Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 52

Houston Style Magazine DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 03, 2024

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 34 | Number 52

Complimentary

Ben Jealous

Orca's and Salmon – Story Of Endangered Species ACT

SYLVESTER TURNER: ONE OF THE BEST MAYORS

USDA - Climate JOBS

40 Jobs To Help Rural Farmers Access Clean Energy Funding

OF HOUSTON

Beyoncé's Childhood House Fire

Words By Jo-Carolyn Goode

H HAPPY NEW YEAR H MON. JAN 1ST H TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

Twitter: @HoustonStyle

Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX

Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine

Julian Remirez

New Era Of Leadership With Diverse City Hall Inauguration

Tickets Going Fast – Starts Tuesday, Jan 2nd H-E-B EXPANDS JOE V'S SMART SHOP TO DALLAS The Color Purple - $18 Million

N E W S | C O M M E N TA R I E S | S P O R T S | H E A LT H | E N T E R TA I N M E N T Support Minority Owned Businesses

CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM

EXPERIENCE

“This show gave me a real sense of goodness and meaning in life.”

The Mystique and Beauty of China Before Communism

—Anna Liceica, former soloist with American Ballet Theatre

“Shen Yun is a transformative experience for body, soul, heart, and mind. This is the wisdom of all the ancient lineages.”

S

hen Yun’s unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multidimensional, deeply moving journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures— the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture. Featuring one of the world’s oldest art forms—classical Chinese dance— along with innovative multimedia effects and all-original orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to a glorious civilization of unrivaled beauty, artistry, and inspiration.

Dec 26–Jan 1  Jones Hall 2

December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

Houston-10x13.indd 5

—Douglas Beechwood, producer

“This show is very important worldwide, as an expression of the importance of tradition and maintaining tradition so that we can elevate our spirits...”

—Dr. Joel Rosenfeld, ophthalmologist

ShenYun.com/Houston | 877-663-7469

www.StyleMagazine.com

11/5/23 3:38 PM

Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com Social Media Editor/Videographer Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com Graphic Design /Layout Editor Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com Political Editor Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian_barefield@yahoo.com Arts Editor Kathleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com NATIONAL WRITERS Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org PHOTOGRAPHERS Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com ADVERTISING/SALES Advertising Email advertising@stylemagazine.com MINORITY PRINT MEDIA, LLC, D.B.A.

Houston Style Magazine & www.StyleMagazine.com Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035 ©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)

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

3

COMMENTARY

THE STORY OF THE ORCAS AND THE SALMON, ON THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT'S 50TH BIRTHDAY

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

T

hanks to 20th century aquariums and marine theme parks, orcas – also known as killer whales – are the most iconic whales in America. When the public learned their captivity involved torture, orca shows disappeared from those parks, as they should have. Now there are signs that certain groups of orcas could disappear entirely.

Significantly, many of the orcas captured – including the famed Shamu – came from a small population of orcas whose trusting nature made them easy to catch.

Southern Resident orcas, which historically spent the summer and fall months in Washington’s Puget Sound, are down to only 75 left in existence. Designated as “endangered” as of 2005, the Southern Residents remain one of the most critically endangered marine mammals in the United States.

But it’s a different human activity that is now making it hard for these creatures to survive.

Dams that were constructed decades ago along the Columbia and Snake Rivers have greatly disrupted the populations of sockeye salmon – also now listed as an endangered species – that the Southern Residents depend on as a primary food source.

The impact of the loss of salmon has been devastating not only to the orcas, but to the Indigenous peoples of the Columbia River Basin whose culture and livelihoods were closely tied to the fish, and to ecosystems from Idaho to the Pacific Ocean.

Four of the dams on the Lower Snake River are among the most harmful to the salmon. The removal – or breaching – of the Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite dams could bring back the fish and, in turn, give the Southern Resident orcas their best shot at a thriving future and growing numbers.

One of the fiercest leaders on Capitol Hill in the fight to get rid of these dams is Republican Representative Mike Simpson of Idaho. For nearly three years, Simpson has

4

been pushing his Columbia Basin Initiative as a framework for salmon recovery and the restoration of the Lower Snake River to a natural, free-flowing river.

In today’s hyper-partisan political environment, people might be surprised that a Republican is leading the charge to protect endangered wildlife. But 50 years ago this month, it was a Republican president, Richard Nixon, who signed the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Both Rep. Simpson’s tenacity and the ESA’s 50th anniversary serve as reminders that environmental stewardship and conservation wasn’t always assumed to be a partisan issue. In 1973, the US Senate passed the ESA unanimously; the House passed it by a vote of 355-4. Can you imagine any piece of legislation getting near-universal bipartisan support in Congress today?

When he signed the bill into law, President Nixon said the law would preserve an “irreplaceable part of our national heritage – threatened wildlife.” Those words have proven prescient.

It’s estimated that, in its first 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has saved 99 percent of all the species listed as

December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

endangered under the Act from permanent extinction. These include the bald eagle – our national symbol – as well as the humpback whale, the grizzly bear, and the American alligator.

And it’s likely a testament to the effectiveness of the ESA that the Southern Resident orcas are still with us too. But it’s going to take both the strength of the ESA and shutting down the dams to save these whales.

Many of us might recall that in 2018 a female member of the Southern Resident clan made national news after her newborn calf died. The orca, known as J35, spent 17 days pushing the body of her baby through the water along a 1,000-mile stretch off the coast of British Columbia. It was a clear act of mourning – known behavior of orcas. But the length of time the mother pushed her calf and the dramatic nature of the display almost seemed intentionally aimed at getting the attention of humans – which it did.

It’s no wonder that people – myself included – feel an intense connection to these animals. The Lummi Nation, who has lived and fished alongside Southern Residents since time immemorial, call them “qwe lhol mechen”, which roughly translates to "our

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relations beneath the waves." And a fish, that people love to eat but might not recognize as important to the survival of other lifeforms, is the key to saving this community of orcas, among the most majestic and intelligent creatures in all of God’s creation.

The story of the orcas and the salmon shows the interconnectivity of species in our natural ecosystems. It further illustrates the dire need to combat the extinction crisis and protect endangered species. And it shows the importance of protecting laws like the Endangered Species Act and passing more of them – as well as shutting down the damn dams.

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

Joe V's Smart Shop By H-E-B: Innovating Shopping In Dallas with Fresh, Affordable Choices

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

Breaking New Grounds in the Metroplex

The Dallas community welcomed the groundbreaking of the latest Joe V's Smart Shop by H-E-B, a novel concept in grocery shopping offering the freshest produce at the most competitive prices. Located at 4101 W. Wheatland Road, this marks the brand's confident step outside its Houston comfort zone, aiming for a grand opening in late summer 2024.

The Promise of Quality and Savings

Joe V's Smart Shop by H-E-B isn't just another grocery store; it's a commitment—a commitment to provide Dallas residents with an exceptional range of high-quality, fresh products synonymous with the H-E-B name, but at prices that redefine affordability. "We're bringing a shopping revolution to Dallas, ensuring our Smart Shoppers don't just buy, but buy smart," affirms Roxanne Orsak, H-E-B's Chief Operating Officer.

More Than Just a Store

Spanning 55,000 square feet, the Wheatland Road store is more than a retail space; it's a beacon of community growth, promising over 200 jobs brimming with career opportunities. Recognized nationwide as a top employer, Joe V's Smart Shop is a launchpad for professional growth with competitive pay, extensive benefits, and career development programs. Potential applicants can find their future at: www.

JoeVSmartShop.com/jobs.

Giving Back to the Community

In a generous move, Joe V's Smart Shop has pledged $40,000 to local educational and nonprofit organizations, underlining the brand's ethos of community uplift-

ment. "Every grand opening is a chance to give back, and we seize that wholeheartedly," says an H-E-B spokesperson.

Expansion and Excellence

With ten successful stores in Houston employing over 2,000 partners, Joe V's Smart Shop is no stranger to success. Plans for another location at 5204 S. Buckner Blvd. are underway, set to open in spring 2025. Meanwhile, H-E-B's family of brands, including Central Market and Mi Tienda, continues to thrive alongside Favor Delivery, their bespoke on-demand delivery service.

Long-Term Commitment to DFW

H-E-B's roots in Texas stretch back to 1905. This latest venture into Dallas is more than expansion—it's a pledge of long-term service to the Metroplex. "We've served Texas communities for over a century, and our journey with Dallas is just beginning," reflects an H-E-B executive.

Shop Smart, Live Well

Joe V's Smart Shop by H-E-B is poised to become a household name in Dallas, inviting everyone to shop smart. As Houston Style Magazine readers, you're always in the know about where to find quality, freshness, and unbeatable prices.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new addition to your shopping landscape.

Joe V's - Dallas Store Details: 4101 W. Wheatland Rd., Dallas, TX 775237 Job Applicants Should Apply at:

www.JoeVSmartShop.com/jobs

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

5

Houston Ushers In A New Era Of Leadership With Diverse City Hall

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

A

s the dawn of 2024 unfurls, Houston City Hall is set to embrace a transformative era with the inauguration of new leadership. The city will witness a historic transition on January 2nd, as it welcomes John Whitmire as the new Mayor along with Chris Hollins as the City Controller, and a dynamic ensemble of both fresh and returning City Council members.

Houston's 63rd Mayor, John Whitmire, embodies a legacy of dedication, having served five decades in the Texas Legislature. His election signifies a milestone, marking the election of the first Caucasian male Mayor since 2003. Whitmire's journey from Waltrip High School to the halls of the University of Houston law school sketches a narrative of unwavering commitment to public service.

Joining him in steering Houston's future is Chris Hollins, the City's new Controller, whose multifaceted background ranges from Harvard Law to an MBA from Yale, reflecting the city's diverse spirit.

Hollins, at 37, brings a youthful vigor and a rich heritage as the son of a police officer and a product of a multi-racial family.

District A will continue to benefit from the insights of Amy Peck, a native

Citywide Incoming Councilmember – Julian Ramirez Houstonian, while Tarsha Jackson, a dedicated community organizer, will uphold the interests of District B. District C's distinctive 'C' shape will remain under the watchful eye of Abbie Kamin, and Carolyn Evans Shabbazz, EdD, will persist in championing the diverse neighborhoods of District D. The representation of District E will see a fresh face with Fred Flickinger, a local businessman with strong community ties, taking the oath. Tiffany Thomas will

continue her groundbreaking role as the first elected official from Alief on the Council, representing District F. Mary Nan Huffman's legal expertise will serve District G for another term, while Joaquin Martinez steps up to represent the vibrant District I. District J's Edward Pollard and District K's Martha Castex Tatum will continue their stewardship, bringing their respective experiences as an attorney and a pioneering female

representative to the forefront.

The citywide roles will see a blend of new and returning voices with Julian Ramirez, Willie Davis, Twila Carter, Letitia Plummer, and Sallie Alcorn taking on At-Large positions, each bringing unique perspectives and commitments to Houston's expansive community.

As these officials assume their roles, Houston's political landscape sets its sights on upcoming county, state, and federal primaries. The anticipation for the March 5 elections is palpable, with early voting commencing on February 20, 2024.

This significant moment for Houston Style Magazine readers underscores the city's progressive strides and the vibrant democratic spirit that courses through its streets. It's a time of promise and potential, as the newly inaugurated leaders take the helm, ready to navigate Houston toward a future as bright and dynamic as the city itself.

www.HoustonTX.gov/council/ www.StyleMagazine.com

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2023

SEE MORE + NRG ARENA - HOUSTON www.StyleMagazine.com

H VIP Birthday Celebration For Dr. Laura Murillo H Mexican Food, Dancing & Cocktail Attaire • By Invitation Only

H www.HoustonHispanicChamber.com H Friday, December 22, 2023 H The Driscoll At River Oaks H

Laura Murillo & Mayor Turner

Photos By #TeamStyleMag Photography

Happy Birthday Dr. Murillo

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

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2023

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H VIP Birthday Celebration For Dr. Laura Murillo H Mexican Food, Dancing & Cocktail Attaire • By Invitation Only

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Laura Murillo & Mayor Turner

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Laura Murillo & Mayor Wagner

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

9

JOBS: USDA Now Accepting Applications for 40 Climate Change Fellows to Help

Record Number of Farmers and Rural Small Businesses Access Clean Energy Funds

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

U

.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that it is hiring 40 Climate Change Fellows to help with the record numbers of applications from farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses seeking funding for clean energy projects under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The new positions are being funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the nation’s largest-ever investment in combatting the climate crisis, a key pillar of Bidenomics and part of the Investing in America agenda.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is hard at work making sure as many people as possible can access historic funding to make clean energy improvements at their farms, ranches and businesses,” Agriculture Deputy Secretary Torres Small said. “These innovations will help them increase their income, grow their businesses, address climate change and lower energy costs for American families.”

The positions are part of the USDA Climate Change Fellows Program, which hires new staff with a range of skills to carry out USDA’s activities to address climate change and find solutions to agricultural challenges, enhance economic growth and create new streams of income for farmers, ranchers and producers. The

program brings expertise and fresh perspectives to the federal workforce and expands the climate consciousness of state offices around the country. These historic investments in in future agricultural leaders will help USDA attract the best and brightest to face the growing challenges of the agricultural economy.

The Inflation Reduction Act provided REAP with $2 billion of funding to meet growing demand from farmers and small business owners looking to expand their use of wind, solar and other forms of clean energy and make energy efficiency improvements that save business owners money and in some cases generate new revenue sources though net metering and power purchase agreements. So far, USDA

has made $1.25 billion of that available and has seen a dramatic increase in grant applications under the program. The program is part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which made it a goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

Three of the new positions will report to USDA Rural Development’s national office. To apply, visit this USA Jobs posting.

Two fellows each will be based in Illinois, Iowa, Michigan and Minnesota.

One fellow each will be based in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware/Maryland, Florida,

Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming and Puerto Rico.

To apply for a position in one of these states, visit this USA Jobs posting. To apply for a position in Puerto Rico, visit this USA Jobs posting.

Initial appointments may be for up to two years. Additional one-year extensions may be made up to four years.

Most states will receive additional funds, announced at a later date, to provide REAP technical assistance in addition to these staffing positions.

Background: Inflation Reduction Act As a core pillar of the President’s Investing in America agenda, the Inflation Reduction Act is the largest investment in climate action in history. It is also the largest single investment in rural electrification since the Rural Electrification Act of 1936.

Read More at:

www.USDA.gov www.StyleMagazine.com

What goes

UP DOWN must come

,

.

Stray bullets

CAN KILL.

10

If you hear celebratory gunfire: • Call 911 • Notify Crime Stoppers Anonymously at 713-222-TIPS

December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

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Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner: Simply The Best Mayor for Houston

By Jo-Carolyn Goode for www.StyleMagazine.com

F

or the past eight years Sylvester Turner has been living a dream he has been chasing since 1991.

Being the mayor of a city he has loved so deeply all his life and helping all citizens of this community has been his purpose. Like any incoming mayor, Turner made his promises and had his challenges. He has done his best to tackle the issues through the red tape and all the obstacles. With his share of ups and downs Turner left his mark on Houston and made the city better for its residents.

On January 2, 2016, with his left hand on the Bible and his right hand held up, Turner took on the mammoth responsibility to be Houston’s 62nd and the city’s second African American mayor. One of his first tasks was to address the pothole issue; a problem that has been extremely costly for drivers.

Although some thought road repair to be a low priority in comparison to all the city’s problems, Turner knew it was a top priority for voters fulfilling one of his campaigns. `Promises within his first few months in office.

THE

Outgoing Houston Mayor - Sylvester Turner Putting the needs of Houstonians first has always been at the forefront of Mayor Turner’s mind as he went down the checklist to improve the fourth largest city in the nation. Each mayor of Houston has had the challenge of balancing the city’s finances. Mayor Turner was no different in that retrospect. However, what is different for his administration is how he is leaving the with the highest net position in 20 years according to the most recent Annual Comprehensive Financial Report;

a feather in Mayor Turner’s hat for his many policy reforms.

Finding a permanent police chief was another lofty goal that Mayor Turner thought he would have to do once. Immediately making Martha Montalvo interim police chief after the retirement of Chief Charles McClelland, it would be almost a year before Art Acevedo was named as the top head of the brass. In his second term, Mayor Turner found himself searching for a new police chief once again after Chief

Acevedo accepted another position.

The next chief had to be one who had the respect of the community and other officers and the mindset to keep Houstonians safe.

That man was Troy Finner. His quiet and strong demeanor has ushered in a better balanced relationship between the community and officers resulting in better community policing, reducing crime, mentoring youth, reducing costs, and enhancing department productivity.

Turner also initiated a One Safe Houston Initiative to buyback guns when a spike in crime happened, combat domestic violence and mental health issues.

Houston had more problems than Turner had time to handle. One problem always followed another with many obstacles standing in the way of solutions. Goals to improve infrastructure, flooding, and more came with the hurdles of Hurricane Harvey, Winter Storm Uri, and COVID. Read More at:

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

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HEALTH: Lose 10 Pounds In First 2 Weeks of 2024!

By BlackDoctors.com for www.Stylemagazine.com

C

an you lose 10 pounds in 2 weeks in a weight loss challenge? The short answer to this question is yes! There are many factors that go into shedding pounds fast. If you want to drop 10 pounds within two weeks, there are two main areas of focus: food intake and exercise. Naturally, other factors that affect weight are hormone levels, getting enough sleep, and increasing your metabolic rate.

WEIGHT LOSS ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS: Recently, BlackDoctor.org had the opportunity to chop it up with Fitness Guru and Fitness As A Lifestyle CEO, Corey S. Taylor, who broke down some quick tips on how to stay motivated and meet your weight loss goals in a pinch.

“Your goals have to be bigger than your ego. Most people fail because their goals aren’t big enough. Make sure that your reason for losing weight is big enough to drive you to work past your pride and personality, otherwise, you’ll eventually get to a point where you either get complacent and stop working as hard or just say why bother,” explains Taylor, who recently appeared on A+E’s “Fat2Fit.” DO THE MATH: Of course, when breaking down the numbers, the truth of the matter is, if

you’re not motivated, you’re at a loss. A pound of fat contains approximately 3,500 calories. If you want to lose 10 pounds, that is 35,000 calories to lose from your body in just two weeks.

In order to lose 5 pounds in one week, you need to be in a calorie deficit every week of 17,500 calories (5 pounds: 3,500 x 5 = 17,500 calories). That turns into a deficit of 2,500 calories per day (17,500 calories / 7). In other words, you have to WANT it!

“Time is your only weapon. There

are 24 hours in each day. If you’re not executing effort each hour (mind, body, diet, activity) then you’re not going to reach your goal as fast as you’d like. Invest time, don’t waste it. Utilize your weekends, evenings and early mornings,” Taylor adds.

HOW TO LOSE 10 POUNDS IN 2 WEEKS: So, how does one cut 35,000 calories in two weeks without feeling like you’re starving yourself? Here’s how: Keep your sugar intake under 100 grams a day.

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Up your fiber. Taylor says, “The more greens you eat the flatter your stomach will become.” In other words, eating 30 grams of fiber a day is key to snatching your waist. So eat some fiber-filled greens like spinach, kale and collard greens (without the fat).

Shy away from dips, dressings, sodium.

Opt for whole grains (toast or pasta), low calorie but flavorful meats like lean turkey, chicken and salmon.

An apple a day does more than keep the doctor away. Taylor says, “You can have unlimited fruits and veggies throughout the day.”

Rotate cardio and weight lighting, focusing on one activity a day for no less than 30 minutes. For example, a 30-minute jog (Monday) and free weights (Tuesday) or a hike (Wednesday) and weights (Thursday). Keep in mind, a good workout does not require a gym.

Read More at:

www.BlackDoctors.com www.StyleMagazine.com

BOX OFFICE BONANZA: 'The Color Purple' Shines with Record-Breaking $18M On Christmas Day

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

Actress - FANTASIA in THE COLOR PURPLE - NOW SHOWING IN THEATERS EVERYWHERE

M

arsai holiday season brought a triumphant gift to the movie industry as "The Color Purple" dazzled audiences nationwide, securing an impressive $18 million in box office sales on Christmas Day. This feat marked the most lucrative Christmas opening since 2009 and the second

highest in history. The film, a stunning adaptation of the classic tale that has journeyed from a novel to a film and then to a Broadway success, captivated viewers across 3,152 theaters in North America.

Warner Bros. celebrated a hattrick with "The Color Purple" leading

the pack, followed by two other studio offerings, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" and "Wonka," which secured the second and third spots, respectively.

The musical's outstanding performance, bolstered by raving reviews and a stellar "A" CinemaScore, surpassed the initial weekend earnings of other recent mu-

sical adaptations, demonstrating the enduring appeal of heartfelt storytelling combined with song and dance.

As families gather during this festive time, "The Color Purple" has become the go-to cinematic experience, presenting a heartwarming narrative brought to life by an exceptional cast, including Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, and Halle Bailey. Meanwhile, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" faced a turbulent tide at the box office, falling short of expectations with its holiday earnings, hinting at a challenging phase for Warner Bros. and DC's slate of blockbuster hopefuls.

"The Color Purple" now stands as a beacon of success, a testament to the power of musicals in cinema, and a sign of a resurgent box office ready to embrace stories that resonate with viewers' hopes, dreams, and the spirit of the season.

www.StyleMagazine.com www.imdb.com/title/tt1200263/

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

13

BEYONCÉ'S HISTORIC HOUSTON CHILDHOOD HOME SAFEGAURDED FROM CHRISTMAS NIGHT BLAZE

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

I

naheart-stoppingeventonChristmasmorning,theHoustonFireDepartmentheroicallyextinguisheda fireatthechildhoodresidenceof music icon Beyoncé Knowles, a cherished landmark in Houston's Third Ward.

As dawn approached on ChristmasDay,analarmingfirebroke outatahistorichomeinthe3346ParkwoodStreet—theveryplacewhere global superstar Beyoncé spent her earlyyears.TheHoustonFireDepartment, displaying commendable rapid response, subdued the flames withinminutes,ensuringthesafetyofthe community and preserving a piece of Houston's cultural heritage.

Whiletherenownedsingerand herfamilyhavelongsincerelocated, the Rosedale home remains a beacon forfansworldwide,symbolizingthe humblebeginningsofarecord-breakingGrammywinner.Thecurrentoccupants,thankfullyunharmed,nowfind themselvespartofthecontinuingnarrative of this iconic abode.

Childhood Home of Beyoncé Knowles and Family - 3346 Parkwood, Houston, TX 77021 The incident has spotlightedBeyoncé'senduringbondwithher hometown. Amidst her Renaissance world tour, she was seen reminiscing outsidetheverywallsnowscorched yetstandingstrong.Inatestamentto herroots,duringthetryingtimesofthe Covid-19 pandemic, Beyoncé, alongsidehermotherTina Knowles,spear-

headed the establishment of mobile testingsitesinHouston,demonstrating anunbreakablelinkbetweenherinternationalacclaimandlocalcommitment.

The Christmas fire at Beyoncé's childhood home has been a stark reminderofthevulnerabilityofeven themoststoriedlocales.Yet,theinci-

denthasalsorekindledappreciation fortheculturallandmarksthatshape thetapestryofHouston'shistory.As the city breathes a sigh of relief, the spiritofresilienceandcommunity,so evident in Beyoncé's actions and the swiftfirefightingefforts,reaffirmsthe Third Ward's enduring legacy.

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December 28, 2023 - January 03, 2024

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ART: Tina Turner's Electric Legacy Ignites Houston with 'TINA – The Tina Turner Musical

T

By Kathy Coleman, ARTS Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

ina Turner's legendary career is celebrated in the electrifying production "TINA – The Tina Turner Musical," now dazzling audiences in Houston. This not-to-be-missed musical extravaganza showcases the extraordinary life of a music icon who shattered records and broke barriers, earning the crown as the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. With 12 Grammy Awards and concerts attended by millions worldwide, Turner's legacy continues to influence artists and music lovers alike.

Staged by Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall and directed by Phyllida Lloyd, the musical features a collection of Turner's greatest hits that promise to lift spirits and set hearts racing. Ari Groover and Parris Lewis bring to life the indomitable spirit of Tina Turner on stage, backed by their impressive Broadway experiences and undeniable talent.

Groover, known for her Broadway role in "Head Over Heels" and her appearances in films like "In the Heights," also has a successful DJ career as "Ari Grooves."

Lewis, with notable performances in "The Color Purple" and "Hairspray" national tours, adds her own formidable presence to the role of Tina Turner.

This production is an immersive experience, complete with dynamic musical

Ari Groover and Parris Lewis bring to life the indomitable spirit of Tina Turner on stage, backed by their impressive Broadway experiences and undeniable talent.

arrangements, stunning choreography, and a narrative that captures Turner's resilience and unyielding courage. However, it's important to note that the show, recommended for those aged 14 and above, includes intense scenes and themes, reflective of Turner's challenging journey to stardom.

For fans of Tina Turner and new-

comers alike, "TINA – The Tina Turner Musical" in Houston is a powerful tribute to the unstoppable fire of an artist who lived by her own rules and transformed the music industry forever. While Turner herself does not appear in the show, her indomitable spirit is felt in every aspect of this unforgettable production.

For more information and to experience the magic of Tina Turner's storied career, visit the official website and follow the journey on social media to get a glimpse behind the scenes and keep up with the latest news from the production.

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