Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 29

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Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Arts Editor

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)

ART: The Book of HOV - A Monumental Ode to JAY-Z In The Heart Of Brooklyn

By Francis Page Jr For www.StyleMagazine.com

In the vibrant expanse of Brooklyn, New York, the Brooklyn Public Library is the nucleus of knowledge and community engagement, ever-enthralling residents, and visitors alike. Now, it burgeons with a new vibrancy and an undeniable resonance of hip-hop culture as it proudly unveils The Book of HOV, a stirring homage to the indomitable spirit and legacy of the borough’s native son, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter. This awe-inspiring installation is the brainchild of Roc Nation, the multimedia entertainment titan founded by JAY-Z himself.

JAY-Z, a colossal figurehead in the realms of music and culture, is no stranger to influence and innovation. His illustrious journey from the challenging streets of Brooklyn to global superstardom underscores his unmatched artistic prowess and entrepreneurial acumen. In turn, The Book of HOV serves as a vivid chronicle of this odyssey, imbued with an electrifying blend of aesthetics, artistry, and personal artifacts that encapsulate his groundbreaking contributions.

True to its namesake, the installation is a veritable anthology of never-before-seen images, art, and ephemera from the artist’s private collection. Each item, carefully curated by the sharp minds at Roc Nation and partners, illuminates the myriad dimensions of JAY-Z’s life and career, providing a deeply intimate and unparalleled insight into the enigma that is Mr. Carter.

The Book of HOV is no ordinary installation. Housed in the bustling public space of the Central Library, it breaks barriers in accessibility and inclusion, transforming this hallowed hall of knowledge

into a cathedral of artistic celebration, open to all. It’s an immersive, two-floor odyssey that beckons visitors with a promise of profound enlightenment the moment they step foot inside the grand library doors.

An innovative blend of text and audio engulfs visitors, guiding them through the multifaceted layers of the exhibit. Each artifact, photograph, and snippet of ephemera tells a story, bearing testimony to JAY-Z’s evolution from a hopeful rapper on the streets of Brooklyn to an icon whose influence reverberates on a global scale.

From poignant moments of introspection to exhilarating instances of triumph, The Book of HOV is an ode to JAY-Z’s extraordinary life and a testament to his enduring influence. It’s an intimate invitation to step into his world, comprehend his journey, and leave with a newfound appreciation for this cultural maestro.

The Brooklyn Public Library and Roc Nation have beautifully knitted together this tribute, striking a chord with both long-time fans and curious onlookers. A visit to thebookofhov.com reveals the depth of this exhibition, offering more about each experience to potential visitors. In this revolutionary installation, the story of JAY-Z lives and breathes, leaving an indelible imprint on the cultural tapestry of Brooklyn and beyond. Indeed, The Book of HOV not only captures the essence of JAY-Z, but it also actually encapsulates the very spirit of hip-hop: a saga of struggle, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression.

www.TheBookofHOV.com

www.BklynLibrary.org/

Beyoncé and Jay Z – The Book Of HOV Beyoncé and Blue Ivy – The Book Of HOV Beyoncé – The Book Of HOV

– The Book Of HOV

– The Book Of HOV

– The Book Of HOV

– The Book Of HOV

– The Book Of HOV

– Brooklyn Public Library

IT IS TIME TO ACT

By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

If things don’t add up, it makes sense to see if something has been left out of the equation. That’s the case today. The experts tell us that the economy is as good as it has been in decades – unemployment at record lows, inflation under control, wages finally rising faster than prices.

Yet, most people are unhappy and pessimistic. President Biden’s approval rating is still underwater. Donald Trump, his likely opponent in the presidential race, is even less popular. What’s going on?

Americans aren’t wrong. They struggle every day with what pundits call a “polycrisis.” That’s a fancy word for a lot of big things going wrong in a big way all at once. Catastrophic climate change, pandemics, extreme inequality, a broken and unaffordable health care system, a dangerously decrepit infrastructure, a growing Cold War amid unending forever wars – this list can go on.

These crises are real and present. Families and communities take the hit again and again.

Extreme heat—or floods or forest fires or hurricanes – take lives and destroy homes. Ancient pipes serve up poisonous drinking waters. People can’t afford to get sick. Big money and powerful lobbies block vital reform. Now billionaires are paying for a new party – the No Labels (and Dark Money) Party, as if owning the two major parties were not enough.

Joe Biden – much to the surprise of many – stepped up to address some of this. He passed the biggest bill to rebuild America in decades, the biggest investment in renewable energy ever. He made a small start in making some drugs

more affordable. He broke with our ruinous trade policies and began to crack down on the merger mania. First steps – but not nearly enough.

Trump’s MAGA Republicans, meanwhile, are missing the bus. They – aided and abetted by a zealously right-wing majority on the Supreme Court – are focused on social reaction – rolling back the progress of the civil rights movement, stripping women of the right to control their own bodies, trying to make voting harder and opening the door to big money in politics, waging war on “wokeness” as if diversity were the source of our problems. They just overloaded the Defense Appropriations bill with a bevy of anti-woke provisions – while utterly ignoring the reality that we’re starving basic investments at home while wasting billions of dollars and millions of lives trying to police the world.

They may add to our problems, but they surely are not addressing the crises we face.

It is clear what gets in the way. In each area, powerful interests, deep pockets, entrenched lobbies benefit from what is – and

stand in the way of what must be.

Big oil and King Coal still Impede a needed transition to renewable energy. The military-industrial-think tank complex defends endless wars and ever more bloated Pentagon budgets. Big Pharma and the health insurance complex defend a health care system Americans can’t afford.

It is easy to get depressed, to give up, or to turn on one another rather than toward one another. But change – and survival – will come only when citizens come together, confront the powers that be, and force the change. Modern America has seen two periods of profound reform. The New Deal under Franklin Roosevelt in the 1930s ended the Depression, built a modern infrastructure, guaranteed the right to organize, Social Security, and much more.

The Great Society under Lyndon Johnson that brought a final end to segregation, revived the right to vote, provided Medicare and aid for mothers with children and much more. Both were driven by citizens in motion – workers forced the New Deal reforms, the civil rights move -

ment inspired Johnson to act. Now we see stirrings once more. Occupy Wall Street exposed extreme inequality. Black Lives Matter challenged systemic racism, particularly in our criminal justice system. In response to reverses, the women’s movement and environmental movement are growing more powerful. Across the country, workers are striking for better pay and conditions, and for the right to a union. The Bernie Sanders campaigns inspired the young and provided the agenda. The progress Biden made came largely from that energy.

Much more is needed. We need leaders who will show up at the point of challenge. We need citizens who will come together to demand change. The “polycrisis” makes dramatic reform necessary. And that will come only from the people up – not from the interests and the big money down.

When I ran for president in 1984 and 1988, I sought to build a progressive coalition, across lines of race, region, religion, gender and sexual preference. We need, I argued, to move from racial battlegrounds to economic common ground and onto moral higher ground. Now, in the face of the many crises that are disrupting us at once, that citizens coalition is needed now more than ever. It is time to act.

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

President Joe Biden speaks on June 28, 2023, about his economic policies at the old main post office in Chicago. (Brian Cassella Chicago Tribune,TNS)

LOCAL: CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER FACING CIVIL RIGHTS INVESTIGATION FOR TREATMENT OF BLACK WOMEN GIVING BIRTH

By Sabrina Clay, CNN/StyleMagazine.com

Black maternal health, and we are proud of the work we’ve done (and continue to do) to address these issues in Los Angeles as well as at the state and national levels.”

Previously, Cedars-Sinai said it commended Johnson “for the attention he has brought to the important issue of racial disparities in maternal outcomes. While federal privacy laws prevent us from responding directly about any patient’s care, we have a longstanding commitment to making any changes to ensure we provide patients with the highest level of care.”

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles is facing a civil rights investigation into how Black women giving birth are treated in its hospital.

“Maternal health is a priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and one in which the HHS Office for Civil Rights is working on around the country to ensure equity and equality in health care. To protect the integrity of this ongoing investigation we have no

further comment,” the US Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement to CNN.

The federal investigation comes after Charles Johnson IV filed a civil rights lawsuit in May of 2022 against Cedars-Sinai following the 2016 death of his wife, Kira, who had gone to the hospital to give birth to their second son.

An autopsy showed Johnson died from massive internal bleeding following a planned cesarean section,

CNN previously reported.

The lawsuit stated Johnson’s civil rights were violated, and she was denied health care because of her race, “which resulted in her untimely and wrongful death.”

Cedars-Sinai declined to comment specifically on the federal civil rights investigation, but in a statement to CNN said, “Cedars-Sinai clinicians, leaders and researchers have long been concerned with national disparities in

Black maternal death rates have been steadily rising in the United States for decades, CNN previously reported. Black mothers are nearly three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related complications as White women with 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2021, according to the CDC. Multiple factors contribute to the racial disparities seen in the data, including underlying chronic conditions, structural racism and implicit bias, the CDC found. www.CDC.gov

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center - Los Angeles, CA

TURNER CREATES CANCER CLUSTER STRIKE TEAM TO ASSIST RESIDENTS

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

Standing alongside Houstonians who have lost loved ones to cancer, Mayor Sylvester Turner urgently called on Union Pacific Railroad to buy out or relocate residents living near Up's contaminated Houston Wood Preserving site.

The mayor also announced he had created a Strike Team to begin work on a program to help relocate residents living above the creosote plume and in a two and three-block radius around the site.

The state of Texas found four different types of cancer clusters when it focused on the census tracts directly abutting the Union Pacific site. These include the larynx, liver, lung, bronchus, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In total, there were 79 more cancer cases in this small area from these clusters than expected. While the City remains supportive of the Environmental Protection Agency's order with UP to expand its investigation and cleanup of creosote sites, the railroad has taken no action in response to the demands of the City, Harris County, and Bayou City Initiative to relocate people living next door to the

site, according to Mayor Turner.

"UP insists those issues are on the table for discussion, but when we have raised them repeatedly over the last year, including in direct recent conversations with UP's CEO, UP has insisted the time is not ripe, and that action on relocations must wait for the results of further investigation," said Mayor Turner. "But time is the enemy of people living in the highly exposed and dangerous zone with limited means to do anything. How many people must be diagnosed with cancer? How many more people - including children must die?"

The Strike Team includes repre-

sentatives of the City's Health and Human Services, Housing and Community Development, Real Estate, Recovery, and Legal teams, along with outside resources. Mayor Turner underscored the process is complex, with many issues and interests to accommodate, and that his administration will explore additional funding from all available sources, including federal Justice 40 and other environmental justice funds. "Our goal will be to help residents in these areas who want to move successfully to nearby locations out of harm's way at no costs."

In a written statement, Houston Health Department Director Stephen

Williams added, "We in the Health Department believe that people are still at risk. More testing is likely to reveal what we already know. Dioxin is present in the soil. We know a creosote plume is under 110 homes. People have already expressed an interest in relocation and access to health care. Let's respect their interests by being responsive to their expressed interest regarding relocation and access to health care."

During the news conference, an emotional Pamela Matthews talked about the death of her mother, who lived in the cancer cluster. "It is hard living in a community where nobody seems to care. A year ago today, my mom passed from cancer. My kids, grandkids, and I have a right to live without being in harm's way. I refuse to let this happen to any more members of my family. Why should UP make all this money, harm all these people, and not be held accountable? Don't we matter? Thank you, Mayor Turner. Thank you for fighting for us," she said. For more information visit www.houstontx.gov/ moc/cancer-cluster-strike-team.

POLITICS: HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL MEMBER LETITICA PLUMMER CELEBRATES BIG BIRTHDAY

By Burt Levine, Political Writier

Houston City Council Member Letitica Plummer recently celebrated a milestone birthday with a vibrant Third Ward celebration. The event drew a crowd of enthusiastic supporters and generated excitement for the upcoming early vote election period from October 23 to November 3, just around 100 days away.

"I'm proud to call this city my home, as my family's commitment to public service here dates back to the mid-1800s on my dad's side," expressed Plummer, reflecting on her deep-rooted connection to Houston. "My mother, an immigrant full of hope, met my dad while he was serving our country in the Peace Corps. Their love for Houston, Texas, and America is unrivaled, fueling my own passion for making a positive difference in people's lives."

Plummer's Disco-themed birthday celebration also marked her first four years of dedicated service in the Houston City Council at large Pos. 4 seat. The event featured a special tribute to Donna Summer and included appearances by U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee and former State Representative and City Council Member Ben Reyes.

Raised in Houston and educated at prestigious institutions such as Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Profes-

sions, Spellman College, and Baylor University Dental School, Plummer's upbringing instilled in her a love for the city and its people. As a successful entrepreneur who has opened multiple offices throughout Houston, she remains committed to investing in the city's growth and well-being. "My father, who was one of the first

African Americans to attend Harvard Dental School after Morehouse, inspired me to build my own firm," shared Plummer. "Through my private business and public service volunteerism, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of public safety and am dedicated to implementing data-driven strategies that protect every corner of our city. I am truly

honored to have earned the endorsement of the Houston Police Officers Union (HPOU), which recognizes my unwavering support for public safety."

Plummer's devotion to fostering a thriving local economy extends to her role as a small business owner and builder. She understands the significance of encouraging competition among entrepreneurs and cultivating global partnerships that benefit the community at large. Recognizing her commitment, Plummer expressed gratitude for her endorsement by the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) and her involvement with various chambers of commerce spanning all 11 districts in Houston's diverse neighborhoods.

Throughout her tenure, Plummer has been proactive in addressing critical community needs, including improving air and water quality, expanding housing and healthcare options, and fostering opportunities in the food business sector across Houston.

Council Member Plummer's dedication to public service and her unyielding commitment to the betterment of Houston and its residents continue to make a lasting impact. Let's celebrate her birthday and support her ongoing efforts to create a brighter future for our city!

www.StyleMagazine.com

Congressional Proclamation from S.J. Lee

Denise Fleming – Supporting José Grinan

Reba Tillman – Supporting José Grinan

José Grinan – Meyerland Dems Art Pronin

José Grinan – Houston Business & Media Friends

José Grinan – Houston Media Friends

D’Artagnan Bebel Supporting José Grinan

José Grinan – 30-year Retirement Party Paige Cawthon– Dream BIG

Breaking News – José Grinan Retires

Kathy and José Grinan look on as Emcee Isiah Carey salutes the ‘Retiree’

Kathy Coleman Supporting José Grinan

Houston’s Media Community – Showed Up & Showed Out To Support José Grinan

Mayoral Candidate – Gilbert Garcia – Supporting José Grinan

Host and Wife Kathy Grinan – Supporting Hubby José Grinan

Emilian White, Kim Gagne with Saundria and Jerome Grey

Kim Gagne & Jesse White Supports José Grinan

Saundria Grey and Gerald Womack

Tea with Judge V – Vanessa Gilmore & Gerald Womack – Supporting José Grinan

Comcast has announced the appointment of Jose Espinel as the new Senior Vice President for its Texas Region. With decades of domestic and international industry experience, Espinel will take charge of all business operations in the region, including the

STATE: COMCAST APPOINTS JOSE ESPINEL AS HEAD OF THE TEXAS REGION

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

rich diversity of the region and our exceptional Comcast Texas team. My top priority will be to further expand our world-class broadband network, ensuring that more customers and communities have access, while also ensuring that our most vulnerable communities in southeast Texas are not left behind."

inclusive, principled, people-focused, competitive, and customer-driven leader. As our country undergoes the largest broadband infrastructure expansion of our lifetime, Jose is ready to lead the charge in Texas, ensuring that more families and communities can unlock a future of unlimited possibilities."

expansion of the Xfinity 10G Network's robust broadband infrastructure in Texas.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Espinel stated, "I couldn't be more excited to be here. Texas is a land of opportunity, and I deeply admire the

Originally from Venezuela, Espinel brings nearly 25 years of experience in the communications and data industry to his new position in Comcast's Texas Region. Prior to joining Comcast, he enjoyed a successful tenure at AT&T, where he led teams in Arizona, New Mexico, and Las Vegas. In Los Angeles and San Diego, Espinel spearheaded AT&T's consumer mobile business and led the Hispanic segment strategy for the region. He also worked with DIRECTV Latin America.

Comcast West Division President Rich Jennings spoke highly of Espinel, stating, "Jose embodies all of our cultural touchstones. He is an

Starting his role on July 10, Espinel will report to Rich Jennings and will oversee the talented and dedicated Comcast Texas team. He expressed excitement about working with the team and serving the wonderful communities in the region. Espinel also looks forward to spending more time with his family members who are proud long-time residents of the area.

With Jose Espinel at the helm, Comcast's Texas Region is poised to continue delivering reliable services while striving to bridge the digital divide and support the diverse communities it serves.HCDE on June 12, 2023.

www.Corporate.Comcast.com

Jose Espinel

Reverend Jesse Jackson named Dr. Frederick Douglass Haynes III as the new President and CEO of Rainbow PUSH Coalition. The transfer of leadership took place during the organization's national convention.

“As a student of Rev. Jackson’s, I am honored to be selected for this prestigious and important position,” Haynes said.

The event was attended by Vice President Kamala Harris, who spoke highly of Rev. Jackson's leadership and expressed confidence in Dr. Haynes as the new leader of Rainbow PUSH Coalition. In her remarks, Vice President Harris congratulated Dr. Haynes and commended his track record in the criminal justice reform movement.

“It is my joy to congratulate Reverend Dr. Freddy Haynes. I have known him and worked with him for over 20 years, including when we worked together years and years ago in the early days of the criminal justice reform movement. And I am so confident in his leadership and his ability to carry on the greatest traditions of this organization and to meet the challenges of this moment,” said Vice President Harris.

Although not in attendance, President Joe Biden offered his remarks. “Whether on the campaign trail, on the march for equality, or in the room advocating for what is right and just, I’ve seen him as history will remember him: a man of God and of the people; determined, strategic, and unafraid of the work to redeem the soul of our nation.”

Dr. Haynes III is widely known as the senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church, a prominent megachurch in Dallas, Texas, boasting over 13,000 members. He has served in this role since 1983 and has been instrumental in the church's growth and community impact. Dr. Haynes led the establishment of the THR!VE Intern and Leadership Program, which received recognition from former President Barack Obama in 2014.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to succeed Rev. Jackson, Dr. Haynes stated, "Rev. Jesse Jackson has made the world a better place, breaking down barriers and fighting for justice. Rainbow PUSH has been the vehicle for his work, and I am honored and humbled

FEATURE: REV. FREDERICK HAYNES III IS THE FUTURE OF THE RAINBOW PUSH COALITION

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

that he has chosen me to serve as his successor. I am committed to continuing the fight for freedom, peace, equity, justice, and human rights."

Dr. Haynes has already outlined a national agenda aimed at addressing various pressing issues, including the courts, affirmative action, economic justice, educational equity, and the impact of climate change on communities of color. He is renowned as a social justice pastor and advocate for marginalized communities, working tirelessly to effect positive change.

With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion and English, a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctorate in Ministry from the Graduate Theological Foundation, Dr. Haynes brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the Christian Theological Seminary, focusing on African American preaching and sacred rhetoric.

In addition to his pastoral and advocacy work, Dr. Haynes is dedicated to education and has led Friendship-West to donate over $1 million to historically Black colleges and universities. The church has also provided over $2 million in scholarship aid to students in the Dallas community. Dr. Haynes' commitment to education is exemplified by the Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III Global Preparatory School, located on the campus of Paul Quinn College.

Throughout his career, Dr. Haynes has received numerous awards and honors for his ministry and activism. His impactful work has earned him recognition from

prestigious organizations such as the Congressional Black Caucus, Ebony Magazine, and the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame.

Dr. Haynes also shares his knowledge through teaching positions at various institutions of higher learning, including Paul Quinn College, Texas Christian University, McCormick Theological Seminary, and New Brunswick Theological Seminary. He serves on the Board of Trustees for Paul Quinn College and holds leadership positions in organizations focused on social change and education.

As Dr. Haynes assumes

his new role as President and CEO of Rainbow PUSH Coalition, he stands on the shoulders of Rev. Jesse Jackson, carrying forward the legacy of justice and advocacy. With his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to social transformation, Dr. Haynes is poised to lead Rainbow PUSH Coalition into a new era of fighting for equality, justice, and human rights.

“The work of Rainbow PUSH is as necessary as ever and I am committed to standing on the shoulders of Rev. Jackson and continuing the fight for freedom, peace, equity, justice and human rights,” said Dr. Haynes.

www.rainbowpush.org

HEALTH: BLACK PEOPLE IN REDLINED NEIGHBORHOODS FACE HIGHER RISKS FOR HEART FAILURE

By Justin Gamble, CNN/StyleMagazine.com Newswire

adults.

Black adults living in zip codes historically impacted by redlining have an 8% higher risk of developing heart failure than Black adults in non-redlined areas, a study published Monday in the American Heart Association’s scientific journal Circulation says.

During the early 20th century, US banks routinely engaged in a racist lending practice known as redlining, which denied loans and insurance to people of color seeking to purchase houses outside undesirable areas of cities. The practice began in the 1930s, amplifying segregation, and was eventually banned in the late 1960s.

“Among Black adults living in historically redlined communities, approximately half of the excess risk of heart failure appeared to be explained by higher levels of socioeconomic distress,” the AHA said in a news release. Increased risk for hypertension and Type 2 diabetes are among the other ailments that disproportionately affect

Blacks residents in these neighborhoods, according to previous AHA research.

“Although discriminatory housing policies were effectively outlawed nearly a half-century ago, the relationship between historic redlining practices and people’s health today gives us unique insight into how historical policies may still be exerting their effects on the health of many communities,” study co-author Dr. Shreya Rao, a cardiologist and assistant professor in

the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, said in a statement.

Researchers analyzed data on more than 2.3 million residents who were enrolled in Medicare between 2014 and 2019 by linking it with residential ZIP codes across the US. The analysis included 801,452 participants who identified as Black adults and nearly 1.6 million participants who self-identified as non-Hispanic White

HEALTH: Second Alzheimer’s Drug To Slow Disease’s Progression May Be Approved In The US This Year

By Meg Tirrell, CNN/StyleMagazine.com Newswire

Thefull approval this month of the Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi marked a historic shift in the treatment of the disease: For the first time, doctors have a medicine to prescribe that has been proven to slow the loss of memory and ability to do daily tasks that Alzheimer’s brings.

A second drug may join Leqembi — known as lecanemab before it got its brand name — on the market by the end of the year: Eli Lilly’s donanemab.

It was shown in May and in fuller Phase 3 clinical trial results released at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference on Monday to delay the disease’s progression. Lilly said in a news release that it had completed its US Food and Drug Administration submission for the drug, and expects regulatory action by year’s end.

More than 6 million Americans are estimated to have Alzheimer’s disease, with about 1 million estimated to be in the early symptomatic stages where these drugs have shown benefit. But even though the medicines are the first to put a brake on the seemingly inexorable progression of Alzheimer’s, experts questioned the degree of their benefit in a series of editorials published Monday in the Journal of the American Medical Association, alongside the donanemab data.

Both Leqembi and donanemab work by clearing buildups of a protein in the brain called amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.

“Donanemab was very effective at eliminating its target, cerebral amyloid, but the clinical effect was comparatively weak,” Jennifer Manly, of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, and Kacie Deters, of the University of California, Los Angeles, wrote in one editorial.

Patients taking the medicine in the more than 1,700-person trial had 35% slower progression of disease than those on placebo over a year and a half on a measure called the integrated Alzheimer’s Disease Rating Scale, or iADRS, the results showed. That equated to a loss of six points on a 144-point scale for those on the drug,

compared with a loss of nine points for those on placebo.

In another editorial in JAMA, researchers sought to put that result and others from the trial into real-life terms: For patients taking donanemab, there’s a lower risk of progressing from having mild cognitive impairment, or being fully independent in daily activities, to mild dementia, requiring assistance with some daily activities; or of progressing from mild to moderate dementia, requiring some assistance with basic self-care.

Lilly assessed patients in groups based on their levels of another Alzhei-

Unlike Black adults, the study found that White adults living in communities with a high proportion of redlining did not have a higher risk of heart failure.

“These findings show us the harm that discriminatory and racist housing policies have had on generations of Black adults and suggest the long-term impact of such policies on cardiovascular health disparities,” said Dr. Ambarish Pandey, another co-author and an assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

mer’s-associated protein, called tau, and the 35% slowing of disease progression was seen in those with low to medium levels, thought to be in less advanced stages of the disease than those with higher levels. When those with higher levels were included, the benefit was 22% versus placebo.

For patients in the low/medium tau category, the researchers pointed out the drug slowed decline by 4.4 months over the 18-month trial on the iADRS scale. On another scale, known as Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes, or CDR-SB, it slowed decline by 7.5 months.

“While the slowing of clinical decline seen in this trial represents an important start, and may be deemed clinically meaningful for some patients, development of more impactful and safer treatments is still needed,” wrote the authors, the University of California, San Francisco’s Dr. Gil Rabinovici and Renaud La Joie.

Experts’ hesitation on the degree of benefit isn’t limited to donanemab; it also applies to Leqembi. On the CDR-SB measure of disease progression, donanemab showed a 36% slowing compared with placebo in the low/medium tau group, and a 29% slowing overall, while Leqembi, sold by the drugmakers Eisai and Biogen, showed a 27% benefit over placebo.

To Lilly’s chief of research, Dr. Daniel Skovronsky, the donanemab trial results answer some key questions, and hint toward ways to reach greater benefits for patients with Alzheimer’s.

“One of the questions we had was: Does the effect grow over time?” he said in an interview with CNN. “That’s important because Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic disease that can last a decade or more.” www.StyleMagazine.com

BUSINESS: FOR MEMBERS ONLY: ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY LAUNCHES HISTORIC CREDIT UNION

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. has made history with the grand opening of its groundbreaking financial institution, the "For Members Only" (FMO) Credit Union. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the organization's headquarters in Chicago, prior to the 2023 Leadership Seminar. As the first Black-owned, women-led, sorority-based digital banking institution in the United States, the FMO Credit Union represents a significant milestone. The organization took to Instagram to share its excitement, highlighting that some Sisters even signed up for accounts on-site.

The sorority, established 115 years ago, had been planning the credit union for several years, with a focus on fostering economic and financial stability for women of color. Danette Anthony Reed, international president and CEO of AKA Sorority, emphasized the importance of showcasing their financial prowess, stating, "You have to start doing things so folks know we

know how to control our money."

During its inaugural year, FMO will offer members primary savings, loans, and various other banking services. Deardra Hayes-Whigham, a board member of FMO, expressed the organization's commitment to investing in their own community, remarking,

"We want to invest in what we own."

AKA sorority member Monica Teal expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "It's just awesome to know we'll have the opportunity to actually do something financial."

FMO will cater to AKA sorority members and their immediate families,

as well as employees of both the credit union and the organization itself. Terri Bradford Eason, FMO's executive director, highlighted the unique ownership structure, noting that every member will become an owner of the credit union.

FMO Federal Credit Union is chartered, regulated, and insured by the National Credit Union Administration, ensuring its compliance with industry standards.

This remarkable achievement further demonstrates the AKA sorority's commitment to creating new establishments that uplift their community, following their recent collaboration to transform the former St. Louis home of the sorority's founder into a museum.

With the FMO Credit Union, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has taken a significant stride towards building economic wealth and empowering its members to reinvest their income for a prosperous future.

www.aka1908.com

CULINARY: CHECKERS SEND STUDENTS "OFF TO COLLEGE" WITH NEW CAMPAIGN

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor

Setting a strong foundation is crucial for achieving success in any new endeavor. Checkers is offering a remarkable opportunity to give a college student an excellent head start through their exciting "Off To College Sweepstakes" campaign.

Houston area college students are encouraged to enter the sweepstakes, where they could win a prize package valued over $2000 that includes a new laptop, a mini fridge, school supplies, dorm room and bathroom essentials, and a surprise from Slim Thug. Creativity is needed to enter the sweepstakes, as each participant will need to build their own Checkers menu hack and post the hack on Instagram or TikTok using the hashtag #CheckersHTXSweepstakes.

Only one entry per person should be posted between now and July 31st. All entries must live in the greater Houston area, be at least 18 years old, and be attending college in Fall 2023.

Checkers owner Patricia Jacobs said her favorite Checkers’ hack is to add chili, jalapenos, bacon bits, and ranch to her fries. While all of Houston knows Checkers made Big Slim’s favorite hack into an entire meal deal with a Texas-sized triple Big Buford and Smoky BBQ Bacon Buford burger, fries, and a 44-ounce drink in a Big Slim Collector cup.

Two winners, one from Instagram and one from TikTok, will be selected by a drawing from all entry participants.

Jacobs is proud to be a part of a company that supports the community as heavily as Checkers does. Over the past eight years, Jacobs has served as a franchisee for multiple Checkers locations in different regions. Throughout her tenure,

she has personally observed Checkers' commitment to the well-being of its employees through their Checkers Cares program. This initiative ensures that all eligible employees, regardless of their hourly or salaried positions within Checkers & Rally's system,

receive assistance in the aftermath of both natural and personal disasters. With her own restaurants, she has held several teacher appreciation events, giving them free lunch, and has held many community lunch giveaways. This is why she is so excited to support Checkers’ latest campaign.

Jacobs understands the importance of a good college education and credits her own experience with her business success.

She recalls how expensive college was for her family during that time and knows that firsthand from her son’s experience. "There are a lot of expenses trying to make sure they feel at home in their dorm room and making sure they have all the dorm room essentials that they need. None of this is very cheap nowadays." Jacobs continued, "You have to purchase a whole new room."

The help Checkers is offering college students is invaluable. Giving them this early start will help set them off on a successful course for the future.

"Checkers is trying to show that they are going to be there for the community in all aspects," said Jacobs. "We know what the community needs because we are a part of that same community. We don’t just stick restaurants in the area and not know what’s going around."

Ribbon cutting for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. For Members Only (FMO) Credit

The Houston Rockets fell short of accomplishing their goal on Monday of winning the NBA Summer League Championship, losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers by a score of 99-78 and finishing with a 5-1 record.

Yet, what they learned throughout the six games played may help them become more successful in phase two of their rebuilding process this season.

Jabari Smith Jr. Is On A Mission

Although he only played in eight quarters of basketball in Las Vegas, Smith used six of those to show the rest of the NBA world was he was capable of. The former third overall selection in the 2022 NBA Draft averaged 35.5 points, seven rebounds, and four assists per game. Smith set the tone early for the rest of the Rockets roster to follow by hitting a buzzer-beating three-point basket with 0.6 left on the clock in game one against the Portland Trailblazers.

Can I Get An Amen

The Rockets got a blessing in disguise in guard Amen Thompson whom they drafted with the fourth pick in this year’s draft. Thompson was lim-

SPORTS: ROCKETS SUMMER LEAGUE FINISH GIVES NEW LIFE TO A REBUILDING FRANCHISE

By Brian Barefield, Sports Editor

ited to one game of summer league play after he suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain against the Trailblazers.

What the point guard out of Overtime Elite showed before he sustained his injury is a reason for the Rockets and their fanbase to be excited. Thompson finished the game with 16 points (6-for-13), four rebounds, five assists, three steals, and four blocks. His versatility and athleticism were on

full display in front of the crowd in Las Vegas, which hopefully will carry over into the regular season.

The Other Guys Houston’s run to the championship game allowed some of the other players on the roster to get noticed. With Smith and second-year forward Tari Eason being removed from the rotation and Thompson’s ankle injury sidelining him for the remainder of the games,

summer league head coach Ben Sullivan was able to use players who may have a shot of receiving some regular season minutes for the Rockets or other teams. Guard Trevor Hudgins, who signed with Houston as an undrafted player in June 2022, had a six-game stretch where he helped lead the summer league’s best scoring offense by averaging 14.5 points per game while shooting 38 percent from three-point range. Hudgins spent most of his time last season with the Rockets’ G League affiliate team, Rio Grande Valley Vipers. His ability to shoot from long range was a key factor in Houston giving him another two-way contract at the start of free agency.

Once famous for his mullet-style haircut while playing for the Baylor Bears, Matthew Mayer did everything needed to help the Rockets reach the championship game on Monday.

Read more at StyleMagazine.com

www.HoustonRockets.com

ARTS: EL FRANCO LEE II: A JOURNEY THROUGH URBAN MANNERIST POP ART

The Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) is proud to present a captivating exhibition titled "El Franco Lee II: Mid-Career Survey," curated by HMAAC's esteemed Chief Curator, Christopher Blay. This highly anticipated showcase marks the first solo museum exhibition dedicated to the remarkable works of Houston-based artist El Franco Lee II. The exhibition commences with an exclusive preview reception on Friday, June 30, from 6-8PM and will remain open for public viewing until September 2. Moreover, art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to engage in an artist conversation on Saturday, August 5 at 2PM, where El Franco will provide

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

of Houston's Hip Hop culture, particularly his evocative depictions of the late Houston Rapper DJ Screw and his Screwed Up Click (SUC), that have garnered Lee widespread recognition. This retrospective survey encompasses a collection of 30 artworks crafted over the course of El Franco Lee II's illustrious 16-year career. His artistic journey began with childhood drawings and flourished through formal training at Yale University, where he earned a BFA in painting, followed by an MFA from the School of Art at the University of Houston.

unique insights into his artistic journey. El Franco aptly describes his distinctive style as "Urban Mannerist

Pop Art," a fusion of the bizarre and grotesque that coalesce in his paintings with intriguing balance and illogical harmony.

His compressed and flattened figures give birth to grand tableaux, embodying the art of storytelling, as eloquently expressed by Outkast. Within his canvases, El Franco skillfully navigates through historical figures like the legendary boxer Jack Johnson, alongside other revered Black icons such as Michael Jackson, Michael Jordan, Tupac Shakur, and JR Richards. However, it is his masterful portrayal

El Franco Lee II proudly hails from Houston, Texas, where he was raised and currently resides. His artistic talents were acknowledged and celebrated during his formative years in the public and parochial schools of Houston, receiving recognition from esteemed institutions such as the Houston Independent School District, the Archdiocese of Galveston Houston, Houston Livestock and Rodeo, and Glassell School of Art.

Read more at StyleMagazine.com

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