Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 23

By Francis Page, Jr.

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

TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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©2023 Houston Style Magazine, a Minority Print Media, L.L.C. Company. All Right Reserved. Reproduction in whole or within part without permission is prohibited. Houston Style Magazine has a 2019 Audit by Circulation Verification Council (CVC). Houston Style Magazine is a member of the Texas Publishers Association (TPA), Texas Community Newspaper Association (TCNA), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Independent Free Paper of America (IFPA), Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP). National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP, Inc.), Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Latin Women’s Initiative (LWI), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and Supporters of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)

THE FORT BEND CHURCH: Unlock Your Potential At FLOURISH

Conference 2024 – A Fusion of Faith, Family, and Finances

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

Eager to FLOURISH in every aspect of your life? Look no further than the FLOURISH Conference 2024, hosted by Pastor Byron C. Stevenson and The Fort Bend Church Family . From July 31st to August 2nd, 2024, dive into a transformative experience aimed at equipping attendees with the tools to thrive personally, professionally, and spiritually.

About The Fort Bend Church:

Nestled in the heart of Sugar Land, Texas, The Fort Bend Church stands as a beacon of trust, kindness, compassion, faith, and liberal giving. Founded upon these pillars over two decades ago, the church continues to serve the holistic needs of its community through vibrant worship, insightful teachings, and inclusive outreach programs.

During FLOURISH, held on their serene campus at 1900 Eldridge Road, participants will converge from across the nation to glean wisdom from renowned faith leaders and corporate trailblazers. Expect to be inspired by luminaries such as Dr. E. Dewey Smith, Bishop Marvin Sapp, Dr. Alduan Tartt, Dr. Bryan Carter, Dr. Danielle Brown, Bishop Joseph Walker III, Dr. Phillip Pointer Sr., Cheryl Creuzot, and an array of esteemed guests.

Embark on a journey of discovery through over 30 specialty sessions, dynamic worship experiences, and thought-provoking panel discussions. But, FLOURISH isn’t just about what happens within the conference walls—it’s about fostering a culture of hospitality and growth that has defined

Pastor Byron C. Stevenson

The Fort Bend Church for generations. At FLOURISH, they will transcend the ordinary “church” conference to offer a three-day immersion into living your best life. Explore topics ranging from building generational wealth to nurturing healthy relationships, forgiveness, navigating modern dating, caring for aging parents and children with special needs, and beyond. Whether you’re a pastor, corporate professional, entrepreneur, parent, or young adult, there’s something here for you.

Experience the transformative power of faith, family, and finances in a setting designed to elevate every aspect of your being. And for those seeking to align with this groundbreaking event, sponsorship opportunities abound.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to invest in yourself and your future. Register for FLOURISH today and embark on a journey toward holistic growth and prosperity.

Featured Faith Leaders and Their Churches:

1. Pastor Byron C. Stevenson - The Fort Bend Church - www.thebend.org

2. Dr. E. Dewey Smith - The House of Hope Atlanta - www.hohatl.org

3. Bishop Marvin Sapp - Chosen Vessel Cathedral - www.marvinsapp.com

4. Dr. Alduan Tartt - Alduan Tartt Ministries - www.alduantartt.com

5. Dr. Bryan Carter - Concord Churchwww.concorddallas.org

6. Dr. Danielle Brown - The Guiding Light Church - www.guidinglight.org

7. Bishop Joseph Walker III - Mt. Zion Baptist Church - www.mtzionnashville.org

8. Dr. Phillip Pointer Sr. - Saint Mark Baptist Church - www.stmarkbc.org

9. Cheryl Creuzot - Destiny Churchwww.wealthdevelopmentstrategies.com

NOTE: The provided links are accurate at the time of publication. Please refer to each church’s official website for the most current information.

For more info. and registration, visit www.flourish.thebend.org

Don’t delay—your journey to flourishing begins now.

COMMENTARY NATURE IS FOR ALL OF US

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

Electric Rodney Smith’s uncle invited him to go to Sedona for a hike, Rodney, who is Black, said to himself, “Hiking? That sounds like something white people do.”

Rodney went on the hike. And it changed his life.

“I loved everything about it. I loved the scenery. I loved being outdoors. I had that wonderment of a kid… I said, ‘this is my new thing,’ and I got out and started hiking on my own.”

This was following Rodney’s release from prison in October 2021, after serving 9 years on a 12-year sentence. Rodney says, “I was forced to reconsider everything about my life, about my thinking, about the man I was and the man I wanted to become. I realized that a lot of what I had been doing was because it was expected, and it was what everyone else was doing. I hadn’t really figured out who I was and when I got out, I told myself I was going to start trying new things.”

He did start trying new things. In addition to taking up hiking, he started eating a plant-based diet – partially inspired by the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the Bible, who “looked healthier and better nourished” after 10 days of eating only vegetables than any of the young men who ate from the king’s table. On his ninth day of eating vegan, Rodney was on line at a store describing to someone how he felt “brighter and more energized” from his diet.

A woman overheard and invited him to a community garden in South Phoenix, where Rodney is from.

Again, Rodney thought to himself, “this couldn’t be for me.” He says, “gardening seemed like something for Martha Stewart… a suburban soccer mom activity.”

But when he arrived at the garden, he was immediately overwhelmed by the beauty and the connection he felt.

When Rodney received his

prison sentence, he did not cry. When he was inside and his father and both his grandmothers passed away, he did not cry. When he opened himself up to the connection with nature he felt in the garden, run by Phoenix’s Tiger Mountain Foundation, he finally cried.

“I’ve heard, ‘if you’re not crying, you’re not healing’ … I found a lot of healing in the garden. That feeling of connection made me say, ‘oh my gosh, I feel like this is exactly where I’m supposed to be.’”

Now Rodney does community outreach for the Tiger Mountain Foundation, which works to empower communities through shared-use community gardens and other cultivated "spaces of opportunity." And he volunteers with his church’s Adventurers Club, part of the church’s youth ministry.

When Rodney left prison, he felt like he could not go back home to South Phoenix, a particularly under-resourced part of the city, because there was nothing good there for him. Now he says, “with the garden spaces I work in, I don’t leave

South Phoenix … and I am one of the community leaders helping to provide resources and opportunity to people who are like I was. I see people come to the garden and shed those tears just like I did. I see people struggling with anxiety and depression and addiction, they come to the garden and they find tranquility and peace. People find their sobriety in the garden; people find their purpose in the garden.”

We know that many people of color, and especially Black people, face unique barriers to enjoying nature. We often have less access to parks and green spaces due to where we live. And we face discrimination. You might recall the story of Christian Cooper, the Black bird watcher who had the police called on him for simply requesting that a white woman leash her dog – which she was legally required to do – in New York’s Central Park. The gravity of that racist incident, in which the woman who called the police lied and said Cooper was threatening her, was driven home by George Floyd’s murder at the hands of the police in Min-

nesota later that same day, Memorial Day 2020.

For all the barriers Black people face, we should not let social stigmas and stereotypes infect our own minds and keep us from the benefits of nature and being outdoors. That is one reason Rodney Smith’s story is so important. It not only speaks to the healing power of nature, but to the power of challenging absurd stereotypes about where different kinds of people “belong.” Rodney Smith stepped outside his comfort zone to challenge stereotypes that said nature and outdoor activities were not for people like him.

There are opportunities to connect with nature everywhere in the country, even in big cities. For example, the Chicago Park District’s Outdoor and Environmental Education Unit has nature programs for all ages that include camping, fishing, and gardening. Its Nature Oasis program provides outdoor experiences and environmental education to nearly 18,000 city residents a year. Another option might be finding a local community organization like Phoenix’s Tiger Mountain Foundation or connecting with an outings group through your Sierra Club state chapter or other environmental organizations. And thanks to important federal initiatives, like the US Department of Agriculture’s $1 billion urban forestry investment to expand access to trees and green spaces (made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act), even more opportunities could be on the way.

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

ICOUNTY: Rodney Ellis and Harris County Comissioners Request Minimum Wage Increase to $15.00,

n a landmark decision today, Rodney Ellis and the Harris County Commissioners Court request a proposal to raise the minimum wage for all county employees and contractors to $15 an hour. This initiative, spearheaded by Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, marks a significant step towards ensuring fair compensation for all county workers.

The Push for a Living Wage Commissioner Ellis, supported by labor leaders from the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Communications Workers of America, and the Harris County AFL-CIO, presented a compelling case for the wage increase. The proposal aims not only to establish a minimum wage of $15 but also to create a framework for future wage growth, ensuring that the minimum wage will continue to rise over time.

"We must ensure that no one working for Harris County struggles to make ends meet," said Commissioner Ellis.

"Today's approval is a victory for economic justice and sets a standard that other counties can follow."

Key Components of the Requestd Policy

1. Universal Wage Standards: The policy mandates that wage standards apply to all employees, including those

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

funded by grants and those in temporary positions.

2. Living Wage Assurance: The initiative ensures that the $15 minimum wage is a starting point, not a permanent cap, with plans to increase this wage floor over time.

3. Comprehensive Coverage: The wage standards will extend beyond vertical construction contracts to include a broader range of county contractors.

4. Transparency and Fairness: The policy calls for increased transparency in

CLOSED VEHICLE

any amount

wage classifications and standards, ensuring all workers are fairly compensated.

This decision builds on prior actions by the Commissioners Court, which included setting a $15 minimum wage for county employees, except temporary and grant-funded workers, and for workers on vertical construction projects. Additionally, it incorporates previous initiatives such as the Hire Up Harris and Apprenticeship workforce development programs, updated Tax Abatement Guidelines, enhanced contractor safety standards, and the creation of

a county Fair Chance Hiring policy.

Continued Advocacy and Implementation

Labor leaders celebrated today's decision as a major win for workers' rights and economic equality. The Requestd policy will be implemented under the guidance of the Office of County Administration, which will design and update policies to ensure all county employees receive a fair wage.

"Today's decision is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of advocating for fair wages," said a representative from the SEIU. "We will continue to work with Commissioner Ellis and the Commissioners Court to ensure that these wage increases are implemented effectively and equitably."

Conclusion

The approval of the $15 minimum wage policy by the Harris County Commissioners Court represents a significant victory for workers and sets a progressive standard for other counties to emulate. Commissioner Ellis and supporting labor leaders are committed to ensuring that every worker in Harris County receives a fair and living wage, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous community.

Lock up

Rodney Ellis – Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner, Jay Malone – Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, Derrick Osobase – Communications Workers of America (CWA), Cynthia Cole – American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and Elsa Flores , Service Employees International Union (SEIU)

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), a distinguished leader and tireless advocate for justice and equality, has recently disclosed her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. In a powerful statement, she shared her determination to confront this personal challenge with the same steadfast faith and courage that have defined her decades-long public service career.

“My adult life has been defined by my faith in God, my love for humanity, and my commitment to public service," Congresswoman Jackson Lee stated. "As a member of Congress, I've been honored to be one of the leaders in the fight for justice and equality for all, especially the disadvantaged and the dispossessed. Today, my fight is more personal, but I will approach it with the same faith and the same courage."

Pancreatic cancer is known for its poor prognosis, particularly in upper middle-aged women, with a five-year survival rate of around 10%. Early detection is critical for improving outcomes, and various factors such as age, treatment options, genetic predispositions, lifestyle, and comorbidities influence the prognosis. Congresswoman Jackson Lee's battle against this formidable disease underscores her

HEALTH: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Faces PANCREATIC CANCER with Unwavering Faith and Commitment

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

resilience and enduring spirit.

"My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. I am currently undergoing treatment to battle this disease that impacts tens of thousands of Americans every year," she explained. "I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific disease. The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me."

For over 30 years, Jackson Lee has served the 18th Congressional District of Texas with dedication and passion. Her

roles as a senior member of the House Committees on the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and the Budget, as well as the Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security, highlight her significant contributions and leadership.

"To the constituents of the 18th Congressional District: Serving as your representative in Congress for 30 years is one of my greatest honors. Your hopes and aspirations inspire my efforts on behalf of our community every day. As I pursue my treatments, it is likely that I will be occa-

sionally absent from Congress, but rest assured my office will continue to deliver the vital constituent services that you deserve and expect," she reassured.

Despite the challenges ahead, Jackson Lee remains committed to her legislative duties and to working with Congressional Leadership, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House, to prioritize the nation's prosperity and security.

"I am committed to working with our Congressional Leadership to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical for the prosperity and security of the American people. By God’s grace, I will be back at full strength soon," she declared.

In her closing remarks, Congresswoman Jackson Lee requested the community’s prayers and support for her and her family, while extending her blessings to all.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18)

Proud Partner of the Houston Astros

In a dynamic twist of political careers, Sheryl Scott Taylor, the former Chief of Staff to Texas State Representative Shawn Thierry (D-146), has been hired by State Rep. Jolanda Jones (D-147) following her departure from Thierry’s office. This move comes after Thierry's surprising defeat in the recent elections, where she lost to newcomer Lauren Asheley Simmons, who secured 64.63% of the vote compared to Thierry’s 35.37%.

Thierry, a seasoned representative who had served since 2017, informed Taylor of her termination in a formal letter, citing the effective date as May 31. Taylor, a retired US Air Force and Texas Air National Guard member, also retired from the US Post Office, had been a key figure in Thierry's office. Thierry succeeded State Rep. Boris Miles, who moved to the State Senate following the untimely death of Harris County Commissioner El Franco Lee in 2016.

State Rep. Jolanda Jones warmly welcomed Taylor to her team, stating, "I am thrilled to extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to you as the new District Director for HD 147 effective June 1, 2024. My office is elated to have you join our dynamic team and are eagerly anticipating

POLITICAL: RESHUFFLING OF POWER – CHERYL SCOTT

TAYLOR'S TRANSITION FROM DISTRICT 146 TO 147

By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com

the opportunity to collaborate with you to serve the constituents of our district and the great State of Texas."

Jones, who, like Thierry, is a private practice attorney, stands out for her strong support from the Houston GLBT community. Her statement highlighted Taylor's extensive experience, loyalty, and dedication to public service, emphasizing the value she would bring to the team.

Jones added, "Your extensive experience, unwavering loyalty, and dedication

to public service make you an invaluable asset to our team. The fact you are a resident of HD147 makes it that much sweeter. We have full confidence that your exceptional leadership skills will help propel us towards achieving our goals and enhancing service to the Houston community."

Jones, a former at-large City Council Member and Houston ISD Trustee, was elected in 2016 by defeating Danielle Bess and succeeded Garnet Coleman, who had held the seat since October 1991.

Thierry’s defeat followed her controversial alignment with Republicans on key votes, which distanced her from the Houston GLBT community. This political stance made her a target among motivated Democrats, ultimately contributing to her loss to Simmons, a union organizer who identifies with the GLBT community.

In other significant election news, State Rep. Jarvis Johnson is in a tight race against Molly Cook. Johnson, a fourth-term representative and former Houston City Council Member, had hoped to make up the 73-vote deficit, but Cook's 9,428 votes compared to Johnson's 9,354 votes indicate a likely loss.

Additionally, in the Republican Primary Run-off race to face Democrat Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, Kenneth Omoruyi is trailing by 42 votes against Caroline Kane, who garnered 9,428 votes to Omoruyi’s 9,354.

All provisional ballots counted Jarvis Johnson has now officially lost to Molly Cook by 62 Votes - 9506 to 9444.

Stay updated with Houston Style Magazine for more detailed coverage on local politics and community news.

Cheryl Scott Taylor

For many Black consumers and firsttime homebuyers, saving for a down payment can be a daunting challenge. While many families and individuals can manage monthly mortgage payments, the upfront resources for a down payment are often lacking. Fortunately, crucial programs are available to assist homebuyers with down payments, making homeownership more accessible.

The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) is at the forefront of this effort, providing vital information

NATIONAL: BOOSTING HOMEOWNERSHIP: NAREB'S DOWN PAYMENT

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR BLACK CONSUMERS

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

about down payment assistance programs and encouraging more potential homebuyers, including Black consumers, to utilize them. It's essential for Black consumers to be aware of these programs, which are typically funded by local, state, or even federal agencies. These funds are then funneled through partnered institutions to expand inclusivity in the homebuying process.

Understanding Down Payment Assistance

Down payment assistance programs come in various forms, including loans and grants, depending on the specific program. Eligibility criteria can differ, with some programs requiring applicants to earn no more than 80% of the area median income, while others allow up to 120% of the median income.

Spotlight

on Key Programs

BMO Financial Group

BMO Financial Group collaborates with NAREB on a Homebuyer Assistance Program targeting graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBI). This program offers homebuyers $6,000 in down payment assistance, which can be combined with other programs to reach up to $20,000 or more. Eligible homebuyers must purchase their

home within BMO's footprint, including cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Minneapolis, and Indianapolis.

Bank of America and Wells Fargo NAREB also partners with Bank of America and Wells Fargo, both of which offer impressive down payment assistance programs aimed at broadening homeownership among Black consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is down payment assistance?

Down payment assistance refers to programs designed to help homebuyers cover the cost of their down payment through grants, loans, or other financial aid. These programs often target first-time homebuyers, low-income individuals, or those purchasing in specific areas.

Who qualifies for down payment assistance?

Eligibility varies widely depending on the program. Factors such as income level, credit score, property location, and first-time homebuyer status are commonly considered. Each program has specific criteria that must be met.

How do I apply for down payment assistance?

The application process typically

involves completing an application form, providing documentation to prove eligibility (such as income statements and credit reports), and sometimes attending educational courses on homeownership. Check the specific requirements of the program you're applying to.

Are there different types of down payment assistance programs?

Yes, assistance can come in the form of grants (which do not need to be repaid), forgivable loans (repayable only if certain conditions are unmet), and low-interest or deferred payment loans. The type of assistance available depends on the specific program.

Do down payment assistance programs have to be repaid?

Some programs offer grants that do not need to be repaid, while others provide loans that may need repayment through monthly payments or upon selling the home.

Forgivable loans do not need repayment if certain conditions, such as living in the home for a specified period, are met.

Sheryl Merritt, MBA, CEO Broker, New Legacy Realty 1

NOTICE TO PROPOSERS

Tracee M. Fletcher – President

Campus Chronicles

Fort Bend ISD's Board of Trustees recently honored Robert Zhang, an Elkins High School student, for securing first place at the Texas Forensic Association State Speech and Debate competition. Zhang's victory is notable as he triumphed over more than 200 participants

Alief ISD is offering free summer meals to children ages 0-18 and to Alief ISD students with documented disabilities up to age 21. Both breakfast and lunch will be provided at no cost. To find a nearby location, individuals

from across Texas, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication in the field of speech and debate. The recognition by the Board highlights the district's commitment to celebrating student achievements and fostering a supportive environment for academic and extracurricular excellence.

can text 'FOOD' to 304-304, call 211, or visit www.summerfood.org. This program is committed to ensuring all children have access to nutritious meals during the summer months. The institution emphasizes its status as an equal opportunity provider.

HISD student artists have won the second annual Truck Art Contest, with their artwork now featured on City of Houston trucks. On May 7, four Solid Waste Management vehicles were unveiled showcasing the winning designs, created to promote recycling and waste diversion. The winners are: - Jose Najera, 6th grade, Pin Oak Middle

Channelview ISD proudly announces that Aleyda Hernandez, an 11th-grade student in the CTE Law Enforcement program, has secured a prestigious summer internship at the Harris County Criminal Court. Chosen for the 180th Criminal District Court under Judge DaSean Jones, Aleyda's journey began with a Work-Based Learning shadowing trip in April. Impressed by her potential, Judge Jones invited her to apply for the internship. This summer, Aleyda will engage in legal research, draft memoranda, and observe trials, gaining invaluable handson experience in the judicial system. This achievement underscores both her excel-

School

- Baraka Farooq, 3rd grade, T.H. Rogers School

- Yin Ho Jalen Wan, 8th grade, Mandarin Immersion Magnet School

- Cynthia Zhou, 11th grade, Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professionals

The contest was organized by HISD’s Energy and Sustainability Department and the City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department.

lence and the quality of Channelview High School's programs.

Houston Grand Opera (HGO) is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for local street artists to feature their work on the illustrious stage of the Wortham Theater Center’s Brown Theater. This initiative invites Houston area ‘street artists’ to submit their artwork for a chance to create a large-scale piece for HGO’s upcoming production of Verdi’s Il Trovatore, set to premiere on October 18, 2024. The selected artist will receive a $3,000 honorarium for their contribution. Interested artists can apply at HGO.org/StreetArt

HGO’s innovative production of Il Trovatore will be directed by the renowned Stephen Wadsworth and feature award-winning scenic designer Charlie Corcoran. This fresh take on Verdi’s classic opera will juxtapose the old world with the new, blending traditional settings with modern street art. The chosen artist will work closely with Wadsworth and Corcoran to integrate a mural-sized piece into the vibrant, contemporary set.

“The stories shared through masterpieces like Il Trovatore are universal,” says HGO General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor. “As in Verdi’s opera, all families

ART: HGO Announces OPP for Street Artist –A Chance To Shine On Stage At Wortham Theater

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

have ancient secrets; unresolved problems; mysteries long buried that come to the fore. With this new production, we want to emphasize that the great operas are about and for us—and that is why we want to feature a homegrown-Houston artwork on the Brown stage. Lucky for HGO, there is an amazing talent pool of street artists in our great city. I cannot wait to see which one helps bring this incredible production to life.”

A Street Artists from the Houston area is encouraged to submit a sample of their original street art, which can include

graffiti, murals, stencils, or wheat-pasted posters. Submissions should include a short bio and any additional materials specified in the application guidelines. The deadline for submissions is June 21, with the winner announced on July 15. The chosen artist will have two weeks to create the original piece for the production.

In addition to the $3,000 honorarium, the selected artist will be invited to attend the opening night of Il Trovatore and other special events. Two additional artists will also be selected to create smaller-scale

artworks inspired by HGO’s 2024-25 season. These pieces may be displayed online or in public showings, with each artist receiving a $500 honorarium and an invitation to the opera.

HGO has enlisted the expertise of Houston gallerist Janice Bond, chief curator and art advisor for Bond Creative Advisors, as the creative consultant for this initiative. Bond will assist with the public call for entries and serve as a judge alongside Dastoor, Wadsworth, and Corcoran.

Il Trovatore, running from October 18 through November 3, 2024, will star acclaimed soprano Ailyn Pérez as Leonora, virtuoso baritenor Michael Spyres as her lover Manrico, baritone Lucas Meachem as Count di Luna, and mezzo-soprano Raehann Bryce-Davis as Azucena. Maestro Patrick Summers will conduct.

Subscriptions for HGO’s 2024-25 season are available now. Single tickets, ranging from $25 to $210, will go on sale starting August 6, 2024. For more information, visit www.houstongrandopera.org or call the Box Office at 713-228-6737. www.HGO.org

Celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black Americans from 1595 to present day

ON VIEW THROUGH JUNE 23, 2024

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Free Admission & Extended Hours

Courtesy of

Presented by:

Ancestor’s Torch, oil on canvas, Ava Cosey, courtesy of The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection

Josef and Edith Mincberg Gallery