Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 31

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K athleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

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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)

NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE: Celebrates Achievements and Advocate For A Better Nation

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

Thousands of National Urban League convention goers from all corners of the country gathered at the George R. Brown Convention Center last week for a momentous event. The occasion was not only a celebration of the organization’s remarkable achievements but also a collective commitment to improving the nation for everyone.

The gathering saw inspiring speeches and remarks from prominent leaders, including former Louisiana State Senator and former New Orleans Mayor, Marc H. Morial, who has been leading the National Urban League for two decades. Morial expressed his passion for the organization’s mission, emphasizing the significance of their work across the country, from Wall Street to Main Street.

As the head of the Houston Area Urban League, Judson Robinson III, along with his wife Cora, played a pivotal role in warmly welcoming attendees throughout the week. Robinson, a former three-term at-large Houston City Council Member, has been dedicated to bringing people together and motivating the next generation of trailblazers. For him, the cause hits close to home as his family has a rich history of public service, with both his father and

mother serving as the first black city council members in Houston.

During the event, distinguished individuals such as Congress Members Al Green and Sheila Jackson Lee, as well as Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, were honored for their exceptional contributions to society. Mayor Sylvester was also celebrated for extending a warm welcome to fellow African American Mayors from New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago to Houston. A particularly exhilarating moment occurred when Morial announced, with music and dancers, that the National Urban League’s next gathering would take place in New Orleans. The news ignited the crowd, and everyone joined in song and rhythm to celebrate the transition of the conference from the Bayou City to the Bayou State.

The convention was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Urban League and its unwavering commitment to creating a better America for all citizens. As the delegates returned to their communities, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and determination to continue the noble work of the organization.

www.HAUL.org www.NUL.org

Congresswoman – Sheila Jackson Lee

Mayor Of Houston – Sylvester Turner

NUL President and CEO Marc Morial & Burt Levine

HAUL President Judson Robinson & Burt Levine

Harris County Commissioner – Rodney Ellis

Convention

COMMENTARY HOW WE SEE THE PAST REFLECTS HOW WE LIVE IN THE PRESENT

By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

Our history involves both hard facts and interpretation – the context in which the hard facts are presented. Interpretation inevitably is political and contested. How we see the past reflects how we live in the present and what we hope for in the future.

That’s what makes Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to impose a new curriculum for public school instruction on African American history both revealing and repellant. A furor has grown about the new state guidelines for the history of slavery which call for students to learn that “slaves developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their personal benefit.”

Depicting slavery as a jobs training program and a civilizing mission for the Africans who were enslaved has long been a central theme of those seeking to justify slavery. The ugly reality, of course, is that Africans were brought here in chains against their will and were bought and sold as chattel. They had no choice in what work they did or how they lived. The vast majority died in slavery. In the 1857 Dred Scott decision, Chief Justice Roger B. Taney ruled for the Supreme Court – in what is viewed as the worst decision in history – that enslaved people were not citizens of the United States, and had no rights under the federal government.

It took a Civil War – the most violent conflict in American history – and the Thirteenth, Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments –for slaves to gain freedom, and even the possibility to develop skills “for their personal benefit” or to choose their mates, build their families, own property and more.

And the brief moment of freedom offered in the post-Civil

War Reconstruction Era was met across the South with bands of white terrorists, systematic suppression of the right to vote, brutal use of the criminal justice system to turn Blacks into prison labor, segregation of schools and public facilities.

In Plessy v. Ferguson in 1896, the Supreme Court ruled that segregation was legal under the Constitution, depriving African Americans of equal justice under the law for 100 years after the Civil War.

During the century of segregation, the Civil War was taught as a “lost cause” of state’s rights.

Slavery was often portrayed as a “benevolent institution.” The Reconstruction was depicted as a time of rapacious carpetbaggers and lecherous Black politicians preying on innocent whites throughout the South. It was only with the civil rights movement, courageous work by honest historians, and the Supreme Court overturning Plessy in

Brown v. Board of Education, that our schools began to teach something closer to reality.

DeSantis hand-picked the Florida board that approved the new curriculum instruction. It is part of the central theme of his presidential campaign: what he calls the “war on woke.” “Woke,” his spokesman reported, is the “belief that there are systemic injustices in American society and the need to address them.” DeSantis doesn’t believe in that. So he naturally turned his attention to purging the schools of books, and purging the curriculum of unvarnished history. He touts his “Stop Woke Act” which protects students from any instruction to “feel guilt, anguish or any other form of psychological distress” due to their race, color, sex or national origin.

It is impossible to describe slavery, the horrors like the Greenwood Massacre in Tulsa, Oklahoma, or Bloody Sunday in Selma, Ala -

bama, without causing “distress” at the reality of our racial history.

It is impossible to understand today’s America – and the women’s movement, the Black Lives Matter movement, the fight over rights for members of the LGBTQ community – without looking at how entrenched biases still scar our quest for equal justice under the law.

DeSantis, of course, thinks that he will benefit politically by touting his pasteurized version of history and his “war on woke.” That hasn’t gone so well. Despite burning through tens of millions of dollars, his presidential campaign is stalled. The more people see of him the less they seem to like him. He wanted to present himself as a competent Donald Trump, Trump’s venom without the legal mess, but that doesn’t seem to be selling.

Perhaps DeSantis is discovering that racial dog whistles don’t have the strength they used to have. Much of the backlash to his curriculum has come from Black Republicans. The young generation is turning against DeSantis and other Republicans in overwhelming numbers. They seem to be more comfortable with their diversity and more impassioned about the gun violence that is killing them, the economy that doesn’t work for them and the extreme weather that threatens their very future. Now that would be a lesson worth teaching.

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

Slavery monument in Stone Town, Zanzibar

Everystudent’s idea of a summer well spent is different. For incoming fifth grader Karli Win, summer camp at the Julia C. Hester House is an opportunity to participate in new experiences and sharpen her skills in the classroom. During a recent field trip to Prairie View A&M University, it was an inspiration for the possibilities ahead.

“I want to go there now! I really enjoyed seeing the campus with my friends and visiting the dorms,” Win said with a smile.

This year, Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) County Connections Youth Summer Initiative awarded J.C. Hester House a $20,000

LOCAL:

COUNTY CONNECTIONS GRANT FUELS DREAMS OF FIFTH WARD PROGRAM’S STUDENTS

grant to supplement the needs of its students. Funding for the enrichment curriculum is approved by Harris County Commissioners and administered to vetted programs by HCDE’s Center for Afterschool, Summer, and Enrichment for Kids (CASE for Kids).

In the heart of the Fifth Ward, J.C. Hester House partners with community members for an eight-week program that keeps pre-K to fifth-grade students engaged in literacy and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) activities.

Every week throughout the summer, the camp’s more than 40 students enjoy visits from the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Harris County Precinct One Constable deputies, and the Harris County Public Library’s Curiosity Cruiser. The mobile library offers a free book every week to each student in the camp. The collaborations positively influence students, expose them to career opportunities, and provide a nurturing environment for learning and growth.

“We try to keep their minds stimulated throughout the summer,” said Ashley Khan, the youth service manager at J.C. Hester House. “This program

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

isn’t just a refresher course. It’s where we challenge our students and prepare them for the next level.”

Khan describes the 2023 County Connections grant as essential to their program. “I’m not sure we would be able to keep the doors open without the help of CASE for Kids and the County Connections grant,” said Khan. “We consider it a privilege to help our kids.”

Grant funds allowed the program to supplement staffing, purchase materials and supplies for activities, and create field trip opportunities to places such as Discovery Green, Lake Houston Wilderness Park, and the visit to Prairie View A&M.

“Our kids are young, but they already have college on their minds,” exclaimed Khan. “This grant allowed us to expand our students’ minds to a world outside of Fifth Ward. They were excited to visit Prairie View A&M, and that gives me hope for their future!”

To prevent learning loss between academic school years, known as the “summer slide,” Khan works with district teachers to gauge where her students need extra help and provide daily instruction on reading, writing, and mathematics. The curriculum proves

successful for students.

“I was struggling with long division when I got here, but not anymore,” said Win. “We’ve been doing minute math problems, and they really helped. Now when I go back to school, I won’t get stuck on as many problems.”

J.C. Hester House’s youth development program imparts valuable skills and knowledge to benefit students in the upcoming school year and exposes them to paths for a brighter future.

“I’m always helping my friends with their work, so I’m going to be a teacher like Mrs. Ashley,” Win smiled. “They make learning fun here, and I want to do that for students one day.”

To learn more about County Connections, visit hcde-texas.org/county-connections.

LOCAL : World Youth Foundation Served Hundreds of Students With Back To School Summit

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

World Youth Foundation in conjunction with a host of sponsors and partners including City of Houston, Houston Health Department, Houston Health Department Foundation, My Brother’s Keeper, and HEB to name a few hosted their annual Back 2 School Summit.

Kicking off the summit was a grand parade featuring Southside Ravens Cheer team, 2Xclusive Dance team,

Attending students at the Back 2 School Summit serving at the Back 2 School Summit. Special guest, Councilwoman Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz presented World Youth Foundation CEO, Karen Franklin, with a special acknowledgement from the City of Houston for their 33 years of service within the Houston community.

and Jack Yates High School drumline. Throughout the summit there were other performances by The Swagg Boiz step team, The Fountain of Praise Youth Praise Team and Ambassadors Int’l Ballet Folklorico. Students enjoyed workshops on Artificial Intelligence (AI), vendors, food, bounce houses, music and much more before receiving their backpacks of supplies. Select students also received over 500 hours of community service for attending and

Following Councilwoman Shabazz, there was a surprise visit from Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who addressed

the attending students, encouraging them to have a great school year, stay focused on their goals, and to apply some things they have learned at the summit to their upcoming 2023-2024 school year.

There’s a little bit of all of us at Miller...

For 100 years, Miller Outdoor Theatre has delighted generations with the best in performing arts entertainment. And every performance free.

Tha Swagg Boiz Step Team

Southside Ravens Cheer Team

EDUCATION: Mayor Turner and Faith Leaders Rally Against HISD’s Library Closures: A Fight For Educational Equality!

By Francis Page Jr For

Photo By Jeff Syptak

In an impassioned display of solidarity, Mayor Sylvester Turner gathered faith leaders and elected officials at City Hall to vehemently denounce the Houston Independent School District’s (HISD) contentious plans to shut down libraries on 28 campuses, intending to transform them into disciplinary centers. The announcement of this drastic measure by state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles represents a sharp departure from the previous administration’s vision, which focused on expanding school libraries and the presence of librarians to enhance student achievement.

Mayor Turner’s voice resonated with determination as he proclaimed, “I do not want some schools to look like prisons.” He accused HISD of creating a school district divided between the privileged “haves” and the marginalized “have-nots.” Bitterly highlighting the stark contrast, he pointed out that some areas within the district boast libraries filled with books and cutting-edge technology, while others resemble cold, institutional spaces devoid of the vital resources that students need to flourish—places where they cannot access the sanctuary of their school library, study, check out books, seek guidance from librarians, or nurture their imagination.

Faith leaders from various denominations stood shoulder to shoulder with Mayor Turner, adding their influential voices to the cause. Dr. Max Miller from the Baptist Ministers Association of Houston Vicinity, Pastor Byron Stevenson from Ft. Bend Church, Rev. M. Morrison Sr., Pastor Harvey Clemons, and Bishop Emeritus Shelton Bady – all united in their commitment to preserving the sanctity of education for every child.

The movement gained significant political backing as well, with prominent figures joining the fight. U.S. Rep. Al Green , U.S. Rep Sheila Jackson Lee , Harris County Precinct 2 County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, Councilmembers

Karla Cisneros, and Robert Gallegos lent their unwavering support, demonstrating the importance of this issue on a broader scale.

Mayor Turner’s unwavering dedication to the cause shone through as he vowed, “I am serious about the learning and life outcomes of HISD students, and I have been serious before this superintendent ever stepped on Houston’s ground.” He emphasized that his professional life has been devoted to improving education and quality of life for students, not only within HISD but throughout the state.

The overwhelming concern voiced by the speakers was the impact on Black and Brown children who predominantly rely on the libraries facing closure. Commissioner Garcia admonished HISD for making this momentous decision without consulting local governments, parents, teachers, or students—a move that threatens to steer the school district towards a trajectory of increased problems. The overarching goal, he argued, should be to strive for better student success by engaging all stakeholders in crucial decisions.

Dr. Mia K. Knight, Co-Pastor and Executive Director of Ministry at The Fountain of Praise, eloquently elucidated the significance of libraries as lifelong educational pillars. She emphasized that skills acquired in libraries extend beyond the classroom, enabling individuals to explore books, learn from history, immerse themselves in stories, develop perspectives, and hone research abilities, fostering aspirations and dreams.

In the face of this challenging situation, Mayor Turner remains resolute in his commitment to advocating for students and teachers alike. He extended an open invitation to Superintendent Miles, urging him to meet at City Hall to engage in dialogue about the profound changes occurring within HISD.

In conclusion, the show of solidarity at City Hall sends a powerful message— the collective determination of Mayor

Turner, faith leaders, elected officials, and community members to halt the closure of school libraries in HISD. This fight transcends mere political wrangling; it is an impassioned plea to safeguard the future of students, regardless of their background. The rallying cry for educational equality echoes across Houston, demanding that the voices of the community be heard and that

the right to a quality education be preserved for every child.

Mayor Turner says a possible next step is filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice. He encourages parents of students attending schools where libraries are being closed to contact theior school district representative.

www.HoustonTX.gov

Mayor Sylvester Turner gathered faith leaders and elected officials at City Hall to vehemently denounce the Houston Independent School District’s (HISD) contentious plans to shut down libraries on 28 campuses, intending to transform them into disciplinary centers

H The joint efforts of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman Al Green, Texas Rep. Ron Reynolds, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee, Mayor Sylvester Turner, and COH Council Members Tiffany Thomas and Dr. Carolyn Shabazz were instrumental in supporting Judson Robinson and the entire staff of the Houston Area Urban League in hosting an outstanding National Urban League Convention. Their collective dedication and commitment to fostering community engagement and empowerment were evident throughout the event, making it a resounding success that positively impacted countless individuals in the Houston area. By coming together and working as a cohesive team, they exemplified the spirit of collaboration and public service, leaving a lasting impact on the community they serve. H

Dennis Serrette and Kristyn Page

Commissioner Ellis and Mayor Turner

Tiffany D. Thomas with Burt and Sandra Levine

Commissioner Ellis and Marc Morial

Commissioner Ellis and US Rep Green

HEALTH: Empowering Health For All: Diverse Communities Unite For Positive Change

By Francis Page Jr For

Photo By Jeff Syptak

Last Friday, Hope Clinic, a nonprofit health center dedicated to providing culturally and linguistically competent care for Houston’s underserved Asian communities, had the privilege of hosting a conversation with Secretary Xavier Becerra, the U.S. Department Secretary of Health and Human Services. This significant event brought together key figures like Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee , Norman Mitchell, CEO Bee Busy Wellness, and Helen Stagg, Executive Director of Civic Heart, who are all committed to improving community health.

During the engaging discussion, critical topics such as Medicaid and the importance of renewals were thoroughly explored, alongside ongoing efforts to enhance the nation’s health systems. The conversation shed light on how these initiatives directly impact the well-being of individuals and communities.

Established in 2002, the Asian American Health Coalition (AAHC) founded HOPE Clinic as a volunteer-run health facility, initially providing four hours of care per month. Over time, HOPE Clinic evolved into a Federally Qualified

Health Center (FQHC), extending its services to serve residents of all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. With four clinics operating within the Houston area, HOPE Clinic continues to be a beacon of support for those in need of medical assistance.

The collaboration with organizations like Light of Salt Association, Boat People SOS, Civic Heart ACA Navigator Program, Hope Clinic, and others, along with the participation of government representatives such as Secretary Xavier Becerra and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, showcases the community engagement and united effort to address healthcare matters. The involvement of health plans like Texas Children Health Plan, United Healthcare, Molina Healthcare , and AmerigroupTX further strengthens the impact of these collective endeavors.

Through Civic Heart community services, light and salt association, and other community partners, HOPE Clinic endeavors to serve the broader community, promoting wellness and health for all.

The event’s success and

the ongoing dedication of Andrea Caracostis, CEO of Hope Clinic, and her leadership team, including Penny Yang (CFO), Shane Chen (COO), and Justin King (CIO), highlight the organization’s commitment to making a positive difference

in the lives of people they serve. The dialogue with Secretary Xavier Becerra and other stakeholders marks a significant step towards achieving comprehensive healthcare solutions for the greater good of the community.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee with Bee Busy Wellness CEO – Norman Mitchell

US Secretary of H.H.S. Xavier Becerra with Bee Busy Wellness CEO – Norman Mitchell

US Secretary of H.H.S. Xavier Becerra with Hope Clinic CEO – Andrea Caracostis

US Secretary of Health and Human Services – Xavier Becerra

LOCAL: “SOMEONE’S GOING TO END UP DEAD”:

NEW EVIDENCE

EMERGES IN TRAVIS SCOTT ASTROWORLD TRAGEDY

By Alejandro Martinez-Cabrera and Kate McGee, Texas Tribune

They looked like rag dolls, Reece Wheeler thought.

One by one, the Astroworld Festival coordinator watched from the command center as unconscious Travis Scott fans were crowd-surfed out of the mosh pit and dumped into the sea of bodies raging before one of the biggest rappers in the last decade performed.

The concert hadn’t even begun.

Wheeler texted Shawna Boardman, the festival’s exterior manager of security, a minute before Scott took the stage:

“There’s panic in people’s eyes,” he wrote. “This could get worse quickly.”

“Yes,” Boardman replied.

Wheeler watched in horror over the next hour as no one stopped the concert. Wheeler texted her again:

“I would pull the plug but that’s just me,” he wrote. “I know they’ll try to fight through but I would want it on the record that I didn’t advise this to continue. Someone’s going to end up dead.”

Houston Style Magazine –

07/26/2022

The messages were among thousands of pieces of evidence gathered by the Houston Police Department during its investigation of the Travis Scott Astroworld festival, where 10 fans died and hundreds of others were injured on Nov. 5, 2021. The police department released its complete investigative report Friday.

The 1,266-page document comes on the heels of Scott’s fourth studio album release, “Utopia.”

The police report details for the first time how Scott perceived what was happening mid-performance and what he told police. It contains police interviews with concert promoters, security personnel and other key witnesses that never have been made public before. And it shows, in vivid detail, how no one seemed to know how to stop the tragedy as it unfolded.

Scott had come under fire immediately after the tragedy for continuing to perform for 37 minutes after police and fire officials declared the situation a “mass casualty event.”

Houston police said concert promoter Live Nation had agreed to cut the show short at 9:38 p.m., but Friday’s report indicated Scott did not leave the stage until 10:13 p.m.

Police interviewed two witnesses who said they heard Scott being told in his earpiece that the concert had to end early because there were “bodies on the ground” and that three people had died. Scott told police he

Project: RFP 23-06-01

didn’t learn of the deaths until after the show, and investigators were unable to

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understand a recording of the messages relayed to Scott because of the poor

quality of the audio.

On June 29, a grand jury declined to indict Scott and five other individuals for their roles in the 2021 tragedy after a 19-month investigation. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said the grand jury “found that no crime did occur, that no single individual was criminally responsible.”

The tragedy happened after Scott took the stage on the first night of the two-day festival. Victims were pinned against barriers after thousands squeezed together, investigators said at the June 29 media briefing.

A year after the tragedy, the Houston Chronicle reported no new regulations or standards regarding security, venues or event planning that could help prevent a similar fatal incident had been adopted by the city or Harris County

The festival took place at NRG Park, which is county property managed by the Harris County Sports and Convention Corp. The complex, however, is within the jurisdiction of the Houston police and fire departments. A joint city-county task joint task force later was convened to clarify jurisdiction in cases with overlapping authority.

Travis Scott performs at his third annual Astroworld concert. Credit- Jennifer Lake: Sipa USA via REUTERS

LOCAL: COMCAST SURPRISE SQUAD PAMPERS NEW CANEY BEAUTY QUEEN OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

Esmeralda Tristan has endured more than most teenagers her age, yet she continues to strut through life and adversities with positivity.

The 17-year-old from New Caney was enjoying the day at an ATV park with friends on April 15th when they were hit by another ATV. One of Tristan’s friends was pinned under the vehicle while another died. Tristan lost her right hand and suffered a neck fracture.

“I was in an ATV accident. It was a hit and run. I really don’t remember much until I woke up in the hospital,” Tristan said.

“The day of my accident I was a little down. But after they did it, amputate my hand, I was like I got this,” she said.

Tristan said her faith helps give her strength and a positive outlook on life.

“I have a relationship with God so every time something happens, I’m like oh this is for a reason,” Tristan said.

Her story and resilience caught the attention of Comcast, which is currently expanding its 10G Network to New Caney.

“I know that Esmeralda is a very tenacious individual,” Xfinity Technician Ryan Hawkins said. “She went through a terrible tragedy, and she is striving to keep going and it is an honor for us to be able to do something great for her.”

Hawkins and fellow Xfinity technician Natalie Spelman helped carry out a series of surprises for the deserving teen.

Prior to the accident, the 17-year-old won her first pageant and was crowned Miss Teen Modelo Latina. The model also has a love for cosmetology.

“She’s competed in beauty pageants before, and she’s been very successful, and we want to help her with it,” Spellman said. “We’re going to hook Esmeralda up, give her some surprises, get her hair done.”

Comcast’s Surprise Squad enlisted the help of Esmeralda’s mother, her hair stylist and J.J. Smith, a prominent pageant coach, to help carry out the surprise. “I opened the door and then I just

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

ty, treatment, Beyoncé tickets 2 months following ATV accident

“We help out neighbors. Whatever a neighbor needs, whatever we can do for them we’ll do it,” Hawkins said. Tristan said she loves competing in pageants because they help bring out her confidence. She said she won’t let her amputation get in the way of her dreams.

“Nothing’s gonna stop me. I’m gonna do what I want to do and find a way to do it,” she said.

www.Comcast.com

hair they said they had another surprise for me and I said what, another surprise? Still?” Tristan questioned.

The Surprise Squad has one last gift for the deserving teen– two tickets from the company to see Beyonce in concert in September.

Teen pageant amputee Esmerelda Tristan receives beau -

see like a bunch of balloons and then I like look at the shirts and I’m like oh, it’s Xfinity,” Tristan said. “And I couldn’t believe it.”

Hawkins and Spellman were waiting adorned the teen with a crown, sash and a basket form of makeup and skincare items. The pair then informed Tristan that Comcast would be paying for her hair services that day.

“As soon as I finished my

ARTS: ERIC BENET AND GERALD ALBRIGHT SHINE AT THE STAFFORD CENTER: A FUSION OF JAZZ AND R&B DELIGHT

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

through photographs. The atmosphere felt like a heartwarming homecoming of R&B and jazz aficionados, making The Stafford Center an inviting venue that leaves you eager to attend many more concerts in the future.

The night was a fusion of jazz and R&B delight, leaving an enduring impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness the extraordinary talents of Eric Benet and Gerald Albright.

Last weekend, The Stafford Center hosted a mesmerizing Summer Jazz and R&B concert series featuring the extraordinary talents of Eric Benet and Gerald Albright. The event turned into a heartwarming reunion for those born in the 1950s, with a sprinkling of millennials scattered throughout the elegant venue. The Stafford Center's impeccable acoustics and comfortable seating provided the perfect setting for Gerald Albright and his exceptional band to create a soothing and jazz-friendly atmosphere. Albright

captivated the audience with his melodic sounds and shared insights into the creation of his jazz recordings.

Before Eric Benet took the stage, Chili Bill got the crowd pumped and ready with a party atmosphere, smoothly transitioning the mood to R&B and Neo Soul tunes. As Eric Benet made his entrance, dressed in grunge attire, barefoot, and sporting a baseball cap, the audience knew they were in for a treat. Benet, known for hits like "Spend My Life with You," "Chocolate Legs," and "Georgie Porgy," serenaded

the crowd with his signature songs, showcasing his soulful voice and captivating stage presence. Interestingly, his choice to perform barefoot stemmed from using it as a way to combat stage fright when he began his solo career. As a fellow bohemian dresser and a fan of Free People clothing, I could relate to Benet's style, which made him feel like a cool and approachable person.

Throughout the performance, the audience played an integral role, immersing themselves in the experience and capturing cherished moments

The Stafford Center continues to prove itself as a hub for unforgettable musical experiences, drawing in music enthusiasts from various generations, united in their love for timeless melodies and soulful performances.

LOCAL: MAYOR’S BACK TO SCHOOL FEST PRESENTED BY SHELL WILL PROVIDE THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES WITH BACKPACKS, SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND HEALTH SCREENINGS

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

Mayor Sylvester Turner is excited to announce the 13th Annual Mayor's Back to School Fest presented by Shell on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The annual fest presented by Shell USA, Inc. is designed to help economically disadvantaged Houston-area elementary school students and their families as they prepare to return to school.

"Back to school is an exciting time for children of all ages. They should focus on reading, writing, arithmetic and making good grades. We do not want students and their families to worry about basic classroom supplies,” said Mayor Turner. "This event is intended to provide assistance for families who may need it. I thank our sponsors for stepping up to the plate to help.

Due to their generosity, thousands of kids will have the tools they need for a successful start to the school year."

Shell employees and Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Martha Castex-Tatum joined the Houston Food Bank to stuff

supplies into hundreds of backpacks to prepare them for distribution.

"Ensuring our students have the necessary supplies at the start of each school year is critical to their success. No student should have to start school without proper supplies and healthcare. The Back 2 School Fest is not only meeting the needs of families but a fun start to a new school year, said Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Castex Tatum. In addition to distributing 25,000 backpacks with school supplies,

the event will feature on-site health screenings to include: dental screenings and sealants, vision screenings, routine immunizations and COVID-19 vaccines.

The event also connects families to a wide range of health and social services offered by community agencies. With one in four Texas children living in poverty, the Mayor's Back to School Fest presented by Shell is focused on changing the future, one child at a time.

“The Mayor’s Back to School Festival is a tradition that marks the start of the school year and more importantly supports thousands of students and their families,” said Gretchen Watkins, Shell USA, Inc. President. “Preparing Houston students for the future is the responsibility of our community and Shell is honored to be part of this effort to keep the next generation moving forward.” Registration is recommended for participation in the fest: https://www. houstontx.gov/btsf/registermystudent. html

The Mayor’s Back 2 School Fest Presented by Shell is produced by the Mayor’s Office of Special Events. For more information, visit the website at houstontx.gov/btsf.

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Mayor Turner and others at the event.

HEALTH: HOUSTON HEALTH DEPARTMENT REPORTS SYPHILIS OUTBREAK, BEGINS RAPID COMMUNITY OUTREACH RESPONSE RISE IN

CASES AMONG WOMEN, CONGENITAL SYPHILIS ATTRIBUTED TO OUTBREAK

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

The Houston Health Department is reporting a syphilis outbreak responsible for a 128 percent increase in cases among women and a nine-fold rise in congenital syphilis in Houston and Harris County.

The department will launch a rapid outreach response that includes increasing screening opportunities, targeting hotspots and mobilizing community partners to curb new infections.

Statistics from the department indicate new infections rose from 1,845 in 2019 to 2,905 in 2022, a 57 percent increase.

Cases among women totaled 674 cases in 2022, up from 295 cases in 2019. Congenital syphilis soared from 16 cases in 2016 to 151 cases in 2021, the latest year for which statistics are available.

“It is crucial for pregnant women to seek prenatal care and syphilis testing to protect themselves from an infection that could result in the deaths of their babies,” said Marlene McNeese Ward, deputy assistant director in the

department’s Bureau of HIV/STI and Viral Hepatitis Prevention. “A pregnant woman needs to get tested for syphilis three times during her pregnancy.”

Testing is recommended at a woman’s first prenatal visit, during the third trimester and at delivery. Untreated syphilis during pregnancy can result in a stillbirth or a baby's death soon after birth.

In response to the outbreak, the department will wave all clinical fees for sexually transmitted infections at its health centers.

It also will expand the use of its HIV/STD mobile clinic to increase the number of community screening sites and set up in areas considered hotspots, selected from disease monitoring and case management data. The ramp up will allow the department to intensify its education, testing and treatment throughout Houston and Harris County. The department is also working with medical providers and collaborating with community-based partners to increase awareness of the outbreak and enhance testing and treatment.

People with syphilis are at increased risk of HIV infection due to the painless sore that develops at the site of sexual contact during the disease’s primary stage. New syphilis infections are known as primary, secondary and early latent syphilis.

Syphilis is easily treatable with antibiotics. However, without adequate treatment, syphilis infection progresses to the secondary stage when one or more areas of the skin break into a rash – usually non-itchy and most typically on the palms and soles.

Other second stage symptoms can also include fever, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss, headaches, weight loss, muscle aches and fatigue.

In most cases, syphilis goes undetected because the signs and symptoms are misinterpreted or simply unnoticed.

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HEALTH: CITY OF HOUSTON ACTIVATES HEAT EMERGENCY PLAN

The City of Houston is activating its Public Health Heat Emergency Plan to provide resources to people needing to take refuge from the heat. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory that will remain in effect through at least Tuesday evening. It expects dangerous heat to persist for the remainder of the week and into the weekend.

City of Houston libraries and multi-service centers will serve as cooling centers during their normal business hours weekdays and Saturdays. The Central Library downtown is unavailable as a cooling site. Community centers operated by Houston Parks and Recreation Department will open to the public after the conclusion of daily programming for enrolled participants.

People without adequate transportation to a designated cooling center during a heat emergency can call 3-1-1 to request a free ride. Transportation is only to and from the city cooling centers; transportation to other locations is unavailable.

The Houston Health Department encourages people to take extra precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illness and death. Highrisk groups such as adults ages 55 and older, children under the age of 4, and people with chronic illness or who are either overweight or on certain medications should stay inside air-conditioned buildings between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., the hottest part of the day.

The department recommends people protect themselves and their families from potentially deadly heat-re-

lated illness. It recommends people: Drink more water. Drink lots of liquids even before getting thirsty, but avoid beverages with caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar because these can result in the loss of body fluid. Conduct outdoor work or exercise in the early morning or evening when temperatures are not as high. Outdoor workers should drink plenty of water or electrolyte replacement beverages and take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned facility. People unaccustomed to working

or exercising in a hot environment need to start slowly and gradually increase heat exposure over several weeks.

Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that permits the evaporation of perspiration.

Do not leave infants, children, senior citizens or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are cracked open. Check to make sure everyone is out of the car and don’t overlook children who may have fallen asleep.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat to help prevent sunburn as well as heat-related illness. Apply sunscreen, which protects from the sun’s harmful rays and reduces the risk of sunburn.

Seek accommodations in air-conditioned facilities during the heat of the day if the house is not air-conditioned: a relative’s home, multi-service centers, malls, movie theaters, libraries, etc.

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There had been chatter for days amongst the local sports media and fans about a possible return of one of the best pitchers ever to take the mound in a Houston Astros jersey.

Many did not want to get their hopes up too high as they did not know what to expect from new general manager Dana Brown when making blockbuster trades like his predecessors had done in the past.

The only hope was owner Jim Crane, who has been known to pull the trigger when making deals that will help improve his ball club with the possibility of playing in their fifth World Series.

On Tuesday, the Astros traded with the New York Mets for the reigning American League Cy Young Award Winner, Justin Verlander, and cash, in exchange for minor league outfielders Drew Gilbert (Astros' No. 1 prospect) and Ryan Clifford (Astros' No. 4 prospect).

"We are very excited about him [Verlander]," said Dana Brown to reporters during his press conference after the trade deadline. "We think he

SPORTS: ASTROS BRING JUSTIN VERLANDER BACK HOME

By Brian Barefield, Sports Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

World Series, where they defeated the Philadelphia Phillies in six games. He would also secure his third Cy Young Award (second with the Astros) during the 2022 season.

During the offseason, Verlander signed a two-year, $86.7 million deal with the New York Mets to help improve their pitching rotation, which included co-ace Max Scherzer. In 16 starts, his record was 6-5 with a 3.15 ERA. He is coming off his best month of the season, winning five out of his six starts.

stabilizes our rotation. At the end of the day, we are really fired up. I had a chance to speak with Justin, and he is very excited about coming back."

Verlander, 40, was acquired via trade by the Astros in 2017 from the Detroit Tigers and was the push Houston needed to make their second World Series appearance in franchise history. They would defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers in a seven-game series to win their first World Series Trophy.

After helping the Astros reach

the World Series again in 2019, a season in which he won his second A.L. Cy Young Award, Verlander would have to be removed from the first game of the season in 2020 due to what later led to Tommy John surgery, which required him to miss two full seasons. His return in 2022 helped invigorate an Astros team coming off a World Series defeat to the Atlanta Braves a year prior. Just like in 2017, Verlander was an intricate piece in helping Houston make a return to the

Verlander's return will help bolster a young starting rotation that has helped keep the Astros afloat during a season where the pitching position has been affected the most with the loss of Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers for the season and Jose Urquidy missing a significant amount of time.

"I'm trying not to come out here and smile too much," said Astros manager Dusty Baker before the game against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday. "I am glad we got J.V. back."

www.Astros.com

Justin Verlander

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