Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 24

LOCAL : HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE TO HOST

EVENT

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

Sports Editor

Brian Barefield brian_barefield@yahoo.com

Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Arts Editor

Kathleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

Roland Martin www.rolandmartin.com

Judge Greg Mathis www.askjudgemathis.com

Erynn Haskins editorial@stylemagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

Mike Munoz artrepreneur91@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

AdVertising emAil advertising@stylemagazine.com

Reuel Williams reuel@stylemagazine.com

Layout Editor Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.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

The Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) is honored and excited to host the 2023 National Urban League (NUL) Conference July 26-29 at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The NUL Conference’s return to Houston is a timely and valuable complement to HAUL’s mission of enabling black Houstonians and other marginalized communities to secure economic self-reliance, parity and political power. As HAUL approaches its 55th anniversary on June 19, we

are at a critical stage in which the civil rights of underserved Houstonians are at risk.

The conference benefits Houston as a whole in that it brings together major leaders from the business, government and social advocacy sectors and serves as a hub for policymakers, political activists and others to meet and exchange ideas, network and develop strategies to address a broad range of issues.

The conference kicks off at 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 26 with an agenda-setting “Urban League Fights for You” rally outlining the NUL’s goals on civil rights, education, women’s rights and gun safety issues. Other key features at this year’s conference include:

• Young Professionals L.E.A.D. Summit — Young professionals are the future of the movement tackling every issue affecting our communities. The L.E.A.D. Summit invites the public to connect, grow and advocate for the needs of every community.

• Dynamic Plenaries and Forums — The conference will offer several sessions welcoming the general public’s input on issues affecting their communities and the nation at-large.

able women leading the way toward greatness in our community at the Women of Power Awards Luncheon. This year, the NUL will recognize a diverse ensemble of trailblazing women who inspire and motivate others to pursue greatness in every aspect of life.

• Urban League Live! A Celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary — A celebration of hip hop music’s 50th anniversary will include a memorable night of music and special surprise performances.

• The Whitney M. Young Jr. Awards Gala — This event celebrates the voices and commitment of those championing the Urban League’s mission to empower Black communities nationwide.

• Small Business Matters Entrepreneurship Summit — This entails a full day dedicated to workshops, networking and valuable resources aimed at supporting small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in launching, growing and flourishing. This event is free. Pre-registration is required.

©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)

• The Gumbo Coalition Documentary Premiere — A documentary on the Gumbo Coalition follows two visionary civil rights leaders, Marc Morial and Janet Murguía, as they work to empower the African American and Latino American communities through three turbulent years in the U.S.

• Women of Power Awards Luncheon — The NUL will pay tribute to the remark-

• Community & Family Day Expo — One of the standout events at the NUL Conference is the Community & Family Day Expo, presented in collaboration with the Houston Area Urban League, the City of Houston and CenterPoint Energy. The event is free. Additionally, this year’s conference marks NUL President and CEO Marc H. Morial’s 20th anniversary with the organization.

ANNUAL NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE CONFERENCE JULY 26-29

KICKS OFF WITH MAJOR RALLY HIGHLIGHTING AMBITIOUS AGENDAS ON CIVIL RIGHTS, EDUCATION, WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND GUN SAFETY.

Marc Morial opening NUL Conference

Marc Morial

The federal indictment of Donald Trump – the first federal indictment of a former president in U.S. history – poses the question. Trump’s enraged reaction – calling it the “greatest witch hunt of all time” and denouncing special counsel Jack Smith, a career prosecutor, as a “deranged lunatic” – makes the question unavoidable. Obviously, Trump deserves a fair trial, his guilt or innocence determined by a jury of his peers. But every candidate for president should be asked if they would pardon Donald Trump if they were president. As Gerald Ford proved when pardoning Richard Nixon, a presidential pardon can be issued before a trial, or even before formal charges are brought, so the question needn’t wait on the trial.

Whether Donald Trump is found guilty or not (it will only take one juror in his upcoming Miami trial to produce a hung jury), the charges in the indictment are serious, and the facts alleged describe clear violations of the law. The president took classified documents that did not belong to him. These included truly consequential secrets – “information regarding defense and weapons capabilities of both the United States and foreign countries, U.S. nuclear programs … and plans for possible retaliation in response to a foreign attack.”

Trump shared classified information with guests who did not have security clearances, essentially crowing about his possession of them. When the National Archives and the Department of Justice sought return of the documents, Trump hatched efforts to hide some of them, even after he was issued a federal subpoena – a legal demand – that he return them.

He lied to federal officials,

WILL

TRUMP RECEIVE A GET OUT OF JAIL FREE CARD?

By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

to go through me and … through 75 million Americans just like me. And “…Most of us are card-carrying members of the NRA.” That’s not a threat,” she said, “That’s a public service announcement.”

and even deceived his own attorney. As Bill Barr, Trump’s former attorney general, stated, “there is no excuse for what he (Trump) did here.”

Anyone running for office must decide whether to stand with Trump and accuse the Justice Department of being “weaponized” or stand for the principle that no man is above the law, and the law should be applied to the powerful and the powerless alike.

The leading Trump challenger in the Republican Party, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, reacted to the indictment by charging that the “weaponization of federal law enforcement represents a mortal threat to a free society.”

Former Vice President Mike Pence tried to have it both ways, comparing the indictment to the way a “third-world nation” would use criminal charges to attack their opponents, while saying that it is imperative that the law be enforced even-handedly and demonstrate that no man is above the law. Similarly, Sen. Tim Scott tried to straddle, saying the charges were a “serious, serious challenge” to Trump, but denouncing the DOJ as “weaponized” against Trump.

Sadly, the only Republican contenders to criticize Trump are those that run lowest in the early polls. Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson called on Trump to withdraw from the race, and urged the Republican National Committee to revise the requirement that any Republican participating in the debates pledge to support the party’s eventual nominee by excluding anyone found guilty of espionage or a felony. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie called Trump’s perils “self-inflicted,” dismissing the attack on the independent special counsel.

Trump, of course, is free to run for president while under indictment or even from prison if he is found guilty. In 1920, Eugene Victor Debs ran for president while jailed for opposing World War I, garnering 900,000 votes as the Socialist Party candidate. Trump and his supporters now are promising violent “retribution.” Kari Lake, the failed Arizona gubernatorial candidate, addressed the Georgia Republican Party convention, warning the prosecutor, the attorney general and President Biden that “if you want to get to President Trump (sic), you are going to have

That rhetoric will grow ever more heated as the prosecution proceeds – and as seems likely, if Trump is indicted in Georgia for trying to overturn an election and in Washington for his complicity in the sacking of the Capitol on January 6. So, it is incumbent on those who seek the presidency to be clear about where they stand.

Do they stand with the proposition that no man is above the law, or would they give Donald Trump a pass? Will they support the criminal justice system – whatever the verdict – or will they offer Trump a pardon? Trump, of course, has made it clear he would pardon himself. Where do the other contenders for the presidency stand on that?

Many issues will be debated in the presidential race – the economy, abortion, guns, the “war on woke,” Ukraine, catastrophic climate change, the right to vote and more.

One central issue is posed by Trump’s vicious attack on the Justice Department, and the independent special counsel. Americans have the right to know: Would contenders for the presidency allow the criminal justice process to proceed or would they issue Trump a get out of jail free card?

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

Former President Donald Trump speaks during the North Carolina Republican Party Convention in Greensboro, N.C., Saturday, June 10, 2023. ((AP Photo_George Walker IV, File))

STATE: CROWN ACT PASSES IN TEXAS

Representative Rhetta Andrews

Bowers introduced HB 567, also known as the Texas Crown Act during the 87th Legislative Session. The bill is a groundbreaking law designed to address hair discrimination in the state of Texas. This legislation aims to protect individuals from being discriminated against based on their

natural hair texture or certain hairstyles that are historically associated with a particular race or ethnicity.

The Texas Crown Act recognizes that one's hair is an important aspect of personal identity and cultural expression. It prohibits employers, educational institutions, and public accommodations from enforcing dress

code policies that discriminate against natural hairstyles, such as braids, locks, twists, and afros. This law sends a powerful message that no Texan should be denied opportunities or treated unfairly due to their natural hair choices.

By passing the Texas Crown Act, Texas joins a growing number of states taking a stand against hair-

based discrimination with such styles as braids, locs, twists, and knots. The law promotes inclusivity, diversity, and equal rights, creating a more respectful and open environment for all individuals. It is a significant step forward in the fight for social justice and equality in the Lone Star State.

Rep. Borris L. Miles, Gov. Greg Abbott, Rep. Rhetta Andrews Bowers, and other legislators

Stafford, a city located southwest of Houston, made history on Saturday, June 10, by electing Ken Matthew as its first minority Mayor. Matthew secured a victory in a run-off election, receiving 500 votes, while incumbent Mayor Cecil Willis received 484 votes. Matthew's extensive experience includes 17 years of service on the Stafford City Council, making him the longest-serving council member in the city at the time of his candidacy.

POLITICS: STAFFORD ELECTS ITS FIRST MINORITY MAYOR

By Burt Levine, Political Writer

The County Department of Education has rehired Eduardo Honold, Ph.D., as the senior director of its Adult Education division, a position he previously held from 2009 to 2018.

“Dr. Honold brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role,” said Assistant Superintendent of Education and Enrichment, C.J. Rodgers, Ed.D. “He is well-respected by his peers at HCDE and his national adult education colleagues. Under his

“I’m very excited. My family and my neighbors are excited. In 17 years on the Stafford City Council, I have never held a fundraiser. This election was won with love. I have never said anything negative about my opponents or about the city that I love,” Matthew expressed.

Matthew takes pride in Stafford's unique economic model, which relies solely on sales tax collections for city revenue, resulting in no city property tax. He emphasizes the need for careful spending by both himself and the city council. Additionally, Stafford is home to the only municipal school district in Texas, which Matthew successfully defended in U.S. Supreme Court decisions.

He believes this arrangement provides students with increased attention and allows parents to have a greater say in their children's education.

“I’m also grateful for the diversity in this city that is in addition to economic diversity is ethnic diversity. In this city Caucasian, African American, Hispanic

and Asians are almost even with all four groups being in twenty-something percentages. We love in Stafford prizing our past which was a small rural railroad Italian family-based community. In Stafford we are focused on our future as a diverse exciting innovation,” Matthew said.

During the Saturday, May 6 General Election, Matthew's opponents took a confrontational approach, contrasting his own campaign that was rooted in love for his hometown of Stafford, where he has resided since 1980. Matthew ran as a staunch supporter of Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas, and America. He holds a BBA and MBA degrees from the University of Detroit and has built a successful career in business management, primarily for growing technology firms in the Houston area.

“Stafford, like Houston has no City Manager and like the previous mayors I am against having a City Manager.

Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Austin have City Managers to run their city. Here locally Sugar Land<

Missouri City and Rosenberg employ at a high cost to the city taxpayers a city manager. My life career, my academic and professional training is private sector American business management. We do not need the hundreds of thousands of dollars of expense to recruit, hire and maintain a city manager,” Matthew remarked.

Out of the 9,807 registered voters in Stafford, Matthew secured 500 votes, representing 50.81 percent of the total, while Willis received 484 votes. Willis, a graduate of Texas A&M University in 1965, had served on the Stafford City Council for 36 years before being elected as Mayor just last year, succeeding Mayor Leonard Scarcella, who held the position for over 50 years.

During the Saturday, May 6 Election, Willis faced challenges from three of his fellow city council members. In addition to Matthew, Wen Guerra and Don Jones also ran against Willis, necessitating their resignation from the city council to participate in the mayoral race.

LOCAL: FORMER ADULT EDUCATION DIRECTOR EDUARDO HONOLD TAPPED TO RETURN TO ROLE

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

leadership, we will continue to innovate, improve, and evolve our services to meet the needs of our students.”

Honold, an award-winning adult education advocate and teacher, most recently served as a grant compliance specialist for community education at the Socorro Independent School District in El Paso, Texas.

“I’m happy to be able to return. I’m excited about HCDE’s continued commitment to adult education,” said

Honold. “It is a very special program. We call it a ‘second chances’ program for individuals who could not complete their education or further it for one reason or another.”

In Harris County, he is best known for his level-headed temperament and for spearheading vocational training first offered by Adult Education in 2014.

“I’m very proud of that achievement,” said Honold. “We had no vo-

cational programs at HCDE, so we had to develop those from scratch. It's something that has continued and that we really hope to expand.”

Honold holds a doctoral degree and a master’s degree in political science from Northwestern University. He obtained his bachelor's degree, also in political science, from Denison University.

Honold will report for duty at HCDE on June 12, 2023.

Stafford Mayor Elect Ken Mathew

Eduardo Honold

RICKEY SMILEY On Dealing with Tragedy, Family & Fatherhood

By Gwen B. Johnson, Special for www.StyleMagazine.com

Renowned comedian and MAJIC 102.1 FM’s morning drive host, Rickey Smiley, recently took a break from his radio show to share words of courage and inspiration after the sudden loss of his son. Coping with the devastating tragedy, Smiley acknowledged the difficulties but expressed his determination to support his family. With an unwavering faith and the support of renowned clergy, friends, and family, Smiley credited his faith for helping him through the loss. He also considered seeking professional therapy for healing.

Smiley’s son, Brandon, 32, passed away due to ongoing struggles with substance abuse, just days before his 33rd birthday. Smiley described Brandon as his first love and shared their attempts to help him overcome his challenges throughout the years. Smiley encouraged others to seek the necessary help, emphasizing the difficulties of the recovery journey.

Despite the deep sadness he experiences each morning, Smiley acknowledged the need to keep moving forward and support others who have also lost loved ones. Grateful for the years spent as Brandon’s father, he remained prayerful and acknowledged the goodness of God.

As a proud father, Smiley opened his home to family members, adopting and raising children within his circle. Reflecting on his own fatherless childhood, he rec-

ognized the valuable influence of his grandfather and uncles, who served as blueprints for fatherhood. Smiley expressed pride in his children, nieces, nephews, and cousins, amazed by their development and their roles as parents themselves.

When asked how his children perceive him as a father, Smiley believed they would view him as a fun yet disciplined figure, teaching

them important life skills and values. Education played a significant role in his household, and his children were focused on their own educational pursuits.

Although his children were growing up and heading off to college, Smiley remained an involved father and grandfather. As the guardian of his adopted daughter’s son, Grayson, he expressed gratitude

for the support he received while raising him. Smiley also embraced his role as a grandfather, enjoying the presence of his grandchildren, including Storm, Brandon’s daughter, and Baby Denver, D’Essence’s daughter.

Beyond his family roles, Smiley’s career as a comedian continued to thrive. Traveling between the Radio One studios in Dallas and his home in Birmingham, he entertained audiences with sold-out comedy shows and hosted karaoke and comedy events at the Stardome Comedy Club.

As a radio host, Smiley used his platform to encourage listeners to prioritize their relationships with their children and be a positive influence in their lives. He recognized the challenges faced by single fathers and urged them to fight for visitation rights and engage in activities with their children.

Despite his personal struggles and losses, he remained faithful, guided by strong family values.

Sending our very best Father’s Day blessings to Rickey Smiley and all the Majic102.1 FM fathers and fathers everywhere! Read

Rickey Smiley

Photo By Derek Blanks

NOTHING LIKE A FATHER’S COUNSEL

Afather's advice carries the weight of wisdom and experience. In his words lie a treasure trove of life lessons. From teaching resilience to imparting values, he guides with unwavering love. Whether practical or profound, his advice molds us, shaping the path we walk. A father's counsel, forever cherished, forever valued. The Houston Style Magazine staff shares a little advice they learned from their fathers.

There is one thing I could always count on my father to do every time the weather was bad, and that was to call with a driving lesson. "Jo, you have to remember that the streets are really slick when it rains. You have to be careful and drive slowly," I still hear him say. Whenever the wind blows just a little too furious, when the rain is downright blinding, and when the thunder sounds like a bolt of lightning, I remember my daddy. No matter how many years of good driving I had under my belt, it was never enough for him to think I would be safe while driving through a storm. Now, I wish for my phone to ring with those tried-and-true lessons, but no worries, Daddy. I heard him. The lessons stuck. I am forever grateful for a loving father.

-Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor

Growing up, my father was not in my life, but Pastor Steve Crampton (Rest In peace) was. Even though he had children, and I was older, he always had advice for me that I still use to this day. Of course, he would say, "Study the Word," but he also would tell me that "I don't have to fight every battle alone."

It was what I needed at the time, especially being the oldest in a single-parent household.

-Brian Barefield, Sports Editor

My father has fostered in my brother and me an understanding of dedication to duty and a love for putting responsibility first for faith, family, fiscal restraint, and fidelity to Country and Community. Captain Michael Levine, MD (US Navy-Ret), and a disabled Vietnam War Veteran pushed Steve and me to know that delayed gratification is what is more likely to get you where you need to go. It is his sacrifice and service that set us to put those priorities first.

-Burt

Levine, Political Writer

My dad would tell me a lot of things father to son, but the one thing he would tell me anytime I started on a new path or a new journey, is to see it through. "Finish what you started son." Don't ever give up. I stick to that advice daily.

- Cameron C. Lee, Layout Editor

HONORING THE PAST, CELEBRATING FREEDOM

Juneteenth an annual celebration in the United States, holds deep significance as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the triumph over slavery. Despite the abolition of slavery, the continued observance of Juneteenth underscores the importance of acknowledging our collective history and working towards a more inclusive society.

While the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, it took over two years for the news to reach enslaved African Americans in remote areas of the South. On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with the announcement that all slaves were free. This date, known as Juneteenth, became a symbol of emancipation and a milestone in the fight against slavery.

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth to honor the resilience and strength of those who endured the horrors of slavery. It serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed and the sacrifices made by African Americans throughout history. By acknowledging this painful past, we strive to ensure that it is never forgotten and to create a more just society.

Juneteenth celebrations vary across the country but often include parades, festivals, educational events, and family gatherings. These festivities provide an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together, learn about African American history, and engage in conversations about racial equality.

Furthermore, celebrating Juneteenth is a chance to highlight the achievements and contributions of African Americans to society. It serves as a platform to recognize their art, culture, music, literature, and their significant impact on shaping America's diverse heritage.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of Juneteenth's importance.

In 2021, it was officially recognized as a federal holiday, elevating its significance on a national level. This recognition signifies a step towards acknowledging the injustices of the past and embracing a more inclusive future. By celebrating Juneteenth, we reaffirm our commitment to equality and justice.

Read More at StyleMagazine.com

Tidwell Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Plan

Developing Places with Purpose

METRO’s Tidwell Transit Center will be a key connection point for the upcoming METRORapid University Corridor Project and we want to make it even better.

We’re looking for suggestions on how METRO can unite outstanding transit service with housing, mobility and economic development to help enhance the vibrant Eastex-Jensen community.

Join us at an open house in your area or scan the QR code for more information.

Photos

When our homeless response outreach teams first met Curtis, he had been living on the streets for nearly 20 years. He was sleeping in a tent under a freeway near downtown Houston. Following the unexpected death of his mother, he had fallen into a deep depression. A lack of adequate mental health support had led him to self-medication, then drug-related incarceration, then homelessness.

But one day last November, Curtis couldn’t stop smiling. He was moving into permanent supportive housing — his own apartment with a bright blue door. These days, Curtis enjoys watching movies and reading books in his home, which he now shares with a new companion: a kitten named Bella.

In Houston, we believe our most difficult issues, including homelessness, are solvable. We know that people like Curtis are not beyond help, so long as we work collaboratively and strategically to assist them. Our approach to tackling this seemingly intractable problem can serve as a guide to other American cities seeking to address growing homeless populations.

OPINION: HOW HOUSTON’S HOMELESSNESS BREAKTHROUGH COULD BE A NATIONAL GAME-CHANGER

By Marc Eichenbaum and Michael Nichols/CNN/StyleMagazine.com Newswire

on reducing homelessness. Our collaboration includes using a centralized database to capture information and track the service needs of people experiencing homelessness and using a standardized assessment to determine which housing and/or service interventions best suit each household.

Second, we embraced the data-proven best practices of Housing

We should note that homelessness got worse here before it got better. In 2011, the Houston area had one of the largest homeless populations in the country. With the threat of homelessness only increasing, and dismay over decades of substantial investments without results, our community was propelled into action.

Since 2012, more than 28,000 people who have experienced homelessness in the greater Houston area have been housed. This has resulted in a more than a 60% decrease in overall homelessness in just over a decade.

So, what changed? In 2012, we

came together as a unified, regional, homeless response system called The Way Home and chose the nonprofit Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/ Harris County as our lead agency.

Then we made three crucial decisions. First, we decided to work together as a collaborative system, aligned around a standardized set of goals, processes and strategies, rather than as individual organizations and government entities each trying to chip away at the problem. Today, more than 100 entities in the Houston area are working together and combining their efforts and resources to move the needle

First, a strategy focused on getting individuals and families out of homelessness and into permanent housing before helping them address any other problems. We do this via voluntary wraparound support services, e.g., mental health or substance abuse counseling, health care, job training and so on. The services help keep the person housed, and the housing is what makes the services effective.

Third, we housed the most vulnerable people first.

Read the full story online at StyleMagazine.com

You think I'd lay down and die? Oh no, not I, I will survive…” The lyrics to the song “I Will Survive,” which won the only Grammy for Best Disco Recording in 1980, could also be words written on the first page of Gloria Gaynor’s diary.

She’s lived that song. And there she was, after the premiere of her bio/ documentary Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive, singing on stage at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival. A legend, icon and soul survivor watched her life story play out on the screen. She had to feel proud of herself and the audience was happy to watch her bask in the glow. Wisely, TV producer turned first-time documentary director Betsy Schechter doesn’t just assemble a photo collage and videography of Gaynor’s history. Instead, she also charts Gaynor’s

ENTERTAINMENT: THE GLORIA GAYNOR: I WILL SURVIVE DOCUMENTARY BLESSES

THE 2023 TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

By Dwight Brown, Film Critic for DwightBrownInk.com and NNPA Newswire

years-long quest to make a gospel LP. So, viewers are reminded of her storied career, experience her life journey and watch a protagonist fight an entrenched music industry that compartmentalizes artists. She’s evolving from the disco to the praise worship genre. Regardless.

The facts are catalogued. Abandoned by her father, raised by a single mom, molested and sexually abused as an adolescent then married to a man who spent her into poverty. You want to root for her as she goes to college, struggles to find her place in the world of Christian music and shows everyone that at age 80 she’s lived through the good times, survived the worst and risen again.

A recent Donna Summer documentary catalogued her life story but felt trite. This doc feels rich because its central focus is a very wise, educated wom-

an who shares what she’s learned and dispensed it in profound, philosophical streams of thoughts. E.g., “Kids don’t know they ‘re poor, if they’re loved.” She learned lessons from her upbringing and a mom who made her feel whole. She also understands the virtue of staying focused and on course as she turns her career around. That’s manifested by her determination to finish her long-gestating gospel album, without detours: “If you’re going from Florida to New York, you don’t have to go by way of California.”

There are glimpses of Gaynor at her peaks, being feted as an international star. Her valleys, touring with no band, singing backed only by a CD. Recovering from a debilitating back injury. Star singer in several bands, working with Clive Davis, losing her contract and remerging with a disco hit that would become her anthem. It’s all on view. Gaynor recollects her own story. Her manager, producer, relatives and others fill in the gaps. Photos, footage, TV interviews and a toe-tapping playlist provide a steady verve that will keep music fans, baby boomers and fellow survivors engaged for 99 minutes.

The film’s most touching

scene is when Gaynor visits a school in Valencia, Spain that has struggled. Her song “I Will Survive” contributed to the students finding hope, determination and triumph. Gaynor arrives as the prophet, lauded, accepted and loved. Demonstrating that a singer, person and song can empower others.

That ministry of positivity is what she brought to the stage June 9th, at the Tribeca Film Festival. Moviegoers saw her life story on screen and reveled in the combination of film and live disco and gospel music by the two-time Grammy winner.

The film was the preamble, a heartfelt, inspiring documentary about an iconic soul survivor.

Then Gloria Gaynor took the stage and blessed everyone with her presence. It was a gift all will cherish, dearly.

“I've got all my life to live. And I've got all my love to give, and I'll survive.”

Visit NNPA News Wire Film Critic Dwight Brown at DwightBrownInk.com.

In honor of Black Music Month Houston Style Magazine salutes legendary artist Gloria Gaynor and others like her and those on the rise.

Gloria Gaynor

The H-E-B Tournament of Champions, one of the nation's largest charitable events, achieved an unprecedented milestone by raising a record-breaking $13.5 million. This outstanding feat brings the total amount raised over 38 years to an impressive $159 million, demonstrating the enduring generosity of committed organizations and individuals supporting Texas nonprofit organizations.

In a remarkable display of philanthropy, the H-E-B Tournament of Champions also announced its commitment to uplift communities by contributing to various causes. As part of their charitable giving this year, the tournament's affiliated charitable trust, in partnership with the San Antonio-based retailer, will donate a generous sum of $1 million towards the construction of a new elementary campus in Uvalde.

Additionally, the trust will gift three mortgage-free and fully furnished homes to three severely wounded

H-E-B TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS RAISES $13.5 MILLION, BREAKS RECORDS TO SUPPORT TEXAS NONPROFITS

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

to continue our support of the Uvalde community as it works to recover and rebuild."

The H-E-B Tournament of Champions stands as a shining example of the power of collective compassion and the positive impact it can have on communities across the Lone Star

State. With their remarkable fundraising success and dedication to transformative giving, H-E-B continues to exemplify their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of Texans in need.

military Veterans and their families. This gesture of gratitude and support highlights H-E-B's dedication to honoring those who have made significant sacrifices in the service of their country.

The H-E-B Tournament of Champions took place from June 7th to June 9th in San Antonio, where H-E-B Partners, vendors, suppliers, and nonprofits united for this remarkable event. The tournament not only serves as a platform to raise funds but also hosts a day-ofservice, which has become one of the city's largest one-day volunteer events.

"We are thrilled to have set another record, raising the largest amount in this event's history. Each year, we're amazed at the enduring generosity from so many committed organizations, which allows us to provide much-needed support to nonprofits across Texas," expressed Winell Herron, H-E-B Group Vice President of Public Affairs, Diversity, and Environmental Affairs.

"Through this giving, we're also proud

SPORTS: HOUSTON TEXANS TYTUS HOWARD NAMED 2023 BLACK COLLEGE FOOTBALL PRO PLAYER OF THE YEAR

By Brian Barefield, Sports Editor

Houston Texans offensive lineman

Tytus Howard cherishes the moments he spent on the campus of Alabama State University (ASU) in Montgomery, Alabama. There, he honed his skills on the football field and became a first-round draft pick in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Texans.

Howard is being recognized for his contributions at Alabama State and his four years with Houston both on and off the field by the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) as the 2023 Black College Football Pro Player of the Year.

Last season, Howard hosted youth from the Houston Texans YMCA at home games at NRG Stadium as part of the Community Huddle program. He also teamed up with teammates during the Christmas holidays to help provide gifts for families through the YMCA of Greater Houston’s community outreach program at Cuney Homes Center.

"It was a huge honor," said Howard about receiving the award from the NFLPA. "I’m grateful to have been selected to win this award. It was a humbling experience to accept this

award in front of the legends who were there."

The former walk-on tight end was moved to play multiple positions on the offensive line for the Hornets, and the rest is history. Howard started 35 games for ASU from 2015–18, where he received All-SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference) honors.

Howard started 54 games for the Texans and earned a career-high 67.9 grade from Pro Football Focus in 2022, starting 15 games at left tackle and two at right guard.

"When I first got to college, I really didn’t have aspirations to play in the NFL," Howard said. "I just wanted to go to school and then go to law school. That is why I majored in criminal justice. As I became a student of the game and learned more about football, I began to love it."

"I was not on scholarship, so when I first got to college, it was a grind for me. Now I go and look back at all the things I have been through; it was all worth it. To see where I am now, I never imagined myself being a first-round pick, and it is just a blessing.

In Theaters Near You!

Disney and Pixar’s “Elemental” is an allnew, original feature film set in Element City, where fire-, water-, land- and air-residents live together. The story introduces Ember, a tough, quick-witted and fiery young woman,

whose friendship with a fun, sappy, go-withthe-flow guy named Wade challenges her beliefs about the world they live in. Directed by Peter Sohn (“The Good Dinosaur,” “Partly Cloudy” short), produced by Denise Ream (“The Good

Dinosaur,” “Cars 2”), and featuring the voices of Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie as Ember and Wade, respectively, “Elemental” releases on 7th July, 2023.

ART: "WOVEN WONDERS: INDIAN TEXTILES FROM THE PARPIA COLLECTION" TO SHOWCASE AT MFAH THIS SUMMER

By StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

Through this exhibition, featuring their exceptional collection, we aim to deepen our representation of Houston's South Asian community's rich cultural heritage while exploring the captivating history of one of India's most treasured art forms."

An exquisite display of 80 textiles, spanning from the 14th to the early 20th century, will grace the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) from June 10 to September 4, 2023. This remarkable exhibition, curated from the private collection of Banoo and Jeevak Parpia, presents a captivating glimpse into the preeminence of Indian textile arts developed over a span of 600 years.

Gary Tinterow, Director of MFAH and Margaret Alkek Williams Chair, expressed the institution's longstanding dedication to Indian arts, stating, "Banoo and Jeevak Parpia have generously shared their profound insight and expertise with our programs and our collection of Indian textiles.

Amy Poster, Consulting Curator at MFAH and co-curator of the exhibition, highlighted the comprehensive and expertly collected nature of the Parpia Collection, stating, "Rarely do we encounter Indian textile collections of such magnitude and breadth.

The Parpia Collection, assembled to showcase a diverse range of regional traditions, features many extraordinary pieces that exemplify the aesthetic and technical diversity of Indian textiles, from folk weavings to sophisticated court textiles."

India has long been celebrated as a pioneer in fine cotton and silk textiles, fostering some of the world's most innovative textile traditions. The collection showcases a wide array of techniques, including painting, block printing, ikat, tie-dye, brocade, tapes-

try, and embroidery, thereby reflecting the diverse regional textile production within India. The rich ornamentation and designs mirror the varied social and cultural contexts for which these textiles were created, encompassing Hindu devotional practices, Islamic court textiles, and domestic use.

Moreover, the exhibition delves into the historical patterns and dynamics of 500 years of thriving maritime trade that facilitated the distribution of Indian textiles to Southeast Asia, Europe, and Japan. Initially driven by Arab, Persian, and Indian merchants, this trade later came under the control of Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders who exchanged Indian textiles for spices in Southeast Asia and expanded the market for Indian chintz and embroideries across Asia and Europe. Reflecting this evolving demand, early textiles showcased in the exhibition, crafted for trade with Indonesia during the 14th to 16th centuries, were highly valued and preserved as cherished heirlooms. Subsequent textiles created for specific markets in Thailand, Sri Lanka,

and Europe demonstrate how designers and artisans tailored fabrics to cater to foreign tastes.

The exhibition also presents luxury textiles commissioned by royal patrons between the 17th and 19th centuries, showcasing the finest weaving, dyeing, and embroidery designs executed with unparalleled sophistication.