Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 15

Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Leader of Houston’s New Majority®

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

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COMMENTARY LOVE FOR THE OUTDOORS IS A GIFT THAT PAYS FORWARD

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

When we see a 75-year-old white man out in the woods with a group of Black and brown kids from low-income neighborhoods, teaching them about nature, few of us assume he is there because that is where he feels most comfortable.

Probably even fewer of us assume many of those kids look just like the ones he grew up with in public housing projects more than 60 years ago. Rocky Milburn grew up as one of the few white kids in a mostly Black public housing development in southern Indiana. His family was very poor. They were still poor when they moved into an old farmhouse in the country. That was where Rocky fell in love with the outdoors. Even though his parents struggled financially – perhaps even worse than when they lived in the projects – Rocky did not care.

“We lived right across the street from a creek,” Rocky pronounces it “crick,” “and I spent my days running the fields. You can kind of say it was my drug at the time.” For more than 25 years, Rocky has been an Outings Leader with the Sierra Club’s Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO) program in Tampa, Florida. The program takes youth from underserved communities on outings such as camping and canoe trips and visits to the beach. Rocky says, “many of these kids live two miles from the beach but have never seen the ocean.”

His own experience has taught Rocky the importance of sharing his love of the outdoors. When the kids stand around Rocky and learn from him about nature, they do not see his age or his race. They see his heart. And they know his heart understands them and the challenges they are facing because he is from the same type of place. People like Rocky who serve as nature’s ambassadors to young people, and people of any age who are nature-deprived, are heroes. The kids in his program learn how to appreciate and be good caretakers of nature. They experience firsthand the lessons nature has to teach us; how being outdoors ben-

efits both our physical and mental health.

And they carry these lessons with them throughout their lives. Levi Randolph attended the Academy Prep Center of Tampa, which has a partnership with the ICO program. While at Academy Prep, a private middle school designed to give bright children from lowincome families top-notch educational opportunities, Levi went on his very first camping trip: an outing led by Rocky Milburn. Now an adult, Levi is an Outings Leader with the Tampa ICO group alongside Rocky.

Levi is paying forward his experience. He is pursuing a career working with animals and investing his time to make sure other kids from his old neighborhood and school get the same chance

he had to explore and enjoy nature. This is a story that repeats itself in families and communities in every pocket of our country. And we should encourage and celebrate it.

As someone who comes from a long line of outdoors enthusiasts who passed the love of nature on to me, I try to do the same for my kids. Whether we are skiing in the winter, paddling and fishing in the summer, or visiting national parks year round, I try to do my part to make sure my family stays connected to the great outdoors. Everyone can do this, whether it is a community affair, a family affair, or both. Vedia Barnett is a disabled Air Force veteran.

After suffering a minor stroke, it was reconnecting with the outdoors and

her love of nature that gave her a renewed sense of purpose to get back on her feet. "Just hearing the birds and feeling the sun on my face, it was like giving me life back." Now Vedia works with Sierra Club’s Military Outdoors campaign, getting other women veterans outdoors.

She recounts one woman who left the service in the 1970s: "This was the first time she felt like she was in community with veterans who looked like her. And I think It's important even for veterans to understand that all these lands are for us – they're for everybody." Vedia's mom, a Marine Corp veteran, has also gotten involved, bringing senior women veterans in their 70s out to join the group's outings.

This month is Earth Month. It is a perfect time to get outside. Bring your friends and family out there with you. If there is a local program near you that helps get kids – or anyone – outside who doesn’t typically have a lot of access to nature, consider chipping in your time. A love of nature is infectious. And it is one infection that is very worth spreading.

Moreover, transitioning to clean energy isn't just the moral choice for our people and our environment; it is the smart one economically. While the closure of these New Hampshire coal plants may not immediately affect energy costs in New England, the long-term benefits of clean energy are undeniable. Fossil fuels like coal and gas create an unbearably volatile landscape for energy costs. That is a burden households should not have to bear. Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.”

You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at:

www.BenJealous.com

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POLITICS: FAIR TAX APPRAISALS IN HARRIS COUNTY

By Burt Levine, Political Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

As Harris County gears up for the General Election on Saturday, May 4, 2024, Ericka McCrutcheon emerges as a standout candidate for the Central Appraisal District Board. With a deep-seated commitment to fairness and community service, McCrutcheon's bid is not just a campaign—it's a promise to ensure equity in tax appraisals for every resident of Harris County.

Harris County, with its diverse

population and bustling economy, is home to over 9.4 million property parcels, spread across 38 cities and serviced by a plethora of public entities. At the heart of the county’s property tax system is the Central Appraisal District, the body responsible for assigning value to these properties. This valuation is a cornerstone for the tax rate each property owner pays.

Ericka McCrutcheon, who alongside her husband Pastor John McCrutcheon

has led numerous Christian outreach initiatives and cultivated successful remodeling and real estate ventures, knows the stakes are high. "Property taxes are the lifeblood of our essential services—from schools to infrastructure," McCrutcheon asserts. "It's imperative that valuations are not just numbers on a page, but a fair reflection of our community's worth."

Her leadership tenure as President of the Kirkwood Civic Club and her role as Harris County Pct. Chair have been defined by an unwavering dedication to informed and active citizenship. McCrutcheon's academic achievements in public administration and her hands-on experience in business and community service have given her a keen insight into the complexities of local governance.

McCrutcheon’s platform resonates with her history of advocacy for minority and women-owned businesses, emphasizing the need for transparency and simplicity in government processes to alleviate bureaucratic burdens.

This vision aligns closely with the sentiments of Texans who, in November, voted overwhelmingly to expand the Central Appraisal District Board. The adoption of Prop. 4, backed by an impressive 83 percent

of voters, not only augments the homestead exemption significantly but also democratizes the appraisal board by introducing elected positions.

As early voting commences on April 22, 2024, McCrutcheon's message is clear: her leadership style is one of servitude and positive action. "This board has a substantial task ahead to guarantee just evaluations. I stand ready to champion this cause," she confidently states.

McCrutcheon's campaign, interwoven with the ongoing Special Election to fill Mayor John Whitmire’s vacated State Senate District 15 seat, has the potential to set a precedent for how public office can directly serve and represent the taxpayers' interests.

The electorate's decision this May will not only shape the fiscal landscape of Harris County but will also reflect the community's endorsement of a Servant Leader who stands firm in her conviction to uplift every taxpayer’s voice. Ericka McCrutcheon's journey is more than a political pursuit—it's a shared mission for a fairer Harris County.

Ericka McCrutcheon

Houston's Third Ward is set to shine even brighter with the transformation of the historic Wesley AME Church into the eagerly anticipated Gospel Square. Thanks to a substantial $4.1 million HUD grant, this corner of Houston will soon pulse with new life as a versatile community hub.

The visionary Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee spearheaded this innovative project, setting a national precedent. The funds are earmarked for an impressive ensemble of facilities including a gospel museum, a cutting-edge recording studio, a community center, and affordable housing. This initiative celebrates the district's gospel legacy, enriching not only Houston's cultural fabric but also the nation's diverse artistic landscape.

The project's kickoff was a jubilant affair, resonating with the voices

LOCAL: HOUSTON’S GOSPEL SQUARE - A HARMONIOUS FUTURE ROOTED IN RICH THIRD WARD HERITAGE

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

of gospel greats like Donnie McClurkin and V. Michael McKay, and backed by influential supporters from Texas Southern University and local government. Gospel Square is poised to become a sanctuary for music, history, and community bonding.

St. Johns United Methodist Church marked the beginning of this remarkable journey, a fitting nod to Houston's deep gospel roots. Congresswoman Jackson Lee, alongside the community, envisions Gospel Square as a tribute to the unifying power of gospel music. As the renovations begin, Hous-

ton eagerly anticipates Gospel Square's debut as more than just a location, but as a vibrant cultural epicenter echoing the deep, soulful tones of gospel tunes. This project not only preserves an essential slice of Houston's story but also kindles the flame of cultural renaissance for future generations.

The unveiling event was nothing short of spectacular, attended by gospel icons and civic leaders alike. Notable figures including Donnie McClurkin, Kim Burrell, Rhonda McLemore, and Yolanda Adams brought an inspiring presence. They, alongside

civic notables like Rodney Ellis, Mayor Sylvester Turner, and State Senator Borris L. Miles, showcased the project's extensive influence and appeal.

The collaboration with Texas Southern University emphasizes the project’s commitment to education and cultural engagement. This union of revered artists and community members in celebration signifies not just the renovation of a structure but the rekindling of Houston's spirit and heritage.

Stay tuned to Houston Style Magazine as we continue to cover the evolution of Gospel Square, a testament to the city's enduring love affair with gospel music and community cohesion.

See more information on the BIG PICTURE at: www.houstontx. gov/housing/homes/third-ward.html

Sheila Jackson Lee

LOCAL : HOUSTON ENTREPRENEURS: UNLOCK GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES WITH COMCAST RISE PROGRAM

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

Comcast has announced the inclusion of Houston among five cities eligible for the esteemed Comcast RISE program, offering invaluable support to small businesses in Southeast Texas. With a commitment to fostering local economic resilience and community empowerment, Comcast RISE will allocate a substantial $500,000 in grants, alongside technology makeovers, marketing assistance, coach-

ing sessions, and educational resources.

Loren Hudson, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at Comcast, emphasized the pivotal role of small businesses in nurturing vibrant local economies, stating, "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and are essential to building strong and thriving local communities. Comcast RISE is proud to help strengthen and empower these businesses and entrepreneurs to expand and grow."

From May 1 to May 31, 2024, eligible small businesses in Houston, Atlanta, GA; Southern Colorado; Jacksonville, FL; and Richmond, VA can seize the opportunity to apply for Comcast RISE grants at www.ComcastRISE.com. Each city will see 100 businesses selected to receive a comprehensive grant package, which includes:

1. Coaching Sessions: Tailored business assessments and coaching sessions offering strategic recommendations for business growth.

2. Education Resources: 12-month access to online entrepreneurship courses, learning modules, and resources catering to small business owners.

3. Monetary Grant: A $5,000 monetary grant to fuel business expansion and innovation.

4. Creative Production & Media: Professional production of a 30-second TV commercial, coupled with media strategy consultation and a 180-day media placement schedule.

5. Comcast Business Technology Makeover: Essential computer equipment, Internet, voice, and cybersecurity services for a duration of 12 months.

Previous beneficiaries of Comcast RISE in the Houston area include esteemed establishments like Mala Sichuan Bistro, LAMIK Beauty, and 132 Design. Ashley Gomez, co-founder of 132 Design, lauded the transformative impact of Comcast RISE, remarking, "Comcast RISE came in with support at the perfect time. We didn't just expand our office and reach; we were instantly plugged into a community of support."

Comcast RISE is an integral part of Project UP, Comcast's comprehensive initiative aimed at advancing digital equity and economic mobility. Now entering its fourth year, Comcast RISE has disbursed over $125 million in monetary, marketing, and technology grants to 13,500 small businesses nationwide.

For Houston Style Magazine entrepreneurs eager to elevate their businesses to new heights, Comcast RISE presents

a gateway to growth and success. Don't miss this opportunity to propel your business forward - visit www.ComcastRISE. com to learn more and submit your application today.

Loren Hudson, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer at Comcast

EARTH TONES REVERBERATES WITH PURPOSE AND PASSION

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

Immerse yourself in the rhythms of our evolving Earth as DACAMERA, Houston's trailblazing chamber music and jazz presenter, brings you "Unsilent Spring: Music and Our Changing Planet." This two-night event, taking place on April 19-20, showcases the world premiere of Etienne Charles's compelling new work, "Earth Tones." A trumpet virtuoso, Charles is globally recognized for his fusion of music with cultural storytelling, as epit-

omized in his previously acclaimed piece performed by the New York Philharmonic.

"Earth Tones" emerges as a heartfelt anthem of our time, interlacing the poignant realities of environmental transformation with the power of sound. It builds upon Charles's celebrated narrative style, spotlighting global coastal communities and their intimate connections with nature. With an eye on ecological preservation, Charles's immersive soundscape is a call to

"Earth Tones," inviting listeners into a world where music mirrors the environment's beauty and plight.

The event kicks off with a pre-concert conversation at 7 PM, offering insights from Charles, alongside "Music for New Bodies" creators Matthew Aucoin, Peter Sellars, and DACAMERA's Artistic Director Sarah Rothenberg. The concert itself begins at 8 PM, promising to be a night where creativity meets advocacy, inspiring a collective commitment to environmental stewardship.

This is more than a concert; it's an experience. Let "Earth Tones" awaken a symphony of action and hope within you. For tickets and further details, visit DACAMERA's website or contact the box office directly. Be part of this melodious call to action and carry the echoes of change with you.

Event Details

awareness, crafted to resonate with audiences well beyond the walls of the Cullen Theater.

The Wortham Theater Center will pulse with life as Charles's compositions come alive, performed by a stellar lineup including the talents of Marcus Strickland, Warren Wolf, Eva Scow, Jorge Glem, Val Jeanty, Jonathon Muir-Cotton, and John Davis. Their eclectic blend of instruments sets a transcendent stage for

Date: Friday, April 19

Time: 8:00 PM (Pre-concert conversation at 7:00 PM)

Venue: Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002

Contact: 713-524-5050 | boxoffice@dacamera.com

Opportunities in life are few and far between, so when one arises, seizing it is paramount. For high school senior Paris Jordan Williams, the future seemed uncertain until Prairie View A&M University presented her with an offer she couldn't refuse. The university, renowned as the "producer of productive people," extended a full scholarship to Paris on the condition she pursued agriculture. Little did she know, this gift would blossom into something truly rewarding.

Though Paris considers herself a city girl, her roots in farming trace back to her great grandfather's farm in North Carolina. Growing up in the Dallas area, she hadn't seriously considered agriculture until PVAMU's scholarship catapulted it to the forefront of her plans.

Navigating her initial years on campus, Paris found herself at a crossroads until the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.® - Delta Theta Chapter recognized her culinary prowess. Cooking, a talent she'd always possessed, became her calling card at PVAMU. When the Sigmas requested her catering services for an event, Paris embraced the challenge and discovered her passion.

Paris Williams

But Paris's journey doesn't stop there. With PVAMU offering her a platform to shine, she aims to produce her own cooking show, advocate for sustainable eating through programs like Sustainable Table, and continue inspiring others to embrace fresh, wholesome foods.

Reflecting on her time at PVAMU, Paris attributes her success to seizing every opportunity to engage with her peers and faculty. She's committed to paying it forward, sowing seeds of wisdom for future generations to cultivate.

“I believe I am and will be a change maker,” said Paris.

With her first catering event a success, Paris realized she could merge her entrepreneurial aspirations with her agricultural background. Her vision? To become both a farmer and a chef, offering homegrown produce to her clientele.

“I can be self-sustainable, teach people about self-sustainability and, at least, help them learn that they can use fresh foods

“That was 60 people. My first lot of work, but I loved it,” said Paris. Her menu consisted of turkey meatball sliders that she hand prepped the night before to ensure her client was getting the freshest of ingredients. “I loved the experience I gave the people and myself.”

in their daily lives compared to other things that they eat. It is not costly. And it is not hard to do. And food can be delicious too.”

Driven by a mission to revolutionize perceptions of healthy eating, Paris is already gaining entrepreneurial experience, selling plates to students, taking on catering gigs, and immersing herself in the business of food. Upon graduation, she plans to launch a food truck and ultimately establish a farm-to-table restaurant. To hone her craft, Paris intends to intern at Gordon Food Service and enroll in the Lenotre culinary school, all while nurturing her backyard garden.

Watch out for Paris Williams, the rising culinary star who embodies PVAMU's ethos of productivity and empowerment. Follow her journey on Instagram through her company, @thegoldplatedco.

Get ready for an extraordinary tribute to aviation's finest at the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame (TAHOF) Induction

Ceremony & Luncheon, hosted by the Lone Star Flight Museum (LSFM) on April 19, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. Presented by Southwest Airlines, this event at the LSFM, located at 11551 Aerospace Avenue in Houston's Ellington Airport, promises to honor four remarkable individuals for their outstanding contributions to the aviation industry.

The TAHOF Class of 2024 includes Colleen C. Barrett, R. Walter Cunningham (posthumously), Wally Funk, and Heather Wilson. These distinguished figures represent a diverse spectrum of aviation expertise, from pioneering astronauts to visionary airline executives.

Established by the 74th Texas Legislature under Governor George W. Bush, the TAHOF recognizes Texans and Texas-based organizations that have significantly advanced aviation. Since its inception in 1997, the Hall of Fame has celebrated the achievements of aviation luminaries such as Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and George W. Bush.

This year's inductees, spanning various categories like Trailblazers & Explorers and Leaders, have left an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. From

Colleen C. Barrett's transformative leadership at Southwest Airlines to Wally Funk's groundbreaking achievements as a pilot and astronaut, each honoree has reshaped the industry in profound ways.

Lieutenant General Douglas H. Owens (ret), President & CEO of the Lone Star Flight Museum, anticipates a memorable ceremony honoring these exceptional individuals. With Southwest Airlines as the presenting sponsor and support from underwriters like the Patricia Jayne Keefer Foundation, this event promises to be a resounding success.

Bob Jordan, CEO of Southwest

Airlines, expresses pride in recognizing trailblazing leaders like Colleen Barrett, whose influence transcends aviation. Through partnerships with institutions like the Lone Star Flight Museum, Southwest Airlines aims to inspire future generations of aviation enthusiasts.

Join us on April 19th as we celebrate the Class of 2024 at the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Luncheon. These remarkable individuals embody the spirit of innovation and exploration that defines the aviation industry. For more information and ticket inquiries, visit the Lone Star Flight Museum's website.

Let's honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future of aviation excellence together.

For more information, go to: www. LoneStarFight.org www.StyleMagazine.com

Chronicles

The Alief ISD Automotive Department participated in the SkillsUSA Competition. Juan Pablo Gomez Almazan secured 2nd place in the state of Texas for Automotive Service Technology, earning a $3,000 scholarship, a Snap

On Wrench Tool Set, and a Silver Medal. Additionally, Bryan Benitez, Yael Jacobo, Byron Lopez, and Syed Ahmed each were awarded red ribbons for achieving 2nd place in their respective job exhibition individual competitions.

Aldine ISD's Mariachi Acero has garnered significant acclaim for their exceptional performances at both Regional and State competitions! Their remarkable talent not only shines brightly but also brings immense pride to their school and community. They continue to create beautiful music that resonates with all.

This year, Dr. Kirk Lewis Career and Technical High School in Pasadena ISD is recognizing five outstanding individuals for the first time for their excellence in the college and career readiness elective, AVID. This esteemed award highlights the dedication to academic success and personal growth that AVID, standing

for Advancement Via Individual Determination, represents. CTHS seniors Larissa Gonzalez, Evelyn Barcenas, Fatima Ocana, Emily Pacheco, and Miguel Lara Covarrunias comprise this exceptional group, showcasing their achievements across various educational platforms.

The students of Spring Branch ISD are making waves on the global stage! Six Odyssey of the Mind teams from the district have advanced to the World Finals this May. Special recog-

nition goes to Frostwood Elementary and Ridgecrest Elementary for earning the Renatra Fusca award. Best wishes to all teams for their continued success at the upcoming World Finals!

Excitement simmers in Houston as the renowned Red Chickz gears up to introduce its signature Nashville hot chicken to the Bayou City. After captivating diners in Los Angeles with its unique blend of spices and perfectly crisped chicken, Red Chickz is set to open its doors in Houston this spring, bringing a taste of Nashville's fiery heat to the heart of Texas.

Founded by the culinary duo Nima Christensen and Shawn Lalehzarian, Red Chickz has already carved out a name for itself with three locations, each leaving a trail of satisfied and eager patrons. Their secret? A commitment to the highest quality ingredients and a proprietary spice blend that ensures every bite is as flavorful as it is crunchy.

Red Chickz's passion for innovation in the Nashville hot chicken arena is evident in their diverse menu. Every dish, from their golden-brown chicken to their handcrafted sauces and indulgent sides, is crafted to elevate the hot chicken experience to unparalleled levels.

Nima Christensen expresses the brand's enthusiasm about the new location: "We're beyond excited to bring Red Chickz to Houston. Our goal has always been to share our zest for Nashville hot chicken with as many people as possible, and Houston's

CULINARY: HOUSTON AWAITS THE ARRIVAL OF THE LEGENDARY RED CHICKZ NASHVILLE

vibrant community is the perfect next stop on our journey."

The buzz is real among hot chicken aficionados, who eagerly anticipate the crunch that Red Chickz is famous for. The new outpost, strategically situated at the Fairfield Town Center in Cypress, promises the same high-quality, mouth-watering hot chicken that made Red Chickz a sensation on the West Coast.

Patrons can expect a menu that caters to all levels of heat preference, with standouts like the over-the-top french toast sandwich, the jumbo shrimp, the hot cauli-

Celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black Americans from 1595 to present day

On

flower sandwich, and the decadent honey butter sandwich. Not to mention the array of sides like potato wedges, cheese curds, and slaw, which provide the perfect coun-

terbalance to the heat.

Ready to take Houston by storm, Red Chickz Cypress promises a welcoming atmosphere paired with friendly service, ensuring every visit is memorable. With its roots in LA and branches reaching out to new communities, Red Chickz's commitment to culinary brilliance and vibrant social media engagement continues to win over the hearts and palates of hot chicken lovers everywhere.

For those who can't wait to dive into the crunch and heat, visit Red Chickz online for more details: https://theredchickzfranchise.com/about www.StyleMagazine.com www.TheRedChickz.com

MAKE THE OUR Differences

As a born-and-bred Texas company, H-E-B is committed to fostering a culture of diversity & inclusion in Texas, both in our workplaces and the communities we serve. Celebrating the differences and similarities of all Texans is integral to everything H-E-B does, every day, from employee recruitment to supplier registration, store locations to in-store product selection.