Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 14

Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Leader of Houston’s New Majority®

Houston Style Magazine Highlights: Brandy Norwood and Stella Rosa Brandy Unite For Exclusive Tasting Event

By Monica Jones for www.StyleMagazine.com

TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

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The connection between hip-hop culture and the wine and spirits industry has been robust since the early 2000s, often featured in hit songs and celebrity partnerships. Today, we witness a fresh manifestation of this tradition as Brandy Norwood, an internationally renowned artist, teams up with Stella Rosa Brandy to mark the success of Stella Rosa’s exquisite line of brandies. This collaboration is not just a celebration of Stella Rosa’s growing legacy but also an infusion of star quality from Brandy, elevating the brand’s visibility and appeal.

Stella Rosa Brandy, an offering from Riboli Family Wines and Spirits, presents a collection of fruit-infused

brandies that are a testament to the Riboli family’s commitment to quality since their inception in 1917. Their latest lineup includes the sophisticated flavors of Smooth Black, Honey Peach, and Tropical Passion, each designed to provide a unique tasting experience.

In an exclusive event at the House of Blues Foundation Room in Houston, Stella Rosa Brandy showcased its products in a grand tasting event. Guests were treated to the ‘B Rocka’ cocktail, a fitting tribute to World Cocktail Day, featuring Stella Rosa Smooth Black Brandy, among other signature cocktails like the Brandy Sidecar and the Stella-Jito Brandy’s performance of “I Wan-

na Be Down” and her interactive engagement with the attendees underscored the genuine collaboration between the artist and Stella Rosa. The event exemplified the merging of cultural influence and quality spirits, promising an exciting future for the brand.

Find Stella Rosa Brandy for $29.99 at select Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods and Total Wine & More locations and join in celebrating the craftsmanship and cultural fusion that Stella Rosa and Brandy Norwood bring to the table.

More information:

www.StellaRosaWines.com/cocktails/brandy

Photos By Amanda Magalski Photography

TIRELESS ACTIVISM AND THE LATEST REGION TO GO COAL-FREE

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

Jerry Curran has been organizing to retire the Merrimack Station coal power plant in Bow, New Hampshire for 17 years. He is one of many local activists who have brought inspiring tenacity and creativity to the fight to make New England coal-free.

Last week, that goal was realized. After lengthy negotiations with the Sierra Club, The Conservation Law Foundation, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Granite Shore Power announced it will retire Merrimack and Schiller Stations’ remaining coal units by 2028 and 2025 respectively.

That means the end of the last coal power plants in New England, which will now join the Pacific Northwest as the second major region in the country to be free of one of the dirtiest energy sources known to humanity.

I am personally elated. My father’s family has been in New England since 1624. I have family in New Hampshire now – the kind of outdoors enthusiasts who helped instill in me my own love of nature.

We never could have gotten to this point without years of activism calling attention to the harm caused by coal. In addition to the economics of clean energy, the incremental wins by activists along the way – including hardwon legislation and safeguards – are what ultimately made it impossible for the last coal plants to continue.

Curran has examples to share:

“Around 2008, New Hampshire ranked in the top four states in the country for childhood asthma rate. We worked with schools to encourage kids to make those paper dolls that link up and make a chain. They created 18,000 of them – representing the 18,000 children in New Hampshire living with asthma. We hung the chain of paper dolls across the statehouse in our grassroots lobbying to pass tougher pollution standards for coal plants.”

And about that same time period, activists recruited local hairdressers for

an event at the state capital in which more than 100 legislators had hair samples taken to be tested for mercury. Most of the results were positive. No level of mercury poisoning is safe.

In 2008, the biggest single-point mercury polluter in the state was Merrimack Station.

Merrimack has also consistently been one of the state’s top polluting power plants, period. And it has continued spewing high levels of pollution even in its final years, when it operated only about 50 days a year. It is a so-called “peaker” plant, only supplying energy during times of peak demand for the power grid.

While Merrimack’s outsized pollution is a testament to the dangers of coal, it is also a very troubled plant. In February 2023, the New Hampshire Department of Environment Services found the coal plant’s particulate matter emissions exceeded EPA limits by 70 percent. Since then, it has operated more than 500 hours in violation of its permit, according to the state.

But this new agreement with Granite Shore Power offers the chance for a drastic change in direction. Jim Andrews, Granite Shore’s CEO, said of Merrimack and Schiller, “I think we're undertaking a bold step forward and making good on a promise to transition our coal fired plants to clean energy facilities. I think these facilities will pave the way for New Hampshire to be a leader in the clean energy economy.”

Those words are refreshing. And we will hold Granite Shore Power to them.

Too much is at stake for us not to.

In the last 14 years, communities across the country have mobilized to retire 381 coal plants. That has meant over 54,000 lives saved, 84,000 heart attacks prevented, and nearly 900,000 asthma attacks averted. Moving beyond coal means fewer lives lost to preventable illnesses.

We risk backtracking on this progress, however, if we replace coal plants with gas. The future is clean energy

like wind, solar, and battery storage. Gas development, extraction, shipping, and burning all offer intolerable health risks for people.

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

www.StyleMagazine.com

Houston the heart of Fort Bend County, Texas, a poignant visual has emerged at the historic courthouse grounds, commanding attention, and driving a powerful message home. April in Fort Bend is marked by a sea of 2,192 stakes, each a sobering testament to the reported instances of child abuse within the county. This striking display sets the stage for Child Abuse Prevention Month, drawing the public eye to the urgent need for protection and advocacy for our most vulnerable.

Spearheaded by the venerable Fort Bend County Judge KP George, in concert with the dedicated members of the Exchange Club of Fort Bend and the zealous Child Advocates of Fort Bend, this Awareness Field Installation Event is more than just an exhibit; it is a call to arms. With the collaboration of Fort Bend County's District Attorney’s Office and the Office of the Fort Bend County Attorney, the initiative highlights the collective resolve to combat child abuse.

As civic leaders such as Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton and County Attorney Bridgette Smith Lawson joined voices with Child Advocates CEO Ruthanne Mefford and Exchange Club President Dr. Malik Kutty, the message was clear: the fight against

invites residents to stand in solidarity with the cause. Embracing the spirit of #FortBendStrong and #FortBendForward, the call to spread awareness and engage in proactive measures reverberates. The stakes are high—each one a narrative of challenge and a beacon of hope—propelling Fort Bend County on its mission to assure every child a secure and loving childhood. www.StyleMagazine.com www.FortBendCountyTx.gov LOCAL:

OF RESOLVE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CHILD ABUSE

By Francis Page, Jr.

child abuse is unyielding. The event, laden with compelling oratory, bolstered the community's commitment to fostering a safe haven for children.

County Judge KP George's resonating words, "Child abuse is an intolerable scourge that demands our unwavering attention and action," encapsulate the ethos of the gathering. By pooling resources and determination, Fort Bend County envisions a future where children can flourish, untainted by the specter of abuse.

This vital community effort, marked by the hashtag #preventchildabuse,

As an embodiment of dedication and community service, Ferrel Bonner has embarked on a new journey. With a rich background as a Houston ISD alumnus from Sterling High School and an honored veteran from the US Army Airborne, Bonner is now setting his sights on the Fort Bend ISD School Board, Position 6. His campaign, which commenced for the upcoming May 4, Fort Bend ISD School Board Election, is built on a foundation of over two

POLITICS: FERREL BONNER'S CANDIDACY: A NEW CHAPTER FOR FORT BEND ISD'S BOARD

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

decades of familial and business ties to the area, coupled with his direct experiences as a parent, grandparent, and taxpayer within the Fort Bend County.

Bonner's decision to run for the unpaid, non-partisan board position reflects his profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by families across Fort Bend. He emphasizes progress, unity, and inclusive representation in a district that boasts a diverse student body. The district,

hosting over 80,000 students, showcases a tapestry of cultures, including 29.2 percent African American, 26.4 percent Hispanic, 22.9 percent Asian, and 19 percent Caucasian demographics. Bonner's election would mark a historic moment, as he could become the first black male trustee in nearly two decades.

Bonner passionately advocates for an educational governance free from partisan and racial bias, concentrating solely

on delivering exceptional education to all students. His vision extends throughout the expansive district that spans notable regions such as Sugar Land and parts of Pearland, among others. His firsthand experiences, ranging from military service to local volunteerism, have armed him with a deep-seated knowledge of the community's educational infrastructure, including its budget, policies, and advocacy needs.

With an academic background anchored by degrees from Texas Southern University, Bonner is not only a proponent of education but a mentor who has guided many toward academic and military success. His campaign is a testament to his unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and the wellbeing of the Fort Bend community.

Fort Bend residents can participate in EARLY VOTING starting Saturday, April 20th, leading up to the pivotal election day on Tuesday, May 4, 2024. As the race gains momentum, Bonner stands as a beacon of hope and progress, striving to ensure that every voice in Fort Bend ISD is heard and valued.

Ferrel Bonner

Houston, a city revered for its diverse and spirited community, an urgent call to action against the epidemic of gun violence is underway. With the rate of firearm-related tragedies surpassing even the fatalities caused by traffic accidents since 2020, the community's outcry for change is louder than ever.

Houston has seen its share of sorrow and resilience in the face of gun violence. The numbers are stark: close to 30,000 lives are lost nationally each year, with Houston's children and adults facing the brunt of this ongoing crisis. "It's a grim reality that gun violence is the leading cause of death among our children," stated Dr. Bindi Naik-Mathuria, a prominent pediatric surgeon and an active member of the Mayor’s Commission on Gun Violence. "Each number represents a life cut short, a family shattered, a community robbed of its future."

The College of Biblical Studies recently hosted a groundbreaking roundtable, organized by Houston Ethnic Media, that convened law enforcement, public health experts, educators, and activists to shine a light on local

HOUSTON COMMUNITY UNITES TO ADDRESS THE ESCALATING CRISIS OF GUN VIOLENCE

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

efforts to combat this scourge. Speakers at the event included Dr. Naik-Mathuria, who brought not only harrowing statistics but also stories of young lives forever altered by bullets. She recalls saving a three-year-old, hit by a stray bullet while watching cartoons — a testament to both the indiscriminate nature of gun violence and the resilience of its youngest victims.

The interconnection between gun violence and domestic abuse was prominently highlighted by Emilee Whitehurst, the executive director of the Houston Area Women’s Center. "Domestic violence deaths involving firearms stand at a staggering 73%," she noted, emphasizing the increased risk of homicide in situations where guns are

present in homes affected by domestic violence.

The numbers indeed paint a distressing picture — from 2019 to 2022, a significant portion of domestic violence deaths in the Houston area involved firearms. This stark statistic is coupled with the increased risk of homicide in homes where domestic abuse and firearms intersect. The alarming trend of domestic violence incidents resulting in the shooting of children has prompted concerted efforts at systemic improvements.

Innovative programs like the Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART), a collaborative initiative involving Houston police officers, medical professionals, and advocates, are

a beacon of hope. In its recent year of operation, DART has made substantial strides, responding to over a thousand on-scene requests and sheltering hundreds of adult survivors, many with children.

Young voices are also joining the clarion call against gun violence. High school and college students, galvanized by personal experiences and national tragedies, are stepping forward.

Saami Baig of March For Our Lives and Jasir Rahman of Brady United's Team ENOUGH spoke passionately about their commitment to advocating for change and creating safer communities for all.

The collaborative spirit of the roundtable echoed the resounding message that despite the challenges, Houston stands united in its resolve to tackle gun violence. As Dr. Naik-Mathuria aptly put it, "We cannot forget about the survivors," the silent victims whose lives are forever changed. It is a sentiment that Houston Style Magazine echoes as we join hands with those working tirelessly on the front lines to forge a safer tomorrow for Houstonians.

Dallas Jones & Family

Kristyn, Miss Patti & Francis Photos

Blue Print Church HTX

Elgin Gino and Elgin Gene Wells Family

Fort Bend Church - Pastor Byron C. Stevenson

JSTATE: CELEBRATING CHAMPIONS OF RIGHTS - LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF TEXAS HONORS ADVOCACY HEROES AT MAKING DEMOCRACY WORK® DINNER

oin upcoming annual Making Democracy Work® Dinner, presented by the key occasion League of Women Voters of Texas (LWVTX), marks for advocacy and celebration of democratic values in Dallas, Texas, on April 19th, 2024. This distinguished gathering stands as a testament to the unwavering efforts of individuals and organizations striving to ensure that fundamental rights and liberties are not just upheld, but fiercely championed.

In a year that has witnessed profound challenges to democratic institutions, the League of Women Voters of Texas shines a spotlight on those at the vanguard of protecting civil liberties and fostering civic engagement. Special accolades will be extended to the Center for Reproductive Rights and the Texas Library Association for their extraordinary contributions in their respective fields. The Center for Reproductive Rights has been at the forefront, legally and socially, defending reproductive rights as inherent human rights. This organization's dedication to maintaining bodily autonomy and gender equality, as well as ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, will be aptly celebrated.

The Texas Library Association, another beacon of advocacy, will be rec-

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

ognized for its unwavering commitment to literacy, education, and the preservation of intellectual freedom. Their support and resources have empowered librarians and readers across the state, highlighting the importance of unfettered access to information in a thriving democracy.

LWVTX President Joyce LeBombard underscores the importance of these honors, acknowledging the crucial

role that these institutions play in championing dignity, respect, and autonomy for all individuals. Their work represents the very essence of what it means to control one's reproductive destiny and the fundamental right to read and think freely.

The keynote speaker, attorney Molly Duane, brings a wealth of experience in legal advocacy, particularly in the fight for reproductive rights in Texas. Her

litigation efforts and her arguments before the Texas Supreme Court epitomize the kind of engaged citizenship and dedicated advocacy that the LWVTX seeks to encourage through this event.

The Making Democracy Work® Dinner will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas Park Central Area and promises to offer an evening of inspiration and discussion on the continued efforts to enhance the democratic process and protect the rights and freedoms that are the cornerstones of American society.

Houston Style Magazine readers who value democratic principles and civic engagement will find this event to be of significant importance. It is a call to action to support organizations and individuals who tirelessly work to empower voters and defend democracy in Texas and beyond.

For more information and to engage with this vital celebration of democracy, please visit the official website of the League of Women Voters of Texas at www.lwvtexas.org/making-democracy-work-dinner-2024. Join in honoring those who make democracy work for everyone.

Molly Duane

Joyce LeBombard

Janis Burke - HSA President

Carolyn Shabazz & Cindy Clifford Photos

Mia & Laura Murillo Houston Sports Authority

Houston Style Magazine's discerning readers, prepare to be serenaded under the stars as the Party on the Plaza makes its grand return! This May, Avenida Houston will pulsate with the rhythms of Houston's soul, FREE for all to join, thanks to the Houston First Corporation's commitment to celebrating the city's zest and diversity. Every Friday night, from May 3rd to the 24th, you can expect the plaza to come alive from 7 to 9:30 p.m. with a stellar lineup of artists and tribute bands.

Kick-off your spring with the EZ Band on May 3, where Latin American tunes meet modern flair, creating a multicultural Spanglish blend. May 10 brings Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras, featuring reality TV star Tom Sandoval's dynamic party anthems, with the vivacious Teacake Ferguson & Thee Evolution Band opening.

The following Friday, May 17, prepare to be swept off your feet by 'Lover: An Eras Tour Experience,' a tribute to Taylor Swift, preceded by the 'no practice but all talent' No Rehearsal Band. The series crescendos on May 24 with 'Who’s Bad', the ultimate Michael Jackson tribute, and the Aaron McCoy Jazz Trio, guaranteeing an electrifying closure to the series.

Nestled in the heart of downtown,

LOCAL: FREE LIVE MUSIC IN HOUSTON: PARTY ON THE PLAZA'S SPECTACULAR SPRING LINEUP

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

Avenida Houston is more than just a concert venue; it's a destination where culinary delights meet the city's dynamic culture. Family and friends, both locals and visitors, are invited to indulge in the live music scene that mirrors Houston's eclectic spirit.

Houston First Corporation, the maestro behind the event, serves as the

tional and global stages.

Join us at Avenida Houston for Party on the Plaza, presented by Houston First Corp., featuring top artists and tribute bands for a free concert series celebrating Houston's diverse culture and live music scene this spring.

Remember to save the date and be a part of the vibrancy! For more information and the latest updates on Houston's thriving arts and entertainment scene, bookmark www.houstonfirst.com.

www.StyleMagazine.com

city's megaphone, amplifying the vibrancy and diverse cultural tapestry that make Houston the cultural powerhouse it is known to be. They curate the city's essence, from its culinary feats to its artistic prowess, and channel it into events like Party on the Plaza, reinforcing Houston's status as a premier destination on both na-

Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras

Aaron McCoy Jazz Trio

In an electrifying display of talent and dedication, Nickecoy Bramwell, a 16-year-old Jamaican track prodigy, delivered a stunning performance at the 51st Carifta Games, carving his name into the annals of athletic history. Bramwell achieved what many could only dream of—eclipsing a record set by the legendary Usain Bolt, the sprint king himself.

Bramwell's astonishing 47.27-second finish in the under-17 boys 400m event at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium in Grenada didn't just break the record; it

ignited the track and field world with the realization that a new star was rising. The young athlete's triumph was even more remarkable considering the obstacles he overcame, including a hamstring injury that threatened to derail his efforts.

In a testament to his resilience, Bramwell shared that his focus never wavered from the goal he had been eyeing since the previous summer. "It's a wonderful feeling to break the record," said Bramwell, whose sheer elation was palpable. He added, “I just took my mind off [the injury] and

focused on the record.”

Jamaica's rich legacy in track and field shines brighter with Bramwell's achievement, as the Carifta Games continue to serve as a crucible for developing future champions. On the same day, Sabrina Dockery sprinted to victory in the girls under-20 100m, further underscoring the nation's prowess on the track.

Kemron Mathlyn of Grenada and Eagan Neely of St. Lucia rounded out the podium finishes, but the day belonged to Bramwell, whose performance at the stadium—named for another athletic great, Kirani James—was a fitting tribute to the legends before him. Born in 2008, Bram-

well's record-breaking run is not just a personal victory; it's a beacon of inspiration for athletes across the Caribbean and the world.

For readers of Houston Style Magazine, this young Jamaican's story is not just about a record broken, but about the indomitable spirit of determination and excellence that defines the best of athletics. Bramwell's journey and success offer an exhilarating glimpse into the future of track and field, where legends inspire the next generation to run faster, dream bigger, and aim higher.

www.StyleMagazine.com

Nickecoy Bramwell

Black Black Restaurant Week in Houston is once again delighting the palates of the city’s food enthusiasts. This year, the event is not just a culinary festivity; it's a beacon of hope and resurgence for black-owned culinary businesses facing the industry's brunt amidst economic challenges. As reported by the James Beard Foundation, more than half of culinary business owners have seen profits dwindle due to escalating costs, underscoring the significance of Black Restaurant Week’s mission.

Houston Style Magazine's readers, known for their discerning tastes and community support, will be thrilled to participate in the ninth annual Black Restaurant Week –Southwest. This gastronomic event, lasting from Sunday, March 31st to Sunday, April 14th, aims to illuminate the path for minority businesses towards sustainable growth by enhancing community awareness.

The "More Than Just a Week" campaign, revisited in 2024, is dedicated to revitalizing local economies within the Black community. It provides a platform for Black-owned culinary ventures that are often sidelined by the hefty expenses of marketing. The initiative, since its inception, has supported an impressive roster of over 3000 culinary artists, from restaurateurs to food truck operators.

SAVOR THE HERITAGE, SUPPORT THE DREAM - HOUSTON' BLACK RESTAURANT WEEK FUELS CULINARY DIVERSITY

AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCE

Houston Style Magazine readers can engage with Black Restaurant Week by savoring the offerings from participating establishments like Euphoria Lounge and Kulture, among others, and understanding

the disparities faced by these businesses. Black Restaurant Week stands as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of black culinary professionals who continue to enrich our city's cultural tapestry despite

systemic barriers and the aftershocks of the pandemic.

Founded by the visionary trio of Warren Luckett, Falayn Ferrell, and Derek Robinson, Black Restaurant Week began in Houston and has expanded to 11 markets, now even reaching Toronto, Canada. This expansion speaks to the event's critical role in supporting an industry that finds itself at a crossroads, as highlighted by the Independent Restaurant Coalition's reports of an uncertain future for half a million dining establishments.

For more information on the flavorsome events and how to support local Black-owned culinary businesses, visit blackrestaurantweeks.com. Connect with Black Restaurant Week and become part of a movement that not only feeds the body but also nourishes the soul and community.

This feature not only brings to light the essential facts but also embodies the spirit of support and community that Houston Style Magazine champions. Engaging with Black Restaurant Week is more than just enjoying good food; it's a commitment to nurturing the cultural and entrepreneurial diversity that makes Houston truly unique. More Information: www.BlackRestaurantWeeks.com/houston-black-restaurant-week/

Derek Robinson, Falayn Ferrell, and Warren Luckett

SCampus Chronicles

tudents from the Gifted and Talented program at Sutton Elementary School within HISD recently took part in their campus GT Expo. The event highlighted their various interests and talents, with a particular focus on projects created using upcycled materials. The school extends its gratitude to Ms. Hughes, the GT Coordinator, for her exemplary leadership in organizing the event.

In a heartwarming act of kindness, Mission West Elementary student Jackson George from Fort Bend ISD used his personal savings to buy drinks and protein bars for local firefighters. He wanted to express gratitude for their assistance during a recent fire at his grandparents' home. With aspirations to join the Junior Firefighter program when he turns 13, Jackson's thoughtful gesture is truly commendable. Keep up the exemplary work, Jackson!

The Galena Park High School Girls Golf team has secured the District Championship, showcasing their exceptional skill and commitment. Their hard work has certainly yielded impressive results. As they advance to the regional competition, the school community has full confidence in their continued success on the course. Best of luck to the team in the upcoming regionals - keep shining and go make us proud!

Aunwavering dedication to the students and staff of Alief ISD continue to inspire us all. Keep up the fantastic work!

Houston Style Magazine readers are set to experience the rich tapestry of Houston's vibrant art scene with the latest installation of murals downtown. The Harris County Precinct 1 unveiled an inspiring collection of nine murals on March 30th, marking a significant stride toward reflecting the global ethos of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This infusion of public art not only beautifies the city but also prompts important conversations around social and environmental responsibility.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis of Precinct 1, in collaboration with the visionary organization Street Art for Mankind, spearheaded this initiative, enriching the city's cultural landscape. The exhibition, known as "Big Art. Bigger Change.", transforms over two miles of downtown space into an immersive open-air gallery that now boasts forty-four murals by world-renowned artists.

The recent unveilings brought together local and international artists, who contributed their diverse talents to the project. The murals span across a myriad of themes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, such as gender equality, quality education, climate action, and more. These pieces not only adorn the city but

HOUSTON UNVEILS MONUMENTAL MURALS FOR SOCIAL CHANGE: ART REFLECTS GLOBAL GOALS IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISPLAY

By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com

also embody a call to action, challenging residents and visitors alike to engage with the issues presented.

The initiative, praised by Kristopher Larson of Downtown Houston+, is a testament to Commissioner Ellis's commitment to fostering a deeper appreciation of art as a vehicle for positive change. Houston stands unique in the world, hosting an exhibition that mirrors all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

"Big Art. Bigger Change." is a testament to what can be achieved when community, culture, and cause converge. It's a collaboration between key city organizations and TotalEnergies, reflecting a community-wide commitment to leveraging

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

art for awareness and transformation.

For those eager to delve deeper, the "Behind the Wall" app provides an enriched tour experience. It offers an audio-guide featuring interviews with artists and experts, detailed mural descriptions, and interactive features that allow users to become a part of the art itself.

The vibrancy of Houston's downtown is further showcased through the

efforts of Downtown Houston+, dedicated to the city's continual growth as a center for global commerce and diverse culture.

For more information and to see the transformative power of art in action, visit the official websites for Big Art. Bigger Change., Street Art for Mankind, and Downtown Houston+. Whether online or in person, Houston invites you to witness and partake in this larger-than-life art phenomenon that is reshaping the city's identity and fostering dialogue for a better tomorrow.

For more information, go to: www. StreetArtManKind.org/bigartbiggerchange www.StyleMagazine.com

Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images

MAKE THE OUR Differences DIFFERENCE

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.