Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 26

LOCAL: COUNTRY STAR CHRIS YOUNG TO HEADLINE SHELL FREEDOM OVER TEXAS

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com

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Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com

Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Arts Editor K athleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com

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Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

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Houston's official Fourth of July celebration, Shell Freedom Over Texas, will feature country star Chris Young as the headliner, according to an announcement by Mayor Sylvester Turner and the Mayor's Office of Special Events. The event, known for its tradition, family-friendly activities, and patriotic spirit, invites Houstonians to join in the festivities and create lasting memories.

On the Shell Main Stage, Chris Young will take the spotlight, treating the audience to a hit-packed set that includes his 12 chart-topping songs. With back-toback No. 1 hits like "Losing Sleep," "Sober Saturday Night," "Think of You," and "I'm Comin' Over," Chris Young has established himself as a Grammy and ACM nominated vocalist.

His recent headlining tour garnered immense success, drawing in over 400,000 fans across three countries. As a Grand Ole Opry member and multi-platinum recording artist, he has received multiple nominations from ACM, BBMA, CMA, CMT, Grammy, and RDMA. His platinum-certified, multi-week No. 1 song with Kane Brown, "Famous Friends," serves as the title track to

his latest album and secured the top spot on Billboard's year-end Country Airplay Songs chart.

Shell USA, the title sponsor, expressed their pride in returning to support Shell Freedom Over Texas. Glenn Wright, Senior Vice President of Renewables and Energy Solutions Americas, emphasized the honor of celebrating July 4th with the Houston community. The event brings people together for a time-honored tradition, enjoying live music, delicious food, and fun activities with friends and family.

The festivities, taking place at Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks on Buffalo Bayou along Allen Parkway, include various attractions and areas for entertainment:

Bud Light Bayou Bash: A sunsoaked experience featuring lawn games and a perfect view of the main stage and spectacular fireworks finale.

Dr Pepper Flavor Zone: Showcasing Houston's professional sports teams, live music, dancing, and Dr Pepper floats.

DICK's Sporting Goods All-American Kids Zone: A new addition sponsored

by DICK's Sporting Goods, providing children's entertainment with activities, performances, games, rides, and more.

Liberty Park: A salute to all five branches of the military, including displays of military vehicles from past conflicts, first responders, and a special Space City Experience courtesy of NASA.

The event is made possible by various sponsors, including Shell USA as the title sponsor, Bud Light, DICK's Sporting Goods, Dr Pepper, and several on-site sponsors and media partners.

Admission to the event is $10 per person, with children aged five and under enjoying free entry. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gates, with applicable service charges for online purchases. Volunteers can register at houstonspecialevents.org to receive the official event t-shirt, free parking, and complimentary food and drinks. Join the celebration of freedom at Shell Freedom Over Texas and be part of Houston's cherished civic event on the Fourth of July.

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COMMENTARY FREEDOM AND EQUAL JUSTICE UNDER THE LAW REQUIRES CONSTANT STRUGGLE

By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

Texas week, on Juneteenth, the nation enjoyed the new national holiday celebrating the freedom of the slaves at the end of the Civil War. This week marks the 10-year anniversary of Shelby v. Holder and the impending decision of the Supreme Court on affirmative action in college admissions. The juxtaposition is a stark reminder that the struggle for equal justice for all is ongoing. Each step forward is met with furious reaction; each reconstruction with concerted efforts to roll back the progress. And today, we are once more in the midst of that reaction.

June 19, 1865, was the day that US Major General Gordon Granger declared that the Emancipation Proclamation, that went into effect on Jan. 1, 1863, had freed all the slaves in Texas — an estimated 250,000. The proclamation, a wartime measure, was limited: it applied only to those states still in rebellion. Lincoln always gave precedence to the survival of the union over the question of slavery.

With the proclamation, slaves in states that were not in rebellion — like Delaware and Kentucky — remained in bondage. And the news was slow to travel to distant slave states like Texas, even after the surrender of the Confederate armies under Gen. Robert E. Lee. The proclamation took hold only as US troops extended their victory. It took the passage of the 13th Amendment to end slavery throughout the United States.

Needless to say, that profound reform was met with furious reaction. The plantation class in the southern states began a campaign of systematic violence to squelch Black freedom. The Ku Klux Klan, among others, spread the terror of

LOCAL: COMMISSIONER ELLIS TO PROPOSE $4.4M INCREASE IN COUNTY’S BUYOUT PROGRAM FOR FLOOD VICTIMS FUNDS WOULD PROVIDE MORE MONEY FOR RELOCATION AND BENEFIT FOR UNDOCUMENTED FAMILIES

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

poised to rule on the next stage of the reaction — the responsibility of colleges to take affirmative action to ensure diversity in their student bodies. Having diverse student bodies — with students of different races, genders, religions, regions — is a self-evident benefit to education — and to the country.

The claim is that this somehow destroys a “merit based” admissions process, but colleges all construct their student bodies, giving preference to alumni, to the wealthy, to the athletic, to those with special talents. It is preposterous to suggest that ensuring racial diversity is the one thing that discriminates against others.

lynching across the South. In the end, the federal government gave in. A political deal removed federal troops from the defeated Confederate states. A reactionary Supreme Court ratified “separate but equal” as constitutional. Segregation — legal apartheid — settled in across the South. Juneteenth marks not the triumph of equal justice, but a large step forward and the beginning of a new era of struggle.

One hundred years later, the civil rights movement rose up to demand equal justice. Blacks demanded the right to vote, and equal access to public accommodations.

Finally, a Supreme Court ruled that segregation was a violation of the Constitution. With the leadership of Lyndon Johnson and Dr. Martin Luther King, the Congress passed legislation guaranteeing equal rights and the right to vote. Schools were ordered to integrate; public institutions were required to take affirmative action to ensure equal

access and equal rights.

Then 10 years ago, the Supreme Court in the Shelby case, in a decision made by a slim majority of conservative justices, gutted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act. This was one piece of a fierce reaction to the progress made.

The Republican Party, beginning with Richard Nixon’s Southern strategy, grounded its revival on the politics of white resentment, abandoning its previous commitments to civil rights and voting rights. Today, Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis — the leading contenders for the Republican presidential nominee — compete to lead the reaction — what DeSantis now calls the “war on woke,” which has featured systematic efforts to suppress the vote, ban books, distort the teaching of history in public schools, and bring an end to affirmative action.

Once more a conservative majority on the Supreme Court is

What the freed slaves learned under segregation, what Blacks learned in the civil rights movement, what must be remembered today is that freedom and equal justice under the law requires constant struggle. The forces of privilege are always powerful. The reaction can always play on racial fears. We celebrate Juneteenth and Dr. King’s birthday as markers in that struggle, but not as the final victory.

Another reaction is underway. To overcome it will require more education, more organizing, more struggle. We know from our history that progress is possible — but only if citizens of conscience are prepared to demand it.at long last?”

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

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis will ask Commissioners Court today to add $4.4 million to a buyout program to provide repeat flood victims – including undocumented immigrants – with more money for relocation.

“This is the first mandatory buyout program in the country,” Commissioner Ellis said. “With this program, we are trying to keep families safe from increasingly severe flooding.

But the county can’t accomplish its goals if residents aren’t compensated appropriately.”

Commissioner Ellis proposes to increase the allocation for benefits to $7.7 million to achieve parity with federal funding levels.

The Project Recovery Post Disaster Relocation and Buyout Program’s SAFE initiative is a mandatory buyout program designed to reduce the risk of future flooding and increase the safety

of residents and businesses in areas that have experienced repetitive flooding.

Property owners in targeted areas will be offered fair market appraised value for their property – residential, commercial, or vacant. Relocation assistance could include advisory services, moving and related expenses, business re-establishment services, replacement housing payments, rental assistance payments, and down payment assistance for replacement homes.

The program is one of the first mandatory buyouts in response to the climate crisis. Low-income families who had no choice but to participate were not being offered enough money to do so. Undocumented families in Precinct One were not being treated the same as those with citizenship. “Immigration status should have no bearing on one’s ability to recover from a climate disaster or to live in a healthy home less vulnerable to flooding,” Commissioner Ellis said.

POLITICS: DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS SHAPING HOUSTON COUNCIL RACES

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

STATE: EMPOWERING VETERANS WITH ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITY THROUGH DIGITAL TOOLS

As the deadline approaches for filing for ballot space in the upcoming Houston elections, the city's council races are being influenced by its diverse demographics. Houston stands out among America's and Texas' largest cities with its combination of at-large and district City Council Members. While most cities have only district-based representation, Houston allows all registered voters to cast their votes for or against at-large Council Members. Each district in Houston represents approximately 209,000 residents out of the city's total population of around 2,290,000.

District A, located north of I-10 and west of 290, is currently represented by Amy Peck, who has served alongside her predecessor, Brenda Stardig. Peck is uncontested in the upcoming fall elections. This primarily Hispanic district has a dominant elderly Caucasian voter base, which consistently supports Peck due to her dedicated constituent services.

District B consists of the Fifth Ward and Acres Homes areas northeast

of downtown. Tarsha Jackson currently represents this district, which is primarily African American but experiencing an increasing Hispanic population. As of now, Kendra London, Koffey El-Bey, and Tyronne Willis have announced their challenges against Jackson.

Historically driven by Jewish politically moderate voters, District C comprises Meyerland, Garden Oaks, The Heights, and Montrose. The recent redistricting has resulted in a more liberal and pro-GLBT demographic.

Attorney Abbie Kamin, who continues the leadership of her predecessor Ellen Cohen, is running unopposed in the fall

Ward/Museum District, Rice University, Sunnyside, and Sagemont. Carol Evans Shabbazz, who previously served on the Houston Community College Board, represents this district. While historically African American, District D is witnessing an increase in highly educated professionals and entrepreneurs from diverse ethnic backgrounds. At present, businessman Lloyd Ford is the only opponent challenging Shabbazz.

District E encompasses Kingwood and Lake Houston in the north, connect ed to Clear Lake areas in the south.

It primarily consists of high-income suburban voters with higher education

for Controller. Martina Lemond Dixon, former Humble ISD Board President, and Fred Flickinger, son of a neighborhood newspaper publisher, are vying to succeed him.

Primarily Hispanic with historically strong Vietnamese American voter blocks, District F is located in Alief and Westchase. Alief ISD Trustee Tiffany Thomas, the first African American and first Alief-experienced Council Member, is currently unopposed.

District G, covering west Houston Loop 610 areas up to Hwy 6, comprises high-income professionals and entrepreneurs. It is currently represented by pro-police attorney Mary Nan Huffman, who is unopposed at present.

District H includes Independence Heights and Lyndale in the

The headquarters of Combined Arms in east Houston recently buzzed with applause, cheers, and a contagious sense of optimism. This non-profit organization is dedicated to connecting transitioning service members and veterans with every available resource to help them thrive in the civilian world. Their secret weapon? Software and technology powered by the Internet. Last Saturday, supporters, veterans, and volunteers gathered to celebrate the launch of a WiFi-connected Lift Zone at Combined Arms, made possible through funding from Comcast.

The Comcast Lift Zone provides veterans with free access to highspeed and reliable WiFi, addressing the digital divide within the military community. A 2019 FCC report revealed that around 15% of veteran households lack an Internet connection, making it challenging for them to apply for benefits, search for jobs, and explore other opportunities. The report also highlighted the larger digital divide faced by veterans in rural areas. For example, many rural veterans enrolled in the VA's health care system lack Internet

access at home, hindering their access to crucial medical care. The study emphasized the increasing importance of digital skills and internet access for veterans in the years to come.

The launch of the Lift Zone at Combined Arms demonstrates the organization's commitment to bridging this digital divide. Mia Garcia, Executive Director of Combined Arms, expressed her gratitude to Comcast for their partnership and explained how the Lift Zone will help veterans get online and drive traffic to their campus.

With 265 veteran-serving organizations

providing over 1,000 resources to transitioning service members, veterans, and their families, Combined Arms plays a crucial role in supporting the veteran community.

In addition to the Lift Zone launch, over 50 volunteers gathered at Combined Arms to show their appreciation for veterans through heartfelt activities. Comcast teammates, along with their family members, wrote appreciation letters and assembled hygiene kits inside the non-profit's gym.

Demian Voiles, Comcast Texas' Vice President of Sales and Marketing,

highlighted the company's commitment to expanding Internet access for those who need it most. The investment in Lift Zones reflects Comcast's dedication to supporting the military community, with Voiles serving as the executive sponsor for Comcast's Veterans Network employee resource group. The Lift Zone at Combined Arms is the 51st location established by Comcast Texas. This initiative was announced in Fall 2022 as part of Comcast's ongoing commitment to the military community. An interactive map showcasing all the Lift Zones across southeast Texas is available for reference, demonstrating the widespread impact of this program.

Pharrell Williams Shines Alongside Louis Vuitton’s Unforgettable Runway Show, Ingniting The American Male Fashion Scene

By: Francis Page, Jr and Photos By ©ARR For www.StyleMagazine.com

The Man Behind LVMH – Bernard Arnault

Second Richest Man In The World – $220 Billion

Louis Vuitton, the iconic luxury brand, set the American fashion scene ablaze with a highly anticipated runway show, masterfully curated by their visionary Creative Director for menswear. The venue of choice was the mythical Pont Neuf, an ancient and storied bridge, which added an extra layer of grandeur to the already extravagant affair. The show, eagerly awaited by fashion enthusiasts across the nation, did not disappoint.

The mesmerizing melodies of virtuoso pianist Lang Lang cascaded through the air, intertwining with the collective breaths of the awe-struck audience. The soul-stirring Voices of Fire gospel choir, known for their powerful and emotive performances, further elevated the atmosphere, creating an undeniable energy that reverberated within every fiber of the show.

The collection itself was a tour de force, a testament to the boundless creativity of the Louis Vuitton universe. The brand’s iconic checkerboard motif, a symbol synonymous with opulence and style, underwent a captivating metamorphosis, revealing

fresh variations that pushed the boundaries of imagination. Camouflage patterns, captivating prints, and intricate jacquards adorned an array of meticulously crafted garments, including coats, jackets, pajamas, shirts, and even laser-cut bags. Each piece transported the beholder to a truly distinctive and fantastical realm, where pixelated designs coexisted harmoniously with the brand’s unmistakable aesthetic.

In a heartfelt homage to his native Virginia, the designer wove personal sentiment into the fabric of the collection. The “LVERS” emblem, cleverly derived from the state’s cherished slogan, “Virginia is for lovers,” served as a powerful testament to the designer’s roots and added an intimate touch to the show. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s rich archives, the Marque L. Vuitton Déposée logo made frequent appearances throughout the collection, a symbol of the brand’s enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to excellence.

The accessories showcased during the event were nothing short of extraordinary. Crafted from the finest lambskin

leather and adorned with vibrant hues, they exemplified the brand’s mastery of craftsmanship. Among the standout pieces was the iconic Speedy bag, which effortlessly blended elegance and versatility. Its berets, emblazoned with the stylized letters “L” and “V,” served as an unmistakable hallmark of Louis Vuitton’s impeccable attention to detail and their unyielding dedication to the art of fashion.

This momentous occasion not only marked a significant milestone for Louis Vuitton but also provided a dazzling platform for the renowned musician Pharrell Williams. His collaboration with the brand solidified Louis Vuitton’s reputation as a cultural tastemaker, showcasing their commitment to embracing diverse creative forces. The remarkable launch served as a triumphant celebration of Pharrell Williams’ extraordinary talents and further solidified the position of the fashion capital of the world, Paris, as an unrivaled epicenter of style and innovation.

www. LouisVuitton .com

Bernard Arnault, the esteemed business magnate and ambassador of French heritage and culture, has established himself as a true titan in the world of luxury. As the overseer of the LVMH empire, which encompasses 75 prestigious fashion and cosmetics brands, including Louis Vuitton and Sephora, Arnault has shaped the industry landscape with his unwavering commitment to excellence.

One of Arnault’s notable achievements was the landmark acquisition of American jeweler Tiffany & Co in 2021 for a staggering $15.8 billion, marking it as one of the largest luxury brand acquisitions ever. This strategic move further solidified LVMH’s global presence and its position as a leader in the luxury market.

Beyond his involvement in the fashion and luxury realm, Arnault’s influence extends to the world of venture capital. Through his holding company Agache, he backs Aglaé Ventures, a venture capital firm with investments in prominent businesses such as Netflix and ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. Arnault’s keen eye for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit has allowed him to diversify his portfolio and remain at the forefront of industry trends.

Arnault’s journey to success traces back to his father’s fortune in construction, which provided him with the initial capital to make his mark. In 1984, he made a bold move by investing $15 million from his father’s business to acquire Christian Dior, a decision that would set the stage for his ascent to prominence in the fashion world.

Notably, family plays a central role in Arnault’s life and business. All five of his children are actively involved in the operations of LVMH, highlighting the family’s commitment to the company’s continued success. In July 2022, Arnault proposed a reorganization of his holding company Agache, intending to give his children equal stakes, further cementing their collective legacy within the LVMH empire.

Bernard Arnault’s unwavering dedication to preserving French heritage and culture, coupled with his strategic business acumen, has propelled him to the forefront of the luxury industry. His visionary leadership and astute decision-making have ensured LVMH’s continued dominance and secured his place as a symbol of excellence and elegance.

www.LVMH.com

Bernard Arnault and Rihanna

Every year in July, we dedicate National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month to shed light on the unique challenges faced by racial and ethnic minority communities regarding mental health in the United States. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health encourages leaders at the state, tribal, and local levels, as well as community-based organizations, faith leaders, healthcare providers, and individuals, to educate their communities about mental health stigma.

The statistics reveal alarming trends. According to data from the CDC, suicide ranked as the third leading

cause of death for African Americans between the ages of 10 and 24 in 2020.

The suicide rate for African American men is four times higher than that of African American women. Additionally, African American females in grades 9-12 were 60% more likely to attempt suicide than their white counterparts.

Native Americans also face significant challenges. In 2020, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Native Americans between the ages of 10 and 24. The overall suicide rate for Native American adults is approximately 20% higher than that of white adults. In fact, Native Americans had the highest suicide rate among all eth-

nic groups in 2021. In 2019, adolescent Native American females aged 15-24 had a death rate from suicide five times higher than that of white females in the same age group. During the same period, Native American males aged 15-24 had a suicide death rate twice as high as that of white males in the same age group.

Hispanic communities also face significant challenges in this regard.

In 2020, suicide ranked as the second leading cause of death for Hispanics aged 10-24. Suicide attempts among Hispanic girls in grades 9-12 were 30% higher than those among white girls of the same age.

Disturbingly, from 2018 to 2021, suicide rates among youth aged 10-24 increased by 36% among African Americans, 16% among Native Americans, and 8.2% among Hispanics. In contrast, the suicide rate for white Americans decreased by 3.9%.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that despite the need, only one in three African American adults with mental illness receives treatment. Socioeconomic factors play a significant role in this disparity. In 2020, 10.4% of African American adults lacked health insurance. Among Native

Americans, suicide remains highly stigmatized, perpetuated by myths and misunderstandings, such as the belief that discussing suicide will make it happen, that suicidal ideation is merely a cry for attention, and the mistaken notion that a person from a strong family would never consider ending their life. All of these beliefs are false. Furthermore, over half of all Hispanic adults aged 18-25 do not receive treatment for mental illness, possibly due to language barriers, limited health insurance coverage, legal status concerns, the stigma surrounding mental illness, and challenges related to acculturation.

To learn more about National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, please visit the Health Disparities page on the official website (National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month — Health Disparities) or explore the resources offered by The Jason Foundation. The Jason Foundation is committed to preventing suicide through education and awareness programs.

For information on how you can support a loved one or friend struggling with mental illness or suicidal thoughts, please visit www. jasonfoundation.com.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

Congress Sylvia Garcia Harris County D.A. Kim Ogg

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg

County DA Kim Ogg & Sen. Whitmire

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

Basketball Superstar Dennis Rodman

Mary Benton Mayor’s Comm. Team

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner & Police Chief Troy Finner

Scott Knight, Education Director of The Jason Foundation

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo

The sun was barely up, yet the aroma of sizzling chicken and waffles filled the air in Houston. In the latest rendition of Good Morning America's culinary face-off, the spotlight fell on the enticing "United States of Breakfast" competition, celebrating America's best morning offerings.

On this lively Monday morning, June 26, the backdrop for the gastronomic showdown was the iconic Saint Arnold Brewing Company. Among the contenders were two beloved local establishments: the ever-popular Midtown's The Breakfast Klub and the charming Dandelion Cafe, a Bellaire-based hotspot that has been serving up delightful treats since 2016. At the heart of the contest was the classic yet varied dish of chicken and waffles.

Each of these culinary establishments brought their distinct flavor profile and presentation to the table. Representing The Breakfast Klub was owner Marcus Davis, presenting

CULINARY: BELLAIRE'S DANDELION CAFE EARNS BREAKFAST

CROWN IN GOOD MORNING AMERICA'S EPIC UNITED STATES OF BREAKFASTSHOWDOWN, TRAILING TRILL BURGER'S LAST

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

a two-to-one vote, awarded the coveted prize to Dandelion Cafe. With this win, Dandelion Cafe is now set to advance to the grand finals in New York City on Friday, where they'll match their culinary skills against winners from Cleveland, Boston, and Philadelphia, vying for the grand prize of $10,000.

a time-tested favorite - Creole-spiced chicken and waffle, an endearing dish that has warmed the hearts and bellies of Houston residents for over two decades.

Dandelion Cafe owners, Sarah Lieberman and Chef J.C. Ricks, presented a stunning and daring variant of the classic. A cornbread waffle served as the bed for chorizo-spiced fried chicken, topped with a fiery maple compound butter, and dusted lightly with powdered sugar. The Dandelion

Cafe’s innovative dish offered a bold flavor balance, harmonizing sweet and spicy notes. As Food Network star Eddie Jackson put it, "Two totally different chicken and waffles, [Dandelion] has more of a sweet and heat combination, and this compound butter with a little chili kick is everything."

The esteemed panel of judges, which also included ABC13 reporter Erica Simon and former Houston Texans star Owen Daniels, deliberated and, with

Houston Rockets Take Next Step in Rebuilding Process After Successful 2023 Draft

By: Brian Barefield, Sports Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

A mention of this competition would be incomplete without recognizing last year's illustrious victor, Trill Burgers. Good Morning America had previously crowned Bun B’s Trill Burgers as the winner of its "Ultimate Burger Spot," a victory that propelled the smash burger concept toward its recent successful brick-and-mortar debut. Their triumph in a similar culinary competition, involving a four-city battle, underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of the food scene that this exciting annual contest highlights. The Dandelion Cafe is located at 5405 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401, More information, visit dandelionhouston.com.

great potential, and I think [we] have a scary future," Thompson said. Adding those pieces to a roster that consists of Kevin Porter Jr., Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Şengün, and Tari Eason makes Houston one of the most exciting teams in the NBA.

"We are athletic," said Stone with a smile during his post-draft press conference. "I think we can jump. So, I think we already were [athletic], and we doubled down. It is never a bad thing to be a hyper-athletic team, and I think we will be just that."

It has been three years since the Houston Rockets have been labeled as "winners" regarding things on and off the court. In order to bring some relevance back to the team, the organization has a three-phase plan in place, and after Thursday night's 2023 NBA Draft, they are already winning the second phase.

Phase one of their rebuild started with the departure of veteran superstars such as James Harden and Russell Westbrook, along with general manager Daryl Morey, who was the architect of the extended play-

off runs. It ended with the non-renewal of head coach Stephen Silas's contract at the end of the 2022 regular season, following three consecutive years of the team finishing as one of the worst in the league.

Phase two started with a bang as Houston hired former Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka, who led the team to an NBA Finals appearance in his only season. His presence will be felt on the sidelines and in the locker room. The former NBA player and coach under San Antonio Spurs legend Gregg Popovich was heavily pur-

sued by many teams for their head coaching vacancy during the postseason. The shift in dynamics when it came to hiring a coach who could help the young Rockets' roster take the next step can be considered a victory for the organization. If that is the case, general manager Rafael Stone should be preparing to take another victory lap.

Houston was a big winner in the draft on Thursday with the additions of Amen Thompson at No. 4 from Overtime Elite and Cam Whitmore at No. 20 from Villanova. "I think Houston has a lot of players that have

Now the responsibility of making everything come together on the court to translate into wins will be left up to Ime Udoka and his staff. Stone has provided most of the necessary pieces to make the Rockets competitive next season but still needs to find more veteran presence in the free-agent market to produce victories and complete phase two.

For owner Tilman Fertitta, phase three consists of playoff runs that will lead to NBA championships. It is too early for the Rockets to consider hanging another banner in the Toyota Center. Still, they could begin thinking about a parade route throughout the city in about five years if the team develops as projected. www. Rockets .com

Mayor Turner & County Judge Hidalgo

Mayor Turner & Ann Johnson

Mayor Turner & Comm. Briones

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg

Mayor Turner & County Att. Menefee

Houston Rockets Coach Ime Udoka and General Manager Rafael Stone with new players Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo

FILM: Angela Bassett: Reigning Queen Of The Silver Screen Finally Claims Her Oscar Throne

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

It is an exhilarating moment, brimming with long-overdue vindication, as

Angela Bassett, the illustrious actress, prepares to grasp the coveted Oscar statuette. The profound news arrived like a thunderclap on Monday, when the esteemed Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced its decision to bestow upon Bassett an honorary Oscar at the grandiose 2023 Governors Awards.

Bassett, a luminous talent, etched her name indelibly in the annals of history in 2023. Her awe-inspiring portrayal of the resolute Queen Ramonda in the revered 2022 sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” catapulted her into the realm of Best Supporting Actress nominees. In a groundbreaking feat, Bassett shattered barriers, becoming the first person of color, the first woman, and the first luminary from the Marvel Studios pantheon to be hailed for a performance in a transcendent comic book adaptation.

However, this momentous recognition was not the first occasion when Bassett’s extraordinary prowess captivated the discerning eyes of the Academy. In the mid-90s, her mesmerizing embodiment of the late rock and soul luminary Tina Turner in the 1993 biopic “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” earned her a resplendent Oscar nomination.

Throughout her illustrious career, Bassett has ceaselessly unleashed performances of unparalleled brilliance, consistently raising the bar for her craft.

Janet Yang, the venerable president of the Academy, extolled Bassett’s enduring contributions spanning several decades,

declaring, “Across the tapestry of her illustrious career, Angela Bassett has ceaselessly dazzled audiences with her transcendent performances, invariably setting new benchmarks in the hallowed art of acting.”

Bassett’s celestial aura has graced the silver screen in an array of iconic master-

pieces. From her heart-wrenching presence in “Boyz n the Hood” to her vivacious embodiment in “How Stella Got Her Groove Back,” and from her profound portrayal in “Malcolm X” to her electrifying essence in “Mission Impossible: Fallout,” her every performance radiates unparalleled brilliance. Notably, she has also brought regality and grace to the enigmatic Queen Ramonda in three Marvel cinematic endeavors. Television, too, has basked in Bassett’s incandescent glow, with her luminous presence enhancing esteemed shows like “American Horror Story,” “ER,” and “9-1-1,” among other illustrious ventures.

Honorary Oscars, the ultimate accolades of distinction, are meticulously bestowed upon a select few luminaries, their names handpicked by the discerning Board of Governors at the Academy. Alongside the radiant Angela Bassett, the illustrious Mel Brooks and the esteemed Carol Littleton will also grace the stage as recipients of the 2023 Governors Award. Additionally, Michelle Statter of the venerable Sundance Institute will be crowned with the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, a testament to her extraordinary devotion to humanitarian causes.

The curtains will rise on the splendid evening of the 2023 Governors Awards in the radiant city of Los Angeles on November 18. It is on this resplendent night that Angela Bassett, with a heart overflowing with anticipation, will at last claim the recognition she so exquisitely deserves, etching her name into the pantheon of cinematic luminaries. www.StyleMagazine.com

ART: DISCOVER THE ARTISTIC MARVELS OF EAST HARRIS COUNTY:

APPLY NOW FOR HCCAC'S ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM 2023-24!

By Kathleen Coleman, Arts Editor

tic profile. Their organization provides a crucial structure for sustaining my career.'"

"LaMonte French, another talented multimedia artist, describes the experience as 'fulfilling, where art and community merge seamlessly.'"

The Harris County Cultural Arts Council invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey into the vibrant world of art and culture with their groundbreaking Artists in Residence Program. This innovative initiative aims to shape a unique cultural identity for the region while providing a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their awe-inspiring work. With a range of enticing benefits, including financial support, free studio space, mentoring, and collaborations in public programming, participants in this program are poised to make a significant impact within the local community.

Under the visionary leadership of social entrepreneur Michelle Bonton,

HCCAC is already making waves in Houston's creative scene. This dynamic nonprofit organization is fully dedicated to uplifting arts and culture in the region through innovative programming, spearheading initiatives, and placing the Artist in Residence Program at the forefront of their mission. By bringing talented individuals directly into the local community, HCCAC is taking substantial strides toward eliminating cultural desolation in the area.

Let's hear from two artists who were part of the AIR cohort in 2022-23: "Wyntress X'ion, a multimedia artist, expresses gratitude for the unwavering support from HCCAC, stating, 'They have been an invaluable source of guidance, helping me elevate my artis-

As an Artist in Residence, you'll enjoy the following privileges: A) One year of free studio space B) Personal stipends (subject to funding availability) C) Mentoring D) Professional development through networking and community building E) Opportunities to create, exhibit, and present new public artworks

Prepare for an Artistic Revolution! HCCAC's AIR Program aims to redefine the art scene and ignite meaningful discussions about African American history and culture. This comprehensive program provides organizational support, training, and mentorship to participating fellows. With the creation of breathtaking public artworks and four captivating exhibitions, HCCAC will make an indelible mark on the global stage. Furthermore, their innovative gatherings will bring together brilliant minds from the industry to push the

boundaries of creativity and initiate thought-provoking conversations about the African American experience. By fostering increased engagement and accessibility to African American history and culture, HCCAC takes a giant leap forward in preserving this invaluable legacy for generations to come.

The closing ceremony of HCCAC's 2022-23 Artist in Residence Program will showcase Randy Wrosiv Palmer's thought-provoking group exhibition titled 'MENTAL.' Through this exhibition, Palmer aims to shed light on the insufficient mental health resources available to black men and foster healthy conversations about mental illness within communities of color.

Following Palmer's remarkable show, HCCAC Artist in Residence Divine Decuir will present her exhibition, 'Paradox,' on July 6, 2023, from 7-10 pm.

Applications for the AIR Cohort 2023-24 are now open until June 30, 2023. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to be part of HCCAC's transformative Artists in Residence Program. Apply today at www.harriscountycac. org!