As the summer heat intensifies, Harris County Precinct One has taken proactive measures to support our community by opening several cooling centers and distribution sites. These centers offer vital resources, including water and food distribution, ensuring the well-being of all residents during this extreme heat advisory.
Distribution Sites
Open from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (or until supplies run out)
• Harris County Precinct One Central Service Center
7901 El Rio St, Houston, TX 77054
• Lincoln Park Community Center
979 Grenshaw St, Houston, TX, 77088
Hot Meal Distribution with the Salvation Army
Open from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. (or until supplies run out)
• Harris County Precinct One El Camino Center 2727 El Camino St., Houston, TX 77054
Cooling Centers
Open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Lincoln Park Community Center
979 Grenshaw St, Houston, TX 77088
• Tom Bass Community Center 15108 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77047
For the latest updates or changes to these sites, please check our website, Facebook, and Twitter.
General Information and Resources
Stay Informed and Prepared:
• Learn About Beryl Recovery Resources: For up-to-date information on recovery efforts, visit the Ready Harris website.
• Beat the Heat: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can result in heat-related illnesses. Stay hydrated and follow safety
LOCAL : PRECINCT ONE OPENS COOLING CENTERS FOR WATER AND FOOD DISTRIBUTION
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
tips available on the Houston Emergency website.
• Generator Safety: Avoid operating generators indoors or in enclosed spaces. For more information, visit the Red Cross website.
Essential Services and Alerts:
• CenterPoint’s Power Alert Service: Sign up here for power outage alerts.
• Report Downed Power Lines: Maintain a safe distance and call 713-207-2222.
• Natural Gas Leaks: Smell gas? Evacuate immediately, call 911, and report to CenterPoint at 713-659-2111.
• Report Fallen Trees and Malfunctioning Traffic Lights: Call 311 or 713-837-0311.
water utility provider.
• United Way 211 Helpline: Connect with recovery resources, including SNAP benefits replacement.
• Texas Connective Survey: Help local non-profits by completing the survey here. Protect Yourself from Scams:
• Disaster Fraud Awareness: Learn how to protect yourself from scams by visiting the United Way website.
Mental Health Support:
• Disaster Distress Helpline: Call or text 1-800-985-5990 for 24/7 crisis support. More information is available on the SAMHSA website.
Public Health and Emergency Assistance:
• Harris County Public Health (HCPH) Connect: Access assistance for benefit programs and resources. Visit the HCPH Connect website.
• State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR): Register here for priority help during emergencies if you have special needs.
After the Storm:
• Document Storm Damage: Take photos of damages for insurance and FEMA claims. Participate in the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s iSTAT damage survey to help draw federal recovery funds.
• Sort and Report Storm Debris: Place debris curbside and call 311 for pickup. Follow guidelines on the Ready Harris storm debris guide.
Support and Assistance:
• Crisis Cleanup Helpline: For assistance with hurricane damage, call 979-217-3791.
• Boil Water Notices: Stay informed about boil water notices via local news or your
Please visit Ready Harris for the most current information and sign up for weather and emergency alerts by texting Gulf2024 to 888777.
As we recover from Hurricane Beryl, Harris County agencies are dedicated to supporting all residents. For further assistance, please call 346-286-2125.
This article ensures that the readers of Houston Style Magazine are well-informed and prepared, highlighting the community's resilience and the resources available to support them during challenging times.
Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
Associate Publisher
Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com
Managing Editor
Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com
Social Media Editor/Videographer
Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com
Graphic Design /Layout Editor
Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com
Political Editor
Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com
Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com
Arts Editor Bianca Elam biancaelam777.be@gmail.com
Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com
FEATURE: PRESIDENT BIDEN'S ENHANCED DISASTER RELIEF
FOR HARRIS COUNTY - A BEACON OF HOPE FOR HURRICANE BERYL SURVIVORS
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
President a significant move to bolster the recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. has amended the Major Disaster Declaration for Texas. This amendment, signed on July 12, 2024, authorizes additional federal assistance aimed at helping individuals and families jumpstart their recovery process in the wake of the hurricane that ravaged parts of Texas from July 5-9, 2024.
Expanded Federal Assistance for Texans
President Biden's action opens the door for enhanced federal funding for disaster survivors, particularly targeting those who are uninsured or underinsured. This aid is pivotal for residents of Brazoria, Chambers, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker, and Wharton counties.
The assistance includes grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs designed to help individuals and business owners recover from the disaster's aftermath. This comprehensive support aims to address the immediate and long-term needs of the affected communities.
Federal Coordinating Officer Appointment
Benjamin Abbott has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. His role will be crucial in overseeing the distribution and utilization of the federal aid, ensuring that the resources reach those in dire need efficiently and effectively. Additional designations may follow, depending on further assessments and state requests.
How to Apply for Assistance
Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance immediately. The application process is streamlined to facilitate quick and easy access to the available resources. Here are the ways to apply:
• Online Registration: Visit DisasterAssis-
tance.gov
• FEMA Helpline: Call 1-800-621-3362.
The helpline operates from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT and offers assistance in multiple languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service, or others, provide FEMA with the number for that service.
• FEMA App: Download the FEMA App for mobile devices to apply and get updates.
• Disaster Recovery Centers: For personalized assistance, visit a local Disaster Recovery Center. Locations can be found on fema.gov/drc.
New Benefits and Simplified Processes
FEMA has introduced several new benefits and a simplified application process to make it easier for Texans to access the aid they need. These include:
• Serious Needs Assistance: A one-time $750 payment per household to cover essential items such as food, water, first aid, prescriptions, and more.
• Displacement Assistance: Financial support for immediate housing needs if your home is uninhabitable due to the disaster.
• Expanded Eligibility: More flexible funding options are now available to a wider range of applicants.
Documentation Requirements
When applying for FEMA assistance, ensure you have the following information ready:
• A current phone number
• Your address at the time of the disaster and your current address
• Your Social Security number
• A general list of damage and losses
• Banking information for direct deposit (if preferred)
• Insurance policy number and company name (if insured)
Additional Support Measures
In addition to the primary aid options, FEMA provides several support measures to further assist disaster survivors:
• A streamlined process to apply for both SBA and FEMA assistance simultaneously.
• Financial help for underinsured individuals to cover home repair costs.
• Support for self-employed individuals to replace damaged tools and equipment.
• Expanded assistance to make homes safer and more accessible for people with disabilities.
• Simplified processes for extending temporary housing assistance and appealing FEMA decisions.
• Aid for repairing or replacing disaster-damaged computers.
Conclusion
The additional federal assistance authorized by President Biden is a lifeline for many Texans struggling to rebuild their lives after Hurricane Beryl. With enhanced funding, simplified application processes, and comprehensive support measures, the road to recovery is now more accessible for Harris County residents and other affected communities.
For continuous updates and detailed information on disaster recovery assistance, visit Houston Style Magazine and stay informed on the latest developments in our community's recovery efforts.
COMMENTARY THE 900-PAGE GUIDE TO SNUFFING OUT AMERICAN DEMOCRACY
What if there was a blueprint for a future presidential administration to unilaterally lay waste to our constitutional order and turn America from a democracy into an autocracy in one fell swoop?
That is what one far-right think tank and its contributors created. And more than a hundred other far-right organizations have now signed on to support that blueprint. What could possibly go wrong?
Maybe you have heard about Project 2025. It was cooked up by the far-right Heritage Foundation. That organization’s leader says we are in a “second American Revolution” that he suggests could turn violent if those who oppose their disastrous plan to kill our democracy do not get in line behind it.
For its 51-year history, the Heritage Foundation has always been an instrument of the Far Right. Around 2016, it started to become dangerously extreme. Project 2025, and its 900-page guidebook for ending the American experiment, is perhaps its most extreme – and dangerous – initiative yet.
The premise behind Project 2025 is that our constitutional system of checks and balances somehow is skewed against the American people based on their politics. It is an argument that itself exposes the extremity of those making it.
Our Constitution provides a framework, as do our democratic institutions, for political debate and disagreement within the natural parameters of our system of government. Although our country has too often bucked the very principles of our founding, we used to be able to agree that, generally, America is a Republic that elects its leaders through representative democracy. And that for our government to serve the best interests of all its people, we must protect debate and a free exchange of ideas, as well as the mechanisms of democracy itself and the separhation of powers among the three branches of government.
By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator
Project 2025 wants to throw all that out the window. It attacks democratic institutions that separate nonpolitical civil service from loyalty to any particular party or leader. It prescribes purging the federal government of anyone who might be considered disloyal to the ruling party. It allows the president to usurp power from other branches of government, like Congress’s power of the purse. Project 2025 endorses presidential powers that include ignoring how Congress appropriates spending, where the president has the unquestioned authority to redirect congressionally passed spending at will.
Democracy Forward, a pro-democracy legal organization, refers to Project 2025 as “among the most profound threats to the American people.”
That is due to the plan’s clear harm to the lives, livelihoods, and wellbeing of countless millions of Americans – “from attacking overtime pay, student loans, and reproductive rights, to allowing more discrimination, pollution, and price gouging,” according to Democracy Forward.
It is no wonder that when Americans learn about the Project 2025 road-
map, they reject its policy prescriptions overwhelmingly.
A recent survey by Navigator Polling found strong opposition to Project 2025’s possible impacts on healthcare: “83 percent oppose removing protections for people with pre-existing conditions, 81 percent oppose putting a new tax on health insurance for people who get coverage through their employer, and 80 percent oppose banning Medicare from negotiating lower prices and eliminating the $35 monthly insulin cap.”
Project 2025 also calls for defunding public education and eliminating Head Start, the early education program that serves a million primarily low-income children. It lights the path for actions that could reduce food assistance for 40 million people and cost hundreds of thousands of people their jobs.
Project 2025 also supports the defunding or dismantling of key federal agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which is vital in tracking hurricanes and the impacts of climate change. Rather than acknowledging the
urgent need for climate action, Project 2025 accuses NOAA of being “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry.” That is a level of climate denialism not even seen among fossil fuel companies and petrostate governments these days.
How could anyone in their right mind think eliminating agencies on the frontlines of climate science is a good idea at a time like this?? Our cities are cooking under extreme heat. Forests are burning. And experts say Hurricane Beryl, which just slammed Texas – the strongest tropical storm ever recorded this early in the season – indicates we could be facing one of the most devastating hurricane seasons ever. In Texas alone, Beryl killed at least eight people and caused power outages for more than 2.5 million in this summer’s extreme heat. And, again, the season is just getting started.
We have big problems to solve. An authoritarian power grab that guts checks and balances is no way to solve them. A strong democracy that is responsive to its people is the only way we will create a rising tide of opportunity that lifts all boats. It is the only way we will protect people’s fundamental rights and survive the climate crisis. We have seen enough examples of dictatorships around the world to know it is a road to failure and misery. Project 2025 emphasizes consolidating power, punishing political opponents, and making the government work for the powerful few over the many. That is not the country Americans want or deserve.
Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.”
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com www.StyleMagazine.com
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22, 2024
8:00AM-10:30AM
FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF DALLAS 1801 ALLEN PARKWAY HOUSTON, TX 77019
CONFERENCE & BUSINESS EXPO
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024
8:00AM-10:30AM
FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF DALLAS 1801 ALLEN PARKWAY HOUSTON, TX 77019
Sponsorship opportunities available (713) 644-7070 | info@houstonhispanicchamber.com www.houstonhispanicchamber.com
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Leader of Houston’s New Majority®
In a celebration of community service and commitment to diversity, Fort Bend County District Clerk Beverly Walker was awarded the prestigious Pakistani American Business & Professional Association’s 2024 Unity in Diversity Award. The award ceremony, held at Aga’s, was a vibrant event reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of southeast Texas.
A Beacon of Public Service
Beverly Walker, a dedicated public servant, expressed her gratitude and commitment to her role in Fort Bend County. "It’s a privilege to serve the public in Fort Bend County and Texas," Walker stated.
"Making public safety and providing justice in the management of the district courts in Texas’ most diverse county is my priority. Public safety, public service, equity, and excellence in delivering public service have always been my north star."
The event, marked by an Indian and Southwest Asian theme, was a grand affair, attracting hundreds of public officials, private business leaders, and well-wishers from across southeast Texas, including Fort Bend and Harris Counties, where Walker's career began and flourished.
A Trailblazer with Diverse Roots Walker’s journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Born to
POLITICAL: FORT BEND COUNTY DISTRICT CLERK BEVERLY
WALKER HONORED WITH 2024 UNITY IN DIVERSITY AWARD
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for
African American, Caucasian, and Chinese American parents in rural Calvert and Marlin, Texas, she became one of the first black women to graduate from Texas A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Languages. She moved to Houston to teach English and Spanish at Lamar High School before advancing her career as an admissions officer at Texas A&M. Walker furthered her education with a Master of Education from the University of Houston.
In 1989, while serving as the Direct
Recruitment Committee program director at Texas Southern University, Walker made history by defeating 16-year incumbent Jim Westmoreland to become the first black woman elected to Houston City Council. Championing Diversity and Inclusion
As District Clerk, Walker has been a staunch advocate for diversity. "I have worked to increase diversity in the District Clerk’s Office in hiring professional staff and employees at every level," she said. Her efforts extend to diversifying the jury pool and contracting businesses and services
that reflect the county’s demographics. Fort Bend County, with a population that is nearly 28 percent Caucasian, 25 percent Hispanic, 23 percent black, and 23 percent Asian, serves as a model of inclusivity. Walker has also initiated Passport Fairs at public libraries across Fort Bend County, aiding citizens of all ages in acquiring passports, thereby fostering a more globally connected community.
A Legacy of Service and Achievement
Throughout the 1990s, Walker and her husband Sedrick built successful businesses while raising their three sons. Walker’s political career includes two runoff berths in U.S. Congress races and earning a law degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. She was elected District Clerk in 2018 and secured resounding re-election in 2022.
Walker’s dedication to public service has not gone unnoticed. She received the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden for her volunteer work. "Public service is what makes life worthwhile," Walker said, reflecting on her achievements for taxpayers and families in Fort Bend County.
Sandra & Burt Levine with Fort Bend County District Clerk Beverly Walker
President Joe Biden's reelection campaign has received a significant boost with the release of new data showing a dramatic decrease in border arrests. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), arrests for illegally entering the U.S. from Mexico plummeted by 29% in June, marking the lowest monthly level of the Biden administration. The total number of arrests in June was 83,536, down from 117,901 in May, representing the lowest tally since January 2021.
This positive development follows the announcement of a Presidential Proclamation on June 4, 2024, which temporarily-suspended the entry of certain noncitizens across the southern border. The executive action was aimed at preventing the U.S.-Mexico border from becoming overwhelmed. CBP figures reflect a significant decline in migrant encounters following this proclamation, underscoring the impact of the new border security measures.
In a statement, Troy A. Miller, the CBP senior official performing the duties of the commissioner, highlighted the effectiveness of the recent measures.
"Recent border security measures have made a meaningful impact on our ability to impose consequences for those crossing unlawfully, leading to a decline of 29%
POLITICS: BIDEN ADMINISTRATION SEES MAJOR
SUCCESS AS BORDER ARRESTS DECLINE SHARPLY
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
in U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions from May to June. We also saw a more than 50% drop in the seven-day average from the announcement to the end of the month, and we doubled the rate at which we removed noncitizens from U.S. Border Patrol custody in June," Miller said.
The decrease in border arrests aligns with a Gallup poll indicating that immigration is one of the top five issues
the impact of Biden's policy. The number of encounters at the Southwest Border has decreased by more than 50% in the past six weeks, with the Border Patrol's seven-day average falling below 1,900 encounters per day. This sharp decline has been observed across various nationalities, including Mexicans and Chinese nationals, who have been most affected by the suspension of asylum claims.
San Diego has emerged as the busiest of the Border Patrol's nine sectors bordering Mexico, followed by Tucson, Arizona. In June alone, more than 41,000 people legally entered the U.S. through the CBP One online appointment app. Since its introduction in January 2023, the app has facilitated 680,500 successful appointments.
for voters in the run-up to the presidential election. The poll also showed that 55% of Americans support former President Donald Trump's call to cut immigration figures. However, the recent data suggests that Biden's policies are effectively addressing the concerns surrounding immigration and border security.
Further analysis of the CBP data reveals a more comprehensive picture of
Additionally, nearly 500,000 people from four countries have entered under a policy allowing two-year stays, provided they have financial sponsors and arrive at an airport. This group includes 104,130 Cubans, 194,027 Haitians, 86,101 Nicaraguans, and 110,541 Venezuelans, according to CBP data.
President Joe Biden
Houston Mayor John Whitmire
HC Judge Lina Hidalgo
Photos By Team Style Magazine
Photographers
HC Commissioner Lesley Briones
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis
Houston Controller Chris Hollins
Ihope this message finds you well. Considering the recent impact of Hurricane Beryl, our City and the Greater Houston area have faced significant challenges.
Many neighborhoods are still dealing with power outages and a need for essential resources, and some homes have suffered substantial damage. Be assured that the City of Houston, in collaboration with our dedicated partners at the county, state, and federal levels, is actively working to assist those in need. Our efforts include:
• Distribution of ice and water
• Provision of food and other essential resources
• Establishment of cooling and charging centers
• Tree removal and clean-up operations
• Free transportation to cooling stations
We understand that many of us remain without power and might be for several more days. It is vital to ensure your family's safety and comfort during this hot weather, maintain communication with each other and emergency services, and secure adequate food and water supplies.
Essential Resources and Disaster Assistance
Please review the information below for details on accessing essential re-
LOC AL : MESSAGE OF BERYL STORM RESOURCES
FROM COUNCILMEMBER DR. LETITIA PLUMMER
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
sources and receiving disaster assistance. Ensure you report any damages to your property and file insurance and FEMA claims promptly.
Houston Food Bank Pantries
Check this map for the closest location.
Distribution Locations
• Precinct One Central Service Center 7901
El Rio St, Houston, TX 77054
• Lincoln Park Community Center 979 Grenshaw St, Houston, TX 77088
• Julia C. Hester House 2020 Solo St, Houston, TX 77020
Drive Through Distribution Locations (3:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
• Acres Homes MSC 6719 West Montgomery Rd, 77091
• Fonde Community Center (4-8PM) 110 Sabine St, 77006
• Northeast MSC 9720 Spaulding St, 77016
• Kingwood Community Center 4102 Rustic Woods, 77072
• Sunnyside MSC 4410 Reed Rd, 77051
• Salvation Army 7920 Cook Rd, 77072
• Southwest MSC 6400 High Star Dr, 77074
• HPD Southwest Substation 13097 Nitida
St, 77045
• Denver Harbor MSC 6402 Market St, 77007
• Bible Way Fellowship 10120 Hartsook St, 77034
For up-to-date Cooling Centers and Food Distribution sites, visit the Office of Emergency Management website.
Pets are welcome at City of Houston Cooling Centers. If you need transportation to a cooling center, call 3-1-1.
For food pantry locations, visit the Houston Food Bank website.
Meal Delivery Services
For constituents who meet the following requirements:
• 60 years or older
• Reside within our service area
• Primarily homebound or have little or no assistance
• Have difficulty with meal preparation due to physical or mental impairments
*Income does not qualify or disqualify people from service. Please fill out this form or contact: mowclientservices@ erjcchouston.org or 713.595.8162
Houston City Council Member - Dr. Letitia Plummer
ALOCAL : H-E-B EXTENDS A HELPING HAND WITH DISCOUNTS AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT POST-HURRICANE BERYL
s Houston and Gulf Coast residents recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, H-E-B is stepping up to provide much-needed relief and support to the hardest-hit communities. From offering significant discounts on frozen foods to deploying essential resources, H-E-B demonstrates its unwavering commitment to supporting Texans in times of need.
Discounts on Frozen Foods to Aid Recovery
Starting Sunday, H-E-B stores across Houston and surrounding areas, including the Golden Triangle, East Texas, Bryan/College Station/Brenham, and select Gulf Coast locations such as Bay City, El Campo, Edna, and Wharton, will offer a 10% discount on all frozen food items, including ice. This discount will be automatically applied at the register for purchases made in-store from July 14 through July 21.
“At H-E-B, we’re committed to supporting our communities in times of need. Texans across the Houston area and the Gulf Coast were hardest hit by the storm and have been without power for several days,” said Armando Perez, H-E-B Executive Vice President of Houston Food Drug. “We’re in this together with our
By Francis Page Jr. For
neighbors, and this discount is a way for us to lend a hand as people begin to regain power and restock their freezers.”
Extensive Community Support Efforts
In the days following Hurricane Beryl, H-E-B has provided substantial support to affected areas. Key initiatives include:
- Support for Nonprofits and Impacted
eight truckloads of ice to support Houston. Prior to the hurricane's landfall, H-E-B supplied water and other essentials to area food banks to bolster their relief efforts.
- H-E-B Mobile Kitchen Deployment In Sargent, Texas, a Gulf Coast community severely impacted by the hurricane, the H-E-B Mobile Kitchen has been deployed to serve up to 21,500 hot meals to residents and first responders. Additionally, H-E-B sent trailer loads of water and ice to support relief efforts around Matagorda Bay. Helping Here Philosophy: A Commitment to Community Support
H-E-B's "Helping Here" philosophy is at the heart of its mission to support communities during crises. The company remains closely engaged with nonprofit partners and local municipalities to assess ongoing and future needs throughout the recovery process.
Areas: H-E-B has provided vital resources to nonprofits and communities, including Houston, Wharton, Kingwood, Lake Jackson, and Bay City. The company has helped establish cooling centers and distributed water, ice, snacks, and other essential supplies.
- Donations and Resources: H-E-B has made additional donations, including
As Texans work to rebuild and recover from Hurricane Beryl, H-E-B stands as a steadfast ally, offering tangible support and resources to help the community get back on its feet. For more information and updates on H-E-B's relief efforts, visit their website or local stores.
For more info, visit HEB.com
Jacoby Jones, who scored two touchdowns in Super Bowl XLVII for the Baltimore Ravens, has died at the age of 40, according to statements Sunday from the Ravens, the Houston Texans and the NFL.
SPORTS: REMEMBERING JACOBY JONES
- A HOUSTON HERO AND SUPER BOWL LEGEND
By Francis Page Jr., for www.StyleMagazine.com
The Texans, where Jones played five NFL seasons, told CNN that Jones’ family informed the team of the news Sunday morning.
No cause of death has been made public.
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Ravens organization said in a statement. “Jacoby had the unique ability to connect with everyone he encountered. His charisma, joy and love created a oneof-a-kind presence that could light up any room or brighten any dark day.”
The Texans said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”
Jones was a nine-year NFL veteran, playing with the Texans, Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers and the then San Diego Chargers – now the Los Angeles Chargers.
“The NFL is heartbroken to hear of the passing of Super Bowl champion Jacoby Jones,” the league said in a post on social media. “Our thoughts are with his
family and loved ones.”
This biggest moments of his professional career came in the 2012 postseason.
In the AFC Divisional Round, Jones caught the “Mile High Miracle,” a 70-yard touchdown pass late in the 4th quarter to force the game into overtime, where the Ravens would prevail over the Denver Broncos 38-35.
Then in Super Bowl XLVII, Jones hauled in a 56-yard touchdown pass and had a 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown – still the longest play in Super Bowl history – as the Ravens bested the San Francisco 49ers 34-31 to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Jones remains the only player to have a receiving touchdown and
in the same Super Bowl.
Houston and the NFL community mourn the loss of Jacoby Jones, a former Texans wide receiver and Super Bowl standout, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 40. Jacoby Jones, known for his electrifying speed and playmaking abilities, leaves behind a legacy that spans from his days at Lane College to his record-setting performances on the grandest stage of them all. Drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007, Jones’ career in Houston was marked by thrilling touchdowns and memorable moments.
A Houston Texan and NFL Star During his five seasons with
the Texans, Jones caught 11 touchdowns and made a name for himself as a dynamic punt returner, scoring three times. Fans will never forget his 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in a Week 9 game against the Raiders in 2009. His celebrations often included jumping into the stands to hug his mother, Emily, who always sat in the front row.
A Super Bowl Hero
After his time with the Texans, Jones joined the Baltimore Ravens in 2012. It was with the Ravens that he etched his name in Super Bowl history. In Super Bowl XLVII, Jones returned a kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown—the longest play in Super Bowl history—and became the first player to score a touchdown on a return and catch a touchdown pass in the same Super Bowl. His performance earned him first-team All-Pro honors in 2013.
A Life and Career of Achievements Jones' career statistics are a testament to his versatility and skill: - 203 receptions for 2,733 yards and 14 touchdowns - 7,628 return yards with nine touchdowns on special teams
kickoff return touchdown
Jacoby Jones - Former Houston Texans Wide Receiver
HEALTH: BEHIND THE RITUALS- UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEX-
ITY OF OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD)
By Francis Page Jr., for www.StyleMagazine.com
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is far more than a penchant for cleanliness or a preference for organization—it’s a complex mental health condition that affects millions worldwide. Defined by the presence of obsessions— unwanted, intrusive thoughts—and compulsions—repetitive behaviors performed to alleviate anxiety—OCD can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Understanding Contamination OCD
For Emily Morehead, a seasoned psychotherapist specializing in OCD at The Couch Therapy, PLLC, contamination OCD is a familiar adversary. This subtype revolves around an overwhelming fear of germs and illness, compelling individuals to engage in compulsive behaviors like excessive handwashing or avoiding pub-
lic spaces. These rituals are an attempt to manage the intense anxiety triggered by intrusive thoughts about contamination.
Symptoms and Manifestations
OCD manifests uniquely in each individual, but common themes include fears of harming others, perfectionism, and obsessions with symmetry or order. Compulsions often manifest as repetitive cleaning, checking, or strict adherence to routines. Symptoms typically emerge in adolescence or early adulthood and can vary in intensity over time.
Treatment and Management
While OCD is chronic, effective treatments exist to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), helps individuals confront fears and reduce compulsive behaviors.
Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
Living with OCD
Living with OCD can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. Support groups and therapy provide crucial avenues for managing symptoms and finding solidarity with others facing similar challenges.
Breaking Stigmas and Moving Forward
Despite its prevalence, OCD often faces misunderstanding and stigma. Education and awareness are crucial in dispelling misconceptions and fostering empathy for those navigating this complex disorder.
Conclusion
As research progresses and awareness grows, the landscape of OCD
treatment continues to evolve. By understanding the complexities of OCD—its manifestations, treatments, and impact— we can better support those affected and promote a more inclusive, informed society.
For those grappling with OCD or supporting loved ones, seeking professional guidance is pivotal. With the right resources and understanding, individuals can embark on a path towards managing OCD and reclaiming control over their lives.
Houston Style Magazine readers, this article aims not only to inform but also to empower, encouraging a compassionate dialogue around OCD and promoting avenues for support and healing.
Expert Source: Emily Morehead, MA, LPC, PMH-C, Co-owner and Psychotherapist at The Couch Therapy, PLLC
Emily Morehead, MA, LPC, PMH-C
ARTS: EXCITING EVENTS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN HOUSTON - ANDRÉ 3000,
ARS LYRICA HOUSTON, AND THE HOBBY CENTER'S EXXONMOBIL DISCOVERY SERIES
By Jo-Carolyn Goode for www.StyleMagazine.com
Get ready, Houston! André 3000 is set to light up the stage at the Hobby Center’s Sarofim Hall on September 25 as part of his highly anticipated North American tour. This tour follows a string of intimate performances and major festival appearances, all in support of his critically acclaimed solo album, *New Blue Sun*. Released in November on Epic Records, the album is an entirely instrumental masterpiece, co-produced by André and the renowned multi-instrumentalist Carlos Niño. The album also features talents such as Nate Mercereau, Surya Botofasina, Deantoni Parks, Diego Gaeta, Matthewda-
vid, V.C.R., Jesse Peterson, and Mia Doi Todd.
This tour promises to be a unique musical journey, with special appearances by Carlos Niño, Nate Mercereau, and Surya Botofasina, alongside Deantoni Parks. Starting in New Orleans, the tour will visit iconic venues across the country, including The Greek Theater in Los Angeles, John F. Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts in Washington D.C., and BAM Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn.
Ars Lyrica Houston Announces 20242025 Season: Ties That Bind
Ars Lyrica Houston proudly unveils its 21st anniversary season, *Ties That Bind*, celebrating music's profound ability to connect people across time and cultures. This season features six mainstage subscription programs, presenting a stunning mix of Baroque masterworks and hidden gems. Internationally acclaimed soloists and a renewed collaboration with the UH Moores School of Music Chorale will enhance the musical experience.
Concerts will take place at esteemed venues such as Zilkha Hall at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, St. Philip Presbyterian Church, and Duncan Recital Hall at Rice University. The season
opener, *In Praise of Virtue*, on September 20 at Zilkha Hall, will spotlight countertenor Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, a “young star” according to the New York Times and a local favorite since his time in the HGO Studio.
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts Expands ExxonMobil Discovery Series for 2024-25 Season
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is doubling down on its commitment to arts education with an expanded ExxonMobil Discovery Series for the 2024-25 season. This initiative, set to serve approximately 20,000 fifth-grade students, offers free access to live theatre, music, and dance performances by Houston-based artists and arts organizations. The program includes bus transportation and logistical coordination to reduce barriers to arts access.
Following a successful inaugural season that reached 118 schools, the expansion will now include schools from Aldine, Pasadena, and Dickinson ISDs, among others. The ExxonMobil Discovery Series aims to enrich students' educational experiences by providing pre- and post-performance learning materials that align with Texas teaching objectives. By
fostering early exposure to the arts, the program helps develop students’ creativity, communication, relationship-building, and leadership skills.
Conclusion Houston continues to thrive as a hub of culture and community engagement. From the soulful sounds of André 3000 to the Baroque brilliance of Ars Lyrica Houston, and the educational enrichment provided by The Hobby Center's ExxonMobil Discovery Series, the city offers an array of experiences that connect and inspire. Be sure to mark your calendars and join in these remarkable events that celebrate the power of music and the arts in bringing people together.
Houston Style Magazine readers, for more updates and stories, visit: www. stylemagazine.com
Kid’s Café Summer Meal Program
In a recent turn of events, Elon Musk has confirmed that Tesla will be delaying its much-anticipated Robotaxi unveiling. Initially scheduled for August 8, 2024, the event is now expected to take place in October 2024. This delay, reported by Bloomberg and later confirmed by Musk on X (formerly Twitter), has sparked significant interest and speculation among Tesla enthusiasts and investors alike.
Reasons for the Delay
The primary reason for the delay is a request from Musk for a front design change to the Robotaxi. While details on the exact nature of the design change remain unclear, it is speculated that it could involve adjustments to the vehicle's front camera system or the addition of new cameras. This design modification aims to enhance the vehicle's functionality and aesthetics, aligning with Tesla's commitment to innovation and excellence.
In his recent post on X, Musk hinted that the extra time would also allow Tesla to showcase a "few other things," suggesting that the unveiling event will be packed with additional surprises beyond the Robotaxi. What to Expect from Tesla's Robotaxi Tesla's Robotaxi has been in development for several years, designed from the ground up as a fully autonomous vehicle.
AUTOMOTIVE: TESLA ROBOTAXI UNVEILING DELAYED: A CLOSER LOOK
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
Unlike traditional cars, the Robotaxi will not have a steering wheel or pedals, embodying Tesla's vision of a driverless future. The design is expected to be "Cybertruck-like," with a futuristic and robust aesthetic.
Hints about the Robotaxi's interior have surfaced in Tesla's promotional videos, though specifics remain under wraps. The vehicle will likely feature advanced sanitation systems capable of analyzing and cleaning the interior autonomously, as revealed in a recent Tesla patent.
Implications for Tesla's Strategy
Despite the delay, Tesla remains steadfast in its mission to deliver self-driving capabilities through software updates to
existing vehicles. The Robotaxi represents a significant leap forward, showcasing Tesla's advancements in autonomous technology and its dedication to redefining transportation.
Investors reacted to the news with an 8.5% drop in Tesla's stock on the day of Bloomberg's report. However, this temporary dip reflects the high expectations and excitement surrounding Tesla's innovative projects. The delay is a minor setback in Tesla's broader strategy and is unlikely to impact the long-term vision for the Robotaxi.
Comparisons and Industry Impact
Comparisons have been drawn be-
tween Tesla's Robotaxi and Rimac's recently unveiled autonomous vehicle, Verne. Both designs share several futuristic elements, highlighting a trend towards advanced, driverless technology in the automotive industry. Tesla's focus on integrating a robust charging solution for its Robotaxi, possibly through a robotic charging arm or wireless charging, is another aspect that sets it apart from competitors.
Conclusion
As the anticipation builds for Tesla's Robotaxi unveiling, the delay allows for crucial design enhancements and the inclusion of additional features that promise to make the event worth the wait. For the readers of Houston Style Magazine, this development underscores the dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles, with Tesla leading the charge towards a driverless future.
Houston Style Magazine readers, stay tuned for more updates and insights on Tesla's groundbreaking projects and their impact on the automotive industry. More information, please visit: www.Tesla.com
MOST VIEWED TRAILER EVER WITH OVER 180-MILLION VIEWS
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
In an unprecedented surge of excitement, the official trailer for Paramount’s Gladiator II has shattered records, becoming the studio's most viewed trailer ever with over 180 million views in its first 48 hours.
This milestone eclipses the previous record set by Top Gun: Maverick, which amassed 75 million views within the same timeframe.
The highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 classic, directed by the legendary Ridley Scott, saw its trailer reaching 128 million views across social media platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and X within the first 24 hours. By the second day, the trailer’s views soared to an astounding 177 million.
Starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington, the trailer’s debut was accompanied by the tagline: “From director Ridley Scott, watch the new Official Trailer for #GladiatorII starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger – Only in theatres November 22.” This powerful ensemble cast is set to bring the epic saga back to life, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The trailer reached the number one trending spot on X and ranked second on Google’s U.S. Daily Search Trend list within 24 hours of its release. It continues to trend on YouTube, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
A Historic Box Office Battle Looms
Adding to the excitement, Universal has strategically moved its much-awaited film adaptation of the Broadway hit Wicked to the same release date as Gladiator II. This scheduling has set the stage for a potential "Wickdiator" box office clash, reminiscent of last year’s "Barbenheimer" weekend that saw Barbie and Oppenheimer both achieving massive success. Barbie debuted with $162 million, while Oppenheimer garnered $82.4 million.
Paul Mescal, who plays Lucius, humorously addressed the potential box office showdown, coining the term "Glicked" and expressing optimism for a repeat of the dual-movie success seen with Barbie and Oppenheimer.
An Epic Return to Rome Gladiator II picks up years after the heroic death of Maximus. Lucius (played by Mescal), having witnessed the tragic end of his uncle, finds himself thrust into the deadly Colosseum after his homeland is seized by the tyrannical Emperors. With vengeance and the fate of the Empire at stake, Lucius must draw on his past to reclaim Rome’s honor and restore its glory.
The film also features Pedro Pascal as Marcus Acacius, Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta, Fred Hechinger as Emperor Caracalla, Connie Nielsen reprising her role as Lucilla, and Denzel Washington as Macrinus.
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