HS ZONE
AUSTIN HIGH SCHOOL RECEIVER DONALD HARPER LEADS YOUTH MOVEMENT P10
facebook.com/DefenderNetwork
Houston’s Leading Black Information Source
Volume 85 | Number 46 SEPTEMBER 15, 2016 |FREE
www.defendernetwork.com
twitter.com/DefenderNetwork
NEWSTALK
MORRIS CHESTNUT
FRENCHY’S CHICKEN
original restaurant relocating
P2 OPINION
UNCOVERED
NEW BLACK MUSEUM in D.C. focuses on history
P7
H PAGE 5
SPORTS WHITNEY MERCILUS becomes Texans’ star
UH sees re cord enroll ment, dive rse makeu p
P8
defendernetw ork.com
health Defender Spe cial
TOP EVENTS
Ernest Walker, honoree Al Jarreau and Eva Pickens at KTSU induction ceremony
P11
Dental health care
H PAGE 1B
15 | 2016 | DEFE
NDER
5 dteipnstafol rcare
SPECIAL EDITION
Whether you’re eight or 80, oral health is important. The Defender takes an in-depth look at dental care in a special health edition. Get tips on keeping your breath fresh. Learn about dental care for little ones and why it should start early. Get the facts on Blacks and oral cancer, and discover options for missing teeth. Find out about the oral care gap in the Black community and where to go for low-cost dental care.
SEPTEMBER
Edition
Whether you are 80 or 8, oral to see a dentis health is impor t each year, even tant. It’s estim dental diseas ated that 100 e. Here are some though regular examinatio million Amer ns and good tips from the icans fail oral hygiene American Denta Regular denta can prevent most l Association l visits can help (ADA). spot problems more affordable. early on when Visiting your treatment is likely symptoms that dentist is also important becau can appear in to be simpler the mouth. se some medic and al conditions have Brush your teeth twice a day – your toothbrush especially before every three or bedtime – with accepted fluori four months a soft-bristled or sooner if the de toothpaste. bristles are frayed brush. Replace . Use an ADA Gently move your toothbrush surfaces and back and forth chewing surfac in short stroke es of s. Brush the strokes. Brush outer your tongue to the teeth. Clean inside the front teeth with surfaces, inner remove bacter ia and keep your up-and-down breath fresh. Clean between teeth daily with floss to help remov e plaque and food particles. Eat a balanced diet, limit betwe containing sugar, en-me which can contri al snacks and drink plenty of water. Bewa bute to tooth decay. re of foods
1 2 3 4 5
Bad breath causes, solut ions
Bad breath, or halitosis, is Dental Assoc iation, bad breath a common and unpleasant naturally live problem. Acco in your mouth can happen anytime becau rding to the Amer . se of the hundr ican When you eat, eds of types bacteria feed of bacteria that product behin d. Here are some on the food left in your mouth tips on preve • Brush and nting bad breath and leave a foul-smellin floss g waste . • Drink enoug your teeth more often. h water. When odor-causing your mouth bacteria can doesn’t have develop. enough moist • Be aware of ure to produce coffee and alcoh foods that can cause bad saliva, breath, such ol. as garlic, onion • Take remov s, various spicy able foods, • Use a mouth dentures out at night and clean them thoro however, is only wash that can help reduc ughly. e plaque and gingivitis and and floss, the a temporary solution, as are breath freshen breath more likely your . Mouthwash breath will offend mints and gum. The , longer you wait . to brush
Parents se ek oral care on child’s first birthd ay
If you’re the parent of a little visit should one, be aware coincide that their first “Current guide with their first birthday. dental ing the exam teach Dentistry recom lines by the American es the paren Academy of mends estab identify norm ts how to open 1,” said Dr. Pediatric lishing a denta al struct the child’s mout Esther Yang l home by the “Tricks to gentlyures. , a pediatric h and Hospital. age of dentist with maneuver the get bitten can Texas Child mouth and teeth be “The question ren’s so as not to infant’s mout quite helpful. Showing many paren early and what the h and making will the dentis ts and practitioners ask first visit,” she the daily habit parents how to clean the reason woul is, t do ‘Why said. routine is also for my baby at d be part of the that visit?’ The so Yang parent’s hands education and prevention main of using said that in reviewing .” , placing the health a bottle as a power into the Yang said the pacifier is stress y dietary habits, the dange dental home She warned the dentist and ed to the paren rs that allowing patient where is an ongoing relationship t. bottle feedin a child to fall delivered, such all g bathes the between asleep while as comprehen aspects of oral health care teeth ally, dentists nursing or ing and denta discourage frequ and tongue in milk and l trauma care. sive care, prevention, dietar can be debri ent nighttime Yang added y counsel“At the first bottle feedin s. “Idethat the most visit, the dentis ing fears of gs,” she said. important part tifying both the dentist. t will perform of normal and the first a visit clinical exam “Parental appre abnor is allayexam is gener idenhension ally minimal mal oral structures,” Yang influencing and noninvasiv said. “The the child’s behav has been proven to be e. Many times a strong factor come in early ior,” she said. performin and have their “Therefore, if the way for a healthy, happ dental concerns addressed the parents defendern it can pave y dental home etwork .”
.com • Ser
ving the Ho
uston are
a for over
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
85 years
1B
2
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
defendernetwork.com
newstalk
PVAMU got paid despite loss to A&M By TEXAS TRIBUNE
Texas A&M University got a 67-0 win when it played Prairie View A&M University in football recently. PVAMU received $450,000. That kind of arrangement may be startling to non-fans, but the two teams were participating in what has become a September tradition in college football: A big school schedules a small school for a home game, promising itself an easy win and millions of dollars in ticket and concessions revenue. The smaller school gets cash in return, which is often in short supply in mid-major sports. The matchups are known as “guarantee” games because the schools sign contracts guaranteeing payments years in advance. But lately, because of competitive pressures and conference rules, many big schools have shown less interest in those matchups. That has created concerns among
the smaller schools that they could lose one of their most reliable sources of money. “I think it will hurt some programs a lot when it comes to revenue,” PVAMU Athletic Director Ashley Robinson said. PVAMU and A&M are in different divisions but are both members of the Texas A&M University System, and they met on the football field at the suggestion of Chancellor John Sharp. “If [A&M] is going to pay $500,000 to play someone, then let’s keep it in the family,” Sharp said. “Prairie View is going to leave with half a million to put in their program and I am pleased with that.” PVAMU made more money off the A&M game than it made off all ticket revenue generated by all sports during the 2014-15 school year, according to the school’s most recent NCAA financial report.
Presentation to parents
Houston Congressman Al Green presented the parents of 19 local graduates of the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point, with flags flown above the Capitol. He is pictured with Mrs. Norma Romero, the mother of West Point graduate Christian Romero. “I am proud I was able to join these distinguished young people as well as their parents, and further highlight the importance of their achievement,” Green said. “These young men and women truly represent the many exemplary young people we have not only in Houston, but all over our great nation.”
Original Frenchy’s to close, relocate Frenchy’s original location may soon be closing its doors, after Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church announced plans to expand. The church bought the property over the summer and plans to build a new sanctuary over the original location. But Frenchy’s fans aren’t completely out of luck. The restaurant, founded in 1969 by Percy Cruezot Jr., has more than 30 locations up and running now with future expansions on the horizon. Frenchy’s president Percy Cruezot III said that there were plans in place to tear down the original location and build a new one, reportedly not too far from the original location although no
specific timeline has been given. A Frenchy’srelated organization called 3919 Scott Street has bought a city block near the corner of Scott and Hadley. The original Frenchy’s on Scott has become a business training ground for generations of Creuzot’s family. A second branch is operated by the family at a nearby supermarket. While many fans will hate to see the original building go, Cruezot III said it’s time. “The building is old and very limiting. We think Houston deserves a new building that will allow us to serve more customers in a better, more efficient manner,” he said.
localbriefs THE FIRST BLACK UNDERGRADUATES at the University of Texas were honored by UT for making history 60 years ago. The seventy-plus Black students enrolled at UT in 1956. Three of those first Black students – Leon Holland, Edna Rhambo and Charles Miles – reflected on their time on campus and some of the challenges they endured as students. Rhambo called her first year on campus difficult, saying that she wasn’t allowed to do much outside of schoolwork.…. .MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER opposes a proposed textbook currently under consideration for the 2017 school year. The mayor’s opposition is based on his own reading of parts of the Momentum Instruction,
LLC’s “Mexican American Heritage” textbook, as well as reviews by experts in history and Mexican-American studies who say the book is filled with errors and hateful stereotypes. Turner is urging adoption of an alternative textbook that features the cultural and historical contributions Mexican-Americans and other Hispanics have made to the building and collective identity of the United States…….CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE is requesting an immediate investigation to the possible unlawful destruction of over 20,000 pieces of evidence by the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. An internal investigation by Precinct 4 revealed that Corporal Chris Hess had
been destroying evidence in direct violation of evidence control protocol since 2007. No charges have been formally filed against Hess or any other individual responsible for the mass destruction of evidence…….. THE AFRICAN AMERICAN FAITH-BASED MENTAL HEALTH initiative is bringing together a collaboration of area churches to provide tools, knowledge and resources for the Black community to strengthen mental well-being. “Peeling Back the Layers: Tools for Healing the Hurt” is a free conference on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 9 a.m-3:30 p.m. at Windsor Village Kingdom Builders Center, 6011 W. Orem Drive. Visit www.aafbmh.org/conference for more information.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
U.S.briefs THE NYPD OFFICER who killed Eric Garner with a deadly chokehold saw a sizable pay increase while assigned to desk duty. Daniel Pantaleo, who was not charged in the controversial death of the Staten Island father of six, reportedly earned $119,996 from the department in fiscal year 2016. That’s $20,000 more than he earned before he was placed on modified duty after Garner’s death in July 2014. Garner’s daughter, Erica Garner, slammed the city and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio over the revelation, including the city’s refusal to release disciplinary records for the officer… …..A $15 MILLION GIFT will help free innocent people from prison. The donation will help the Ohio Innocence Project, a program in Ohio that has helped free 24 people who were imprisoned for crimes they didn’t commit. Richard “Dick” Rosenthal, a longtime benefactor in the Cincinnati region, gave the donation to allow the program to operate in perpetuity and expand its work. Rosenthal said the Ohio Innocence Project “has a laudable mission” in seeking to free every innocent person in the state.….. CIVIL RIGHTS ADVOCATES challenged Alabama’s practice of electing appellate judges by statewide vote, saying the result is all-white courts in a state where one in four people is African-American. The lawsuit filed on behalf of NAACP’s Alabama chapter and four Black voters in Montgomery federal court argues that at-large judicial elections in Alabama violate Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act by diluting the voting power of African-American citizens. The lawsuit comes with only weeks to go before Election Day.......FERGUSON ACTIVIST Darren Seals was found fatally shot and burned on Sept. 9. Seals rose to prominence after the police shooting of Michael Brown in 2014. St. Louis County Police officials are investigating Seals’ death as a homicide, but have not shared a possible motive.
VOLUME 85 • NUMBER 46 SEPTEMBER 15, 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).
national
3
School police officers urged to use caution Civil rights groups in Richmond, Va. have 100 and 150 such positions each year through filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of DOJ’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Education over the treatment of Black students in Services. T local schools, alleging students are disproportionThe vast majority of the roughly 19,000 school resource officer positions in K-12 instituately targeted by police officers who work in the educational system. tions, however, are funded on the state or local The complaint comes nearly a year after level. a school-based police officer at Spring ValThe COPS office announced that it will reley High School quire local police flipped a student agencies to follow out of her chair in a new rubric if they South Carolina; want to receive half a year after a federal funding for school-based police the hiring of school officer was caught resource officers. hitting a child in Although only Baltimore; and a small sliver of five months after school resource a video showed a officers are funded school-based police through the federal officer in Texas government, leaders body-slamming a say they hope the 12-year-old girl to new rules will guide the ground. school districts and The Departpolice agencies A South Carolina school officer was filmed roughing up a student. ment of Education across the counand Department of try in developing and Justice have a new tool designed to address some evaluating their school resource officer programs. of these issues. The rubric recommends that school districts Over the past two decades, the number of and police agencies develop formalized partnerpolice officers stationed in K-12 schools has risen ships before placing police in schools. The rubric dramatically in the name of student safety. The also recommends that agencies effectively train federal government has contributed to this rise in school resource officers on how to work with kids, school-based police officers ― also called school and teach them about implicit bias and childhood resource officers, or SROs ― by funding between development.
HBCUs see enrollment rise amid racial tension Student protests at the University of Missouri last year captured the national spotlight and uncovered deep-seated racial tension on campus. Several other campuses were also on edge, including the University of Oklahoma and University of Mississippi. Walter M. Kimbrough, president of historically Black Dillard University, points to the “Missouri Effect” as an explanation for the enrollment increase this year at HBCUs. Kimbrough said freshmen enrollment is up by 22 percent at his university, 49 percent at Shaw University in North Carolina, and 32 percent at Tuskegee University in Alabama. Many university presidents are apparently
unaware of racial tensions on their own campus. A recent Inside Higher Ed and Gallup survey found that 84 percent of them believe race relations are excellent or good on their campus. Kimbrough said he graduated from predominantly white universities and believes that AfricanAmerican students can flourish in that environment. However, parents and students who choose those institutions must do so with their eyes wide open. For example, don’t expect to find many Black professors at a university located in a rural area of a mostly white state. At the same time, Kimbrough calls on white university presidents to lead the way on campus inclusiveness.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
4
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 defendernetwork.com
Myths about buying a home: Know the truth By SPIRO PETRITSIS
You want to own your own home, but you’ve heard it’s tough to get a loan. You assume you don’t have enough saved for a down payment, or your credit score or income isn’t high enough. So you put off applying, or you close the door on ever buying a home. Sound familiar? Many Americans say they want to be homeowners and they think now is a good time to buy, according to Wells Fargo’s “How America Views Homeownership” survey. But many people may be holding back because of some persistent myths about what it takes to qualify for a loan. Here are some common myths about homebuying, and the truth behind them. Myth #1: I need a perfect credit score to buy a home, or I need more credit history. In our survey, nearly two-thirds of people believe they need a very good credit score to buy a home, with one-third thinking a “good credit score” is over 780. The truth is that a score of over 780 is generally considered “excellent” and over 660 is generally considered “good.” There are financing programs available for home-
buyers with a range of credit scores or limited credit history. Some programs allow you to use rent, mobile phone or utility payments to show credit history. The important thing to remember is that a lender looks at your entire financial picture so find out what options you may have before excluding yourself. Myth #2: I need a down payment of at least 20 percent. In the Wells Fargo’s survey, more than a third of people believe a 20-percent down payment is re-
quired. The belief was even more common among Hispanics (50 percent) and African Americans (48 percent). In reality, you may have options. Some financing programs allow qualified homebuyers to put down as little as 3 percent. A home mortgage consultant can walk you through your options. Myth #3: I need to make more money to qualify for a mortgage. Income is an important factor in qualifying for a home loan, but don’t assume it has to be high. Financing programs are available for a wide range of incomes. The key is demonstrating your ability to repay the loan. Lenders look at a variety of factors, including your income, assets, debt-to-income ratio, credit history, credit scores and the amount of the loan compared to the value of the property. If you want to buy a home but you assume you won’t qualify, it’s worth a closer look. Don’t rule yourself out before busting the myths and learning the facts. Spiro Petritsis is the Wells Fargo Home Mortgage area sales manager and is based in Houston. He can be reached at 713-402-3639.
1303_19065 9.75x6.5 4c
Let’s Make It Happen Won a new client. Moved into a new space. Upgrade my equipment.
For a limited time, we’re offering special interest rate discounts on select new small business loans and lines of credit. Don’t miss out on the Great Rate Event! For more information stop by Wells Fargo, call 1-800-359-3557 or visit wellsfargo.com/GreatRate
Commercial Real Estate Line of Credit | Wells Fargo BusinessLoan® Term Loan Unsecured Business Lines of Credit | Equipment Express® Loan The Great Rate EventSM, a special interest rate discount promotion, is available on new small business loans and lines of credit, and commercial real estate equity line of credit applications submitted from July 1, 2016 through September 30, 2016. To qualify for the small business discounts, customers must apply for a new, Wells Fargo BusinessLoan term loan, Equipment Express loan, or unsecured business lines of credit during the offer period and enroll in automatic payments at the time of application. Small Business automatic payments may originate from any deposit account, including a non‑Wells Fargo account. To qualify for the Commercial Real Estate Equity Line of Credit discount, customers must apply during the offer period. All applicable credit products are subject to credit qualification, and income verification, additional evaluation and verification criteria may apply. Please contact a Wells Fargo banker for further details. Deposit products offered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. © 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801 (3181303_19065)
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
entertainment
5
Morris Chestnut on life, latest offering
M
By KAM WILLIAMS Contributing Writer
orris Chestnut, who currently stars on the Fox series “Rosewood,” has been appearing in television and movies for the past two
decades. His film roles include “Heist” and “The Perfect Guy.” He starred in “The Best Man Holiday,” a hit sequel which had the fifth-largest opening ever for an R-rated romantic comedy. The picture also garnered Morris an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actor In A Motion Picture. Previously, he’s starred opposite Halle Berry in “The Call” and opposite Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy in “Identity Thief.” On TV, he was a series regular on “Legends,” and was featured on “American Horror Story.” He enjoyed a recurring role on “Nurse Jackie,” for which he won an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series. Here, he talks about his latest outing as John Taylor opposite Regina Hall and Jaz Sinclair in “When The Bough Breaks,” a psychological thriller directed by Jon Cassar. Kam Williams: Congratulations on your Regina Hall and Morris Chestnut reunite in “When the Bough Breaks.” TV series, “Rosewood,” which has been doing so well. Regina Hall again and with director Jon Cassar. Morris Chestnut: Thank you. This movie was a Also, it was an opportunity for me to be the lead in a bit of a departure from that, but I’ve definitely been thriller, so I jumped at it. having a great time doing the show. KW: How was it reuniting with Regina Hall? KW: What interested you in “When the Bough MC: I love working with her. Until now, Regina Breaks?” only did comedy. But I knew she had the talent to do MC: Once I read the script, I liked its fresh drama, because she’s such a terrific actress. perspective and how it took a different take on the KW: What did you think of Jaz Sinclair’s pergenre. I was also looking forward to working with formance? This is only her second film, but it might
very well be the breakout role of an emerging ingenue. MC: Jaz is incredible. She’s a tremendous talent that Hollywood and the world need to be on the lookout for. I also enjoyed working with Michael Kenneth Williams and the rest of the cast. We had a great time together. KW: The film certainly does offer a unique variation on the “obsessed other woman” theme in that she’s a surrogate mother. MC: Right. Some people have compared it to “Fatal Attraction” or “The Hand that Rocks the Cradle,” but it’s an interesting take since she has her baby inside of her. KW: Did you model your character, John Taylor, specifically on anybody? MC: No. It wasn’t until after a few people who go to the same gym saw the trailer that I learned about someone who’d been in a similar situation. In preparation, I basically drew on different experiences that would justify the behavior of this character. KW: What message do you think people will take away from it? MC: First and foremost, I want them to be entertained. But the one thing I did like about Regina’s and my character was that we seemingly have it all. But no one has everything in life, even though it often appears that some do. I tell that to young kids when I speak to them. I tell them, “Do the best you can in living your life, and don’t glorify anyone else’s life.” KW: When do you feel the most content? MC: When I’m able to put smiles on people’s faces for various reasons. KW: Who is the person who led you to become the person you are today? MC: Both of my parents. They instilled morals, values and certain philosophies in me.
what’sup SOLANGE KNOWLES was reportedly harassed by a group of white women at an Kraftwerk electronic music concert because she was dancing along with the music. The women demanded she sit down and when she refused, they allegedly threw a lime at her back. Knowles took to Twitter to note how she and her friends were only four of about 20 Black concert goers out of a crowd of 1,500 and instances like that are “why Black women stay angry.” She ended her Tweets on a positive note, writing how she basically ignored them and continued to have a good time…..…SEAN “DIDDY” COMBS once
again tops Forbes’ “Cash Kings” list, raking in $62 million dollars in 2016. It is his fifth time taking the top spot. The hip-hop ranking is now in its 10th year. Rounding out the top five are JAY-Z, DR. DRE, DRAKE and WIZ KHALIFA……..“Black-ish” creator KENYA BARRIS has been sued by a former collaborator who said Barris stole the show idea from him. Music video director Bryan Barber, who helmed the 2006 film “Idlewild,” said he met Barris at Clark Atlanta University in 1996 and formed a partnership with him 10 years later. Barber claims Barris wrote, developed and shopped the “Black-ish pilot”
based off a script about Barber’s life.……. Entertainer BEN VEREEN has allegedly been married to two women for 36 years, and a judge is now urging him to settle his dispute with his first wife outside of court. Vereen, 69, married his first wife, Andrea, 52 years ago. The two separated shortly after their marriage. Andrea thought they were divorced, until she went to collect her Social Security and discovered not only were they not divorced, but some other woman was collecting under his name. Vereen married Nancy Bruner in 1976. They divorced in 2012.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
6
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
defendernetwork.com
UH sees record enrollment, diverse makeup The University of Houston experienced record enrollment with a fall 2016 headcount of 43,797 students – an increase of 2.5 percent over last fall. In addition to new students, 103 new faculty joined UH this fall, including five members of the prestigious National Academies. While UH is growing, it is also maintaining its diverse makeup, with no single ethnicity in the majority. Hispanic students make up 29 percent of the student body, followed by whites (26.8 percent), Asian Americans (20.5 percent) and AfricanAmericans (9.7 percent). UH is ranked No. 2 in diversity in the “national university” category by U.S. News and World Report. “We take great pride in our diverse student population and we believe the competencies our students gain through diverse student engagement experiences prepare them to thrive personally and professionally in a global society,” said Richard Walker, vice chancellor/vice president for student affairs and enrollment services. “Our record enrollment and ability to attract world-class faculty are indications of the University of Houston’s dedication to student success as well as our rising reputation, both academically and athletically,”
said UH President Renu Khator. “We continue to have high hopes and ambitious objectives for our University, and I welcome all of the new Cougars who have joined us on this journey.” More than 4,400 UH students are freshmen. Increasingly, first-time college students are choosing to participate in UHin4, a comprehensive plan for on-time graduation in four years. UHin4 includes a fixed-rate
SMOKEY
ROBINSON JONES HALL n
Friday, October 7, 8pm
With over 4,000 songs and five decades as a preeminent R&B artist, legendary Smokey Robinson continues to thrill sold-out audiences around the world.
SMOKEY ROBINSON
PERFORMANCE PRELUDE 7:25pm l Jones Hall Lobby Sonkiss’d Dance Theater
2016-2017 SEASON BRING THE WORLD’S BEST TO HOUSTON
Defender_4.79x6.5_Smokey.indd 1
SPAHOUSTON.ORG 713.227.4772
9/7/16 4:14 PM
tuition program and offers students resources to pursue a clear path to graduation. “Students participating in UHin4 have higher GPAs and retention rates — these are clear indications that the program is effective, which is encouraging to students and to the University,” said Paula Myrick Short, senior vice chancellor/senior vice president for academic affairs and provost for UH. “The academic progress of our incoming freshman has improved over the past two years, and I fully expect it to have a positive impact on graduation rates.” The UH colleges that are seeing the most enrollment growth this fall are the Graduate College of Social Work, which is experiencing a 20.8 percent increase in enrollment, followed by the College of Technology, which is up 9.4 percent. The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences remains UH’s largest college, with almost 11,000 students, following by the College of Technology (6,300), C.T. Bauer College of Business (6,100) and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (5,500).
defendernetwork.com
health
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
1B
Defender Special Edition
5
tips for dental care
Whether you are 80 or 8, oral health is important. It’s estimated that 100 million Americans fail to see a dentist each year, even though regular examinations and good oral hygiene can prevent most dental disease. Here are some tips from the American Dental Association (ADA).
1 2 3 4 5
Regular dental visits can help spot problems early on when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. Visiting your dentist is also important because some medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth. Brush your teeth twice a day – especially before bedtime – with a soft-bristled brush. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Use an ADAaccepted fluoride toothpaste. Gently move your toothbrush back and forth in short strokes. Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces and chewing surfaces of the teeth. Clean inside the front teeth with up-and-down strokes. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh. Clean between teeth daily with floss to help remove plaque and food particles.
Eat a balanced diet, limit between-meal snacks and drink plenty of water. Beware of foods containing sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay.
Bad breath causes, solutions
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common and unpleasant problem. According to the American Dental Association, bad breath can happen anytime because of the hundreds of types of bacteria that naturally live in your mouth. When you eat, bacteria feed on the food left in your mouth and leave a foul-smelling waste product behind. Here are some tips on preventing bad breath. • Brush and floss your teeth more often. • Drink enough water. When your mouth doesn’t have enough moisture to produce saliva, odor-causing bacteria can develop. • Be aware of foods that can cause bad breath, such as garlic, onions, various spicy foods, coffee and alcohol. • Take removable dentures out at night and clean them thoroughly. • Use a mouthwash that can help reduce plaque and gingivitis and freshen breath. Mouthwash, however, is only a temporary solution, as are breath mints and gum. The longer you wait to brush and floss, the more likely your breath will offend.
Parents seek oral care on child’s first birthday If you’re the parent of a little one, be aware that their first dental visit should coincide with their first birthday. “Current guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends establishing a dental home by the age of 1,” said Dr. Esther Yang, a pediatric dentist with Texas Children’s Hospital. “The question many parents and practitioners ask is, ‘Why so early and what will the dentist do for my baby at that visit?’ The main reason would be education and prevention, placing the power into the parent’s hands.” Yang said the dental home is an ongoing relationship between the dentist and patient where all aspects of oral health care can be delivered, such as comprehensive care, prevention, dietary counseling and dental trauma care. “At the first visit, the dentist will perform a clinical exam identifying both normal and abnormal oral structures,” Yang said. “The exam is generally minimal and noninvasive. Many times perform-
ing the exam teaches the parents how to open the child’s mouth and identify normal structures. “Tricks to gently maneuver the mouth and teeth so as not to get bitten can be quite helpful. Showing the parents how to clean the infant’s mouth and making the daily habit routine is also part of the first visit,” she said. Yang said that in reviewing healthy dietary habits, the dangers of using a bottle as a pacifier is stressed to the parent. She warned that allowing a child to fall asleep while nursing or bottle feeding bathes the teeth and tongue in milk and debris. “Ideally, dentists discourage frequent nighttime bottle feedings,” she said. Yang added that the most important part of the first visit is allaying fears of the dentist. “Parental apprehension has been proven to be a strong factor in influencing the child’s behavior,” she said. “Therefore, if the parents come in early and have their dental concerns addressed it can pave the way for a healthy, happy dental home.”
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
2B
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
health
What Blacks should know about oral cancer disease that will put you at higher risk. Defender: What are Cancer continues to the symptoms of oral take a toll on the Black cancer? community and Black men Gillenwater: The most in particular are urged to important thing to remembeware of oral cancer. ber is that early cancers According to the Nadon’t hurt. What people tional Institutes of Health, usually notice first is a Black men comprise one of sore in their mouth. They the groups at highest risk for may have some bleeding, oral cancer. Though lifestyle such as from the tongue or and lack of medical care cheek. A lump or bump in could be a factors, more the mouth or an enlarged research is needed for the exlymph node in the neck [is act answer, said Dr. Ann Gilanother symptom]. But the lenwater, M.D., a professor of head/neck most common is a sore or ulcer that surgery and director of the Oral Cancer doesn’t heal. There are also symptoms Prevention Clinic at MD Anderson. that are pre-cancer. If you get a white • Avoid tobacco in all forms. In an interview with the Defender, spot in your mouth that you can’t • Drink alcohol in moderation. Gillenwater discussed the disease. scrape off that’s called leukoplakia. A • Remove dentures at night and Defender: What are the most comred spot is called erythroplakia. clean them daily. mon oral cancers? Defender: How is oral cancer • Have dentures evaluated by a Gillenwater: The most common treated? dentist at least every five years. type is squamous cell carcinoma and over Gillenwater: The main treatment • Limit sun exposure; wear a lip 95 percent of cancers of the mouth are is surgery. If it’s more advanced you balm with sunscreen and a hat this type. There are other types such as have to sometimes use radiation therwith a brim. salivary gland cancers or melanoma of apy or radiation and chemotherapy. If • Eat a well-rounded, healthy the mouth but they’re pretty rare. you catch it early you can usually do diet with a variety of fruits and Defender: What are the causes of a pretty small surgery and the patient vegetables. oral cancer? is able to eat and talk. Once it’s in the Source: MD Anderson Cancer Center Gillenwater: The most common more advanced stages it really affects cause in the United States is tobacco the ability to talk and swallow and use, whether that’s cigarettes or chewone’s appearance. ing tobacco. In many cases it can be prevented, but there are Defender: What is your advice for someone concerned also patients who come in and don’t have any of the known risk about oral cancer? factors and we don’t know what causes it. Besides tobacco, if Gillenwater: Usually the dentist is your first line [of detecyou drink a lot of alcohol and you smoke it leads to a higher risk. tion]. It’s important to go to the dentist even if you don’t have If you have poor dental hygiene and have bad teeth and gum any teeth anymore. Also see your primary care physician. By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender
Minimize the risk
defendernetwork.com
Older adults have special dental needs Among adults ages 75 and up, about one in four has lost all natural teeth. Here are some tips on care from the National Institutes of Health and the American Dental Association. • Many older adults have gum or periodontal disease, irritating the gums and making them swollen, red and more likely to bleed. Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss. • A common cause of cavities in older adults is dry mouth, a side effect of some medications. Use oral moisturizers, drink more water or use sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production. • Caregivers for elderly persons should remind them to brush and floss and make sure they see a dentist regularly. Encourage the person to use an electric or large-handled toothbrush so it’s easier to grip. Consider placing your hand over his/hers to help guide the toothbrush. • If older adults with dentures are having difficulty eating denture problems could be the cause. • Older adults are at increased risk for oral cancer. The average age of people diagnosed with mouth, throat and tongue cancer is 62. • Many retirees don’t realize that Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care such as cleanings, fillings, extractions, dentures or other dental devices. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) will pay for certain dental services when a patient is in a hospital. Plan for dental expenses in advance of retirement so you don’t have to let your dental health suffer once you’re on a fixed income. • Organizations such as AARP offer supplemental dental insurance plans for members. Discount dental plans are another option that typically have a lower monthly fee than traditional dental insurance.
Message from the Publisher
Sonceria Messiah-Jiles
Good dental health is an important part of our overall health. Teeth and gums that are cared for can give us nice smiles and help us eat and speak better. Neglecting our oral health, on the other hand, can be painful and costly, and anyone who’s ever had a toothache knows how excruciating it can be. There’s an old saying that an “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and in this special edition, we are pleased to provide our readers with helpful hints that can help prevent a crisis trip to the dentist. Our tips on dental care are designed for the entire
family, from children to older adults. If you’ve considered dental implants or dentures, our article on options for missing teeth can help. We take an in-depth look at the dental care gap in minority communities and offer resources for low-cost care. In addition, our partners – Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Hermann Health System and Texas Children’s Hospital – provide valuable insight into various health matters. So take care of your mouth. You’ll have every reason to smile.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
health
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
3B
Missing teeth:
I
What’s best for you?
t’s estimated that the average adult between the ages of 20 and 64 has three or more decayed or missing teeth. Yet missing teeth can affect the way you speak or eat, and remaining teeth can shift. Dr. Ryan Quock, DDS, a professor and vicechair of restorative dentistry and prosthodontics at UTHealth School of Dentistry, said treatment options available depend on the number of teeth missing and the location of the missing teeth. Quock listed four options:
1
Fixed partial denture or bridge. “This treatment is typically an option when one or a few teeth are missing if only in limited geographic area of the mouth,” he said. “In order for a conventional bridge to work, it by definition must have at least one healthy remaining tooth (called abutments) on either side of the space left by the missing tooth. “These healthy teeth are prepared by the dentist to receive a crown cap,” Quock said. “Fused between the crowns on the abutment teeth are prosthetic teeth. This multi-tooth unit is then cemented in place onto the abutments. Thus, you have a ‘bridge’ spanning from healthy tooth to healthy tooth, with a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) filling the gap. Pro: The bridge is fixed in place. Con: The procedure involves removal of otherwise healthy tooth structure from the abutment teeth to accommodate the bridge crowns.
2
A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone.
3
Complete denture. “This is the treatment most people think about when they hear the term denture,” Quock said. “It has been referred to as ‘false teeth’ and variations on this phrase. A complete denture is an option when all of the teeth are missing on the maxilla [upper jaw] or mandible [lower jaw]. An acrylic baseplate is made to adapt to the curvature of the toothless ridges of the upper or lower jaw, and denture teeth are placed in the acrylic base.” Pro: A complete denture is the most sensible solution when all the teeth in either jaw are missing. Con: Speech and chewing efficiency are almost always compromised and complete dentures almost always need to be replaced over the years, because of the “natural resorption of the underlying jawbone.”
Removable partial denture, also known as partial or RPD. “This treatment is typically an option when multiple teeth are missing, both on the left and right side, on the upper jaw (maxilla) or lower jaw (mandible),” Quock said. He said a framework of some sort is fabA complete denture is another option for missing teeth. ricated, either metal or a thermoplastic resin. He said after healing, a prosthetic tooth crown is attached Various clasps are included to grab onto existing to the opening of the screw, which is at the gum line. “The healthy teeth. Individual denture teeth are cuscombination of the screw and the prosthetic tooth are a complete tom adapted to the framework to replace missing artificial replacement for the missing tooth root and crown,” he teeth. Dental implants. “Technically speaking, a dental said. “At the other end of the spectrum, dental titanium implant Pro: It is an economical way of including implant in and of itself is not a replacement for a missscrews can be used to better support complete dentures.” missing teeth in one restoration. ing tooth,” Quock said. “A dental implant is simply a Pro: Successful placement of an implant screw into the Cons: There will be a small amount of give titanium screw that is surgically placed in the jawbone. The aim bone helps minimize bone loss in the area, and when individual or movement which might present a compromise is that the bone accepts and integrates with the titanium implant teeth are replaced, there is no need to remove tooth structure in speech or eating. screw, basically fusing it in place. from surrounding healthy teeth. Also, food debris can If this is successfully achieved, it defendernetwork.com Con: Not all patients are medically good candiaccumulate, requirnow provides a sound mechanical Cost and recovery time of dates for implants. “Existing bone mass and systemic ing meticulous oral anchor on which to attach various implants, dentures disease/conditions can limit their success,” he said. hygiene. dental prostheses.”
4
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
4B
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
defendernetwork.com
health
Fertility and cancer:
Important things to know “Being diagnosed with cancer and told that it may rule out parenthood can be devastating for people who haven’t yet started or completed their families,” says Terri Woodard, M.D., who leads the MD Anderson Oncofertility Consult Service. Here, Dr. Woodard answers some questions she often receives about fertility and cancer. Dr. Terri Woodard
Another option is suppressing the ovaries with medication to make them more resistant to the effects of chemotherapy; this is considered experimental. Freezing ovarian tissue is the only option for girls who have not gone through puberty yet. It is also considered experimental, though children have been born using this method.
By MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER
1
Can cancer treatment cause infertility? Some cancer treatments can, while others do not. The most common types of treatments that affect fertility include surgery that involves removal of the reproductive organs, certain types of chemotherapy and radiation to the abdomen and pelvis. We do not know how some newer treatments may affect fertility.
6
What fertility preservation options are available for men preparing to undergo cancer treatment? For men, the most common and accepted way to preserve fertility is to bank sperm before starting cancer treatment. For boys who haven’t gone through puberty yet, the only option for fertility preservation is to freeze pieces of testicular tissue. This is considered an experimental procedure.
2
How will cancer treatment affect my fertility? How cancer treatment affects your fertility depends on many things, including the type of treatment you receive, your age and your current fertility status. Some people might be temporarily infertile while others may have permanent infertility. Your doctor can help estimate your individual risk.
3
How long will we need to prevent pregnancy during cancer treatment? You should abstain or use a reliable form of birth control while you are receiving cancer treatment. You also shouldn’t try to conceive within six months of finishing chemotherapy because it may increase the chances of miscarriage or having a baby with a genetic complication.
4
After cancer treatment, how long should I wait to conceive? Determining when it is okay to conceive requires thoughtful discussion between you and your health care team. The timing varies between patients and types of cancer. Generally, women should wait at least two years before trying to conceive. This allows enough time for you to get beyond the window of an early cancer recurrence and allows your body to recover from the effects of treatment. If your cancer treatment has caused late effects
7 that might make handling pregnancy more difficult, it may be recommended that you see a maternalfetal medicine specialist prior to trying to conceive.
5
What fertility preservation options are available for women preparing for cancer treatment? There are several different ways that we can preserve fertility for women. The most common and accepted way to do this it to use assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to freeze eggs and/or embryos. For patients who will receive high doses of radiation to the abdomen and pelvis, ovarian transposition is a surgical procedure that moves the ovaries out of the radiation field so that they are not harmed.
What should I ask my doctor about cancer and fertility? You should ask if your treatment might cause infertility and, if so, what your personal risk is. You should also ask about ways to preserve or protect your fertility before you start treatment. If you would like to learn more, ask your doctor to refer you to a fertility specialist, who can counsel you about your risk and provide fertility preservation treatments. If you’re a patient at MD Anderson, ask for a referral to the MD Anderson Oncofertility Consult Service.
8
When should I talk to my doctor about my fertility? You should talk to your doctor about your fertility concerns as early as possible in the course of diagnosis and definitely before you start treatment. The earlier you have the conversation, the more options you have if you decide to pursue fertility preservation treatment. However, even if you did not have the opportunity to discuss your concerns prior to treatment, you should still talk to your doctor about them because you can still think about your plans for parenthood after cancer. Learn more at MakingCancerHistory.com
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
“I have other plans, cancer” Gail Morse | Cancer Survivor People in families with a history of cancer are perfect candidates for MD Anderson’s early detection and prevention programs. The earlier we can find cancer, the better the chances of getting rid of it. Call 1-855-894-0145 or visit MakingCancerHistory.com.
Ranked number one in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report.
5B
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
cente
ORAL
T
CLOSING
THE
6B
DENTAL CARE GAP
By MARILYN M Defend
here is a dental communities of of all ages are l receive regular Poor dental health d pretty smile. Left untrea can cause pain and tooth chronic health condition growth and social develo productivity and job opp Two long-time Hous Dr. Matthew Plummer a Poindexter III, said that difficulties and lack of e to the problem. “Dentistry is often p optional health care issu “Our community often o doctor on an as-needed b that if it’s not broken do “It comes from year where people were conc putting food, clothing an According to a recen Charitable Trusts, comm face “real” dental proble dental care delivery syst adequately support the o Americans. The report’s • People of color are whites to suffer from un • Adults and seniors
FIND BEN TAUB ORAL SURGERY DEPT. 1504 Taub Loop 713-873-3320 BERING OMEGA DENTAL CLINIC FOR HIV PATIENTS 1427 Hawthorne St. 713-341-3790 CENTRAL CARE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 3315 Delano 713-831-9654 CITY OF HOUSTON DENTAL CLINICS
L 1 7
L 5 7
M 7 7
N 8 H 7
C C
defendernetwork.com • Servin
defender network.com
erfold
7B
L HEALTH WORSE IN COMMUNITIES OF COLOR
MARSHALL der
l health gap in f color as minorities less likely to r care. doesn’t just impact a ated, oral problems h loss, worsen ns, impair children’s opment and hinder portunities. ston dentists, nd Dr. Zeb F. socioeconomic education contribute
perceived as an ue,” Poindexter said. only goes to the basis and believes on’t fix it. s of conditioning centrating more on nd shelter together.” nt report from Pew munities of color ems and the nation’s tem is failing to oral health of all s findings include: e more likely than ntreated tooth decay. of color are more
likely than whites to lose their teeth. limited and you are more likely to pursue • Children of color are less likely episodic or emergency care.” than white children to “Another factor is whether see a dentist and receive dental care is culturally preventive care. reinforced. Is there emphasis • Children of color are placed on good dental health in less likely than their white the family?” peers to have sealants, Poindexter said there is plastic coatings that protect another reason why people avoid the chewing surfaces of going to the dentist. “There’s teeth from bacteria and a fear factor involved and it’s reduce decay. a psyche from mis-information • When dental pain and mis-education.” becomes too severe to There are various solutions ignore, many people resort to closing the dental gap. They to emergency room visits, include: Dr. Matthew Plummer which provide no treatment • Change the perception for underlying oral health that dental/oral health is less problems. important than general health. “The issue of unmet • Improve dental care access dental needs is not limited and combat health disparities to minority communities associated with poverty, limited but it’s more severe in education or language skills, age, minority communities,” said gender, disability, geographic Plummer, who called the location or existing medical issue “multifactorial.” conditions. “The higher the • Improve access to dental educational level of the insurance. According to the parents it is more likely National Institutes of Health, private insurance coverage for that parents and children Dr. Zeb F. Poindexter III dental care is increasing but still are going to receive dental lags behind medical insurance. care,” he said. “Associated with that is the • Expand community-based health issue of the amount of discretionary funds and prevention programs and increase available to the family. If you’re poor or understanding of what can be done to enhance working for minimum wage, your access is
D LOW-COST DENTAL CARE
La Nueva Casa De Amigos 1809 N. Main 713-547-8076
Lyons Health Center 5602 Lyons 713-671-3024
Magnolia Health Center 7037 Capital 713-928-9825
Northside Health Center 8504 Schuller Road Houston, TX 77093 713-742-1320
COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER
11246 S. Wilcrest #190B 281-977-7462 15132 Old Galveston Road 281-990-7462 EL CENTRO DECORAZON Eastwood 412 Telephone Road 713-926-6229 GOOD NEIGHBOR HEALTH CENTER 190 Heights Blvd. 713-529-3260 HARRIS COUNTY HOSPITAL DISTRICT CLINICS
Acres Dental 818 Ringold 281-448-6391 Settegast Dental 9105 N. Wayside 713-633-2020 Aldine Dental 4755 Aldine Mail Rt. 281-985-7600 People’s Dental 6630 DeMoss 713-272-2600 Strawberry Dental 927 E. Shaw 713-982-5900
ng the Houston area for over 85 years
dental health. • Encourage more minorities to seek careers as dentists and increase exposure to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). “You can’t tell kids early enough to study and go to school so you can become a doctor or dentist and take my place,” Poindexter said. • Increase the availability of dental sealants, which can reduce tooth decay by 80 percent in the two years after placement and continue to be effective for nearly five years. Asian, Black, and Hispanic children remain less likely than white children to have even one dental sealant. • Stress the importance of basic dental care along with early diagnosis and treatment. Poindexter added that patients should not wait until they have a painful toothache to see the dentist. “Instead of coming in and spending $60 a year to get your teeth cleaned, you wait and come in when you’ve got a big, swollen jaw and gum disease and fever or your throat is swollen or you’re scared that you’re going to die,” he said. “Remember that prevention is better than cure. Brush your teeth before you go to bed, and treat your toothbrush and toothpaste like your best friend.” Plummer said that patients must understand the importance of dental care in relation to other health matters. “If you have abscessed teeth and periodontal disease, then that’s going to impact your general health,” he said.
The Greater Houston Dental Society has compiled a list of area dental care resources. Visit www.ghds.org for more information. Gulfgate Dental 7550 Office City Dr. 713-495-3700 Central Dental Ctr 5230 Griggs Rd. 713-757-0572
6410 Fannin 713-704-3368
HARRIS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH Antoine Health Clinic 5815 Antoine 713-602-3300
LEGACY COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES Baker/Ripley Clinic 6500 Rookin-B 713-351-7350
Southeast Clinic 3737 Red Bluff 713-740-5000
SAN JOSE CLINIC MISSION DENTISTRY GROUP 2615 Fannin Street 713-228-9411
HERMANN HOSPITAL, UT GPR DENTAL CLINIC
LBJ ORAL SURGERY CLINIC 5656 Kelley Street 713-566-5080
SEARCH DENTAL CLINIC FOR
THE HOMELESS 2505 Fannin 713-739-7752 SPRING BRANCH COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 8575 Pitner Rd. 713-462-6545 TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL DENTAL CLINIC 6701 Fannin, Suite 310 713-739-7752 TEXAS DENTAL TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL 7442 Park Place Blvd. 713-645-1612
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS DENTAL BRANCH 7500 Cambridge St. 713-486-4000 VECINO HEALTH CLINIC Airline Children’s Clinic 5808 Airline Dr. 713-695-4013 Denver Harbor Clinic 424 Hahlo Street 713-674-3326 Pasadena Health Center 908 Southmore # 180 713-554-0510
8B
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
health
defendernetwork.com
Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools
20 years helping students
F
By MEMORIAL HERMANN
or 20 years, the Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools program has been dedicated to providing access to medical, mental health, nutritional and dental care to uninsured and underserved students in the Greater Houston community. Why? “Because there was a need then and there’s a need now,” said Carol Paret, senior vice president and chief community health officer for Memorial Hermann Health System and the CEO of Memorial Hermann Community Benefit Corporation. Paret’s words are particularly apropos as a new school year begins as the primary goal of the Health Centers for Schools program is to keep students healthy and in school so they can learn and prepare for their futures. The program accomplishes that by serving as the medical home for uninsured students – prekindergarten through 12th grade. Launched in 1996 with two clinics, the program has now expanded to 10 school clinics serving 71 schools in five independent school districts – Aldine, Alief, Houston, Lamar Consolidated and Pasadena. The clinics are staffed by a nurse practitioner/physician assistant, social worker and a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). Additionally, a certified community health worker (CHW) or navigator rotates among the centers and assists parents with CHIP/Medicaid applications and provides social service, medical and dental referrals. Open year round, the clinics offer services that include sick and injury care, general and sports physicals, immunizations, chronic care (asthma, obesity and cholesterol), mental health therapy, social service referrals, nutritional guidance and other care to meet students’ needs. Dental services offered include periodic oral examinations, diagnostic X-rays, prophylaxis, fluoride treatments, oral hygiene instructions, sealants, composite fillings, extractions, stainless steel crowns, pulpotomies and root canals. When Memorial Hermann launched the program two decades ago, it was ahead of the curve as a health system that understood the importance of delivering on a value proposition that could connect the dots between the health and wellbeing of underserved students with their performance in the classroom. Now, Memorial Hermann’s school-based clinic program is evolving to the next level by expanding to offer new exercise and healthy eating programs to help impact obesity and prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes. The program is also partnering with the Houston Food Bank to address food insecurity and availability of healthy food in the household. By focusing on the social determinants of health, the program becomes a catalyst to improving overall community health.
Staff and students at Memorial Hermann Burbank Health Center
Recently, the Mobile Dental Program – which serves as the dental home for uninsured and underinsured students in the greater Houston region – was presented the American Hospital Association’s NOVA Award for its efforts to improve community health. “The primary goal of the program is to serve as a safety net for children in need of regular dental care as well as to educate them and their parents about oral health,” Paret said. “It has made a difference in the lives of many students in measurable and immeasurable ways.” Moreover, the Memorial Hermann school-based clinic program was lauded as “one of the best models in the nation” by the Acting U.S. Secretary of Education John King and Acting Deputy Secretary Mary Wakefield of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. During a recent visit to Houston, they highlighted this successful collaboration between a health system and school districts that keeps students healthy and in the classroom. The outcomes for students served substantiate the collaboration. For instance: w Grade point averages have increased; suspensions/ detentions decreased w Absenteeism has decreased w ER visits have decreased w Students return to class on the same day (92%) w Asthma exacerbations and asthma related ER visits and hospitalizations have decreased% w Cavities have decreased For more information on Memorial Hermann’s Health Centers for Schools program, visit http:// communitybenefit.memorialhermann.org/locations/ school-based-health-centers/
Memorial Hermann School-Based Health Centers: w Burbank Health Center (HISD) 315 Berry Road Houston, TX 77022 w Elrod Health Center (HISD) 6230 Dumfries Houston, TX 77096 w Hogg Health Center (HISD) 1100 Merrill Houston, TX 77009 w Jane Long Health Center (HISD) 6501 Bellaire Houston, TX 77074 w Lamar Health Center (Lamar Consolidated ISD) 1002 E. Stadium Drive Rosenberg, TX 77471 w Terry Health Center (Lamar Consolidated ISD) 5500 Avenue N. Rosenberg, TX 77471 w WAVE Health Center (Pasadena ISD) 1500 Main South Houston, TX 77587 w Alief Health Center (Alief ISD) 12360 Bear Ram Road # T-1 Houston, TX 77072 w Kruse Health Center (Pasadena ISD) 400 Park Lane Pasadena, TX 77506 w Nimitz Health Center (Aldine ISD) 2003 W. W. Thorne Blvd., # TM-01 Houston, TX 77073
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
FEELING SICK BUT NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? SPEAK WITH A REGISTERED NURSE FOR ANSWERS TO YOUR HEALTH QUESTIONS. When you or a family member is feeling sick, but you’re not sure if you need to see your doctor or go to the hospital, call the free Nurse Health Line. Experienced nurses will help you decide when and where to go for medical care. These trained nurses are available around the clock, seven days a week to answer your health questions by phone. Anyone living in Harris or the surrounding counties can use this free service. Funded through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
Free 24/7 Nurse Health Line 713.338.7979 (Toll-Free) 1.855.577.7979 Individuals with life-threatening conditions and emergencies should call 9-1-1.
sponsored by Memorial Hermann Community Benefit Corporation
9B 9B
10B
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
health Nontoxic vs Toxic 101 By DR. SPENCER GREENE Toxicologist Texas Children’s Hospital
A
s a parent, when your child ingests something they shouldn’t it can be very scary. Many times, parents call 911 when these situations arise. However, it’s important to remember that 911 is a valuable and limited resource and much of the time these incidents turn out to be non-worrisome ingestions. The first thing parents should do is assess their child. It is appropriate to call 911 if you note your child is: 1. Having difficulty breathing 2. Seizing 3. Unresponsive If your child is not having any of the above signs, instead of calling 911, parents should call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Poison control is staffed 24/7 by professionals (usually registered nurses or pharmacists) with toxicology training. They can tell parents what ingestions don’t require any intervention and which ones do. Many ingestions that need to be evaluated can wait and parents can drive their children to the emergency center, reserving 911 for potential emergencies. This is also much more cost-efficient for families than calling an ambulance. Parents should never initiate treatment at home (i.e. inducing vomiting or drinking water/milk),
unless poison control recommends it, because some treatments can have the opposite of the desired effect and worsen the exposure. Parents need to remember the dose makes the poison. Meaning, some substances may be toxic in large amounts, but are not in small quantities. For example, in doses smaller than, say, three to four, the following drugs are NOT toxic:
defendernetwork.com
• ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) • Naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve) • newer allergy medications, i.e. loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Zyrtec), montelukast (Singulair) • oral contraceptives • certain diabetic and blood pressure medications • certain antibiotics Some non-medicinal substances are also nontoxic: • readily-available rat poison (i.e. TomCat, D-Con) • silica gel (found in packets in boxes of new shoes) • crayons, markers, etc. • dog food • diaper cream (unless a massive ingestion) • small quantities of household bleach On the other hand, there are some medicines that are potentially toxic in single doses, including: • digoxin • verapamil, diltiazem and select other blood pressure medications • sulfonylureas (diabetic medications) such as glyburide, glimeperide, glipizide • antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil) • opioid pain relievers such as Vicodin or Percocet Again, the best thing to do is call 911 if there are worrisome signs. Otherwise, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222. Add the number to your contacts list, so you always have it on hand. Even if poison control recommends an emergency center visit, usually a trip by car is sufficient. Remember, please don’t call 911 for non-emergencies.
Understanding Scoliosis By DR. JOHN DORMANS Chief of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Texas Children’s Hospital
The spine is normally straight from the front and curved from the side. Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves side-to-side and twists to the side over time. Children with scoliosis may have rib asymmetry (or a hump) on their back, an uneven shoulder or one side of their chest may appear larger. These physical changes are related to the twisting of the ribs and spine. It is important for children to see a doctor as this condition will get worse without treatment. Genetics, paralysis, neuromuscular and other issues can cause scoliosis. There also are unknown reasons for the cause of scoliosis. Typically, scoliosis is rarely associated
with back pain; the only symptoms are visual and cosmetic cues.
Three main types of scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis: Doctors do not know what causes idiopathic scoliosis. However, it tends to run in families and is not present at birth. Idiopathic scoliosis occurs more in girls than boys and usually gets worse during the growing years; ages 11 to 15. It cannot be prevented, but the curve can be controlled with bracing and/or surgery if severe. Congenital scoliosis: Is present at birth. It usually worsens as your child grows. If severe, doctors may suggest surgery to prevent the curve from getting bigger and from causing other health problems. Neuromuscular scoliosis: Can develop in children
or young adults with other diagnoses such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and other conditions involving the nerves and muscles. Some of these diseases weaken the muscles around the spine, and other conditions affect the spinal cord causing the spine to curve. If severe, surgery is sometimes the best treatment, but this depends on multiple factors. To accurately diagnose scoliosis, X-rays are taken of the spine. If a curve is seen, it is measured in degrees. An MRI or CT scan of the spine may be recommended. The degree and type of curve, and the age of the patient determines the type of treatment recommended. Based on these findings, your doctor will discuss which treatment options are best for your child. Treatment may include observation, bracing, surgery or a combination of all three.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
Quality health care for $50 or less a year. What a relief.
Texas Children’s Health Plan covers children from newborns to teenagers. We even cover adults and pregnant moms through STAR Medicaid. Families with children who qualify for CHIP pay $50 or less a year. Those who qualify for Medicaid pay nothing. CHIP and STAR Medicaid offer a wide range of benefits including checkups and shots, dental services, medications, and more. With Texas Children’s Health Plan you also get: ■ Over 2,100 doctors. ■ A 24-hour nurse hotline. ■ Transportation to doctor visits at no cost. ■ Pregnancy support program and classes. ■ Help losing weight through the Keep Fit Program. ■ Learn how to play soccer from the Houston Dynamo coaches. ■ Fun member events!
For more information, to receive an application, or to find an event in your area, visit us online or call today.
MK-1208-007
1-800-990-8247 | TexasChildrensHealthPlan.org
11B
12B
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
defendernetwork.com
health
Back pain can often be solved without surgery By GWENEVERE WILLIAMS, M.D. ‘Kelsey-Seybold Clinic
B
ack in the day, back problems usually meant one of two things: living with pain or back surgery. But like everything else, medicine has changed. Now we have several effective nonsurgical options that may help most people live pain-free – or at least feel a lot better.
First step is to find cause
Medicine, therapy may help
Our goal when treating back pain is to reduce or relieve pain, restore function and help patients regain the quality of life they previously enjoyed. It may take several attempts to figure out what works best for you, so be patient. For pain management, we usually start with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen or naproxen (Aleve, Advil). Often this type of medicine is all that is Dr. Gwenevere Williams needed. Along with medicine, I often recommend physical therapy, which includes methods to help reduce pain and help strengthen the back.
The best treatment for you depends on what is causing the pain. Common reasons for back pain include: • Muscle and ligament strain • Disc problems • Arthritis of the spine • Curvature of the spine (scoliosis) • Osteoporosis When you visit the doctor, our first job is to try to identify the origin of the pain and what might improve it. In addition to examining you and asking you questions about the pain, the doctor may order tests, including X-rays, MRI or CT exams, blood tests or nerve tests.
What are next steps?
If your pain is severe and other methods don’t work, we might recommend a series of injections in the spine (ESI). However, those usually are reserved for patients with pinched nerves or small herniated disc. I prefer “watchful waiting” when contemplating surgery in order to give nonsurgical therapy time to improve the patient’s condition. Fortunately, only a small percentage of patients – often those with herniated discs – may require surgery.
Preventing back pain
People are trying to sell a lot of “miracle cures” out there, but don’t waste your money. Most of them have not been proven to work. But there are a few things you can do to help prevent back pain. • Try low-impact, gentle exercise that helps strengthen your back, such as walking or swimming. But be sure to ask your doctor first to make sure you are in good enough health to perform the activities. • Keep your weight at a good level so your muscles aren’t strained. • Watch your posture. • Don’t lift heavy items. If you must, use your legs to help lift the object. Don’t bend and reach with your arms. A comprehensive rehabilitation program with physician and patient working together as a team is often the key to getting pain “off your back.” Dr. Williams is a board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation/Spine specialist at Kelsey-Seybold’s Cypress, The Vintage and Spring Medical and Diagnostic Center locations. To schedule an appointment with her, call 713-442-0000.
Get KelseyConnected
SM
Healthcare that Revolves Around You. KelseyConnected is a smarter approach to your healthcare – because it revolves around you. As a Kelsey-Seybold patient, your entire healthcare team can share your medical history through one Electronic Medical Record and collaborate on medical care that’s right for you. Being KelseyConnected makes your experience with us easy and cost-effective with: n
n
20 Locations close to home and work. Choose the location most convenient for you at kelsey-seybold.com/Locations. 24-Hour Nurse Hotline. Speak with a Kelsey-Seybold nurse, anytime day or night, seven days a week.
n
MyKelseyOnline. Email your doctor’s office, make appointments, refill prescriptions, view test results and more.
n
Multiple Specialties and Diagnostics all under one roof.
n
Kelsey Pharmacy. Available onsite at many locations.
24-Hour Appointment Scheduling: 713-442-0000 | kelsey-seybold.com
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
opinion New national museum tells America’s story
I
By MARC H. MORIAL
t has taken over a century, but Black history will at long last occupy a permanent and prominent space in our nation’s capital with the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. What has now manifested into a museum occupying five acres of land on the National Mall was originally envisioned as a memorial meant to recognize African-American contributions in our nation’s history. In 1915, a group of Black Civil War veterans collected money and created a movement to support the creation of a national “Negro Memorial.” President Calvin Coolidge signed legislation establishing a commission to plan its construction, with Congress refusing to finance the project. The Great Depression, new national priorities, inevitable political obstruction and fading interests, stalled the project for generations, but on Sept. 24, the once deferred dream of African-American war veterans will become a reality that makes its home mere steps away from the Washington Monument. Commissioned to share the painful history and, oftentimes, unsteady progress of Black men and women on American soil, the mandate of the new museum goes beyond carving out a niche for Black history within America’s grander history, or mainstreaming the Black experience. Through its 11 inaugural galleries, visitors will experience African-American history from slavery’s Middle Passage, to the election of our nation’s first Black president, to the police violence and racial unrest that has given rise to the Black Lives Matter movement. But rather than act as a warehouse of “firsts” and a cataloger of the challenges the Black community has faced, the museum – devoted exclusively to the African-American
experience –will become an active participant and voice in our nation’s ongoing conversation and understanding of our unique American experiment and experience. NMAAHC is a museum that “seeks to understand American history through the lens of the African-American experience,” or as Lonnie Bunch, the founding director of NMAAHC describes it: “The defining experience of AfricanAmerican life has been the necessity of making a way out of no way, of mustering the nimbleness, ingenuity and perseverance to establish a place in this society. That effort, over the centuries, has shaped this nation’s history so profoundly that, in many ways, African-American history is the quintessential American history. Most of the moments where American liberty has been expanded have been tied to the African-American experience. If you’re interested in American notions of freedom, if you’re interested in
the broadening of fairness, opportunity and citizenship, then regardless of who you are, this is your story, too.” Like any national museum, NMAAHC can help all of us – regardless of race – to understand who we are as a nation. National museums document our aspirations, our achievements and how much further we must climb to achieve those lofty goals. Whether the museum is dedicated to World War II airmen, modern art or AfricanAmericans, understanding and knowing the good, the bad and the ugly of every group that calls these 50 states home means a deeper understanding of our nation, who we claim to be, and how far we have arrived. All of us can attain that deeper understanding by recognizing African-American history while acknowledging the intricate and tangled role it has played in shaping our nation’s identity. Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
7
8
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15| 2016
sports
defendernetwork.com
Whitney Mercilus Texans’ next big star
N
By MAX EDISON Defender
othing creates home team optimism like winning the first game of the regular season. The Texans accomplished that feat with a 2314 win over the Chicago Bears. The team has a number of shiny new offensive weapons in quarterback Brock Osweilder, running back Lamar Miller and wide receiver Will Fuller, but as usual it was the stout play of the Texans defense that preserved the win. A growing force on that defense is the stellar play of linebacker Whitney Mercilus. With Defensive MVP J.J. Watt out for the entire preseason recovering from back surgery, fans had to wonder what defender would step up and take up the slack. Mercilus has been that guy, which is not shocking since he has the pedigree to be a big-time disruptor from his outside linebacker position. Entering his fifth season, Mercilus, a first-round selection (26th overall from Illinois) has blossomed before our eyes. He recorded 12 sacks in 2015. His 30 career sacks ranks him third in franchise history. He is the first player in franchise history and the fifth player in the NFL since 1982 to post two games with 3.5 or more sacks in a season. Mercilus has become a playmaker on a group of linebackers that is rapidly becoming one of the better units in the NFL. “Not only is the starting line-up talented, but the unit is also deep with talent as evidenced by the play of Max Bullough stepping in for an injured Brian Cushing against the Bears. “[Bullough] did great,” Mercilus said. “He’s a smart guy who knows exactly where to be at. He knows how to direct the traffic for the defense and things like that. We trust him a lot. For him to step up, especially when Cush was out, was great.” “We’re pretty deep,” he continued. “It’s the deepest I’ve seen in a while and it’s good to have that type of depth and guys who can go. Their motors run 110 percent; they can run all day.” Not only are the Texans deep at the linebacker position, but under the tutelage of linebacker coach Mike Vrabel they’re defined by one word – tough. “It’s a great group of guys who are tough,
Linebacker Whitney Mercilus has become a defensive playmaker for the Texans.
ready to go at all times, very talented as well and hard workers,” Mercilus said. “It shows out on the field. Linebackers are just making plays left and right, wherever the ball is at.” The Texans defense by the end of last season was one of the league’s best. This year Mercilus believes that chemistry is the key to make the group even better. “More chemistry, guys know the ability of each other,” Mercilus said. “We just trust each other. We know if somebody has a job to do, we trust that he’s going to do his job which is to go out there and make plays. That’s exactly what happened.” The Texan defense faced adversity early against Chicago when Cushing left the game with a knee injury. Coming off a 2-sack, 1-forced-fumble performance, Mercilus and the Texan defense rallied and are now 1-0. “Coming into this game, we know that ad-
versity is always going to happen, so the thing is, you just got to have a strong mentality to just go out there and just keep playing,” he said. “It’s always a dogfight, it’s the NFL. Everybody’s good. It feels good to get a win, especially the first one. So it gives us a little bit of momentum.”
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
h.s.zone Donald Harper leading youth movement at SFA Returning that kickoff was a great play and catching the touchdown pass put the game out there for us.” he youth are thriving at Houston’s Harper, who coincidently wears No. 9, finished Stephen F. Austin High School, espethe game with four receptions for 60 yards. cially on the football field. “We’ve known that Donald was coming to us In the midst of celebrating home- for about a year and a half now,” Kirk said. “We coming saw him at middle school 2016 with [Cullen] and on his youth defendernetwork.com a 36-21 victory over rifootball team. He excelled Find out who’s putting up dazzling val Milby, the Mustangs’ during 7-on-7 football this numbers youth factor became summer so we knew he was clearly evident. a great player. Trailing Milby 14-8 with 33 seconds remain“Donald just had to make the adjustment to ing until halftime, SFA freshman Donald Harper the high school tackle game,” Kirk said. “He returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a grew up a lot in this game tonight. He touchdown. made some big plays for us and got us out “I saw blockers downfield and I just hit of holes. He’s gradually getting better and the burst button,” Harper said. “I was just better.” trying to score a touchdown and give us a Harper said he has been playing lead.” football since he was fi/ve years old. He Harper struck again in the third celebrated his 15th birthday [Sept. 11] quarter with his team down by the day after the Austin-Milby five points (21-16). Fellow game. freshman and quarterback His favorite professional Malik Hornsby tossed a 42football players include yard TD pass to Harper that Adrian Peterson, Odell gave Austin an advantage Beckham and Tavon Austin. (22-21) the Mustangs would “I’m a little guy so I like the never surrender. smaller players,” Harper said. “Coach told me my While science is his fadefender was biting on the vorite subject in school Harper slant route so I gave him says his future may lie in ana double move and my quarother endeavor. terback threw a great ball,” “I can act. I have a pretty Harper said. good personality and I can Ty Wright, Melvin Taymake people laugh,” he said. lor and Trevion Rodriguez Kirk added that he’s exalso supplied scoring cited about Harper’s potential plays for Austin with in the classroom. Taylor the only senior in “He’s a good student and the group. we’re looking forward to him “We have a small making A’s and B’s,” Kirk said. senior class this year. Meanwhile, Harper indicated We have eight seniors that those high expectations from and six are starters,” said his coach are prime reasons he Austin head coach Robin likes playing for him. Kirk. “We’ve got a bunch “Coach Kirk is pretty of sophomores out there strict on us. He makes playing and we’re excited for sure we get good grades our future. in the classroom,” “I’m really proud of Donald Harper said. “He because he’s maturing by the makes sure everybody day,” Kirk said. “He’s learnis a team player and a Donald Harper ing how to play at this level. student-athlete.”
T
By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
9
sportsbriefs Beaty inducted into hall The journey to basketball’s highest honor was long but is now complete for Prairie View A&M University legend Zelmo Beaty, who died in 2013 at the age of 73. Beaty, who averaged 25 points and 20 rebounds on The Hill from 1958-62, leading PVAMU to the 1962 NAIA Championship while earning MVP honors, was recently inducted posthumously into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. Beaty joins Willis Reed of Grambling as the only SWAC players in the pro basketball hall. The 6-foot-9 center was the third overall pick in the 1962 draft by the then St. Louis Hawks of the American Basketball Association. He played 13 seasons for the Hawks, both in St. Louis and Atlanta, along with the Utah Stars and Los Angeles Lakers.
Cleveland’s RG3 injured For a smart guy, Robert Griffin III does some dumb things on the football field. RG3 previously had an issue with knowing when to slide or protect himself as opposed to fighting for an extra yard. He now has a fractured bone in his left shoulder and will miss at least the next eight games for the Browns. Griffin hurt his left shoulder when he was tackled at the end of a run with 3:41 left against the Eagles. He was placed on injured reserve and if he is designated as the team’s player to return, he could return to practice in six weeks, but has to miss a minimum of eight games.
Katy off to sluggish start The defending Class 6A Division II state champion Katy Tigers are off to a 1-2 start for the 2016 high school football season. The latest bump in the road was delivered by The Woodlands in a 26-3 victory at Woodforest Bank Stadium. The 3-0 Highlanders limited Katy to 197 total yards and a 27-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. Katy miscues were part of the problem. Two errant snaps from center on punts resulted in a safety and a Highlanders’ field goal. The Woodlands also put together touchdown drives of 66 and 80 yards to wear down the Katy defense. Katy begins district against Cinco Ranch.
Manvel getting it done
When Manvel was a Class 5A state powerhouse, the Mavericks had a prolific offense that outscored most opponents. In its first year on the Class 6A level, Manvel has fashioned a stout defense while opening the 2016 campaign with impressive victories over Crosby, North Shore and Pearland. The latest example was a 36-0 shutout at Pearland. Manvel scored three touchdowns in the third quarter and took a 29-0 lead into the fourth quarter. “They [Manvel] dominated us defensively,” said Pearland head coach Tony Heath. “Their defensive line is very strong and they beat us up physically.” The 2-1 Oilers finished with 125 total yards and seven first downs. “Our defense is really good and they’re getting better,” said Manvel coach Kirk Martin. “We’ve got great team speed. I really think our conditioning took over in the second half. We run our kids hard at practice.”
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
10
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
h.s.zone
Disparities in DPS searches explored
Houston State Rep. Garnet Coleman is taking another look at racial disparities in Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) searches, and will hold a hearing in the Austin on the issue. He will also address the issue during next year’s legislative session. The House County Affairs Committee will conduct the hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 20, at 10 a.m. in the State Capitol, and will discuss DPS profiling practices, deescalation techniques, aggressive policing and State Rep. Garnet Coleman booking people with mental illness. tem by increasing transparency, “This hearing will build upon scrutiny, and ease. Finally, addithe hearings the County Affairs tional trooper training regarding Committee held last year in implicit bias, proper justification the wake of the Sandra Bland’s for searches, and better treatdeath,” said Coleman, ment of people is who has been outsponeeded.” ken about DPS stops DPS Profiling Coleman and state jail stansaid that DPS Hearing dards. troopers and all Tues, Sept 20 Coleman cited relaw enforcement cent published reports @ 10 am perform a “vital showing that more job” of keeping State Capitol than a third of DPS the public safe. Austin, Texas troopers in an analysis “Unfortunately, were twice as likely the trust between to search Black and law enforcement Hispanic drivers as and communities of color is in white drivers. need of repair,” he said. “Moving forward, we need to “The facts are clear; there is a ensure that the letter of the law problem that needs to be addressed. allows the spirit of anti-discrimi- Hence, the conversation moving nation laws to become a reality,” forward should focus on how we Coleman said. can work together in a respectful “In addition to rewriting cur- and constructive manner to rebuild rent laws, we need to improve the relationship between law enthe complaint investigation sysforcement and people of color.”
Need help making rent? Get on the list for help! Houston Housing Authority Section 8 Vouchers
Apply September 19 – September 25 www.GetOnTheHHAList.com 713-260-0500
defendernetwork.com
SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016 | DEFENDER
defendernetwork.com
Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
topevents
11
Beatrice Degree, Caleb Cook, Caraline Miller, Dalton Ware, Deonc Bradley, AL JARREAU INDUCTION CEREMONY……..KTSU 90.9FM held the Al Jonathan Siebert, Luke Bohreer, Macy Savoy, Mambwe Mundemba, Rasheed Jarreau induction ceremony in-house at Texas Southern University. The Grammy Durham, Tori Rash, and Wesley Savoy. Superstar escorts were Darryl King, Award-winner and jazz legend was the 25th addition to the KTSU Jazz Hall of Fame. Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee, Greg and Felicia Johnson, Dr. Doug Stringer, At the ceremony, Mayor Sylvester Turner presented Jarreau with a city proclamation. John Cruise, Haley Keiffer, Chester Pitts, Larry Centers, Morgan Wallace, The jazz icon empowered young artists to “do it because you love it.” He said later that HPD Police Chief Martha Montalvo, Seth Keiffer, Sandy Spoonemore and many day, he would return home to continue working on his music for his next recording more……..HOUSTON PROFESSIONAL HANG OUT……… “The Session project. In attendance were Vickie Henderson, Billie Day, Donna Franklin, Velika TV Show’s” Kia Renee and Michael Cam Jefferson hosted Johnson, Jarvis Johnson, Eva Pickens, Sheldon Nunn, Ernest Defender TOP EVENTS the Houston Professional Hang Out at Davis Street at Hermann Walker and many more…….. NIGHT OF SUPERSTARS More photos on defendernetwork.com Park. Then event was organized to encourage networking between GALA……..Founder Greg Johnson held his Houston 2016 A business owners. During the event, Jefferson and Renee announced Night of Superstars at the Omni Hotel. A Night of Superstars is an that Davis Street would be the official location for “The Session TV “Oscar-like” charity event that draws numbers of local celebrities Show,” which will feature segments on celebrities, Houston businesses, local authors and high-profile personalities to celebrate the accomplishments of 20 of the most and many more. In attendance were Shalonda Lewter, Brandi Lowery, Veronica amazing kids in the area who are affected by varying types of disabling conditions; yet Thomas, Yvonne Hollis, Chrystal Hamilton, Mrs. Scott, Kari Robinson, Tianna reach far beyond their adversities excelling in areas such as academics, athletics, the arts and community service. The superstars were Anne Richardson, Ayani Kenebrew, Hackney, Cherie Williams and a host of others.
Mayor Sylvester Turner, Al Jarreau
Vickie Henderson, Billie Day, Donna Franklin
Erica Davis, Ashley Turner, Leon Preston
Doug Stringer, Rasheed Durham
Chris Smith, Matilda Marie, Necole Coleman
Kia Renee, Chrystal Hamilton
Velika Johnson, Jarvis Johnson
Frank Hayes, Judge Marie Jackson, Terry Ely, Denise Adjei
Kirk Shelton, Michael Cam Jefferson
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
12
DEFENDER | SEPTEMBER 15 | 2016
defendernetwork.com
INTRODUCING THE FIRST-EVER BUICK ENVISION
A luxury SUV designed to turn heads and welcome you in. Experience how its quality craftsmanship, spirited performance and a conversation-friendly cabin make every drive an enjoyable drive. Discover more at buick.com.
2016 BUICK ENVISION
PREMIUM 1
ULTRA-LOW MILEAGE LEASE FOR WELL-QUALIFIED LESSEES
299
$
PER MONTH1
4,039
$
36 MONTHS
due at signing after all offers
No security deposit required. Tax, title, license, dealer fees extra. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 30,000 miles. At participating dealerships only.
PLUS NON-GM LESSEES CAN GET
1,500
$
ALLOWANCE2
1 EXAMPLE BASED ON NATIONAL AVERAGE VEHICLE SELLING PRICE. EACH DEALER SETS ITS OWN PRICE. YOUR PAYMENTS MAY VARY. Payments for a 2016 Envision Premium 1 with an MSRP of $42,995. 36 monthly payments total $10,764. Payments may be higher in some states. Option to purchase at lease end for an amount to be determined at lease signing. GM Financial must approve lease. Take delivery by 9/30/16. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 30,000 miles. Lessee pays for maintenance, excess 2 MUST BE A CURRENT LESSEE OF A 2008 OR NEWER NON-GM VEHICLE. wear and a disposition fee of $495 or less at end of lease. Not available with some other offers. Not available with some other offers. Take delivery by 9/30/16. See dealer for details ©2016 General Motors. All rights reserved. Buick® Envision®
GMUX1236000_Buick_Envision_Regional_Sept_9.75x13.indd 1
9/2/16 9:36 AM