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July 2018
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131st Edition
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
68th Boule A Legacy of Leadership & Service From left to right: Deidre Edwards (Honorary Members Chairman), Margot Lee Shetterly (Honorary Member), Chantél Harris (Honorary Member), Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson (Int'l President, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated), Yolanda Adams (Honorary Member), Teta V. Banks (Honorary Member) & Jeanette Epps (Honorary Member).
16-17
INSIDE
22
Local Business Brings Nature’s Beauty Right to Your Door Petals on Bikes by La Lydia Gift 2 Give
14 Houston Area Urban League 50th Anniversary Equal Opportunity Gala
20 J Prince "Respect" Book Signing
Save The
DATE
2018
6th Annual Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Awards Gala
August 24 , th
2018
The Houstonian Hotel 111 N. Post Oak Lane Houston, TX 77024 www.top30women.com
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July 2018 | 3
PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE
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d-mars.com is proud to share the success stories of African American businesses and civic and community leaders. We know that success does not always come easy and it is not always measured in money. How have you helped your fellow entrepreneur? Have you supported your locally-owned African American business? Have you donated to a nonprofit that is working in our underserved communities? Questions to think about and actions to take. This month’s issue highlights the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® (AKA), an international service organization that was founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. in 1908. It is the oldest Greek letter organization established by
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BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. COO & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tiffany Brown ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Tiffany Black PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter
DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Noel Pinnock Shelondra Peavy Stacy M. Brown (NNPA) Valerie Jones and Kim Floyd Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner d-mars.com News Provider
—Michelle Obama
City of Houston
HISD
CONTENTS
06 Community 06 Be Great! 08 Kroger Stores Across Texas Equip Houstonians with Tools for Hurricane Preparedness and Peace of Mind 10 The 2nd Annual Chauncy Glover Project Gala Houston 12 Houston Forward Times Karen Carter Richards Earns 2018 NNPA Publisher of the Year Award 14 Houston Area Urban League 50th Anniversary Equal Opportunity Gala
VBE
DBE
ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION
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16-17 Cover Story 16-17 AKA Story 18 Travel 18 5 Things We Love About Playa del Carmen, Mexico 16-17
HUB
OUR SERVICES
04 Business 04 “I Am Somebody…Even If I Fail” 04 Zelia E. Brown, appointed to Missouri City Community Development Advisory Board
ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa Graphic Designer Kendra Wiseman
“No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.”
African-American college-educated women. Nearly 20,000 members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ® (AKA), from all over the world, converged on Houston for its biennial conference. Led by International President Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, L.H.D., attendees engaged in service projects, as well as, leadership training and development. The impact of these ladies was felt far and wide. Houston First speculated that the financial gain to the city of Houston for the weeklong conference tallied at roughly $30 million. As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.
20 In the Business Community… 20 J Prince Book Signing
22 Entrepreneur 22 Local Business Brings Nature’s Beauty Right to Your Door Petals on Bikes by La Lydia Gift 2 Give
• Business Journal • Health & Wellness Journal • Community Journal • Black Pages Online Business Directory • Top 50 Black Health, Medical & Wellness Professionals • Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs • Top 30 Influential Women of Houston • Top 25 Prime & Subcontractors for Diversity • Business Connection • Business Development • Business Consulting • Graphic Design • Photography • Printing • Web Design • Online & Email Marketing • Public Relations • Social Media • Advertising • Writing • Promotional Marketing
24 Political 24 Protect Yourself from Houston’s Hot Summer 26 Culture 26 Interesting Culture and Diversity Facts
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4 | July 2018 BUSINESS
BUSINESS
Zelia E. Brown, appointed to Missouri City Community Development Advisory Board
“I Am Somebody… Even If I Fail”
By d-mars.com News Provider
By Noel Pinnock Contributing Writer
M
ike Fitzhugh writes in the Our Daily Bread publication, “when you’re in need of wisdom, be careful to whom you go; make certain they are godly.” The book of Proverbs advocates that we obtain advice from the wise (1:2-7). Wisdom in the Bible is the “skill for learning.” How would you define wisdom? Wisdom is defined in the Webster’s Dictionary as learning or erudition. Erudition is defined as deep, extensive learning. The word that is common in both renderings is learning. Learning is the foundation by which wisdom is built. Wisdom enables you to more forensically evaluate situations, strategically develop action plans to address these situations, and decisively take the most prudent course of action. When I attended Sunnyside Elementary (Houston, Texas) each morning our class would recited the Pledge of Allegiance and a modified rendition of the poem, I am Somebody, that Reverend Jesse Jackson once delivered on the set of Sesame Street in 1971: I am somebody…I am somebody I may be poor but I am somebody I may be young but I am somebody I may be on welfare but I am somebody I may be small but I am somebody I may make mistakes but I am somebody My clothes are different, my face is different, my hair is different But I am somebody I am black, brown, white, and I speak in different languages but I must be respected, protected, never rejected. I am God’s child; therefore, I am somebody and the sky is the limit!
Like Fitzhugh, I learned at a very young age that I was somebody, and that I was God’s child and nothing is impossible when God is the captain of the ship. I learned that the acquisition of knowledge would illuminate the darkest paths in my life and provide the needed light to navigate through it. I learned that there is not obstacle that is to large or complex to overcome. I learned that despite my socio-economical challenges that I could be competitive and exceed expectations. Finally, I learned that if I believed, I could achieve, and help others do the same. Alexander Pope, "Essay on Criticism” is infamous for stating, “To err is human.” The verb "err" means to do something wrong; to make a mistake is "to err". "To err is human" because all people ("humans") make mistakes. Unfortunately, we are programmed at an early age to think that failure is bad and this belief prevents individuals and organizations, alike, from effectively learning from missteps. As children, we learn at some point that admitting failure means taking blame! How can we respond constructively to failures w/o giving rise to an “anything-goes” attitude? Executives when asked, reported how many of the failures in their organizations are truly blameworthy, their answers are usually in single digits – 2% to 5% but when asked how many are treated as blameworthy, they say (after a pause or chuckle) – 70% to 90%. Amy Edmondson and Mark D. Cannon (Harvard Business School) writes: “It hardly needs to be said that organizations (individuals) cannot learn from failures if people do not discuss
and analyze them. Yet this remains an important insight. The learning that is potentially available may not be realized unless thoughtful analysis and discussion of failure occurs. For example, for Kaiser [Permanente's] Dr. [Kim] Adcock, it is not enough just to know that a particular physician is making more than the acceptable number of errors [in misread x-rays]. Unless deeper analysis of the nature of the radiologists' errors is conducted, it is difficult to learn what needs to be corrected. On a larger scale, the U.S. Army is known for conducting After Action Reviews that enable participants to analyze, discuss, and learn from both the successes and failures of a variety of military initiatives. Similarly, hospitals use "Morbidity and Mortality" (M&M) conferences (in which physicians convene to discuss significant mistakes or unexpected deaths) as a forum for identifying, discussing, and learning from failures. This analysis can only be effective if people speak up openly about what they know and if others listen, enabling a new understanding of what happened to emerge in the assembled group.” You see, hindsight is always 20/20 but in order to realize the power that is produced in failure we must first be able to acknowledge it; second, analyze it; and third, learn from it. German theoretical physicist, Albert Einstein once stated, “We can’t solve yesterday’s problems at the same level of thinking we are at when we created them.” In order to get back up, as McClurkin exhorts, when we have fallen down requires a change in our beliefs as well as in our thinking because when we change our beliefs, we change our thoughts, and when we change our thoughts; we change our feelings and when we change our feelings; we change our actions. At the end of the day, top of the morning, it’s about taking action after the error, failure, short fall, opportunity for improvement (OFIs), or whatever word or phrase you find acceptable in your lexicon. Those that catch, correct, and learn from failure before others will succeed but those that wallow in the blame game will not.
Invariably, we will encounter the valleys in leadership that push us to think harder, do more, and become more but it is in the fundamental belief that we exist to persevere and to be of good courage that propel us to unfathomable heights. The sky is the limit when you know that our opportunities for advancement are limitless when you know who you are because you are somebody and more importantly, you are a child of the most-high and thank God that wisdom doesn’t come by getting things right or doing right things but wisdom is derived by getting it wrong but trying to make it right. Leadership and wisdom are playground partners as one influences the other. #getatit! Source: www.noelpinnock.com
Z
elia E. Brown was appointed to the Community Development Advisory Board by Mayor Allen Owen of the City of Missouri City during the regular City Council meeting on July 2, 2018. The City of Missouri City established a Community Development Advisory Committee during the first funding year of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program in 1998 for the purpose of providing direction to the distribution of CDBG funds. Brown will serve her term until June 30, 2020.
“I am honored to be chosen and excited to advocate and promote community development programs that will benefit the community residents and neighborhoods,” said Brown. Brown’s extensive knowledge of State and Federal grant programs spans over 20 years. “In my quest towards ‘building a culture of compliance,’ I remain committed to excellence and am persistent in achieving the highest level of regulatory requirements.” Presently, Brown supervises Houston Community College’s (HCC) State and Federal grants portfolio of over $25M and has overseen $1.2B respectively throughout the Gulf Coast Region. She is the creator of HCC’s newly formed Grants Empowerment Meetings (GEM) where quarterly forums are held for current and future prospective project directors/managers to meet, engage, and learn how to navigate complex related grant initiatives. A native of the 9th Ward, Brown and her two daughters moved to Houston in 2001 and relocated back to New Orleans in the summer of 2005 two months before Hurricane Katrina. Like many other residents, Brown lost everything as her home on the Lakefront sustained 10 feet of water damage. Brown has provided technical assistance concerning Sections 24, Parts 5 Subpart F, 982, 570, and 200 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Some of her works with organizations include the City of New Orleans, Habitat for Humanity in Fort Bend County, Fort Bend CORPS, The Arc, Texana, The Women’s Center, Veterans Affairs, Houston Housing Authority, and the Texas Workforce Commission, to name of few. Brown has supervised multiple programs including, but not limited to, Disaster Recovery with Hurricanes Katrina, Ike and Harvey, NSP, HPRP, CDBG, HOME, FTHB, ESG, HCVP, VASH, Single-Family & Multi-family construction, Owner-occupied Rehab programs, and TWC. She is noted for providing guidance on State and Federal projects regarding Section 200 of the Uniform Guidance. Brown is the proud mother of two beautiful and brilliant daughters in which the oldest received her Master’s Degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, and her youngest is currently attending the University of Houston’s undergraduate program and enjoying her 2018 Summer Internship with ExxonMobil.
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July 2018 | 5
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6 | July 2018 COMMUNITY
Be Great! By Shelondra Peavy Contributing Writer
D
reamers, thinkers, believers, doers - all of these are the types of people who are likely to achieve greatness at some point or another in their lives. Pursuit, perseverance, determination, endurance, intense focus, and a sense of purpose - all of these are the types of attributes that aid those people in their achievement thereof. It’s been said that some people are born great, while others vigorously pursue greatness and eventually attain it. On the other hand, there is an unsubstantial group of people who’ve had the fortunate experience of having greatness thrust upon them. Yet, whatever the case may be – greatness comes with associated costs. Greatness is both costly and priceless. It’s costly, because it may mean that you might become ostracized, alienated, misunderstood, ridiculed, and heavily opposed along the way to becoming great. However, greatness is also priceless, because once it’s acquired, if a man were to offer all of his wealth to buy it from you, that wouldn’t even come close to being enough.
The weight of this matter can only be accurately assessed when we understand the true definition of greatness. Greatness means unusually better than most, exceptional, extraordinary, above and beyond normal, exceedingly good, outstanding. Suppose someone has given a marvelous gift to you and it’s concealed inside of a box. If it’s never removed from the package, it wouldn’t matter at all how wonderful the gift is. That said, try to imagine what it would be like if the gift of greatness is hidden inside of you. If it’s never revealed or if it’s never utilized, then suddenly this wonderful gift becomes good-for-nothing. Therefore,
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perhaps the first step to achieving greatness is to “get out of the box.” It’s virtually impossible for greatness and mediocrity to simultaneously dwell in the same heart. Thus, once you’ve set your sights on greatness, don’t be content with “the norm” and don’t settle for being ordinary. By the same token, always remember that greatness is not measured by education, tangible possessions, or socio-economic status. Instead, these are merely optional tools and stepping stones on the road to greatness. Remind yourself that Harriet Tubman did not have a Bachelor’s degree, and Martin Luther King, Jr. didn’t live in a mansion. In like manner, even Jesus was born in an outdoor hayfilled manger, and He later rode into town on a donkey, as opposed to a splendid horse-driven chariot. Likewise, greatness is not determined by all of the finer things that a person has received in this world. On the contrary, greatness is determined by all that a person has offered to this world in order to make it a finer place. In conclusion, never forget that the pursuit of greatness requires continual wholehearted effort. So, think. Dream. Believe. Persevere. Endure. Be determined. Focus intensely. Consider greatness as your ultimate purpose. Do it. Be great!
July 2018  |  7
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8 | July 2018 COMMUNITY
Kroger Stores Across Texas Equip Houstonians with Tools for Hurricane Preparedness and Peace of Mind By d-mars.com News Provider
A
s Hurricane Season approaches, Kroger releases details on grocery, pharmaceutical and fuel options to maintain the Houston community’s health and safety As Hurricane Season begins, Kroger is reminding Houstonians that they can be active in ensuring their own safety and security by planning ahead. Kroger stores throughout the community offer essential services and products to support the fuel, grocery and pharmaceutical needs of residents in Houston and surrounding areas. Armed with the necessities and knowledge of best hurricane preparedness strategies ahead of impending storms, individuals and families can guard their wellbeing against potential disruption.
Tip Sheet: Hurricane Preparation Checklist Courtesy of Kroger
To prepare for a hurricane, Kroger is advising Houstonians take the following measures: Grocery • Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. • Purchase emergency kit items at your local Kroger Store. See attached. • Pick up the Hurricane Tracking Guide at your local Kroger store. To find the store nearest to you, go to www.kroger.com/stores/search • Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. • Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate. • Plan and install Kroger app to access ClickList® pickup and order groceries in advance online.
Pharmacy • Keep a current list of all your medications one easy way to do this is to take a picture of your prescription bottles. • When a storm is brewing make sure you have a 7-14 day supply of your medications - in most cases the pharmacy can work with your insurance. • Make sure your pharmacy has your most current contact information.
• Water: 2 Quarts to 1 Gallon Per Day Per Person • Canned and Powder Milk • Juice and Sports Drinks • Canned Foods: Soup, Tuna, Vegetables, Fruit Cups, etc. • Snacks: Cookies, Crackers, Chips, etc. • Snack Spreads: Peanut Butter, Jelly, Cheese Spread, etc. • Bread • Cereal • Can Opener • Batteries • Battery-powered Radio • Flashlight • Duct Tape • Ice • Ice Chest • Paper Plates, and Plastic Cups, Forks, Knives and Spoons • Toilet Paper • Paper Towels and Cleansing Wipes • Anti-bacterial Hand Sanitizer • Insect Repellent Spray • Candles and Matches • Charcoal and Lighter Fluid • Sterno • Generator • Pet Food, if applicable • Diapers, Wipes and Baby Formula, if applicable • Supply of Medical Prescriptions, if applicable
Fuel • Fill your gas tank! Take advantage of Kroger’s Fuel Rewards Program. • By shopping at Kroger, customers can earn up to $1 off per gallon at any Kroger Fuel Center. Kroger stands with Houstonians as the community once again faces the unpredictable impact of an upcoming Hurricane season. The organization is committed to keeping residents aware of vulnerabilities and empowered to protect their personal well-being as well as that of their loved ones, friends and neighbors.
About Kroger Kroger operates 110 retail food stores, 106 pharmacies and 81 fuel centers in Greater Houston, Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana. Our 17,794 Houston division associates are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed the Human SpiritTM, serving the region through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about The Kroger Co. visit our newsroom at https://www.thekrogerco. com/newsroom/ and investor relations site at http:// ir.kroger.com/.
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July 2018  |  9
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10 | July 2018 COMMUNITY
The 2nd Annual Chauncy Glover Project Gala Houston By d-mars.com News Provider
T
he Hobby Center For The Performing Arts rolled out the red carpet for The 2nd Annual Chauncy Glover Project (CGP) Gala Houston on Friday June 22, 2018. Chauncy Glover, his gents and young gents wanted to express to the world that “There Is A King In Me.” VIP guest and honorees, such as School Board Trustee, Jolanda Jones, former NFL players Adrian Peterson and Jay Barnett, and President and CEO of Zaxby’s Houston, Shawn A. Taylor, enjoyed a pre-event mixer with hors d'oeuvres and great conversation. CGP created this moment for guests to get to know their local leaders in the Houston community on a more personal level. Houston’s own, Kendrick Sampson, of “Vampire Diaries” and “How To Get Away With Murder,” hosted the elegant night. Starting off with his expression of what “There Is A King In Me” means to him personally. Sampson touched on some very political happenings in the world today, which was a great build up to the start of the CGP
production. During the show each student of The Chauncy Glover Project recited a monologue of their life and where they are going in the future, each ending with “I Promise To Make You Proud.” There wasn’t a dry eye in the building as the gents spoke about overcoming adversity, announcing what colleges they were attending in the fall, and how The Chauncy Glover Project has changed their lives for the better. Mr. Glover also used this night to honor some great individuals in the community for their work and commitment with Houston youth. • CGP “Spirit of the Entrepreneur” Award Presented
to Marcus Bowers, Business Owner, She's Happy Hair • CGP “Architect of Change” Award Presented to Shawn A. Taylor, President, Zaxby's Houston, LLC • CGP “Woman on the Move” Award Presented to Twiler Portis, Philanthropist • CGP “Dynamic Duo” Award Presented to Darian & Monica Lewis, Chief Marketing Officer/Chief
O p e r a t ion s Officer and President and CEO for the Monica Lewis School of Etiquette • CGP “Houston Game Changer” Award Presented to Warren Luckett, founder of Black Restaurant Week and co-owner of Branwar Wines • CGP “You Are Fearless” Award Presented to Adrian Peterson, NFL Player • CGP “Faith Forward Visionary Leadership” Award Presented to Rev. Dr. Ralph Douglas West, Pastor/Founder of The Church Without Walls • CGP “Icon” Award Presented to Rev. William A. Lawson, of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church After the show, hearts were full and CGP wanted stomachs to be full as well. Chauncy Glover invited guests to join the gents at “The After Glow” Reception, which took place upstairs in a beautifully decorated ballroom. Chef Tiffani Janelle aka: the “Beyonce of the kitchen,” prepared delectable entrees and desserts for guests to enjoy. The southern fried chicken and buttermilk waffles with mimosa syrup, being a crowd favorite. The Chauncy Glover Project Gala wouldn’t have been a success without the help of the gala’s wonderful sponsors: Kroger, ABC13, The Harris Institute, Womack Development, Loyalty United (Spasic Enterprises), Al’s Formal Wear, Men’s Wearhouse, Alpine Corporation, The Artisan Center for Plastic Surgery, PLLC, Houston First (venue rental discount), and Ardurra Group.
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July 2018  |  11
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12 | July 2018 COMMUNITY
PHOTO CAPTION: Karen Carter Richards, the publisher of the Houston Forward Times won Publisher of the Year at the 2018 NNPA Merit Awards. (From left-right) Dorothy Leavell, the chairman of the NNPA; Jeffrey Boney, the associate editor of the Houston Forward Times (accepting on behalf of Karen Carter Richards); Amelia Ashley-Ward, the NNPA Foundation chair and publisher of the SunReporter; and Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA at the 2018 NNPA Merit Awards. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)
Houston Forward Times Karen Carter Richards Earns 2018 NNPA Publisher of the Year Award By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor
K
aren Carter Richards, the first vice chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and publisher of the Houston Forward Times, received the highly-coveted Publisher of the Year Award during the 2018 NNPA Foundation Merit Awards in Norfolk, Va. Richards, who remained in Houston recovering from an illness, was represented by her associate editor, Jeffrey L. Boney. During an earlier interview, Richards expressed her undying appreciation for the Black Press. “The Black Press has always been and will continue to be relevant. We are the voice, the true voice of our people,” Carter Richards said. “We have recorded our history for 191 years like no other media could ever do. We have recorded many stories…our celebrations, our injustices and those hidden, treasured stories that came from our communities that we have always found value in.” The Merit Awards recognizes individual newspapers, publishers and other staff members that have excelled in various newspaper categories such as Best Editorial, Best Column Writing, Community Service, Best Layout & Design, Best Church Page, Best Sports Section and other areas. The NNPA Foundation also presented 21 scholarships that were funded by sponsors that included Ford, General Motors and Coca-Cola. The Miami Times took home 12 Merit Awards. The Birmingham Times won the John H. Sengstacke Award for General Excellence Award. The Miami Times also earned an award in the General Excellence category that focused on the number of points earned throughout the ceremony.
The North Dallas Gazette earned first place in the Robert S. Abbott Best Editorial Award while The Washington Informer and The Final Call, respectively, took home second and third place awards in the category. The Los Angeles Wave took first place in the Emory O. Jackson Best Column Writing category with The Washington Informer and Insight News earning second and third place finishes. The St. Louis American, a perennial winner at the NNPA Merit Awards, cashed in eight awards, this year, including first place finishes for Best Business Section, Best E nt e r t a i n m e nt Section, Best Use of Photographs, B e st Or ig i na l Advertising, Best Circulation Promotion, and the Miller Coors A. Phillip Randolph Messenger Award for Digital Excellence. The Philadelphia Tribune won eight awards, including first place awards for Best Church Section and Best Sports Section. Other winners included the Chicago Crusader, the AFRO-American, Seattle Medium, Los Angeles Sentinel, Houston Defender, the New Tri-State Defender, Richmond Free Press, the New Journal and Guide, the Atlanta Voice, the Indianapolis Recorder, and Insight News. “We are all winners, even if you didn't hear your name called,” said Amelia Ashley-Ward, NNPA Foundation
Chair and publisher of the San Francisco Sun-Reporter. “When one of us wins, we all wins.” For the 2018 Merit Awards, publishers were independently judged in 20 different journalistic categories and Ashley-Ward said it's all part of the Foundation's goal of continuing to deliver on its vision to preserve the historical legacy of the Black Press while expanding its reach and impact in the United States and abroad through technology and innovation in today's marketplace. Following the awards presentation, Macy's hosted an after party where publishers, writers, sponsors and others enjoyed cocktails and live entertainment. The theme of the 2018 convention was “Celebrating 191 Years of the Black Press in America: Sustaining, Engaging and Mobilizing Black Communities.” “Since the first publication of Freedom's Journal in 1827, the Black Press has remained on the frontlines of reporting and distributing the news, achievements, challenges, aspirations and ongoing advances in the cause and mission of sustainable development and progress for African Americans and all others who cry out for freedom and justice,” said NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. Brenda H. Andrews, the publisher of the New Journal and Guide and host of this year's convention, said that the Black Press lends an authentic and needed voice to the issues and concerns of continuing racial economic, income and health disparities. The Black Press also highlights the need for quality education for children, who live in inner city and rural communities and are often forgotten. Andrews said the high mass incarceration rate of people of color and other vital quality of life challenges are highlighted each week on the pages of the Black Press. “We also offer those feel good stories that enhances our communities' esteem about who we are, as people of color,” Andrews said.
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14 | July 2018 COMMUNITY
Houston Area Urban League 50th Anniversary Equal Opportunity Gala By d-mars.com News Provider
H
ouston Area Urban League 50th Anniversary Equal Opportunity Gala was recently held at the Hilton Americas. There were 1,000 guests who joined gala co-chairs John Mingé, Calvin C. Guidry and honorary chair Mayor Sylvester Turner at the Houston Area Urban League’s annual Equal Opportunity Day Gala - “Honoring Our Past … Impacting Our Present…Shaping Our Future.” The sold-out gala served as a power-packed backdrop for the organization’s 50th anniversary of serving Houston’s underserved and disadvantaged. • Guests were treated to performances by Grammy award winner Regina Belle, National recording artists Ruben Studdard, Chris Walker and Emmy award winning producer Ernest Walker and the Ernest Walker Band. • The unforgettable evening, raised more than $1.2 million to continue the Urban League’s work in the Houston community for the next 50 years and beyond. • The evening sizzled with a dance tribute to the Urban League’s five decades. Representatives from the group’s board, guild and young professionals raised the roof as they grooved to the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s: - 1960s: Clarese & Cary Yates - 1970s: Pam and Robert McKay
- 1980s: Marianna and Terry Roberson - 1990s: Bobby Scott and LaTesha Thompson - 2000s: Chelsi and Phillip Yates • KPRC’s Khambrel Marshall emceed the evening that honored the Urban League’s half century of service to Houston and culminated in recognizing three outstanding community contributors and leaders for their tireless work and efforts to improve the lives they touch - Dr. Ruth Simmons, President Prairie View A&M University - Honoring our Past Legacy Award Recipient - Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, Business Owner and Philanthropist - Impacting our Present Living Legend Award Recipient - Roynell Young, Founder/CEO Pro Vision
Academy - Shaping Our Future Empowerment Award Recipient Guests included: Dr. Ruth Simmons, Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, Roynell Young, Susan Dio, Linda Padon, Richard Campo, Scott Schwinger, Jerry Martin, Judson Robinson, III, Peter & Joanne Linden, Iris Cross, Winell & Doug Herron, Terry & Joycelyn Williams, James & Shavonda Harris, Krystn Page, A.Martin Wickliff, Jr., Ryan Colburn, Byron C. Stevenson, Don G. Hudson, Donald Bowers, Doug Coughlin, Ernest Peeples, Gilda Ramirez, Herman Burroughs, Jasmine Turner, Karen Hofmeister Kerrick Henny, Laurie Vignaud, Marian Harper, Marilyn Boss, Marina Coryat, Michelle Lev, Morris Smith, Pamela McKay, Ralph D. West, Sherman Lewis II, Spring Williams Cox, Terry W. Roberson, Victor Lofton, Walter Strickland, Yolanda Green Barnes
About the Houston Area Urban League The Houston Area Urban League, founded in 1968, is a United Way agency affiliated with the National Urban League whose mission is to help African Americans and other minorities to secure economic self-reliance, parity and civil rights. As a voice for poor and disadvantaged people of all races, the Houston Area Urban League has a long and distinguished record as an agency that offers tangible, lasting benefits to all members of the community without regard to age, sex, race, physical limitations, or ethnic background.
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1616 | | July July 2018 2018
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
68
th
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
Council Memb Martha Tatu
s p i h s r e d l ea
Vanessa Bell Calloway
f o y c a l eg Star Jones
Senator Kamala Harris
By d-mars.com News Provider
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lpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA) is oldest Greek-letter organization established by African-American college-educated women comprised of nearly 300,000 members in more than 1,000 graduate and undergraduate chapters in the United States and around the world. Houston recently rolled out the pink and green carpet to host the organization for their 68th Boule. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Houston City Council Member Amanda Edwards, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Houston Airport System Executive Rhonda Arnold, local members of AKA and other leadership were instrumental in the planning for the illustrious sisterhood’s celebration in our city. Held at the George R. Brown Convention Center, the Boule brought in nearly 20,000 members, celebrities and notables. A major highlight of the Boule was Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, L.H.D. passing the AKA International Presidential torch to Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover. “It has been my absolute pleasure to lead this esteemed sisterhood to unheard of levels of achievement, as we bring the conference back to Houston after 40 years,” Buckhanan Wilson said. Dr. Glover took the helm on July 12, 2018. She will lead the storied organization for four years
(2018-2022), under the theme, “Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service.”
Dr. Glover expressed, “I am grateful to the membership for believing in my vision. I truly am humbled to lead such an awesome organization comprised of dynamic and professional women who are leaders in their own right.” A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Glover began her educational development as a student at Tennessee State U n i v e r s i t y, where she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics with honors. She earned her Master of Business Administration Degree in Accounting at Clark Atlanta University, and her Doctor of Philosophy in Economics and Business Degree from George Wa s h i n g t o n University. Dr. Glover earned her Juris Doctor Degree from Georgetown University Law Center. She is a certified public accountant, a licensed attorney, and one of a handful of African-American women to hold the Ph.D.-CPAJ.D. combination in the nation. Professionally, Dr. Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover Glover serves as President of Ten30th International President Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated nessee State University, and she is the institution’s eighth and first woman president. As AKA’s International President, she will continue to uphold the standards of AKA through her leadership, dedication to the organization, and service. A key feature of the 68th Boule was the Public Meeting. Themed “Launching New Dimensions of Service: Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership and
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Service in the Space City,” the Pu surrounding areas with AKA’s miss on a local, regional, national and glo
The Pubic Meeting was also AKA’ nity to honor local and international community leaders who represent the sisterhood’s five Program Targets of: Educational Enrichment, Health Promotion, Family Strengthening, Environmental O w nership and Global Impact.
Pictured Left to Right: Co-Pastor Mia Wright, Genora Boykins and Council Member Dwight Boykins
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honorees
• Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, President – Tennessee State University and AKA International President • Keniece Y. Gray, AKA Undergraduate/Graduate Relations Task Force • Dr. Hansonia Caldwell Harriford, distinguished pianist, accompanist, conductor, church organist, university administrator, and active research and performance scholar • Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Founder and Chairperson of the Pocket Rocket Foundation • Teta V. Banks, educator, writer, civil rights advocate, diplomat, and National Chair – United Nations Association of the United States of America • Fannie Frazier Hicklin, distinguished educator and AKA Diamond Member (75+ years of membership) Council Member Amanda Edwards
se rvice
ublic Meeting acquainted Houston and the sion and impressive record of service obal arena.
• Rev. Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader, religious leader, political leader, and Founder and President – Rainbow PUSH Coalition • The Honorable Sylvester Turner, Mayor of Houston, Texas • Councilwoman Amanda Edwards, Houston City Council Member At-Large Position 4 • Roland Martin, award-winning journalist, author, television show host, and political commentator
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• Ifeoma White-Thorpe, Harvard University student who was accepted into all the Ivy League schools and the prestigious Stanford University • Camille Borders, senior at Washington University, poet, writer, student organizer and a Rhodes Scholar • Jasmine Brown, recent graduate of Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and a Rhodes Scholar • Rear Admiral Sylvia Trent-Adams, Deputy Surgeon General of the United States of America • Rep. Frederica S. Wilson, U.S. Representative for the 24th Congressional District of Florida • Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, U.S. Representative for the 30th Congressional District of Texas • Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, U.S. Representative for the 18th Congressional District of Texas. • Alpha Chapter (Howard University), the genesis and foundation of AKA • Africare, one of the oldest and most experienced non-profit international development organizations focused exclusively on Africa • National Museum of African-American History and Culture, the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African-American life, art, history, and culture
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The Boule also was a platform for the sorority to introduce newly inducted honorary members: Grammy award-winning artist Yolanda Adams, diplomat Teta V. Banks, astronaut Jeanette J. Epps, activist Chantél Harris, and author Margot Lee Shetterly. AKA inducts women as honorary members who have demonstrated remarkable strength and perseverance to achieve their goals and have a positive impact on the world. Previous honorary membership inductees include Jada PinkettSmith, Maya Angelou, Alice Walker, Iyanla Vanzant,
Alicia Keys, Gladys Knight, Coretta Scott King, Rosa Parks, Mae Jemison, Eleanor Roosevelt and Zina Garrison. AKA will continue to be impactful, measurable, and sustainable as it focuses on addressing domestic and global issues affecting children, women and families. For more information on Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and its programs, please visit www. aka1908.com.
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18 | July 2018
TRAVEL
5 Things We Love About Playa del Carmen, Mexico By Valerie Jones and Kim Floyd 2 Girls Who Travel
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e can’t think of much that beats a nice beach vacation. We’re good for at least one a year. We travel to Mexico quite a bit because of its proximity to Houston, the weather and the affordability. So we decided to check runs just parallel to the beach. Our condo was located another city off of our Mexico travels – Playa del Carmen. near 5th Avenue and everywhere we wanted to go was Playa del Carmen sits along the Yucatan Peninsula’s within walking distance.
Riviera Maya in the state of Quintana Roo. It’s on the side of Mexico closer to the Atlantic Ocean (which tends to have calmer waters than the Pacific Ocean). While we love all our Mexico destinations, each city we’ve visited has had its own unique appeal. We wanted to share with you five things we loved the most about Playa del Carmen. 1. 5th Avenue: If you’re into the tourist part of town where there’s ample shopping, restaurants and entertainment, then 5th Avenue is your spot. Known by locals as “Quinta,” 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen has a shopping mall, streets upon streets of excellent restaurants (we ate at a few) and endless stores to buy all the souvenirs your heart can desire. Another plus – it
2. INTI Beach Club: We literally stumbled upon this little beach oasis when we were simply looking for somewhere to sit by the water in the shade. Not only did we find comfortable lounges in the shade, the waitstaff was so attentive. We had fresh margaritas made right in front of us and the most delicious lobster and shrimp tacos we’ve had in recent memory. 3. Street Tacos: Speaking of tacos, you can’t go to Mexico and not eat street tacos. We’re sure it’s in the Mexico travel rule book somewhere. Street tacos are great because they’re convenient (stands are everywhere), they’re easy to eat, incredibly cheap and most importantly, they taste good!
4. Cenotes: If you’re not already familiar, a cenote is a natural water hole made mostly of limestone and t hey a re quite plentiful in the Yucatan Peninsula. We booked a jungle buggy tour that also included a visit to one of the many cenotes in the area. They are simply beautiful. We were able to get out and swim (eh, play) in this one and it was so secluded and peaceful. 5. Tequila: Ok, so technically this isn’t specific to Playa del Carmen because the tequila we’re speaking of we picked up duty-free at Cancun International Airport. However … we did have lots of good tequila in Playa del Carmen. Trust us, Mexicans know their tequila. So of course, we had to bring a few bottles back to the good ol’ U S of A. About 2 Girls Who Travel: Armed with a love for culture, adventure, food, arts and entertainment – and equipped with a laptop, camera and multiple cellular devices – 2 Girls Who Travel has a mission to share their journey with the world. Throughout their travels, they conduct exclusive interviews, write about cool finds, give destination-specific travel tips and provide their takes on the best food and drinks and so much more. Embodying two different kinds of travelers – Val is the adventureseeking millennial and Kim is the cultured lover of luxury – readers will learn more about them as they share their experiences traversing the globe! Subscribe to the 2 Girls Who Travel blog 2girlswhotravel.com.
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20 | July 2018
In the Business Community…
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J Prince Book Signing
It was a great evening of food, drinks and insider celebrity secrets and insights from one of Houston’s most successful millionaires and hip hop moguls, J. Prince, founder of Rapa-Lot Records. Prince released his highly-anticipated book, “The Art & Science of Respect: A Memoir by James Prince,” to a packed house of fans and celebrities. For decades, serial entrepreneur Prince presided over Rap-ALot Records, one of the first and most successful independent rap labels in the country. In his memoir, he explains how he earned his reputation as one of the most respected men in Hip Hop. By staying true to his three principles of heart, loyalty, and commitment, and an unwavering faith in God, he has defeated many adversaries. Respect isn't given, it's earned. In recounting his compelling life story, Prince analyzes the art and science of earning respect - and giving respect - and how to apply these principles to your own life. To purchase the book, go to www.amazon.com.
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22 | July 2018 ENTREPRENEUR
Local Business Brings Nature’s Beauty Right to Your Door
Petals on Bikes by La Lydia Gift 2 Give
Harris-Cannizzo: Our clients are wonderful. They appreciate that we are eclectic, that we offer unique, personal experiences, and that we craft beautiful, healthy plants.
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ngela Harris-Cannizzo is the owner La Lydia Gift 2 Give and its latest offering, the urban flower and plant shop on two wheels: Petals on Bikes (POB). POB uses ecofriendly pedal power to bring fresh flowers, succulents, and houseplants to urban dwellers in downtown and EaDo Houston.
Client Testimonials: Angela is an artist! The way she is able to transform items and give life to them with plants is truly magical. Beyond her talent, her spirit and smile will brighten your day. - Jessica Ivans Ms. Angie has amazing work! I purchased an adorable mini succulent in a Santa Clause mug from her. Great price, and she provided care instructions. The rest of her collection contains unique and creative plantings! I will definitely be back. -Skylar Jones
“Everyone also knows how crazy Houston traffic is,” says Harris-Cannizzo. “These days we look for convenience and ease wherever we can, but I believe every home deserves a bit of nature’s beauty.” So she launched Petals on Bikes, providing condo and apartment residents a unique opportunity that comes right to their door — the ease of buying succulents, houseplants, and locally-grown fresh flowers right at their own building. “We bring nature’s beauty to you,” she shares. Petals on Bikes specializes in smallspace gardening, planting in vintage and repurposed containers, and custom flower bouquets in vintage and new again containers. “Real plants for real people,” says Harris-Cannizzo. “That’s what we offer. That’s who we are.”
Q&A with Petals on Bikes by La Lydia Gift 2 Give D-MARS: How would you describe your company? Harris-Cannizzo: We are a company inspired by nature. We believe that plants make people happy, healthy and whole! La Lydia Gift 2 Give and Petals on Bikes is an urban flower and plant shop that specializes in small space gardening and decorating with nature. We are passionate about bringing nature inside, especially for urban dwellers. POB provides condo and apartment residents a unique opportunity- the ease of buying beautiful items from nature at their front door. D-MARS: What services do you offer? Harris-Cannizzo: We offer boutique plant services: we sell plants and offer custom services such as finding the perfect plant or pot for any living space; planting and maintaining indoor and outdoor plants; plus special events: planting parties, succulent bars and flower crown bars. D-MARS: What makes La Lydia Gift 2 Give / Petals on Bikes unique? Harris-Cannizzo: We bring the urban market vibe to city dwellers. We specialize in potted plants in vintage and re-purposed containers; modern planters for hipsters; small space garden supplies; locally farm grown flowers; succulents and various plants for both indoor and outdoor beauty. We offer real plants for real people, whether you are a student needing a little touch of nature or a busy professional craving the calm of nature's Zen. Our company is eco-friendly, and that's very important to our mission.
D-MARS: What are the future goals for the company? Harris-Cannizzo: Keep growing. We need regular contracts that will help keep us sustained as we grow our clientele. D-MARS: How do we find you on Facebook and where/how do we call to place an order? Harris-Cannizzo: We are at Blue Field Market in EaDo and Discovery Green's Flea By Night. We have pop-up shops at various downtown residential locations. For custom orders, or to book us come to your building or business, contact us at 713-443-9674 or email us at lalydiag2g@gmail.com Our social media sites: Instagram & Facebook @lalydiag2g
Incorporating vintage and upcycled materials and using pedal power to deliver live plants downtown residents is how we hope to help our environment and our city. D-MARS: What are your best-selling item (s). Harris-Cannizzo: Succulents. Potted airpurifying plants. Potted succulents in vintage teacups. D-MARS: What is the biggest challenge your company has faced and how did you overcome that challenge to successfully serve the client?
Harris-Cannizzo: The demand for our potted plants once, happily, exceeded what our vintage bike can handle, so we had to drop of large planters in enough time to pedal back with our bike cart and the remainder of plants. It was our first pop-up shop downtown and a huge challenge - but we did it! Our client was so pleased that we had enough product to accommodate their residents. Lesson learned: be prepared for the sharp curves of life, for the unexpected surprises. Be prepared to shift gears and get back on track quickly. D-MARS: If we asked your clients, what would they say about your service?
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D-MARS: Is there anything else you would like to mention about La Lydia Gift 2 Give / Petals On Bikes? Harris-Cannizzo: We believe every home deserves a plant because plants make us better humans. Plants teach us how to nurture, and in turn we hopefully will be a little more compassionate towards ourselves and others. Wondering where else you can find Harris-Cannizzo if you’re not in downtown Houston or Eado? She is a regular at many markets across Houston including Discovery Green, Flea by Night, Blue Field Market.
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24 | July 2018 POLITICAL
Protect Yourself from Houston’s Hot Summer By Sylvester Turner Mayor of Houston
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e Houstonians know how brutal the summer months can be. Summer officially began on June 21, but we felt the heat long before the
solstice. In July and August, Houston’s temperature consistently reaches up to 95 degrees each day, with a heat index often above 100 degrees. This past May was the hottest in the United States since the Dust Bowl era in 1934, setting daily record highs across the country. However, whether or not we set records, it’s still going to be hot. The Houston Health Department assisted me in providing you with some tips to stay cool and safe in the summer months. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 650 heat-related deaths occur each year. Those at greatest risk for heat-related illnesses are children younger
than 4, seniors and the disabled. Individuals who work outside, such as those in construction, are also at risk because they work outside during the hottest part of the day (around 3 p.m.). I want to remind those who work outside to stay hydrated and adjust when you might normally work and exercise to early morning or evening. I ask all of you, especially those who know individuals who live in homes without air conditioners, check on your neighbor. If you know somebody without an air conditioner, take them to an area mall, library or one of Houston’s 11 multiservice centers so they can get out of the heat for a while. A few hours can help save a life. To find the multiservice center closest to you, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/health/MSC/. It is important that we all drink lots of liquids, even before feeling thirsty. It is best to avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can make us dehydrated. Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that permits the evaporation of perspiration can also help us remain cool. A lot of us like going to the pool in the summer. In addition to wearing sunscreen, make sure you and your family practice proper pool safety – swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards, do not swim alone, and ensure that everyone in the family knows how to swim. One of the most effective ways to ensure pool safety is by enrolling your family in age-appropriate swim lessons.
Do not leave children, senior citizens, or pets unattended in a vehicle. When outside temperatures range from 80 to 100 degrees, the inside of a car parked in direct sunlight can quickly climb to between 130 and 172 degrees, according to the CDC. If you do not own an air conditioner and are unable to leave your home, taking cool baths or showers will help prevent heat-related illness. We should all remain alert to heat advisories. The National Weather Service declares a Heat Emergency when the heat index reaches 108 degrees or higher on two or more consecutive days. A heat index of 108 is a potential health threat for all individuals, but especially for high-risk groups. It is essential that we take these preventative measures to prevent unnecessary visits to the emergency room or hospital. Use the resources that are available to you to protect yourself and others who may be at risk. When Houstonians work together, we can thrive and stay cool during the summer months.
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26 | July 2018 CULTURE
Interesting Culture and Diversity Facts In a country like GERMANY, you will see people knocking on their table rather than clapping to applaud at the end of a master class or a really good meeting. In Beer-land clapping is reserved for theater and concerts! If you happen to visit SPAIN, don’t be surprised if a girl kisses you twice - once on one cheek and once on the other cheek- to introduce herself. It’s the Spanish way of saying “Hello!” Do you like cheese? In FRANCE people tend to enjoy a cheese tasting plate accompanied by a good red wine after meals.
who then passes them to the bride. This exchange signifies the couples’ pledge to provide for each other and for material goods to be shared equally.
AFRICA is home to anywhere from 800 to 1,500 of the worlds languages making it possibly the most linguistically diverse continent in the world.
In JAPAN a sign of approval and appreciation of someone’s cooking is to slurp the soup loudly - what is considered rude in most western countries.
In RUSSIA the government has instated a public holiday created solely to give couples time off from work in order to have sex in the hopes that doing so will result in pregnancy. Parents whose babies are born exactly nine months later can even win prizes for helping to keep the Russian bloodline going. In TAIWAN, belching after a meal is considered a compliment to the cook, yet eating or drinking in the streets is considered crude.
Italians are very superstitious and for them, nuns and ambulances are associated with death. So if you plan to spend your holidays in ITALY and you bump into one of them, don’t hesitate and bless yourself with the sign of the Cross… Just in case! In INDIA it is common to see two men walking holding hands. This doesn’t mean that they are in a romantic relationship. This is just a sign of friendship. On the other hand, you will never see a couple expressing their love in public in India. In the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC a wedding tradition is to have a child (usually a boy) carry “arras” or coins in a tray. They are given to the priest who passes them to the groom,
In PUERTO RICO, Christmas or Navidad season lasts approximately from the end of November at around Thanksgiving, until mid-January. In VENEZUELA if you are invited to someone’s house you are expected to arrive 15 to 30 minutes later than invited. Arriving on time or early shows that you are too eager, which is interpreted as greedy. Never decline an offer of coffee, as it is a symbol of hospitality to Venezuelans.
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28  |  July 2018
For a special discount use code DMARS.
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Relocating to Dallas? Let me help you find your dream home.
Mena Freeman Real Estate Agent 702646 (972) 665-2825 menafreeman@kw.com www.menafreemanhomes.com
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30  |  July 2018
T H E
E X P E R T
N E TW O R K
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