Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 28

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

Sports Editor

Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com

Food Writer

Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Arts Editor

K athleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

Erynn Haskins TotallyRandie

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

AdVertising emAil advertising@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)

ONE COMPLETE HOUSTON: An Unprecedented Dive into the City’s Equity Landscape

By Francis Page, Jr For www.StyleMagazine.com

At the Sunnyside Health and Multiservice Center today, a momentous announcement was made that marked a milestone in the city’s ongoing quest for equity. Mayor Sylvester Turner joined community and business leaders to announce the findings of the City of Houston’s first-ever equity indicator study named “One Complete Houston: Understanding Our Equity Challenges and Opportunities.”

This seminal initiative, conducted by Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research with funding from Shell USA, Inc., employed equity scores to identify socioeconomic inequalities exacerbated by biases based on race, ethnicity, gender, and ZIP codes. The equity scores, rather than offering a simplistic pass-or-fail evaluation, provide a nuanced look into the various facets of the city’s equity landscape.

After thorough analysis, Houston’s overall equity score was revealed as 44.1 out of 100, signalling an urgent call for improvement. Interestingly, when juxtaposed with other cities using the Equity Indicators methodology, Houston’s score came out ahead of Dallas’s 2021 score of 38 and Tulsa’s 2022 score of 42.63. However, it lagged behind St. Louis’s 2018 score of 45.57 and Pittsburgh’s 2018 score of 55.

Despite this, the findings from “One Complete Houston” highlighted not just the challenges, but also the areas of opportunity where Houston can focus its efforts to progress towards a more equitable city. This included recommendations to adjust city policies and procedures, revise

business strategies, enhance corporate environmental, social, and governance initiatives, reevaluate philanthropic investment models, and realign nonprofit missions. The aim is to eliminate any barriers limiting Houstonians’ opportunities and life circumstances.

At the event, Mayor Turner lauded the report’s significance, stating, “One Complete Houston sheds light on the complex causes and compounding effects of inequities and sets a foundation for developing potential solutions to those challenges.” His words embodied the city’s commitment to not only understanding but actively addressing inequities for a better, more inclusive Houston.

He further emphasized the potential inherent in every neighborhood and child across the city, affirming, “All neighborhoods have value and promise, and all kids across our city can succeed if we give them an opportunity.” His conviction serves as a powerful reminder of the shared responsibility of ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for all of Houston.

“One Complete Houston” is thus more than just a study. It’s a testament to Houston’s resolve to embrace diversity, promote equality, and ensure inclusivity and fair opportunities for every citizen. By bringing to light the city’s equity challenges, it paves the way towards transforming them into opportunities for growth, unity, and shared prosperity.

www.HoustonCC.org

Shannon Buggs – Director Sylvester Turner – Mayor Of Houston

Christina A. Jones – Shell

Tiffany D. Thomas – Council Member

Carol Haddock – Director

Kenneth Allen – Director

Nicole Irvin – Director

COMMENTARY DEMOCRACY IS IN RETREAT AND THREATENS AMERICA

By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

For all the talk about the national debt and the fiscal deficit, what truly threatens America is a dangerous and growing democracy deficit. This country presents itself as the champion of democracy against authoritarianism across the world, but at home, democracy is in retreat in areas vital to our lives. Consider.

Will millions of workers be thrown out of their jobs in order to reach 2 percent inflation – a totally arbitrary goal? That decision which could have a brutal impact on families across the nation is being made not by the Congress or the president, but by the Federal Reserve’s Open Market Committee – an unelected committee with members drawn largely from banking and finance.

Faced with the rising prices that accompanied the reopening of the economy after the pandemic shutdown, the Fed has hiked interest rates with record rapidity. Its chair warns that getting inflation down to 2 percent may well cause a recession. This is a foolish and wrong-headed policy. It ignores the major sources of inflation – which are supply shocks and corporate concentration. It ignores the reality that climate calamities and war add to the disruption. And it ignores how destructive mass unemployment is.

This month’s jobs report showed that the unemployment of African Americans has begun to rise. Since Blacks are usually the last hired and first fired, and the Fed is committed to more hikes in interest rates, the chances are good that millions more working families are going to be punished by this unelected board.

Or consider the growing social reaction. Even as America

grows more diverse and Americans grow more progressive in their social views, the right-wing majority on the Supreme Court –judges with lifetime appointments – has overturned a woman’s right to choose, revoked the civil rights commitment to affirmative action against discrimination, gutted the Voting Rights Act, invalidated sensible gun control laws, invented a wholly discretionary “major questions” doctrine to disembowel federal regulation of the environment, of student loans, and more. The Court’s majority is out of step with the vast majority of Americans – but with lifetime appointments (and no ethical code of conduct), the judges are rolling back decades of social progress.

Or consider our national security. From floods in the Northeast to deadly heat in the Southwest, there is no doubt that catastrophic climate change is a real and present danger to our security already costing lives and billions in destruction.

Yet, our security establishment – the unelected “blob” backed by an entrenched military-industrial-think tank complex – continues to focus on endless wars abroad and on bigger and bigger military budgets.

Or consider health care. Life expectancy in the United States is falling. We have by far the most expensive medical system – and far worse results than other industrial countries. Profit increasingly undermines care – and millions of Americans find they can’t afford the

drugs that they need.

Our public health system is starved of funds; our privatized system is more and more affordable only for the few. But powerful insurance and drug lobbies stop all efforts to establish health care as a right for all Americans.

Or consider our elections. The same conservative majority on the Supreme Court has opened the floodgates to corporate and dark money, political gerrymandering, and the pervasive corruption of big money in politics. Studies show, not surprisingly, that the Congress is far more responsive to entrenched interests and big money donors than to their voters – and that their donors have very different interests than the voters. The democracy deficit is growing – and increasingly threatening. The only way to address it is by aroused citizens, exercising their rights, and holding their elected officials accountable for the decisions they made. That requires an independent media, a muckraking culture – and leaders prepared to tell the people. If we don’t reseed our democracy – and make it work for the many and not just the few – we will reap a whirlwind of reaction and anger. Donald Trump’s MAGA movement is an early expression of this, but if we don’t act, much worse is likely to follow.

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

LOCAL: EPA ANNOUNCES NEARLY $500,000 IN GRANT FUNDING FOR HIGH-RISK HOUSTON COMMUNITIES

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the Houston Health Department will receive grant funding to support community monitoring of hazardous air pollutants in high-risk areas and promote air quality providing information to regulators and residents. Under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, the grant of $499,982 will go toward community air monitoring projects in the Houston area.

“The Inflation Reduction Act has continued to fund critical projects that improve public health and assist in overcoming environmental challenges,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Together with this grant funding we are proud to see communities, representatives and environmental groups unite in supporting a healthy environment for all. I would like to thank all the groups and individuals who helped support this project and for keeping our communities safe and healthy.”

“I’m proud of these nearly $500,000 that will enhance the air quality monitoring in high-risk environmental justice communities in my

district,” said Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia. “This will help improve the Houston area’s local air quality and educate residents on the hazards of air pollutants. This is a direct result of President Biden’s Investing in America act.”

“This grant will enhance air quality monitoring in communities that have long experienced disproportionate impacts from air pollution and other environmental injustices throughout the 18th Congressional district, such as Fifth Ward, Galena Park, Pleasantville & Sunnyside,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Many individuals in these communities are unaware of

the quality of air that they are breathing in, which can have long term and life-threatening health impacts.”

“Sunnyside, a historically Black neighborhood in Houston founded over 100 years ago, has endured environmental discrimination throughout its existence. It became the location for a garbage incinerator, multiple landfills and various industrial plants that serviced the city. After rightful protestations and determined efforts, significant improvements have been made in Sunnyside. One notable groundbreaking project that received federal funding, I was able to secure, is helping to transform a closed landfill into a Solar Farm,” said Con-

gressman Al Green. “However, the air quality in Sunnyside remains a concern. In 2021 alone, the Houston Health Department received over 40 air pollution complaints from the area’s ZIP codes. EPA’s 2014 data indicates a known cancer risk in this area and the risk has increased by 218%. I am gratified that this project aims to enhance air quality monitoring in the area, educating the community accordingly, and generating sustainable solutions for air quality concerns. I thank the Environmental Protection Agency for taking these steps to address the environmental discrimination Sunnyside has experienced for far too long.”

This project will allow the Health Department alongside community members, to gather information about the sources and levels of the toxic air pollution in this community,” said Dr. Loren Hopkins, Chief Environmental Science Officer of the Houston Health Department. “We will use that information to inform changes in regulation to improve the health of individuals in these communities.

www.EPA.gov

COUNTY: Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee Supports EPA’s “Good Neighbor Plan ” in Amicus Brief Filing

By Francis Page, Jr For www.StyleMagazine.com

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee, known for his unwavering commitment to environmental justice, has once again taken a bold step in championing the health and well-being of the people residing in Harris County. Leading a coalition of states, Menefee filed an impactful amicus brief in the esteemed 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, throwing his weight behind the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) groundbreaking “Good Neighbor Plan.”

The “Good Neighbor Plan” devised by the EPA is an ambitious rule that builds upon an existing multistate framework governed by the Clean Air Act. This visionary plan not only addresses the dire issue of interstate ozone pollution but also establishes stringent requirements for twenty-three states. These states are now obligated to significantly curtail their smog-forming emissions, which perpetually traverse the airways and adversely affect fourteen downwind states.

In a passionate statement, Menefee articulated his firm belief that clean air is a fundamental right bestowed upon every individual. He hailed the EPA’s new plan as a momentous stride towards the betterment of air quality and public health. Menefee astutely highlighted that this forward-thinking initiative not only alleviates emission impacts in other states but also tangibly mitigates the injurious consequences

of emissions emanating from external sources and plaguing Harris County. By throwing their support behind the EPA, Menefee and his coalition of states resolutely oppose the motions initiated by Texas and Mississippi. This legal battle is just one skirmish in a protracted war waged by these states and influential fossil fuel industry groups against the implementation of the visionary “Good Neighbor Plan.”

Menefee reiterated his steadfast dedication to environmental justice, stressing that the commitment extends not only to the people of Harris County but also resonates nationwide. By participating in the amicus brief, Menefee, and his allies underscore the critical importance of safeguarding public health, curbing ozone emissions, and fostering equitable solutions that bridge the gap between environmental protection and social equity. In essence, Menefee’s actions illuminate the indomitable spirit of Harris County, emerging as a frontrunner in the fight for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all. www.CAO.HarrisCountyTX.gov

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee

Kelly and Beyoncé – Homes For Homeless

Marines First Black 4-Star - General Mike Langley

The Mary Benton

Ray Shakleford and Grand-Ma (92)

Mayor Turner Proclaimed June 27th – Dylan Campbell Day

Amanda Edwards Receives – Unsung Hero Award

Congratulations – Wendi & Bryant

Mayor Turner and Youth Poet Laureate Ariana Lee

Sasha Obama – Is So Beautifully Haute

Jay Z and Beyoncé in Paris France

Joycelyn Williams with Her Crew ����������

Francis and Cindy with Melanie Miles

Pharrell Williams & wife – Helen with 5-year old Triplets and Son, 12

POWER SHOT: Mayberry, Snowden, Clifford, Bess, Page and Jones

Gilbert Garcia Giving Back, See More - www.GarciaForHouston.com

One Complete Houston: Understanding Our Equity Challenges and Opportunities

Francis and Cindy with Sallie Alcorn

Jay Z and Beyoncé

50 Cents with Snoop Dog and his Dad – ‘Pappa Snoop’

MISSION BEND: COMCAST, HOUSTON TEXANS, AND CRIME STOPPERS

TEAM UP TO ASTONISH AND EMPOWER LOCAL YOUTH

The Mission Bend Boys and Girls Club in Fort Bend County buzzed with excitement as the Houston Texans and Xfinity , a leading tech company, orchestrated a remarkable surprise for the youth. The atmosphere was nothing short of electrifying, with exuberant cheers and radiant smiles illuminating the gymnasium. This week, Comcast, the driving force behind the cutting-edge Xfinity 10G Network, astounded the audience by generously providing an invaluable gift—brand new, state-ofthe-art laptops. Witness the breathtaking moment that unfolded before their eyes, forever etched in their memories. DeAnn Shodimu, accompanied by her 13-year-old daughter Sade, found herself utterly captivated by the unfolding events at the Digital Literacy Night. This extraordinary occasion was made possible through a powerful partnership between the Houston Texans and Xfinity. Shodimu’s unwavering focus absorbed the wealth of valuable information on safeguarding her child in the vast and ever-evolving world of cyberspace. Shodimu voiced her unwavering belief in the relentless march of technology and its pivotal role in shaping the future. “Technology continues to advance. The future is technology. That’s the way I see it,” she passionately explained. “Kids need to possess the skills to navigate this technological realm— knowing what to touch, what not to touch, what to input, and what not to input. I believe it’s of utmost importance. It’s the direction we’re headed.” Comcast went above and beyond, displaying incredible generosity by giving away a total of 50 cutting-edge laptops during the event. Out of this extraordinary donation, twenty-five devices were designated for the Mission Bend Boys & Girls Club. These laptops will serve as a mobile computer lab within their Wi-Fi-connected Lift Zone, ensuring that the young minds in the community have access to the tools they need to explore the boundless possibilities of the digital world. The remaining 25 brand-new laptops were placed directly into the hands of the families present at the event, flooding their homes with immeasurable joy and a gateway to a future brimming with possibilities.

Joshua Webb , representing Crime Stoppers of Houston, took center stage, assuming the vital role of guiding parents through crucial online safety tips. Webb emphasized the significance of responsible online behavior, urging both

By Francis Page, Jr For www.StyleMagazine.com

digital literacy, and empowerment, propelling the next generation towards a future where they can navigate the intricacies of the digital landscape with confidence and competence

children and parents to exercise caution before sharing personal information. He enlightened them on how to respond to unsolicited contact and empowered them with strategies to confront the perils of cyberbullying. Cheryl Lewis sat attentively beside her 12-yearold son Jeremy , wholly engrossed in this enlightening presentation, recognizing its indispensable value. “It’s incredibly important,” Lewis affirmed with conviction. “We make a conscious effort to monitor his online activities and familiarize ourselves with his online friends.”

Jeremy, brimming with excitement for his imminent journey into 7th grade, recognized that accomplishing his schoolwork without access to connected devices and the internet would be an insurmountable challenge. Consequently, his mother wholeheartedly welcomed the unexpected gift of a laptop from Xfinity, relieving her of the burden of purchasing one in August. “It’s the digital age,” Jeremy’s mother declared with a resolute tone. “One cannot progress without embracing technology and acquiring the necessary knowledge. This gift is of paramount importance since I was just about to buy him one in August, but now I don’t need to.” This year alone, Comcast Texas showcased its extraordinary commitment by investing a staggering $20,000 in the Boys and Girls Club. This substantial contribution was specifically dedicated to fostering digital skills programming, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to equipping today’s youth with the tools and knowledge they

need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Comcast Texas stands at the forefront of promoting education,

As the fervor surrounding Travis Scott's transcendent voyage to Egypt intensifies, a new wave of excitement crashes upon the shores of anticipation. In a remarkable display of fan enthusiasm, it has been reported that all premium and VIP tickets for the American rapper's monumental "Utopia" concert, scheduled for July 28, vanished into thin air a mere 15 minutes after their prices were unveiled to the public. Astonishingly swift, this unprecedented sellout left countless devotees yearning for a glimpse of Scott's otherworldly performance at the Pyramids of Giza.

The clamor for these highly sought-after tickets reached a fever pitch as fans scrambled to secure their spot at this historical convergence of artistry and antiquity. With premium tickets commanding a price of EGP 4,000 (USD 129) and VIP tickets fetching EGP 6,500 (USD 210), the exclusivity and allure of witnessing Scott's live-streamed concert amidst the awe-inspiring pyramids proved irresistible to fans from all corners of the globe.

Notably, the rapid depletion of tickets closely followed Scott's groundbreaking announcement that he would use this unprecedented event as a platform to unveil his forthcoming album, "Utopia." Seamlessly blending his visionary musical prowess with the mystical allure of one of the world's most iconic landmarks, Scott's decision to host this monumental concert amidst the ancient pyramids garnered immense intrigue and captivated the collective

MUSIC: TRAVIS SCOTT'S 'UTOPIA' CONCERT AT THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA SETS RECORDS, SELLS OUT PREMIUM AND VIP TICKETS IN MERE MINUTES

By Sara Weisfeldt, Rosa Flores, Alli Rosenbloom and Andy Rose, CNN

imagination of his devoted fanbase.

This unforgettable event has been meticulously curated in collaboration with Live Nation, a renowned entertainment powerhouse known for orchestrating groundbreaking live experiences that transcend conventional boundaries. With their astute promotional prowess backing Scott's visionary endeavor, the stage is set for an extraordinary convergence of ancient wonder and contemporary artistry.

As the countdown to this

epoch-making spectacle continues, enthusiasts have been eagerly securing their positions for the live performance, ensuring an audience that will bear witness to the fusion of sonic innovation and millennia-old grandeur. The allure of being physically present amidst this unparalleled union of music and mysticism has prompted fans to seize the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Egypt, where they will be spellbound by the enigmatic presence of Travis Scott.

Striving for Equality for All On This 4th of July

Best wishes to all members and families of the NationalNewspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

My prayer is that this message finds you all in great health and high moral spirits. Again, I want to offer my sincere gratitude, and it is truly an honor, to serve you and the NNPA as Chairman.

On this Fourth of July, let us truly reflect on the celebrated meaning for this occasion. As Publishers in the NNPA, we understand the significance of Unity and Respect. On this day, commemorating the birth of a great nation, let us remember who and what made it so. Let us remember the sacrifices made by our ancestors who fought to secure our freedoms and liberties. May this 4th of July be a catalyst to ignite passion as we prepare to fight the seemingly insurmountable battles that lie ahead in the struggle for freedom, quality, and justice for

By: StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

all.

On behalf of your executive officers, I extend our unwavering dedication and commitment to you and the staff in

upholding the moral principles and integrity of our Association. We stand unified as a TEAMM in our pursuit of excellence, leadership, and community service, believ-

As the world stands in awe of this remarkable feat, the sold-out status of premium and VIP tickets serves as a testament to Travis Scott's unrivaled ability to captivate audiences with his transcendent artistry. A once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits those fortunate enough to be part of this historic moment, where the evocative power of music melds harmoniously with the enduring mystique of the ancient world.

www.Travisscott.com

ing that Together Each Accomplishes Much More.

As we gather with loved ones, enjoying if we so choose, the lively parades, down home barbecues, and the display of brilliant fireworks, let us also renew our commitment to the CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS. “The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person - regardless of race, color or creed - full human, and legal rights. Hating no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.”

Further, let us remember what was printed on the front page of the first Blackowned newspaper in the U.S. Freedom’s Journal, March 16, 1827, by Samuel E. Cornish and John B. Russwurm. “We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.” Let us continue to “Write” our rights as it pertains to our independence of this, Our Country.

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Travis Scott's Pyramids of Giza Launch Party Concert

The definition of maternal mortality or maternal death varies slightly amongst the different governing organizations. The standing definition is that maternal death is the death of a pregnant woman due to pregnancy-related complications and/or conditions that were made worse by the pregnancy. Death can occur anytime during the pregnancy or within six weeks or up to one year after delivery. One organization uses six weeks postpartum while others use up to one year postpartum. The obstetric complications that account for the majority of maternal deaths are bleeding (hemorrhage), thrombotic events, high blood pressure and infection.

Homicide and unsafe abortions both contribute to maternal deaths in the United States causing the U.S. to rank 55th in maternal mortality compared to other higher-income countries.

Between 1955 and 1985, global maternal mortality declined significantly, however within the past ten years,

HEALTH: MATERNAL MORTALITY IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY

By Barbara A. Hannah, M.D., M.S. FACOG is the owner and CEO of Women’s Center/HealthCare Physicians, PLLC./BlackDoctor.Org

suboptimal access to health care and a higher propensity to have chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity are affecting the Black community at a disproportionately higher rate.

Providing access to health care is paramount in decreasing maternal mortality. Health deserts are far too common and these areas require women to travel great distances to obtain health care.

the U.S. numbers are rising again. The incidence of maternal death in the U.S. is 24 deaths per 100,000 live births. The maternal death rate in the U.S. far exceeds that of other higher-income countries. Among these countries are the Netherlands, Japan, Germany and Canada to name a few where the death rate is one-third that of the U.S. This alarming statistic is three times higher in the African American

community.

The causes of the increase in maternal mortality in the U.S., especially in the African American community, are quite entangled and difficult to isolate.

There are barriers to health care that are deeply rooted in discrimination and lead to socioeconomic factors that play a role in limiting health care access. Such factors as inadequate education,

As pregnancy ensues, more visits are required and transportation becomes an issue. Social issues contribute to the steep incline in maternal mortality such as substance abuse, domestic violence and mental health problems. There is no one answer to the problem of maternal mortality in the Black community. The increase in maternal mortality in the Black community is actually a manifestation of far deeper problems.

Read more at StyleMagazine.com

LOCAL: CYCLOSPORA CASES ON THE RISE IN HARRIS COUNTY

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

The Houston Health Department, Harris County Public Health (HCPH), and the Fort Bend Health & Human Services (FBCHHS) have received reports of an increased number of Cyclospora infections within their jurisdictions and urge people to use caution this summer while cooking and spending time outdoors.

Cyclospora is a non-life-threatening gastrointestinal illness caused by an intestinal parasite. People can become infected by consuming contaminated food

or water. In Texas, increased cases of Cyclosporiasis tend to occur seasonally between the months of April and August and symptoms tend to appear between two to 14 days. Cases have been associated with the consumption of fresh produce, including but not limited to fresh cilantro, raspberries, basil, snow peas, and mesclun lettuce.

Most individuals recover with no significant health effect; however, those who are immunocompromised, infants, or

elderly, may be more affected and potentially require hospitalization for treatment. It is important to note that the disease cannot be transmitted through direct person-to-person contact.

The health departments are investigating the cases and would like to remind people that some gastrointestinal illnesses can spread quickly, especially during the summer.

Here are some prevention tips: Wash your hands with soap and water

thoroughly for at least 20 seconds before and after preparing food. Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating, cutting, or cooking. Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and surfaces to avoid cross-contamination.

If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, please reach out to your healthcare provider.

Click here for more information on possible Cyclospora symptoms.gram.

www.HoustonHealth.org

CULINARY: FROM CULINARY INGENUITY TO BUSINESS TRIUMPH: THE STORY OF STUFF'D WINGS

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor

The sign of a real cook is their ability to open a refrigerator or pantry and see the potential for an amazing meal, while the average person sees a lack of culinary options. A real cook thinks outside the box and fearlessly combines ingredients that don't typically blend. Such innovative thinking gives birth to culinary greatness.

In the realm of delicious dishes, chicken wings have always reigned supreme. Whether slathered in BBQ sauce for a lively tailgate party or adorned with herbs and spices for an elegant dining experience, chicken wings have become a timeless classic on American plates. However, one visionary cook named Jarrod Rector decided to break away from convention when preparing dinner for his wife. Instead of preparing chicken wings in his usual manner, he

ventured into uncharted territory. Combining his wife's two favorite foods, he created stuffed wings by merging fried chicken wings with dirty rice. The result? His wife was thrilled with the innovative culinary creation.

Word of mouth spread rapidly, and Rector's neighbor, captivated by the idea of stuffed wings, requested them for a graduation party. The guests left the party begging for more. Before long, Rector found himself with a thriving side hustle, selling his stuffed wings on weekends to earn extra income. The demand for his unique creation grew,

leading him to approach Texas-based grocery store H-E-B for a pop-up shop to sell his stuffed wings.

"One day I decided to do a partnership with H-E-B where I would come out there and just sell food," Rector recalls. "They allowed me to come out, and that was my first pop-up with H-E-B." The success of several pop-ups with H-E-B spurred an overwhelming demand for Rector's stuffed wings. Inspired by this achievement, he expanded his reach to serve food at various festivals and carnivals. The next milestone in his culinary journey was owning a food

truck. Balancing his full-time job as an electrical engineer in the oil and gas field with the growing demands of his side hustle became increasingly challenging. Eventually, Rector made the courageous decision to dive headfirst into the food truck business, which ultimately led to the establishment of his first retail location—a proud accomplishment for this black restaurant owner.

Read more at StyleMagazine.com Stuffdwings.com

ROCKING THE SUMMER: QUEEN'S MUSIC TAKES CENTER STAGE AT THE HOBBY CENTER

By Kathleen Coleman, Arts Editor

Audiences experienced an electrifying night on Saturday as they danced in their seats and sang along to their favorite Queen songs with the Houston Symphony. Creating a rock concert atmosphere, audience members waved their flashlights to the music. The Houston Symphony, with the power of a full rock band, performed a set list of Queen's iconic hits, capturing the spirit of rock and roll and the opera-infused song "Bohemian Rhapsody." It was a feel-good night suitable for all ages.

Guest conductor Brent Havens, accompanied by rock vocalist Mig Ayesa, returned to Houston to lead the mesmerizing program, featuring fan favorites like "Somebody to Love" and "Bohemian Rhapsody." Queen, an English rock band formed in the 1970s, dominated popular culture and became one of the world's best-selling recording and concert acts. With record sales estimated in the hundreds of millions, Queen was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. Their music, with its classical influences woven into progressive rock anthems like "Bohemian Rhapsody," is exceptionally well-suited for symphony

orchestras.

Don't miss the opportunity to attend the Houston Symphony's performance of John Williams's epic score for Star Wars: A New Hope in

Concert, taking place on Friday, July 28, and Saturday, July 29. Alongside the live orchestra, the Symphony will screen the iconic 1977 American film directed by the award-winning George

Lucas, bringing the film's captivating soundtrack to life. Star Wars: A New Hope is regarded as one of the most influential films in cinema history. It launched the famous movie franchise, introduced the world to talented actors such as Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, and Carrie Fisher, and revolutionized the art of storytelling in motion pictures. The film's groundbreaking special effects and the restoration of film scores to their rightful place as crucial storytelling elements forever changed the landscape of Hollywood.

To purchase tickets and obtain more information, please call 713.224.7575 or visit houstonsymphony.org/starwars. For details regarding the Hobby Center and parking, please visit https://www.thehobbycenter.org/ visit/parking-directions/. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite Star Wars characters, such as Han, Luke, Leia, and company, and explore the lobby for photo opportunities. Moreover, adults in the audience can savor unique Star Wars-themed cocktails. Enhance your experience by dining at the Diana American Grill before or after the performances.

SCAN To LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMMITMENT TO LOCAL TEXAS FARMERS