Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 34

Dr. Laura Murillo – From Houston’s East End to Leading One of the Nation’s Most Influential Hispanic Chambers

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

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Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com

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Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com

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Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Arts Editor

K athleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com

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©2023 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 2019 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 Supporters of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)

In the business and community world, few names resonate as powerfully as that of Dr. Laura Murillo. This esteemed leader has left an indelible mark on Houston and beyond with her myriad contributions. From revitalizing commerce to mentoring future leaders and establishing new benchmarks in the broadcasting world, her journey has been nothing short of inspirational.

In 2007, Houston’s business landscape was forever changed when Dr. Murillo took the helm as the President and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With her visionary leadership, the Chamber transformed into a juggernaut, achieving remarkable growth in membership and revenue. By 2009, their achievements were recognized on a national stage with the National and Regional Hispanic Chamber of the Year Award. Further accolades flowed in, such as the prestigious Marketer of the Year award from the American Marketing Association—thrice! In 2023, she also clinched the coveted HBJ Diversity in Business Lifetime Achievement Award.

But Dr. Murillo’s magic wasn’t limited to the Chamber. She also birthed the Greater Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, nurturing future leaders through the Emerging Leaders Institute. Dr. Murillo’s media endeavors have been equally impressive, commanding an audience reach of 3.3 million across platforms like CBS - KHOU 11, Audacy, and

Of Commerce

Univision.

Educated at the University of Houston, Dr. Murillo swiftly rose through its ranks to become the youngest Director in its history. This institution of higher learning later honored her with its most prestigious award – the President’s Medallion. Yet, her earlier roles, like managing a whopping $300 million budget at Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center, showcased her versatility in leadership.

In recent years, she expanded her influence to prestigious Corporate Boards such as Prosperity Bancshares Inc. and The Plaza Group. Not to mention, her inclusion in Harvard University’s exclusive Women on Corporate Boards Executive Program underscores her exceptional caliber. Her leadership journey is adorned with multiple accolades. Awards like the “2021 Global Leader of Influence Honoree”, “Top 30 Texas CEOs”, and the “Most Admired CEO” are but a few glimmers of her radiant career. In 2016, in recognition of her outstanding contributions, Dr. Murillo received the Ohtli Award—the apex recognition by the Mexican government for a Mexican American.

Her global vision has also seen her represent Houston on international delegations across continents, further enhancing Houston’s global business footprint. Her commitment to civic duty is underscored by her appointments to significant advisory and executive committees, spanning sectors

from finance to sports.

The roots of Dr. Murillo’s incredible journey can be traced back to Houston’s East End/Magnolia. Born to hardworking Mexican immigrant parents, her grit was evident early on as she worked at her family’s restaurant from a tender age. Today, as a proud mother of two brilliant daughters, her legacy continues. Marisa, a Columbia University Alumni and Astrophysicist/ Mechanical Engineer and Mia, an honor student at Georgetown University, reflect the promise of the next generation.

In sum, Dr. Laura Murillo is not just a leader; she’s an institution in herself. Her journey, filled with relentless passion and unparalleled achievements, continues to inspire many, setting new paradigms of excellence.

www.HoustonHispanicChamber.com

Laura Murillo – Key Roles:

President & CEO – Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (H.H.C.C.)

Founding President & CEO – Greater Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation

Founding Executive Producer/Host & Podcaster –(CBS - KHOU 11, Audacy and Univision)

Published Author and International Best Seller

Notable Accolades under her Leadership at HHCC:

• National and Regional Hispanic Chamber of the Year Award

• AMA’s Marketer of the Year (three-time winner)

• Two Diversity in Business Awards from Houston Business Journal (HBJ)

• 023 HBJ Diversity in Business Lifetime Achievement Award

Education and Early Career:

• B.A., Master’s, and Doctorate from the U.H.

• Executive at Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center: Managed $300 million budget and 500+ employees with 10 departments

Board Positions (2021 & 2022):

• Prosperity Bancshares Inc. (Financial holding company, $37 Billion+ assets)

• The Plaza Group (Global petrochemical marketing firm, $450 Million+)

Special Honors:

• “2021 Global Leader of Influence Honoree”World Affairs Council

• “Top 30 Texas CEOs” - Texas CEO Magazine, 2020

• “Most Admired CEO” - Houston Business Journal, 2018

Recognition and Awards:

• Numerous state, national, and international honors including the Ohtli Award (Highest Honor by the Mexican Government) in 2016

Dr. Laura Murillo – President and CEO Houston Hispanic Chamber

Beneath the vast Texan skies, the city of Houston in Harris County is a bustling hub of energy, innovation, and cultural richness. Its vibrant tapestry showcases a mosaic of diverse communities, but one in particular dazzles with a brilliance that’s impossible to overlook — the Hispanic community. Their soaring numbers, increasing economic influence, and radiant cultural contributions make them an integral part of Houston’s heartbeat. As the city eagerly anticipates the Houston Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce - DATA SUMMIT at The Federal Reserve on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, let’s delve into why this community’s numbers and stories are truly unparalleled.

Hispanic Houston: A Demographic Marvel

Harris County, brushing against the 5 million mark, is home to a Hispanic population that constitutes a staggering 42%. Yet, these are not mere statistics.

FACTS ARE FACTS: The Dynamic Influence of the Hispanic Community in Houston and a Glimpse into the upcoming HHCC - DATA SUMMIT at The Federal Reserve

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

These numbers tell the tale of dreamers, doers, and dynamos who’ve shaped the city’s contours, breathing life and vigor into its every nook and cranny.

Economic Titans of Texas

When it comes to business acumen, the Hispanic community has etched its mark on Houston’s skyline, both metaphorically and literally. Their contributions range from quaint family-owned eateries that have become culinary landmarks to sprawling corporations that command global attention. These enterprises collectively inject billions into the city’s economy, proving the mettle and entrepreneurial spirit of Houston’s Hispanic populace.

A Symphony of Culture

The rhythm of Hispanic culture reverberates through Houston’s streets. Each melody, dance step, and brushstroke adds depth to the city’s cultural repertoire.

Hispanic Demographic

H Hispanics have accounted for more than half of total US population growth since 2010. H In 2019, the number of Hispanics reached 60.6 million, making up 18% of the U.S. population. That’s up from 50.7 million in 2010.

H The share of US Hispanics with college experience has increased since 2010.

H About 41% of U.S. Hispanic adults ages 25 and older had at least some college experience in 2018, up from 36% in 2010. H The share of Latinos in the US who speak English is growing rapidly. H In 2022, 72% of Latinos ages 5 and older spoke English proficiently, up from 59% in 2000. H Four in five Latinos are US citizens. H A record 35 million Latinos are projected to be eligible to vote in 2024, up from 30 million in 2018. H Five states are home to two-thirds of all Latino eligible voters. H Texas is home to nearly 6 million

National Hispanic Economic Data

H According to the SBA, nearly 1 in 4 new businesses in the U.S. are Hispanic-owned. H The nearly 5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States contribute more than $800 billion to the American economy annually. H Hispanic employer businesses employ about 1 million workers, with more than $100 billion in annual payroll. H In the decade preceding the pandemic, the number of Hispanic business owners increased 34% compared to an increase of just 1% among non-Hispanic business owners.

Celebrations like Cinco de Mayo and Dia de los Muertos aren’t just events; they’re Houstonian traditions, embraced and celebrated by all.

HHCC Partnered With U.H. Hobby School Of Public Affairs For The 2023 Data Summit:

As the date approaches, the buzz around the DATA SUMMIT at The Federal Reserve is palpable. Here’s a sneak peek into the grandeur and gravitas of the event:

Demographic Deep Dive: A comprehensive exploration of the Hispanic community’s growth, dynamics, and projected future in Houston.

Economic Expedition: Analyzing the profound impact of Hispanic businesses, their trajectory, challenges, and the opportunities ahead.

Cultural Chronicles: Mapping the indelible influence of Hispanic arts, music, and festivals on the city’s ethos.

Youth and Future: Spotlighting the ambitions, challenges, and potential of the young Hispanic generation, and how they’re gearing up to shape Houston’s future.

Addressing the Disparities: An honest conversation about the socio-economic disparities and the road ahead to ensure equitable growth and representation.

Wrapping Up

The Houston Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce - DATA SUMMIT at The Federal Reserve isn’t just an event; it’s a testament to the formidable presence and power of the Hispanic community in Houston. As the city gears up for this monumental summit, it’s evident that in the story of Houston, the numbers indeed don’t lie. But beyond the data is the essence of a community that has crafted, nurtured, and elevated the spirit of Houston to global acclaim.

www.HoustonHispanicChamber.com

Hispanic Small Business Data

H Houston is home to more than 125,000 small businesses.

H Together, small businesses in the region employ nearly 500,000 Houstonians. H Houston is a leader nation in small business optimism, per the Houston Business Journal. H This can be attributed to the increased diversification of the economy in the region.

H Houston also ranks among the top 30 cities where small businesses are thriving.

H Houston boasts more than 9,000 new startups created annually, which attracts more than $750 million in venture capital funding annually.

Houston Hispanic Spending Power

H Houston Hispanics currently spends more than $54 billion a year

H By 2022, Hispanic spending in the region could top $80 billion –more than 25% of spending in the region

H More than 53% of Hispanics in the region own their own home

H The Hispanic community represents 1/4th of the region’s residential market H Hispanics are two times more likely to start a business than other demographic groups H Hispanics represent more than a quarter of all auto sales in the region H Hispanic-owned small businesses represent nearly 50% of the small businesses owned in the region. H Over 30% of Hispanics in Houston own some kind of an investment. H The number of Hispanic entrepreneurs in the region out-numbers all other demographic groups 2 to 1.

HAVING OUR SAY AGAINST CARBON POLLUTION

By Ben Jealous, National Political Writer

More than one million Americans told the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last week that they aren’t willing to wait any longer.

Their comments insisting that EPA move forward quickly to cut carbon pollution from new and existing coal and natural gas-burning power plants were delivered in person in Washington by a coalition of a dozen national environment, environmental justice, and public health groups. It reportedly is the most public responses to a proposed environmental rule since President Biden took office.

Their impatience is understandable. Power plants are the second largest source of climate-damaging greenhouse gases in the United States after cars, trucks, and planes. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reported nearly six months ago that at the current global pace by 2030 we will blow through the threshold for carbon pollution that will keep the planet livable.

Unless we act fast and significantly, we are the allegorical frog in slowly warming water, except we are turning up the heat on ourselves. In just three months since EPA proposed the tougher carbon regulations, we’ve experienced wildfires across North America, flooding across the northeastern U.S., and in July the single hottest month in recorded human history. These are the predictable consequences of manmade climate change, and unless we act with urgency, they only will get worse.

President Biden promised to reduce U.S. carbon pollution by half by 2030. We won’t reach that without even more ambitious rules than EPA has proposed, including more

demand for community outreach by state regulators around pollution from existing plants.

Not surprisingly, the groups representing electric utilities offered their typical knee-jerk responses to higher standards to curb pollution – too much, too fast, too risky. It sounded a lot like the complaints nearly a decade ago when the Obama administration unveiled its Clean Power Plan, and plants have met those targets since.

It begs the question of why an industry that reportedly saw $14 billion in profits last year, carried out $11 billion in stock buybacks, and asked for 14 percent more rate increases from consumers compared to 2021 isn’t doing more to create the technology it needs to keep from slowly baking the planet. And why it’s building enough new natural gas-burning plants to power 12.8 million households. Those plants could still be open in 2050 when even power companies say they’ll

be at net zero carbon pollution and as the cost of producing electricity through renewable sources is slipping below the cost for generating it burning fossil fuels.

The timing of their objections to the new EPA rules is ironic. We’re also marking the one-year anniversary of the historic package that the President and Congress crafted directing more than $350 billion in federal support to clean energy and good jobs.

Back then, the Edison Electric Institute, which represents the nation’s private power companies, said the tax credits and incentives included would “deliver a clean energy future and a carbon-free economy faster.” The package would put the U.S “at the forefront of global efforts to drive down carbon emissions'' and provide “much-needed certainty to America’s electric companies over the next decade.” The same companies have gone from applause to hand wringing in

12 months.

When it comes to what must be done now to avert unrecoverable damage to the climate, ignorance isn’t bliss – it’s an impending catastrophe. President Biden through EPA must face up to a grave obligation by seizing every opportunity to make good on his 2030 pledge. The word protection in EPA’s name refers to people and the planet, not polluters. That must start now with stringent standards ensured by rigorous monitoring and enforcement mechanisms and reinforced by meaningful community voices in the conversation.

You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson in care of this newspaper or by email at: jjackson@rainbowpush.org

Comm. Rodney Ellis and Bishop James Dixon

Nata with Judge S. Burney and Judge Z. Burney

Bishop James Dixon

Prominent local political leaders unite with US Rep Al Green in supporting Slavery Remembrance Day.

Comm. Leslie Briones and Al Green

John Whitmire, Al Green & James Dixon

Senator Whitmire and Wea Lee Supporting – Slavery Remembrance

H As dawn broke over Houston on August 19, 2023, the halls of the Wyndham Hotel echoed with the harmonious unity of over 1,200 attendees who converged to honor, remember, and venerate the legacy of our ancestors.

The gathering was nothing short of monumental. Congressman Al Green, with eloquence and conviction, shed light on the designation of a Slavery Remembrance Day, emphasizing the paramount importance of ensuring that the egregious sins of slavery remain in our collective consciousness. This resolution, initially introduced in 2021 and affirmed by President Joe Biden in 2022, is not just a day – it’s a pledge that we, as a nation, will never repeat the mistakes of our past.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Al Green for his unwavering leadership and to Houston’s Black Press Representatives for

their steadfast commitment. A special thank you to the pastors, elected officials, and every individual who came forward, uniting under one banner, to solemnly remember the ancestors who endured the harrowing 250-yearlong epoch of American slavery.

Here’s to those who spoke, those who served, and most importantly, those who remembered – Acknowledging the indomitable spirits:

H Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee H Senator John Whitmire H Rep. Ron Reynolds H Commissioner Rodney Ellis

H Rep. Jolanda “Jo” Jones HCarvana Yvonne Hicks Cloud

H Dr. Max Miller H Baptist Ministers Association of Houston and Vicinity H Amanda Edwards H Bishop James Dixon

LOCAL BIZ & POLITICAL LEADERS IN SUPPORT of Slavery Remembrance Day

With Mayor Turner from the orginal Slavery Remembrance event in 2022 From the orginal 1st Annual Slavery Remembrance event in 2022

Host with supporters U.S. Rep Al Green with Amanda Edwards and ART Pronin

LOCAL: TEXAS’ WILL HURD PREPS FOR THE FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

By Burt Levine, Political Writier For

Will Hurd, former Congressman from south Texas and the first black Texas A&M University Student Body President during its bonfire tragedy 25 years ago is thankful to the 42,500 campaign donors that put him past the 40,000-threshold required by the Republican National Committee to be in Wednesday’s debate.

“We did it y’all. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped us.

Thank you to everyone who believes in our vision that America deserves a better option. To surpass this first donor milestone is a great feat,” said Texas native Hurd who served as Texas’ only black Republican U.S. Representative from 2015 to 2021.

During a Wednesday interview Hurd said he thinks he will be able to make the polling requirement

before the deadline, set for 48 hours prior to the debate too.

“I’m pretty confident we’re going to be able to hit those requirements before the deadline on Aug. 21st,” Hurd said.

Hurd, who worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for nine years following his earning his computer

science and international relations degree, served both in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In 2010 he returned to Texas after advising those in Congress on the challenges in South Asia and decided to run himself. He lost in 2010 but came back and beat the incumbent Congressman Peteo Gallego in a twothirds Hispanic Congressional District

and the most borderline GOP District. Hurd is the only candidate in the country endorsed by former CIA director and former U. S. Defense Secretary Bill Gates who admired Hurd’s hard work for the Country at the CIA.

“Hurd has the character and the integrity and the leadership skills for higher office,” Gates said.

After winning the Republican Primary in his re-nomination in March 2016 Hurd distanced himself from President Trump blasting Trump for his “nasty rhetoric” about Muslims and Hispanics; especially since Hurd’s district included more of the Texas and American border with Mexico than any other U.S. Representative District. He criticized Trump’s banner headlines to proposing to build an $8 billion- and 1,000-mile border wall between Mexico and the United States.

Will Hurd with Burt and Sandra Levine

Healthy Harris – Harris County Takes Historic Leap Toward Healthcare Expansion

Alandmark decision was reached as Harris County Commissioners, crossing party lines, unanimously greenlit a monumental $2.5 billion hospital bond for the November 7, 2023 ballot. This decision aims to extend healthcare services to a staggering 1,175,000 uninsured individuals within the county, all facilitated through the Harris Health System. Upon voters’ approval, the bond will catalyze the construction of a state-of-the-art Level I-capable trauma center. It will stand as a successor to the current Harris Health Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) Hospital while introducing new community clinics in underserved locations. The bond will also inject vital funds into the Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital, ensuring it remains a cornerstone for years to come.

Bob Eury, the driving force behind Healthy Harris County, emphasized, “A nod in favor of the bonds translates to widespread advantages. From accessible healthcare of the highest caliber to job creation and a seismic economic boost, the implications are vast.”

Remember to mark your calendars! Election Day unfolds on November 7, 2023. For those keen on an early vote, October 23 to November 3 is your window. Dive deeper into the initiative at www.HealthyHarrisCounty.com and engage with them on Twitter: @HealthyHCounty.

The hospital bond is a beacon of hope, drawing unwavering, bipartisan backing:

• Commissioner Rodney Ellis: “Our commitment

By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for

to Harris Health System is unwavering, especially when it caters to the vulnerable. Ben Taub Hospital stands as a testament to quality healthcare. Let’s amplify this.”

• Commissioner Adrian Garcia: “Having personally experienced public health services, I vouch for their indispensable role. Our future rests in the health of our youth, and I urge a favorable vote.”

• Commissioner Lesley Briones:

“I’m elated to champion the bond’s inclusion in the November ballot. The prospect of a new LBJ Hospital, coupled with enhancements to existing ones and the creation of outpatient hubs, is invigorating.”

Key community stakeholders have also voiced robust support:

• Greater Houston Partnership:

“With the county’s population skyrocketing over the decades, our hospitals’ roles have never been more crucial. We stand firmly with Harris Health’s visionary approach.”

• Houston Police Officers Union: “This bond signifies a turning point for public healthcare. We wholeheartedly back Harris Health’s ambitious endeavors, foreseeing their transformative impact on our region.”

• Harris County Medical Society: “Our unanimous support goes to the Harris Health System’s bond proposal – a master plan crafted for the holistic well-being of Harris County.”

• Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce: “Our endorsement stems from acknowledging the evolving needs of our growing

population. By 2050, a large segment will require comprehensive health coverage, making this bond imperative.”

• The Metropolitan Organization:

“Our forty-year legacy resonates with championing healthcare accessibility. We rally behind Harris Health’s groundbreaking proposal, echoing its sentiments to cater to the uninsured and underserved.”

This decision is poised to redefine healthcare in Harris County. The ball is now in the voters’ court on November 7, 2023.

www.www.HealthyHarrisCounty.com

Rodney Ellis – Harris County Comissioner Lesley Briones – Harris County Comissioner Adrian Garcia – Harris County Comissioner

A Triumph Decades In The Making – Meta 4 Houston’s Stupendous Victory at Brave New Voices The Face of the Youth Poetry Slam Scene in Houston

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

On an electric evening in Houston, the city came alive, celebrating the triumphant return of its very own slam squad from @meta4houston, having conquered the Brave New Voices (BNV) championship in 2023. These remarkable young women, now brandishing the title of BNV Champs, are the beautiful bridge between the storied past and the promising future of Meta 4 Houston.

As the founder of Meta 4 Houston, it was both a privilege and a profound moment of reflection to recount the journey that led our first-ever team to the finals stage, said Shannon Buggs. A journey that

culminated in a groundbreaking victory on July 22, 2023, in the vibrant city of San Francisco. And Houston reciprocated its heroes with the same passion they displayed at the competition. The champions delivered a riveting performance, showcasing the poems that had sealed their monumental 15-year quest for victory.

A heartfelt congratulations to the squad, the indefatigable @outspokenbean, the pillars at @witshouston, and the entire Houston community that supported this journey. A heartfelt gratitude knows no bounds as they thank Mayor Sylvester Turner, the Houston Mayor’s Office of

Cultural Affairs , and the visionary Director Necole Irvin. Their efforts not only made the evening’s celebration possible but also ensured it was an unforgettable, magical event.

In recognition of the sheer determination, talent, and passion of the team, August 15, 2023, was immortalized as ‘Meta 4 Houston Day’ by Mayor @ sylvesterturner. A fitting tribute, a day forever etched in the annals of Houston’s cultural legacy.

Reflecting upon the journey of @ meta4houston since its inception in 2007, the overwhelming emotion is just so much

pride. Under the guidance and collaboration with @witshouston, Meta 4 has been a beacon of youth-led creativity and advocacy. And as they celebrated their slam squad, the newly crowned 2023 @bravenewvoices slam champs, we’re reminded that dreams –no matter how big – are always within reach. Here’s to the past, present, and future of #meta4houston. As they revel in their achievements, and they continue to set their sights even higher. #bravenewvoices

SPORTS: NO SURPRISES THIS TIME AS RYANS NAMES

STROUD PRESEASON GAME 2 STARTER AGAINST THE DOLPHINS

By Brian Barefield, Sports Editor for StyleMagazine.com

start of the preseason, Stroud has positioned himself favorably to potentially become the starting quarterback in the regular season, edging out third-year quarterback Davis Mills. This decision looms as the Houston Texans prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens in the season opener.

"Observing his development as a quarterback is truly inspiring," commented wide receiver Robert Woods on Stroud's progress. "From the initial preseason game to these two practices against Miami, it's evident that we're consistently evolving and learning as a team."

"As we witness his growth as a quarterback and his adeptness at deciphering different defensive formations and strategies, while commanding the offense, it bodes exceedingly well for our team. It's crucial for our quarterback to confront varied challenges and competing viewpoints.

One week after leaving the local media in anticipation, wondering who would be the starting quarterback for the first preseason game against the New England Patriots, Houston Texans' head coach DeMeco Ryans dispelled all suspense on Thursday. He declared rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud as the starter for the second preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.

"Once again, C.J. [Stroud] will be our starting quarterback, just as he was last week," Ryans stated after practice. "We'll make adjustments as the game progresses." Stroud, the Texans' second overall pick in this year's draft, will be making his second start after having taken all the first-team repetitions this week. Hoping for more than just two series this time, he aims to build

upon his debut NFL appearance against New England. In that game, he completed two out of four passes for a total of 13 yards. His lone setback was an interception thrown during his second pass in the opening series, which ultimately translated into points for the Patriots.

With the opportunity to practice with the first team and secure his second

As he steps onto the field as the starter for this upcoming game, gaining yet another valuable game-time opportunity, he's acclimating and gearing up for the authentic action."

www.HoustonTexans.com

UNVEILS JOHNNY FLOYD: GODBODY EXHIBITION AND INAUGURAL BERT LONG JR. PRIZE

Houston, August 15 - The Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) warmly extends an invitation to explore their captivating fall 2023 exhibitions. At the forefront is "Johnny Floyd: GODBODY," curated by the esteemed Chief Curator of HMAAC, Christopher Blay. In addition, the museum proudly unveils the inaugural Bert Long Jr. Prize, fostering emerging artistic talent.

Johnny Floyd: GODBODY

Opening: Friday, September

15 Artist Talk: Saturday, September 16,

2PM On Display: September 15 - November 18

Johnny Floyd: GODBODY" debuts with an exclusive member preview on September 15 from 6 to 8PM, extending a warm welcome to all art enthusiasts. The event offers insight into membership benefits. The exhibition

By Kathleen Coleman, Arts Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

this showcase. Select pieces from that exhibit are displayed at HMAAC. His work raises compelling questions about authentically capturing the dynamic essence of Blackness through visual language. Johnny Floyd's art responds to these inquiries, transcending conventions to reveal innate beauty.

showcases Johnny Floyd's five-year artistic journey through a collection of paintings. This pivotal exhibition continues the momentum of recent successful showcases featuring artists like David-Jeremiah, Ellsworth Ausby, and Evita Tezeno, marking Johnny Floyd's inaugural solo museum exhibition.

"GODBODY" by Johnny Floyd explores the convergence of classical mythologies, ancestral ties, and contemporary Black culture. Traditional portraiture takes on a surreal twist, challenging modern aesthetic norms while delving into narratives of marginalized Black history. "GODBODY" reimagines ancient folklore, reclaims narratives, and envisions future possibilities.

Floyd's previous exhibit, "Hyperblack Spectacle," unveiled at Conduit Gallery, laid the foundation for

Chief Curator Christopher Blay commends Floyd's impact: "Floyd's work enriches the diverse landscape of Black Figurative aesthetics from the past decade. His paintings oscillate between subtle washes and bold brushstrokes, forming vivid, lively colors that convey both joy and melancholy."

Inaugural Bert Long Jr. Prize Prize: $3,000 and Solo Exhibition in Bert Long Jr. Gallery Opening: Saturday, September 16, 3-5PM Artist Talk: September 16, 4PM

Presenting the Inaugural Bert Long Jr. Prize, including a $3,000 cash reward and a solo exhibit at the Bert Long Jr. Gallery in HMAAC. Opening on September 16 from 3-5PM, with an Artist Talk at 4PM, this prestigious accolade honors the late Bert Long Jr., a revered artistic figure in and beyond

Houston, celebrating his lasting legacy. Chosen by curator Christopher Blay, along with Houston-based artists Eddie Filer and Romeo Robinson, visionary artist David Stunts was selected for this inaugural recognition. Stunts, renowned for his unique perspective on Houston's culture, was considered the perfect embodiment of the award's spirit following the notable Bert Long Jr. Gallery Spring Survey Exhibition in April. John Guess Jr., CEO of HMAAC, emphasizes the prize's importance in paying tribute to Bert's support for emerging talents. For more info, visit www. hmaac.org.

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