November 28 – December 4, 2019
Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication
Volume 30 | Number 46-
Complimentary
Jesse Jackson Reform and The Moral Center
H-E-B
Helping the Houston Food Bank
Adoption: Expand Your Family This Holiday By Jo-Carolyn Goode Follow Us #TeamStyleMag
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Urban Souls 15th Anniversary
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GHBC’s Women in Business Conference
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Looking to Make a Statement for the AFC South
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Novmber 28 – December 2, 2019
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06 Publisher Francis Page, Jr. Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com
Turkey Leg Hut Responds to Allegations in Lawsuit
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Social Media Editor/Videographer Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com Sports Editor Brian Barefield
NATIONAL WRITERS
Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org Roland Martin www.rolandmartin.com Judge Greg Mathis www.askjudgemathis.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS VICKY PINK vhpink@gmail.com
Just Mercy Q&A with Cast
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William Ealy Williamealy1906@gmail.com Semetra Samuel semetra@artistikrebelcreative.com Mike Munoz artrepreneur91@gmail.com Robert Franklin editorial@stylemagazine.com
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dba Houston Style Magazine & StyleMagazine.com Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035 ©2015 Houston Style Magazine, a Minority Print Media, L.L.C. Company. All Right Reserved. Reproduction in whole or within part without permission is prohibited. Houston Style Magazine has a 2007 audit by Circulation Verification Council (CVC). Houston Style Magazine is a member of the Texas Publishers Association (TPA), Texas Community Newspaper Association (TCNA), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Independent Free Paper of America (IFPA), Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP). National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP, Inc.), Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Latin Women’s Initiative (LWI), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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COMMENTARY
Reform and The Moral Center By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer for most Americans. Wages have been inching up, but they aren’t rising as fast as the cost of basics -- housing, college, health care. Working families -- whether middle or low income -- are struggling simply to stay afloat. Depths of despair are soaring, particularly among the young. Illness is still the leading cause of bankruptcy. Half of all Americans have no retirement plan other than Social Security. The climate emergency is a clear and present danger, costing more lives, more displacement and billions in damage each year. If we are going to address these challenges, we need reforms that correspond with the size of the problem. An adhesive bandage won’t stop a leg hemorrhage. A wall can’t shut out the cataclysmic storms, droughts, floods and tides of the climate emergency.
T
oo radical, impractical, too costly, impossible, can’t pass the Senate Those are the terms centrist Democrats use to describe the bold reform ideas put forth by Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren in the Democratic presidential primaries. “Venezuela, socialist, communist tripe, crazy” are the jibes preferred by Donald Trump and Republicans. All this begs the same question: What do they plan to do to meet the challenges we face? For most Americans, this isn’t a rhetorical question. The economy, President Trump boasts, is as good as it has ever been in terms of the topline unemployment figures, but it still doesn’t work
POLITICAL
Q
uestions remain about whether a Houston candidate with a felony conviction is eligible to be on the runoff ballot for a city council seat. Tarsha Jackson and Cynthia Bailey were the top two vote-getters in the District B race on Election Day. Neither candidate received more than 50% of the vote, so the race went
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The Green New Deal -- mocked by Trump and Republicans who continue to deny the existence of manmade climate change -- is ambitious and costly -- but only because it tries to meet the goals that scientists say are necessary if we are not to become an endangered species. Getting to a clean energy, zero carbon emissions economy requires massive investment, new innovation and dramatic changes in transportation, housing, energy and more. The transition will generate millions of new jobs, while displacing some from old jobs. The Green New Deal proposes a job guarantee to make certain that no one is left out in the transition. Critics say it costs too much -- but it costs far less
than the price we will pay if we don’t act boldly and now. Or consider higher education. Student loan debt continues to rise, now over $1 trillion, exceeding even credit card debt. More students have to put off college or drop out for years in order to earn enough to get the education that all agree is vital to our country and to their future. More students graduate with debt that will burden their lives, making it harder to afford to have children, to save for a house, to put money away for retirement. Debt is crushing a generation that tries to do the right thing. It is particularly brutal on people of color who have less of a chance to have parents with the wealth to help pay for tuition. Tuition-free college -- mocked as a costly giveaway -- simply argues that publicly provided education or advanced training should be extended beyond kindergarten through 12th grade. At a time when college education or advanced training is deemed essential not simply for the individual but for the country, why wouldn’t we make that available for all who qualify? How can our society thrive if we condemn the best of the next generation to a life burdened by debt? This is one of the richest countries in the world. We can afford these things. With inequality reaching new extremes, and corporations and the wealthy rigging the tax code to their benefit, we can pay for them without raising taxes
on middle- and low-income Americans. The argument that these necessary reforms are not “practical” makes no sense. Centrists suggest that only modest, piecemeal, admittedly inadequate reforms have a chance to gain the support needed to pass. But pre-emptive compromise doesn’t inspire fear or fervor. What’s needed is a clarion call that lays out what is essential -- and builds the public support necessary to tackle those standing in the way. Republicans opposed Social Security and Medicare as socialism, or communist notions. They passed because Roosevelt and Johnson built the majorities and claimed the mandate to get them passed. The argument that these reforms are too radical, too “left” also fails on its face. These basic reforms -- the right to adequate health care, the right to an education, the addressing of the existential threat posed by the climate emergency -- are not left or right. They represent the moral center. The values they express are not un-American; they are central to the American dream. It isn’t radical to suggest that all have health care, or all have access to a good education. It is just common sense. And we are badly in need of a strong dose of that. You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson in care of this newspaper or by email at jjackson@rainbowpush.org. Follow him on Twitter @RevJJackson. Share this story online at stylemagazine.com.
Houston City Council Candidate Sues to Hold New Election, Citing Opponent’s Felony Conviction By Jen Rice/HoustonPubicMedia.Org
to a runoff, scheduled for December 14. But the third-place candidate in the race, Renee Jefferson Smith, filed a lawsuit two days after the November 5 general election, asking the court to declare Bailey ineligible and prevent the city of Houston from certifying the election results because Bailey has a felony conviction on her record. In 2007, Bailey was convicted of theft and sentenced
November 28 – December 2, 2019
to 10 years in prison. Jefferson Smith also argued in her lawsuit that Bailey “may have perjured herself by falsely asserting on her affidavit for public office that she was not an ex-felon.” As part of the City of Houston’s application form, Bailey signed a sworn affidavit saying she had not been finally convicted of a felony “for which I have not been pardoned or had my full rights of citizenship restored by other official action.” In a response filed with the court, Bailey argued that she had not committed perjury when she filed the application, “based on me completing my sentence and having my voting rights restored.” A judge denied the suit last week, clearing the way for Bailey to be on the ballot, but Jefferson Smith appealed the decision and filed a new lawsuit Friday asking the court to order a new election. “If Ms. Bailey wins, she can’t be seated,” Jefferson Smith’s attorney, Nicole Bates, said. “What ultimately ends up happening is the state ends up stepping in and they’re going to order a whole new election. They’ll have to order a special election because she won’t be able to be seated. And if the City does try to seat her, the state will remove her.” State law on whether a felon can run for office is open to interpretation, according
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to experts and lawmakers. A 2018 race for Austin City Councilreignited confusion about the state law when Lewis Conway Jr., a candidate with a felony conviction, was allowed to be on the ballot. He did not win his race. According to current state law, “a person must have not been finally convicted of a felony from which the person has not been pardoned or otherwise released from the resulting disabilities.” Republican State Senator Pat Fallon filed a bill during the 2019 legislative session that would have modified this part of the election code. “The resulting disabilities line is unclear, and without legal precedent, causing confusion as to who is exactly eligible to run for public office,” Fallon said in a hearing on the bill. “SB 466 strikes this ambiguous part of the election code to make it clear that only convicted felons who have been pardoned are eligible to run for office.” The Senate passed the bill, but it later died in the House. A hearing in the District B case could be scheduled for later this week, according to Jefferson Smith’s attorney. Early voting in the runoff election begins November 27. Read more at HoustonPublicMedia.Org.
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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11/18/19 6:48 PM
LOCAL
The Life and Legacy of Peter Gerard Brown By StyleMagazine.com Newswire
T
he Houston community is a much better place because Peter G. Brown passed this way. “Pete” as he was called, was truly a unique person and known as a “gentle giant” who served his family, extended family, his friends, his church and his community at all times. His professional career was as a mechanical engineer and project manager primarily in the oil & gas industry. But his real passion was to serve others whenever he could. As an example of his Christian faith, Pete was ordained an Elder at Spirit of Life Ministries and served enthusiastically wherever there was a need. As a native Houstonian, he was a graduate of Phillis Wheatley high School and he attended Texas A&M University and later graduated from University of Houston Downtown. Pete gained his heavenly wings on Tuesday, November 19th. He leaves to celebrate and cherish so many special memories including: his loving wife, Sharon Conner Brown; beloved sons, Cameron and Aaron; his devoted sister, Linda K. Brown; his brother Charles Brown; his grandsons Osias and Kai Abel; and a host of extended family members, relatives and friends who truly loved him. His homegoing celebration will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at Spirit of Life Ministries at 485 Maxey Road, Houston, TX 77013; the viewing will be held from 11:00 am-1:00 pm, homegoing celebration at 1:00 pm.
Turkey Leg Hut Responds to Allegations in Lawsuit The Turkey Leg Hut (TLH) restaurant has responded to the allegations of a lawsuit filed by a handful of residential neighbors requesting an emergency and permanent injunction to stop the restaurant from preparing smoked turkey legs, claiming the restaurant is a public health hazard. The Turkey Leg Hut plans to vigorously defend all allegations in this lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, sought an emergency injunction to prevZent the restaurant from using smokers to prepare their turkey legs, both immediately and permanently. “What is most puzzling to us is why the plaintiffs filed an emergency lawsuit now, the week before Thanksgiving, when the
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restaurant has been in operation for two years on Almeda,” said John Zavitsanos, Lead Counsel for the Turkey Leg Hut. Turkey Leg Hut founders and their attorneys are also bewildered that the plaintiffs filed this lawsuit one week after the Turkey Leg Hut publicly answered questions and shared their permits and construction plans to build a fully enclosed, ventilated structure over the smoking pit area to address the concerns from neighbors at the Museum Park Super Neighborhood Meeting on November 13, 2019. Oddly enough, a handful of neighbors present at that meeting opposed the construction of the pit enclosure that would solve the very issue this lawsuit is founded on. In addition to the precarious timing of this lawsuit, the suit alleges the “air monitoring performed near the restaurant revealed high levels of pollutants that could pose a health risk”, as claimed by a private company hired by the plaintiffs. This is an issue for the City of Houston Health Department, not a private company. The Turkey Leg Hut is actively working with the City of Houston to address any and all concerns to ensure they remain compliant with city ordinances, permits, and health department codes. The owners of the Turkey Leg Hut have been actively working with the city since opening their restaurant on Almeda in December of 2017, not just to remain compliant, but because they love the neighborhood and have always taken additional steps to be a good neighbor!
November 28 – December 2, 2019
H-E-B Makes Things Better at the Houston Food Bank By StyleMagazine.com Newswire
An ammonia leak destroying 1.8 million pounds of food is the last thing that folks at the Houston Food Bank wanted to deal with, especially during this time of year. But thank goodness for community partners. H-E-B, known for making things better wherever they are, has stepped up once again to be a good neighbor to help replenish what the Houston Food Bank lost. Trailers full of food barring the red and white H-E-B logo rolled up to the Houston Food Bank where H-E-B employees were waiting to sort items and get the company back in operation. “Losing 1.8 million pounds of refrigerated product is truly tragic,” Lisa Helfman, director of H-E-B Public Affairs Houston, said. “It is our privilege to enlist H-E-B’s manpower and supplies to ensure the Houston Food Bank not only recovers but is able to continue fulfilling its mission of feeding families in need.” H-E-B is not the only one lending a helping hand. Kroger is donating $50,000 and a truckload of goods. “Kroger is a longtime partner of the Houston Food Bank, so when we heard about the leak we knew we had to step in,” says Joe Kelley, president of Kroger Houston division. “It is our honor and responsibility to assist the food bank in their time of dire need while also upholding our Zero Hunger | Zero Waste commitment.” United Airlines launched a campaign where they are matching dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000 to donate to the food bank. MileagePlus members who give generously will be eligible to receive up to 1,000 award miles.
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WED, NOV. 27-SAT, NOV. 30
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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FEATURE
Adoption: Expand Your Family This Holiday By Jo-Carolyn Goode
T
hree to four million children are born in the United States each year. Of that number approximately 7,000 plus are abandoned. Having no family to love them or a place stay they grow up in the foster care system. On average a child stays in the system 2 to 5 years and some longer than that. Feelings of not being wanted and what is wrong with them cloud their judgment and damage their self-esteem. Foster parents can change that outlook for children with the basics of love, shelter, and food and expand their family this holiday season. What Does It Take to Be an Adoptive Parent? Ask any parent and they will tell you that you will never feel fully ready to raise a child. Let’s face it. Raising a child is scary. You are responsible for their survival, the shaping of their ideals, what they become, and how they impact society. No pressure there right? Outside the basic needs of wanting to provide love, time, and support, potential adoptive parents must be at least 21 years old, financially stable, and mature. Officials will want to look into your background and lifestyle to ensure that the child has a safe place to learn and grow. You must be willing to undergo a criminal background check and an abuse/neglect check. Expect that officials will want to do a home study with all parties living in the house. Have a designated space for the child to sleep and room for their things. The department of Family and Protective Services said foster families need to be CPR/ First Aid certified, obtain TB testing, have adequate sleeping space, adhere to a nonphysical discipline policy, vaccinate all pets, have permits for fire, heat and safety inspections, and attend free training sessions. Before all the above is done, a potential adoptive parent must have the right heart and frame of mind. One must be willing to love another human with no limits or conditions. Love them as if they are your very own despite the difference in your DNA. An Adoption Story As a little girl, Samdria Stewart saw that type of love exemplified over and over again by the hands of her mother. Through the years her mother fostered over 50 girls. She was able to see first hand the number of children in need of loving homes so when it came time for her to start her own family she knew she had options. When traditional ways of conception were unsuccessful for her husband and herself, adoption was the next best choice for them. “My husband and I tried to conceive for several years and during our prayer time, God continued to remind us of the need for forever homes for children in foster care. We believe that it was God’s plan all along,
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but it took us a few years of praying specifically for His will to realize it,” said Stewart. The Stewarts were not completely new
November 28 – December 2, 2019
to parenting when they first adopted their child. The couple already had a daughter who is biologically Stewart’s husband’s child. They poured their love
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into her and wanted to share a piece of themselves with other children. Stewart recalled, “We had not initially planned to adopt, but we believe it was always God’s sovereign plan for our family to grow through adoption.” Initially, the Stewarts were looking to adopt older children since they knew that they had a more difficult time being adopted, especially with siblings. But God had other plans. “We ended up being placed with a newborn baby girl and a year and some months later were blessed with her newborn brother.” Stewart continued, “We surrendered to God’s plan and were open to whoever He chose to be our children regardless of race, age or gender.” Going from a household of three to five was an adjustment. However, it was made easier by the love and support from their community. Family, friends, and neighbors opened their hearts and flooded Stewart’s home with donations of crib, clothes, toys, meals, and support. Stewart said they were blown away by the way others showed up for them. “No matter the age, when family dynamics change, there is an adjustment period and it is important to be open to accepting support from family, friends, church members, co-workers, and neighbors!” That support made it a lot easier and less stressful for the family to bond as a unit. Stewart advises others considering adoption to do their homework first and pray a lot. Educating yourself on the adoption process, especially in your state, will help to make the process a little smoother. Make sure to look at U.S. vs. international adoptions. Ask yourself questions. Are you more suited for an older child or a baby? Do you have the time needed to devote to a child? Are your finances in order to support this new life in your care? A strong support system is essential according to Stewart. “No matter the age or circumstance, a child being removed from their birth family impacts the child in ways that can and can’t be seen. Adoptive families can be part of the healing process, but they are responsible for being aware that their child has been impacted even if they received them directly from the hospital,” commented Stewart. Beyond that Stewart advises, “Be open to loving a child you don’t share blood and DNA with just as you would if you did. Be in 100% agreement about entering the process with your spouse, if married. Understand that there will be unknowns and be flexible throughout the process.” It takes more than DNA to be a parent. It takes a lot of love. You must show up for games and school performances. Staying up all night long when they go to a party is a requirement. Praying every day that when they leave your care that you will be able tucked them in and kiss them goodnight.
LOCAL
Hurricane Harvey: Reaction, Recovery, Resiliency By StyleMagazine.com Newswire
• Shifted personnel and emergency resources to the Northeast Water Plant, thus avoiding a plant shutdown that would have required an advisory saying the city’s tap water was unsafe to drink. • Co-founded the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund, which collected and distributed more than $114 million to proven non-profit organizations that provide direct aid to victims. • Won City Council support for an ordinance that requires new and substantially remodeled houses and other buildings to be built higher to prevent flooding.
A
lthough the city is still helping residents put back together lives that were shattered by the record deluge of rain, national magazines and newspapers trumpeted the news that Houston had bounced back quicker than expected. Specifically, in the hurricane aftermath, Mayor Turner: • Ordered a targeted evacuation
in west Houston that saved countless lives after the U.S. Corps of Engineers released an unexpectedly large amount of water into neighborhoods from reservoirs. • Provided administrative support and coordination for the rescues of thousands of people from their flooded dwellings by boats, helicopters and special trucks.
• Oversaw development of a city-wide flood mitigation projects plan that will be funded with federal and state money, for which he successfully advocated with officials at both of those government levels. Under Mayor Turner’s direction, the city’s recovery work included: • Opening and operating the George R. Brown Convention Center as an impromptu shelter that held as many as 12,000 people benefitting from services by thousands of volunteers and the American Red Cross.
• Creating and operating Neighborhood Recovery Centers, which became one- stop recovery service centers close to where victims lived, and later a set of resource centers through which victims applied and received federal housing repair aid. • Convincing FEMA to create a credit against the city’s financial obligations for volunteer services that address the recovery. • Successfully lobbying Congress to increase FEMA funding and related funding for Houston’s recovery. The lobbying effort included work by former Shell Oil Co. President Marvin Odum, who served for 15 months without pay as the mayor’s chief recovery officer. • In 2016, the mayor had already created and filled a position of city “flood czar” to oversee long-term flood control projects. The flood czar’s work, which started before Harvey, continues with even more urgency. • Establishing the position of chief resiliency officer to strengthen Houston to deal with potential future “shocks,” from natural disasters to economic shifts.
VOTE IN THE RUNOFF!
SYLVESTER
TURNER
Pol. adv. Sylvester Turner Campaign
FOR MAYOR VOTE EARLY
Nov. 27 • Dec. 2–10!
ELECTION DAY IS
Saturday, Dec. 14.
VOTE ONE MORE TIME!
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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SPORTS
Looking To Make A Statement: Houston Must Defeat The Patriots To Put The Rest Of The Afc Back On Notice By Brian Barefield, Style Sports Editor
T
he Texans’ upcoming game against the New England Patriots (10-1) this week is more than just a regular season game at NRG Stadium. No. This is the third and final “Statement Game” for the AFC South leading Texans. Houston (7-4) is currently the third seed in the AFC division and need this win to stay above the Indianapolis Colts, a team they defeated last week by a score of 20-17.
out of Houston’s Super Bowl aspirations. The Texans will need to use some of that magic they had in Arrowhead if they want to be 2-1 in games against the superior teams in the AFC. That is easier said than done when you are going up against a coach and quarterback that have been to the Super Bowl nine times and have won six. If it’s any consolation, Watson seems to shine in games against the Patriots and if there was any time for the Texans to strike it would be now. Houston lost its last meeting in 2018 by a score of 2720 in Foxborough. The Patriots offense has sputtered a lot this year, and it has been their defense that has led them to that vaunted 10-1 conference leading record.
“They’re 10-1 for a reason and we just need to go in there and play one play at a
time,” said Texans head coach Bill O’Brien. “Very cliché, I know that, but you have to play one play at a time and understand that each play is a different type of situation, a different play, focus on that play and play the next play. That’s the mentality you have to have.” That mentality has Houston with a 1-1 record in those big games against the perennial AFC super teams that the media talks about on a consistent basis. In Week 6, the Texans went into a very loud and rambunctious Arrowhead Stadium to face the Kansas City Chiefs, led by 2019 NFL MVP, Patrick Mahomes.
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Houston came out of that game with a 31-24 victory and some much-needed respect throughout the rest of the Conference. Quarterback Deshaun Watson’s name was being mentioned for MVP and the Texans vaulted themselves to the top of the AFC. That all changed when Houston played its second ‘Statement Game” in
November 28 – December 2, 2019
the hostile environment of MB&T Stadium in Baltimore against the Ravens. The two teams have dynamic quarterbacks in Watson and Lamar Jackson, and it was a marquee matchup that the NFL fans were waiting to see. Unfortunately, it would be one-sided as Jackson took control of the game early and never looked back. Baltimore defeated the Texans by a score of 41-7 and took some of the air
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Houston will need to get their hard-working running back, Carlos Hyde (836 yards-4 TD’s) going if they want to defeat the Patriots as the run game is the only weakness on that defense. If they can do that they could come out with a victory and a very “Strong Statement.”
EAT WITH STYLE
Sweet, Savvy Ways to Simplify Holiday Cooking By Family Features
M
ost holiday feasts call for delicious dishes to please a crowd, but making preparation as simple as possible is as time-honored a tradition as the turkey itself. Simplifying your recipes and the ingredients you’ll need is one of the easiest ways you can take pressure off your own shoulders as the festivities draw near. For example, this Sweet Tea Turkey Brine calls for just a handful of easyto-find ingredients like Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea – available nationwide and fresh-brewed without any added preservatives or colors – for a tender centerpiece at your gathering. Follow it up with Sweet Pumpkin Bread for dessert that will truly wow your crowd while cutting down on prep time. Find more holiday recipes and inspiration at drinkmilos.com. Sweet Tea Turkey Brine Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes 1 gallon Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea 1 cup kosher salt 3 large sweet onions, quartered
1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2
teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 eggs 1 cup canned pumpkin 1/2 cup Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional) Heat oven to 350 F. 4 8 5 10
lemons, sliced garlic cloves, peeled sprigs rosemary cups ice Whole Turkey In large stockpot over medium-high heat, combine sweet tea and kosher salt; stir frequently until salt is dissolved. Add onions, lemons, garlic and rosemary. Remove from heat; let cool to room temperature. When broth mixture cools, pour into clean 5-gallon bucket. Stir in ice. Wash and dry turkey. Remove innards.
Place turkey, cavity-side up, into brine to fill cavity. Cover and place bucket in refrigerator overnight. Remove turkey, carefully draining excess brine; pat dry. Discard excess brine. Cook turkey, as desired, reserving drippings for gravy. Sweet Pumpkin Bread Prep time: 15 Cook time: 55-60 minutes Yield: 1 loaf 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups sugar
In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, baking powder and nutmeg. In small bowl, whisk eggs, pumpkin and sweet tea. Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just moistened. Fold in nuts, if desired. Pour into greased 9-by-5-inch loaf pan. Bake 55-60 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to wire rack. Photo courtesy of Getty Images (pumpkin bread)
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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ENTERTAINMENT
Just Mercy Pre-Reception In Atlanta With Film Star Karan Kendrick By StyleMagazine.com Newswire
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rior to the HBCU screening of Just Mercy, film star and Georgia native, Spelman graduate and AKA Soro, Karan Kendrick, hosted a lovely pre-reception mixer for members of the Equal Justice Initiative and various HBCU leaders and students. The jam-packed mixer was held at the chic and artsy bistro, Apres Diem, where our VIP guests enjoyed mingling among themselves and getting the chance to interact with Karan in an intimate setting, congratulating her on her work and touching on some of the issues in the film. In attendance was also the film’s producer, Asher Goldstein, who engaged in pre-screening conversations
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with guests discussing all things Just Mercy, without giving away any spoilers, of course. Once the screening concluded, we held a not-to-be-missed Q&A moderated by Bridget Todd from AFROPUNK, who was joined by Karan as well as EJI members Kiara Boone and Jonathan Kubakundimana. The audience was thrilled to engage with real people who are so closely tied to the film’s subject matter and to listen to the panelists’ poignant commentary on how we all must make a point to act with kindness, love, and mercy. “Just Mercy” is a powerful and
November 28 – December 2, 2019
thought-provoking true story, “Just Mercy” follows young lawyer Bryan Stevenson (Jordan) and his history-making battle for justice. After graduating from Harvard, Bryan might have had his pick of lucrative jobs. Instead, he heads to Alabama to defend those wrongly condemned, with the support of local advocate Eva Ansley (Larson). One of his first, and most incendiary, cases is that of Walter McMillian (Foxx), who, in 1987, was sentenced to die for the notorious murder of an 18-year-old girl, despite a preponderance of evidence proving his innocence and the fact that the only testimony against him came from a criminal with a motive to lie. In
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the years that followed, Bryan becomes embroiled in a labyrinth of legal and political maneuverings and overt and unabashed racism as he fights for Walter, and others like him, with the odds and the system stacked against them. “Just Mercy” is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and written by Destin Daniel Cretton and Andrew Lanham, it was produced by Stevenson with Michael B. Jordan, Mike Drake, Tami Goldman, Asher Goldstein, Gabriel Hammond, Charles D. King, Ninja Kuykendall, Jennie Lee, and Gil Netter. It stars Jamie Foxx, Michael B. Jordan, Karan Kendrick, Brie Larson, and O’Shea Jackson Jr.
HEALTH
When Holidays Are Hard: Tips For Coping With A Food-Centric Season By Family Features
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uring the holidays, no matter where you turn, you find food, food and more food. From vendor treats filling the office breakroom to celebratory dinners with family and friends, virtually everything and everyone seems to be focused on food. For someone working to overcome an eating disorder, it makes the season anything but festive. Eating disorders affect 20 million females and 10 million males in the United States and can be diagnosed in boys and girls 7 years old and sometimes even younger. Eating disorders are not a lifestyle choice; they are mental health disorders similar to depression, bipolar disease or schizophrenia. It is not an individual choice to develop an eating disorder, but rather severe underlying pathological factors which drive individuals to take part in self-destructive behaviors associated with eating disorders. Genetic, environmental and social factors all play a role in the development of an eating disorder. Interpersonal issues, past trauma, low self-esteem, abuse, co-occurring mental health disorders, substance abuse disorders and unhealthy family and personal relationships can all contribute to the environmental and social factors associated with eating disorders.
Even for someone who is well into a successful recovery program, the holidays can trigger unwanted thoughts and comments surrounding food. Whether you are actively treating your eating disorder or suspect you may have one, you can take steps to make this holiday season more comfortable with these tips from eating disorder expert and licensed therapist Dawn Delgado, director of clinical development at Center for Discovery. 1. Always have a safe plan. If you plan on attending a holiday party or gathering, you may want to consult with your dietitian to have a plan beforehand, especially if you feel you may be inclined to binge. If you feel triggered to binge, or if you feel pressured by another individual, create an escape plan, which may mean having a friend accompany you to the party or even come pick you up. Your plan may also involve finding a safe place at the party where you can be alone to gather your thoughts until you feel comfortable re-engaging with others. 2. Be prepared to say “no.” Many individuals, with good intentions, will push food your way. They will want you to try their favorite dessert or their new recipe without understanding your struggle. Know that it is OK to say “no” and to take care of yourself in these situations. You can choose to clarify why you are saying “no,”
but do not feel obligated to do so. Also give yourself permission to decline joining holiday office parties, family parties or other holiday-themed get-togethers if your recovery could be compromised, or plan to bring a supportive friend. 3. Know your triggers before you engage in social situations. Understanding your triggers and learning how to use coping skills to control them at holiday functions can help keep negative thoughts and self-sabotaging at bay. If there are certain topics of conversation that trigger you then avoid those topics or change the conversation when those topics arise. Be honest with yourself, be honest with others, recognize your emotions and learn to take control of your scenarios. Learn more and find options for treatment at centerfordiscovery.com. Supporting a Loved One Watching someone you care for battle an eating disorder can be emotionally challenging, but your love and support can make a big difference during the stressful holiday season with these tips from the experts at Center for Discovery: If you’re uncertain how you can help, just ask then be prepared to listen without judgment. Make it clear you are willing to be a sounding board or assist your loved one
in getting to a safe place if he or she is triggered during an event. Voice concerns privately. Public comments about weight, body shape or food choices can only exacerbate the angst your loved one is feeling, and when you put him or her on the defensive, he or she is less likely to be receptive to your genuine concern. Mindful Eating Tips These simple steps can help you rediscover your natural intuition about food and hunger. These tips can be used all in one meal or you can choose one tip at a time to focus on. When you feel you have mastered one, try a new one. Over time, eating mindfully can become second nature. 1. Practice mindfulness: Start by eating one meal a day in a slower, more aware manner. 2. Hunger check: Before eating, check in with yourself to determine how hungry you are. Are you hungry enough for a meal or just a snack? 3. Emotional check: What are you feeling? Are you happy, content, stressed, bored or something different? 4. Senses check: What type of food are you hungry for? Do you want savory, sweet or salty? Do you want something hot or cold?
MEDICARE PLANS CHANGE YEAR-TO-YEAR. Use the new Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to more easily compare: • Part D prescription plans for cost, coverage, and convenience. • Medicare Advantage Plans for extra benefits, changes in network providers, co-pays, and more. • Supplemental (Medigap) plans for costs and benefits. Is your current plan still your best choice for 2020, or could you do better? Compare plans now. Use the new Plan Finder at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. TTY 1-877-486-2048. An Important Message from Medicare
“WE SAVED ON PRESCRIPTION COSTS. IT PAYS TO COMPARE PLANS.”
Limited resources? You may qualify for Extra Help to pay prescription drug costs. Go to ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/ prescriptionhelp/ to find out more.
Paid for by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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2019
GHBC’S WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE BUFFALO SOLDIERS MUSEUM
GHBC’S WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICKY PINK
2019
he Greater Houston Black Chamber hosted the 3rd Annual Women in Business Live. Work. Play. 2019 Conference. Under the theme “Harnessing Our Power,” women in business came in droves to draw knowledge from the power players in business. Some in attendance with Board Chair Carol Guess were Juanita Hines, Angela Dees, Ashley Dedmon, Landi Spearman, Candace Strother, LaShaunda Rene, Misha Burkett, Misty Starks, Nettie Jones, Pastor Mia K. Wright, Kyra Hardwick, Diane Mabem, Shachella James, Patrice Hagans, Robin Owens, Teriya Richmond, Lizzie Gandy, Larry Lemons, Rev. Lakesha Barnett, City Councilwoman Martha Castex-Tatum, Damon & Tamesha Logan, and Eric & Elaine Johnson.
URBAN SOULS 15TH ANNIVERSARY MORRIS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
URBAN SOULS 15TH ANNIVERSARY
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICKY PINK
he Urban Souls Dance Company celebrated their fifth teen anniversary in the only way they know how by putting on a fabulous show. Dancers performed nine dances with music from Prince, Erykah Badu, Kem, Stevie Wonder, Rahzel, Victor Nelson, Caravan, Thomas Newman, and more. The Prairie View A&M University Classic Dance Ensemble and Social Movement Contemporary Dance did special performances. Some in attendance were Artistic Director/Founder Harrison Homer-Guy, Walter Hull, Mayra Bullock, Anlya Wingate, Brittany Jones, Brittany Lane, Cameo Renee, Courtney Sherman, Donnie Johnson, Hindolo Bongay, Tobaric Atkins-Montana, Jade Devault, LaKendra Howard, Courtney Sherman-Allen, Jaylon Givan, Uwazi Zamani, and Alde Lewis, Jr.
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Novmber 28 – December 2, 2019
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2019
FALL 2019 SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIVERSITY LOCATION-HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE
SMALL BUSINESS UNIVERSITY
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICKY PINK
2019
ommunity partners of the National Urban League gathered those in the industry for the Fall 2019 Small Business Development University. This event has become a sort after event for Houston business owners’ development. The focus of the seminar was learning video and mobile marketing strategies. Key speakers included Tiffany Williams, Grace Holden, and Branden Morris.
2019 VIA COLORI FESTIVAL HERMANN SQUARE PARK
2019 VIA COLORI FESTIVAL
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICKY PINK
he Center for Hearing and Speech brought color to Houston with the Via Colori Street Painting Festival. Celebrating sound and cinema, the works of hundreds of artists were displayed with live music, food, and vendors in the background. Kids can create their own 2 ft. square chalk masterpiece for a $10 donation. This party has a purpose to raise money for health and educational services for children with hearing loss in Houston. The festival annually raises more than $300,000 that has assisted over 8,500 children through its programs.
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November 28 – December 2, 2019
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HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM
HOUSTON STYLE MAGAZINE
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Novmber 28 – December 2, 2019
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