetwork.com With eight we’re capable of.” Houston-area Simones come up returning starters on defense, After finishing second big in Rio expect the Kats to be an to McNeese in 2015, Keeler extremely stingy group. is also quick to acknowledge “I think our defense has improved,” Keeler said. that winning the Southland is no walk in the park. “I know coming into this season, there are some lessons “We’re playing faster and really physical. Hopefully that keeps translating and we’ll have a good defense.” we have learned,” Keeler continued. “This is a very good Leading that group will be two-time All-American football league. A lot of it depends on staying healthy. This defensive end P.J. Hall. He has earned his share of preseason conference can match up with anyone in the country.” Offensively the Bearkats return six starters to a unit that praise, being recognized as first-team All-Southland, as well as a preseason All-American candidate. The Seguin, has been one of the most explosive in the nation. The Kats’ Texas, native and two-time All-Southland first teamer is up-tempo offense has rolled up 15,128 total yards the past the program’s all-time leader in tackles for loss (52 for 205 two seasons. First team all-conference running back Corey yards) and is second all-time at SHSU in career sacks (23). Avery rushed for 1,483 yards as a sophomore last year, the
Running back Corey Avery
Quarterback Jeremiah Briscoe
Hall is confident that his defensive mates can be a dominant unit. “As a defensive front, we’re capable of taking over the game,” Hall opined. “We all have experience. In order for our defense to be dominant, we have to be dominant up front.” Starters joining Hall on the defensive front will be Luis Carreno and Sione Latu. Collins Okotcha and A.J. Davis are solid at linebacker and Darion Flowers, Adrian Contreas, Alfonzo McMillian and Carlos Teal will lead a revamped secondary. If the Bearkats can get consistent play from their defense coupled with their explosive offense, this year could be the season they win that elusive FCS national crown.
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Memorial’s Dotson rising volleyball star Volleyball Invitational in Pearland. Many of the state’s elite teams were on hand. The Mustangs finished 5-3 after facing stiff anaá Dotson has become a rising star in competition from Trinity Christian, San Antonio girls’ high school volleyball by hanging Johnson, former multi-time state champion out among the clouds. Amarillo, San Antonio O’Connor, The Kinkaid While the 5-foot-10 sophomore School, Klein Oak, Willis and Highland Park. outside hitter believes her greatest asset is “This was a great experience because it helps communicating with teammates and adding us bond as a team and figure out what we need to energy when things are going awry, Spring work on moving forward,” Gammill said. Branch Memorial head volleyball coach Beth “I knew the history behind some of those Gammill knows Dotson brings that and a lot more teams we played. I’m not sure my kids did and to an already established program with a winning that’s not always a bad thing,” Gammill said. “I track record. told them Amarillo “She’s hard to stop had won five state defendernetwork.com with her jumping ability. titles in a row Find out what area high schools are When you have somebody before and it was ranked in a preseason state football poll. that touches 10 feet, that’s going to be a fun hard to stop,” Gammill match to play. said. “If we get her the right ball, then she’ll put “We weren’t intimidated. We just went out it down.” and played and it was a fun match.” Dotson has Division I college potential Memorial forced Amarillo to a third set because in addition to superb hops, she possesses before succumbing 25-20, 21-25, 25-13. an all-around floor game. She’s a top-notch The Mustangs put away O’Connor, defender who serves well and excels at Kinkaid and Klein Oak (2-0) while finishing off a point from anywhere on winning three-set matches over both the floor. Trinity Christian and Willis. Highland With the summer Olympics in full Park defeated Memorial 2-0. swing she’s been studying both beach Dotson was selected district and gym volleyball on television. Newcomer of the Year as a freshman, “I’m really interested in watching earned all-district honors and was and trying to add to my game and perfect selected a member of the Vype what I do,” she Magazine Top 50 high said. school volleyball players in Gammill has Texas. She believes her team had more than showed what it was made of her share of good in the Adidas tournament. volleyball teams “We’re not as good at Memorial as we’re going to be, since taking but we will work over as head hard and lay out coach in 1992. for balls,” she The Mustangs said. “Our effort are a perennial shows our playoff qualifier character and and regional potential. title contender, “It’s still with a trip to the very early in state volleyball the season and we tournament have a lot to work on,” always the Dotson said. “I thought it primary objective. was a glimpse of what we Memorial was one can do.” of more than 80 schools Memorial will see Klein Oak that competed in the recent 2016 Adidas Texas
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By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
Sanaá Dotson is a volleyball standout at Spring Branch Memorial.
again in newly-revamped District 15-6A. Other 15-6A schools include Northbrook, Spring Woods, Stratford, Klein, Klein Forest and Klein Collins. Spring Branch ISD schools will now compete in Region II-6A following years of competition in Region III. “We’re in a more competitive district this year so it should be a lot of fun,” Dotson said.
classified REQUEST FOR BIDS
HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 2016 Banner Pole Replacement PROJECT #16-590.800-01
The Houston Downtown Management District (the “Downtown District”) will receive sealed bids for replacement of banner poles in downtown Houston, Texas. Bids will be received until 10:00 AM, local time on Friday September 02, 2016, at the Downtown District, 2 Houston Center, 909 Fannin, Ste. 1650, Houston, Texas 77010. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Questions concerning bids must be submitted prior to 5:00 PM on Friday, August 26, 2016, by email to: joe@downtowndistrict.org. Answers to questions will be sent to all contractors who picked up a bid package. Bid packages can be picked up at 909 Fannin, Suite 1650 beginning on August 22, 2016.
Notice of Proposed Goal
for the Participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation Assisted Contracts The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) Transportation Department has proposed an overall goal for the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) in its contracts with financial assistance provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT):
23% for FY 2017-2020 contracts with financial assistance provided by USDOT, including through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
The proposed goal and its rationale will be available for review until September 30, 2016 and may be inspected at H-GAC Offices between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday at 3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 120, Houston, TX 77027. This material is also available online at www.h-gac.com/taq/plans_programs/dbe. H-GAC is hosting a workshop for DBEs that provide Engineering, Planning, Advertising and Public Relations services on Thursday, August 25, 2016, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. 3555 Timmons Lane, 2nd Floor in Conference Room B, Houston, TX 77027. A public meeting will be held on Thursday, August 25, 2016, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the same location. H-GAC and TxDOT will accept written comments on the goal through September 30, 2016. Written comments can be directed to the agencies below: Houston-Galveston Area Council Transportation Department ATTN: Ms. Lydia Abebe Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer (DBELO) P.O. Box 22777 Houston, TX 77227 dbelo@h-gac.com Texas Department of Transportation Civil Rights Division 125 E. 11th Street Austin, TX 78701-2409
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DEFENDER | AUGUST 18 | 2016
sportsbriefs More honors for UH QB Ward University of Houston quarterback Greg Ward Jr. was named to a sixth preseason award watch list when the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced its preseason watch list for the 2016 Manning Award. A finalist for the Manning Award in 2015, Ward has also appeared on preseason watch lists for the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, the Davey O’Brien Award, the Maxwell Award, the Wuerffel Trophy and the Johnny Unitas Award. The Manning Award was created in honor of the college football accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning. It is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting.
Volleyball’s best meet in Pearland More than 80 of the best high school volleyball teams in Texas met in the Adidas Texas Volleyball Invitational in Pearland and Lewisville Hebron took home the tournament championship trophy. The fifthseeded Lady Hawks won all eight of their matches, including a 25-15, 23-25, 25-16 decision over Plano West in the title match. Clear Creek (7-1) had the best showing among Houston-area schools. The Lady Wildcats defeated Pearland Dawson (6-2) 25-18, 21-25, 25-17 to finish in ninth place. Friendswood (6-2), Deer Park (6-3), Pearland (5-2) and Memorial (5-3) also had successful runs in the tournament.
Heights has motivation The Heights High School (formerly Reagan HS) varsity football team will have plenty of motivation going into the 2016 season. After going 9-1 during the 2015 regular season, the Bulldogs were a surprising first-round playoff victim. Heights will open the 2016 season Aug. 27 against Fort Bend Travis at Mercer Stadium (6:30 p.m.) A must-see game on the Heights schedule will be Oct. 14 at Delmar Stadium when the Bulldogs square off against District 18-6A rival Lamar. Last year’s game was supposed to be a measuring stick for then Reagan and Lamar prevailed 33-14. Whether Heights has closed the gap remains to be seen. Heights junior cornerback Jalen Green is one of the most exciting players in the city with 24 college scholarship offers already on the table. In addition to Lamar, Heights will also have to navigate through Bellaire, Westside, Chavez, Westbury and Sam Houston to secure one of the district’s four playoff berths.
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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
topevents
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SUPER BOWL PITCH DAY……..The Houston Super Bowl Host Committee also aided the Fort Bend Seahawks Youth Football and Cheer Organization. held its first Super Bowl Business Connect Pitch Day at the Buffalo Soldiers The NoXpense Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to National Museum. Over 100 local, diverse businesses presented a five-minute enhancing goals and aspirations through mental, physical, and social exercise. pitch to Host Committee staff and community partners. The Pitch Day was Honorees included Ben Becker, Adrienne Muray, Kathy Buford Daniels, created to provide an opportunity for businesses to gain to potential Super Bowl Carolyn Shabazz, John Gibbs Sr., Larry McKinzie, Harolyn Minix, Gerry 51 related contract opportunities through the Business Connect program. The Monroe, Zoe Parker, State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Kevin Walker and many Super Bowl Business Connect is a partnership between more……..SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT FUNDAY the National Football League and the Host Committee to 100 Black Men Metropolitan Houston Defender TOP EVENTS SUNDAY……..The link diverse Houston suppliers to contracting opportunities Chapter held its Small Business Spotlight at the Turkey Leg More photos on defendernetwork.com related to the big game, which is Feb. 5, 2017, at NRG Hut. The business spotlight is a quarterly event for small Stadium. In attendance were Kevin Cooper, LaMecia African-American-owned businesses. Participants supported Butler, Johndrea Slay, Ja‘lin Slay, Chandre Ward, Joseph James, Ayesha the owners of the Turkey Leg Hut, Lynn and Nakia Price. The 100 Black James, Cheryl Williamson, Arnetta Meekins, Nicole Dial, Jodi Braham and Men Metropolitan Houston Chapter is an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of the community, and enhancing educational and economic a host of others........HEROES OF HOUSTON GALA……..The NoXpense Project recently held its Heroes of Houston gala at the Sunnyside Multiopportunities for all African-Americans. Attendees included Derek Holmes, Service Center. The event was organized by Spencer and Monique Johnson Ollie Reed, John Gilmore III, Juan Wyms, Adraon Greene, Rusell Price and a host of community and 100 Black Men members. to honor those who have made a difference in the community. The event
Ayesha James, Joseph James
Kevin Cooper, LaMecia Butler
Travis McGee, Minister Robert Muhammad, Shelby Stewart
Malik Shabazz, Dr. Carolyn Shabazz, Larry McKinzie
Derek Holmes, John Gilmore III, Ollie Reed, Juan Wyms
Nakia Price, Lynn Price
Cheryl Williamson, Arnetta Meekins, Nicole Dial, Jodi Braham
State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Anthony Collier
Donald Shepard, Adraon Greene, Rusell Price
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T:13 in
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