Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 11

BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL DOWNTOWN

MARCH 23-24 2024

10 AM TO 6 PM

FEATURED ARTIST

KARINA LLERGO

n 250 National & International Artists

n 19 Disciplines of Art

n Live Music & Entertainment

n Active Imagination Zone

n Frost Bank VIP Hospitality Lounge

n Art Installations & Exhibits

n Food Truck Park

n Craft Beer Garden

n Culinary Arts Stage

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

www.bayoucityartfestival.com

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

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

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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)

COMMENTARY HIGHWAY ROBBERY IN ALABAMA

Imagine the neighborhood your family has lived in for more than 150 years being turned into a deteriorating flood zone. Now imagine the flooding was caused by the state. That is what is happening to the people of Elba, Alabama’s historic Black Shiloh community.

Thanks to the construction of an elevated highway through the community in 2018, residents are watching their homes be destroyed by flooding caused by the highway project.

“My house has already sunk two feet into the mud. I see my inheritance and my childrens’ American Dream being washed away and stolen,” says Pastor Timothy Williams.

Pastor Williams is a reverend and the owner of a restaurant and cleaning business. Like many other Shiloh residents, his family has been on this land dating back to Reconstruction. Now he and others in the community see their generational wealth disappearing before their eyes from property devaluation as well as the physical destruction of their homes.

Just eight feet away from Pastor Williams’ home, in the direction it is sinking, is a Southeast Gas Company natural gas pipeline. He has been told there is a possibility the sinking house could hit the gas line and blow the house up.

Pastor Williams’ story offers but a glimpse into the nightmare Shiloh residents are facing.

Part of the highway project – one of the earliest phases – involved directing stormwater drainage pipes into the community. Now, picture the elevated highway essentially placing the neighborhood in a bowl. There did not used to be flooding. Now it is rampant. And the state will not even own up to its highway expansion being the cause.

In addition to causing floods, the highway also cut off access to the neighborhood’s only fire hydrant. In 2020, there was a fire. Someone burned to death in their home. Residents believe their neighbor’s death would have been

By Ben Jealous, National

Political Commentator

preventable with access to the hydrant.

This is not merely an example of poorly executed urban planning. It is reckless environmental racism. The same kind that has been responsible for creating so-called “sacrifice zones” across the country. Sacrifice zones are populated areas that bear a disproportionate brunt of health and environmental hazards due to their close proximity to sources of pollution and development. They are most often communities of color and low-income communities.

Residents of the Shiloh community are educated … they are business owners … many of them are veterans. They have advantages that people in some other neighborhoods sacrificed to development do not have. But simply by speaking up and advocating for them-

selves, Shiloh residents have become targets of racist hate. There have been incidents of racial harassment ever since the community started receiving news coverage of their plight. A chilling reminder of what white supremacy looks like in the deep South.

Pastor Williams has seen it firsthand. His restaurant’s clientele is mostly white. One customer told him that he and others had been told to boycott the eatery because Williams had been vocal about the crisis facing the Shiloh community. Elba, Alabama also happens to be the hometown of Dr. Robert Bullard. Dr. Bullard is known as the “Father of Environmental Justice.” He literally wrote the book – actually many books, including one titled “Highway Robbery” – on environmental racism. And his extensive

scholarship has earned him a spot on the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council.

Now, Elba has become a textbook example of the environmental harm of racist zoning and transportation policies Dr. Bullard has taught so many of us about. More than a mere twist of cosmic irony, it shows how pervasive the problem of environmental racism is – that the hometown of our nation’s great warrior for Environmental Justice, who has helped countless people and communities, is still vulnerable to its impacts.

Ultimately, the Alabama Department of Transportation and Governor Kay Ivey are the ones who have the ability and responsibility to fix it and compensate the community’s residents for all they have lost. So far all they have done is deny wrongdoing and dupe Shiloh residents into signing away their rights.

An ABC News investigation found the state “used an aggressive legal tool to prevent the residents – and future owners of their land – from the possibility of holding the state government accountable through the court system.” Pastor Williams and several other residents received settlements of $5,000 or less that the governor herself signed off on.

Dr. Bullard has said he hopes 2024 will be the year for justice for Shiloh. As Pastor Williams and others from the community continue to sound the alarm and raise awareness, all of us should be joining them.

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

LOCAL: Shannon Sharpe, NFL Icon and Broadcast Star, to Illuminate

Texas Black Expo 2024 with Keynote Address

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

Shannon Sharpe

In an extraordinary coupling of sports excellence and entrepreneurial spirit, the Texas Black Expo (TBE) is delighted to herald Shannon Sharpe, NFL Hall of Famer and esteemed broadcaster, as the keynote luminary at its prestigious Corporate Awards Luncheon. Sharpe is slated to grace the stage on May 17, 2024, at the luxuriant JW Marriott Houston Galleria, a central feature in the TBE's illustrious Summer Celebration series.

Sharpe, whose stellar career

spans fourteen seasons with NFL powerhouses the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens, is revered not only for his trio of Super Bowl triumphs but also for pioneering the tight end position, accumulating over 10,000 receiving yards—a milestone etching his name in the annals of football history.

His enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011 immortalizes his unwavering commitment to the sport.

Transcending the athletic realm, Sharpe's contributions have reverber-

ated throughout the sports journalism landscape. From the storied CBS "The NFL Today Show" to his vibrant presence alongside Skip Bayless on "Skip and Shannon: Undisputed" and his current vibrant debates with Stephen A Smith on ESPN's "First Take," Sharpe has cultivated a legion of admirers. His engaging dialogues with star-studded guests on “Club Shay Shay” and “Night Cap” have earned him acclaim across the digital sphere, resonating with a broad spectrum of fans.

At the heart of the TBE Corporate Awards Luncheon—an event renowned for melding business acumen with cultural vibrancy—Sharpe will impart the wisdom gleaned from his remarkable transformation from a seventh-round draft dark horse to a legend of the gridiron and a venerated media personality.

Jerome D. Love, the visionary behind the Texas Black Expo, effuses admiration for Sharpe's journey, noting his alignment with TBE's guiding principles. "Shannon embodies the tenacity and indomitable spirit that the Expo advocates," Love remarks. "His participation is more than a privilege; it's a beacon of inspiration that will undoubt-

edly electrify this year's luncheon."

Now in its 21st year, the Texas Black Expo stands as a bastion of progress, dedicated to fostering economic, educational, and cultural prosperity within the African American milieu. The 2024 Summer Celebration, with its robust lineup, promises a feast of opportunities ranging from business workshops to dynamic entertainment, all curated to bolster community and individual empowerment.

To delve into the world of TBE or to join as a sponsor or vendor, visit the official portal at www.texasblackexpo. com.

About Texas Black Expo: Founded on the ideals of economic empowerment and social justice, the Texas Black Expo is a nonprofit beacon, striving to enhance lives within African American neighborhoods. With a blend of impactful events and proactive programs, TBE sets the stage for businesses to flourish and individuals to achieve both personal and professional growth, thereby fortifying the economic and social fabric of Texas.

KPOLITICS: Kenneth Omoruyi Secures Spot in Historic Run-Off for Houston's CD-7

By Burt Levine, Political Editor For

enneth Omoruyi is set to be a significant contender on the Primary Run-off Ballot for Harris County this coming May. He marks a monumental moment as the first African American candidate to reach this stage for the esteemed Congressional District 7 seat in Houston – a position once held by political luminaries such as George H.W. Bush and currently occupied by Lizzie Fletcher.

Omoruyi’s journey from his arrival in the United States to becoming the leading candidate in the Super Tuesday vote on March 5 is a narrative of triumph over adversity. As a Bellaire resident and business owner in Fort Bend, Omoruyi has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to hard work and results-driven dedication.

“Emerging from humble beginnings, raised by a devoted single mother, my siblings and I achieved our college education debt-free, instilled with Bible-based values and a deep-seated respect for diligence,” reflects Omoruyi. This foundation has fueled his ambition to serve as a voice for the communities of west Harris and Fort Bend County in Congress.

With a successful campaign reflecting his core message of fiscal responsibility, Omoruyi is focused on addressing the

critical economic challenges facing families and businesses. His expertise as a Certified Public Accountant positions him uniquely to tackle the pressing issues of waste, fraud,

and financial inefficiency within the government.

Advocating for reduced taxes, diminished governmental constraints, and

bolstered entrepreneurial freedom, Omoruyi champions the principles that empower individuals to flourish in their personal and professional lives. His respect for parental rights in medical and educational decisions stands as a cornerstone of his campaign.

A staunch supporter of national defense and veterans' welfare, Omoruyi prioritizes the needs of the veteran community, especially with the proximity of one of the nation's largest VA Hospitals in the Texas Medical Center. His commitment extends to fostering growth within the critical sectors of medical, healthcare, and energy – industries vital to the prosperity of Houston, Texas, and the country at large.

With a platform that upholds American exceptionalism, Texas sovereignty, and the independence of key allies such as Israel, Omoruyi's policy priorities are clear. As early voting commences on May 20th, leading up to the run-off election on May 28th, Omoruyi stands ready to embody the aspirations of his constituents and make a transformative impact on the national stage.

Join Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) as they host their esteemed Founders’ Day and Honors Recognition Convocation on March 20, 2024. This event, steeped in history and academic achievement, invites the PVAMU community and distinguished guests to honor the pioneering spirit of the institution's founders and the outstanding scholarly accomplishments of its students.

Mark your calendars for a day of remembrance and celebration at Prairie View A&M University. On March 20, 2024, PVAMU will host its annual Founders' Day and Honors Recognition Convocation, a significant event celebrating both the historical legacy of the university's establishment and the academic excellence demonstrated by its students.

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, superintendent of the Aldine Independent School District and an embodiment of academic leadership, will grace the event as the keynote speaker. With more than 5,500 students set to be recognized for their 2023 academic triumphs, the day promises to be a testament to the hard work and perseverance exhibited throughout the year. Students achieving a 3.0-3.49 GPA will be celebrated on the Dean’s Honors list, while those securing a 3.5-4.0 GPA will be honored on the University Honor Roll list.

LOCAL: Celebrating Academic Prowess and Founding Pillars at PVAMU

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

Interim Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Michael L. McFrazier, emphasizes that the convocation is also a time to pay homage to the courageous 'Unknown 8,' the first eight students at the university, whose tenacity paved the way for the educational opportunities that PVAMU students benefit from today.

For insights into the Founders' Day and Honors Recognition Convocation or to connect with PVAMU’s esteemed faculty, please reach out to Liz Faublas-Wallace, Communications Specialist, at lswallace@ pvamu.edu.

Event Details:

Event: Founders’ Day and Honors Recognition Convocation

Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Time: 10 a.m.

Venue: William “Billy” J. Nicks, Sr. Building (Baby Dome), 945 OJ Thomas St., Prairie View, TX 77484

Explore more about this prestigious event at www.pvamu.edu/honorsconvocation.

About PVAMU: Established in 1876, Prairie View A&M University holds the title of the second oldest public higher education institution in Texas and ranks as the third largest Historically Black College/University (HBCU) nationwide. With a constitutionally recognized stature as an "institution of the first class," PVAMU takes pride in its student body exceeding 9,000 and a network of over 80,000 alumni.

The university presents a plethora of academic offerings across its ten colleges and schools, culminating in degrees from the bachelor's to doctoral levels. As a Carnegie-classified high-research (R2) institution and a member of The Texas A&M University System, PVAMU continues to uphold its land-grant mission to excel in teaching, research, and service.

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney

Dr. Michael McFrazier

Laura Murillo - President

As the morning sun glistened over Uptown Houston, The Post Oak Hotel played host to a gathering of minds poised to shape the future of business in the region. The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s exclusive CEO Breakfast welcomed over 50 of the area’s top Chief Executive Officers, Chamber Board members, and Chamber staff, reaffirming its commitment as the preeminent advocate for the Hispanic business community’s economic and civic interests.

With a legacy of fostering business growth and opportunities, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce curates a robust network of local, national, and international partnerships. This illustrious event, available only by invitation, served as a powerful conduit for CEOs to forge meaningful connections, delve into pressing topics like business openings, and explore the critical issue of diversity in corporate governance.

Corporate sponsors, afforded a single non-transferable invitation to this

POWER BREAKFAST: Houston’s Business Elite Converge For Economic Innovation and Diversity Advancement

By Francis Page Jr for www.StyleMagazine.com

signature event, found themselves amidst conversations that promise to evolve into significant business ventures and alliances. In aligning with the Chamber’s mission, the CEO Breakfast is not just a meeting; it is a springboard for innovation, a hub for advocacy, and a testament to the Chamber’s role in mentoring Hispanic

professionals and business leaders.

Through initiatives like the CEO Breakfast, the Chamber embodies its role as an effective business resource. From organizing enlightening educational seminars to advocating for member interests with key policymakers, the Chamber’s activities are pivotal in navigating the

business landscape. They act as a gateway, opening doors to new commerce avenues and serving as a compass, directing members to vital business resources and information.

In essence, the CEO Breakfast by the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce symbolizes more than an event; it is a strategic rendezvous for visionaries poised to drive economic change, making it a noteworthy highlight for readers seeking to stay at the forefront of Houston’s business evolution.

www.HoustonHispanicChamber.com

Laura Murillo - President

Photos By Hispanic Chamber Photography

On a sunny spring morning in Houston, the bustling activities at The Gonzalez Law Group’s premises painted a picture of a community united for a noble cause. March 9th, 2024 marked the fourth annual ‘Give a Bag, Get A Bag’ event organized by The Cristina Project, a testament to Houston’s unwavering spirit of generosity and community service.

Families across Houston converged at 7151 Office City Dr. to partake in an event that has become a spring break tradition. With engaging activities scheduled from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, children and adults alike were introduced to the joys of volunteering, emphasizing the importance of community engagement through collaborative efforts.

The event was a colorful display of compassion as young Houstonians diligently decorated bags for Kids Meals, Inc., a local nonprofit devoted to feeding food-insecure children. In a heartwarming exchange, every child who lent their time and creativity received a tote bag replete with art supplies and snacks, a small token to enrich their spring break.

This year’s event witnessed the

CHARITY EVENT: Houston Embraces the Spirit of Giving with AAMA at The Cristina Project’s Annual Charity Event

By Francis Page Jr for www.StyleMagazine.com

active participation of the AAMA George I. Sanchez students and staff, further highlighting AAMA’s enduring commitment to fostering community service and educational excellence. AAMA, an organization with deep roots in Houston’s Latino community, has been pivotal in empowering over 10,000 individuals annually through education, workforce readiness, and leadership development.

Media presence amplified the event’s vibrance, capturing every smile and each decorated bag, symbolizing Houston’s culture of giving. The festivities were accentuated by music, games, and an atmosphere that was nothing short of jubilant.

Reflecting on the success of the event, representatives from both AAMA and The Cristina Project expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and participation

from the community. “It’s events like these that weave the very fabric of our community,” said a spokesperson from AAMA, “seeing children understand the value of giving back is truly inspiring.”

Houston Style Magazine celebrates this exceptional demonstration of community spirit and altruism. As the city of Houston continues to flourish, it is events like the ‘Give a Bag, Get A Bag’ that underscore the essence of unity and compassion inherent within its residents.

About AAMA: Founded in 1970 as the Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans, AAMA has been at the forefront of supporting the Latino community in Houston. Its vision to nurture a community of Latinos capable of achieving financial security and well-being has been a guiding light for 50 years.

Monica Vallejo - Founder

Photos By AAMA & Cristina Project Photography

HEALTH: Boris Kodjoe's Valiant Stand in the Fight Against Prostate Cancer

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

At 50, Boris Kodjoe, a beacon of talent and familial dedication, has stepped into the ring against a formidable opponent: prostate cancer. Kodjoe, celebrated for his enduring marriage to Nicole Ari Parker and his supportive role as a father, is now

channeling his champion's spirit into a cause that strikes close to home.

Aligning with Depend® under the Stand Strong for Men’s Health™ initiative, Kodjoe is advocating for men to take control of their health and break the silence around

incontinence, a common repercussion of prostate cancer treatments. His mission is propelled by a personal narrative—watching a mentor confront this very affliction sparked his commitment to catalyzing candid discourse on men's health issues. "Many men within my own community are grappling with this," Kodjoe asserts.

"Utilizing my platform to initiate dialogue is vital for dismantling the stigmas attached to prostate cancer. Silence breeds ignorance; only through open conversation can we promote education and prevent a rise in these cases."

Prostate cancer looms as a prevalent concern among American men, second only to skin cancer. African American men face a starker reality: statistics indicate they are 1.8 times more likely to receive a diagnosis and 2.2 times more likely to succumb to prostate cancer than their white counterparts. Early-stage African American patients also experience disparities in receiving treatment.

Socioeconomic factors, preventive care racial biases, and a lower likelihood of being offered PSA tests contribute to these disparities. However, Kodjoe emphasizes a silver lining: the gap in prostate cancer outcomes is narrowing. A resounding 97% five-year relative survival rate for African American men diagnosed with prostate

cancer signifies hope, a figure that surges to nearly 100% with early detection.

Kodjoe's advocacy aligns with efforts by Depend and the Prostate Cancer Foundation to reshape the landscape of men's health. Through education, awareness, and support, the initiative aims not only to improve survival rates but also to ensure that men’s health issues are met with the attention and care they require.

Houston Style Magazine readers can join this cause by supporting these organizations' transformative work. In doing so, they champion the message that Kodjoe spreads: proactive health management and informed dialogue can turn the tide in the battle against prostate cancer.

www.StyleMagazine.com

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Kodjoe & Wife Nicole Ari Parker

Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. 2024 Royal Court

Celebrating the dazzling success of the 2024 Blue and Silver Presentation Ball, the Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Nonpareil Chapter once again illuminated the night with an "Evening of Elegance and Inspiration." This prestigious event, held on February 24 at BREC Jefferson Highway Park, was not just a showcase of

In the vibrant rodeo season gallops into Houston, the community's spirit is as alive as ever, with unexpected acts of kindness adding to the excitement. The 'Surprise Squad', a team that includes Xfinity technicians dedicated to service beyond their call of duty, recently brightened the day of some of the most venerable African-American trail riders in the nation.

Embarking on an 80-mile journey to the esteemed Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, these riders were greeted with a delightful surprise — a hearty breakfast courtesy of Xfinity. The team, spearheaded by Senior Technicians Jermaine Baldwin and Arturo Gonzales, rolled out their service trucks at the crack of dawn, offering over 400 trail riders an assortment of coffee, donuts, kolaches, and more to energize their trek.

Arturo Gonzales expressed the joy of giving back, noting the importance of Xfinity's presence and upcoming expansion in the community. Meanwhile, trail boss Myrtis Dightman, Jr., from the Prairie View Trail Riders — an organization with

grandeur but a profound display of talent and service, integral to the ethos of the organization.

Fifteen extraordinary teens took center stage, each presenting unique talents, and from them, the 2024 Royal Court was crowned: Brenden Morris and Jalynn Jamison shone as Mister and Miss Top Teen,

compete with their peers in a celebration of leadership and community service.

Marking 40 years of service to the Baton Rouge community, the local Nonpareil Chapter has consistently championed the advancement of community welfare, led by President Lady Constance Carroll and the zealous Teen Leader Kaila Anthony.

The Top Ladies of Distinction, a venerable 501(c)3 organization, has extended its influence through more than 125 chapters across the United States, steadfast in its mission to uplift the community through service.

roots stretching back to 1957 and a mission to enlighten America's youth — shared his appreciation for the gesture, emphasizing the riders' usual rush that often leaves little time for a morning meal.

The Prairie View Trail Riders, a non-profit corporation, emphasizes education and heritage, a vision resonating with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's mission. The journey from Hempstead to the grand rodeo event is not just a trail ride; it's a moving showcase of Western legacy and camaraderie, reinforced by Xfinity's community-focused initiative.

In late 2023, Comcast began expanding its fiber-rich network into Hempstead, promising enhanced connectivity for these historic lands. The move is a step forward in bridging communities with technology, just as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo bridges the past with the present, celebrating agriculture, family values, Texas youth, and community education.

This charming tale from the 'Surprise Squad' is a reminder of the unique blend of tradition and community spirit that makes Houston's rodeo season a time of togetherness and celebration.

For more information, go to: www.comcast.com

Houston Style Magazine

with Eric Vaughn and Kayleigh Dugas capturing the titles of Mister and Miss Blue and Silver Teen, respectively, and Emerson Wilson honored as the Runner Up Teen.

These exceptional young leaders are poised to represent the Nonpareil Chapter at the 53rd Area 1 Conference in Houston, Texas, this April, where they will

The Houston Chapter, in alignment with the organization's national vision, pledges to be the jewels of transformation, upholding the legacy and fortifying the support for our teens. As we join forces under the noble mission of the TLOD — to transform lives and make a difference, one teen, one lady, and one community at a time — we invite you to connect with our journey of change and service.

Stay updated with our endeavors at www.tlodhouston.org and engage with us on Facebook. For more information, reach out via email at HoustonTLODInfo@gmail.com.

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If you’re passionate about driving, love exploring the city, call or Text Francis at 713-927-5444.

Apply Today and Drive Houston Style!

The Houston Independent School District is soliciting Request for Proposals (RFP) via the District’s electronic bidding portal. Proposers may log in to view specifications and submit their responses at the following link https://houstonisd.ionwave. net/Login.aspx until 5:00 p.m. (CST) Friday, April 12, 2024, for the following solicitation for the following projects:

24-02-07 Fully Processed and Cataloged Library Books

Pre-proposal conferences via Microsoft Teams will be held in conjunction with this RFP. Information regarding dates, times, and a link to join the meeting can be located within the electronic bidding portal under the “Event Details” tab spe-

Discover electrifying innovation with the upcoming 2027 Rivian R3 and R3X, the latest compact SUVs ready to revamp your driving experience. As Rivian extends its electric reach, the R3 series emerges as a trailblazer in the compact category. The R3, with its 110-inch wheelbase, offers a smart blend of luxury and practicality, while the R3X promises to elevate off-road performance to new heights.

Battery and Performance: A Leap Forward The R3 model series will be available with two battery size options, both promising over 300 miles of range. The triple-motor all-wheel-drive configuration is the heart of the R3's power, sprinting from 0-60 mph in under three seconds. Don't need that much zip? The R3 will also offer dual-motor AWD and single-motor RWD variants. Rivian introduces a structural battery pack with innovative 4695 round cells and a native NACS charging port, compatible with CCS chargers via an adapter, ensuring rapid charging capabilities.

Ingenious Interior: Technology Meets Comfort Rivian doesn't hold back on technology, equipping the R3 with autonomous driving potential and an advanced perception stack utilized by the R2. With the capability to house a full-length bed, the R3 ensures ample space without compromising

LOCAL: Rivian Electrifies the Compact SUV Market with the R3 Series, Coming 2027

By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com

comfort. The clever use of space extends to the frunk and an adaptable rear glass and liftgate system for versatile cargo handling. The interior design also features a refreshed three-spoke steering wheel with haptic control dials and a seamlessly integrated digital instrument panel.

The R3X: Unleashing Perfor -

mance The R3X model stands out with its rugged, wider stance and rally-inspired allure, including a tri-motor AWD setup as standard. It takes the R3's capabilities up a notch, offering an interior that matches its adventurous spirit with durable materials and innovative design elements.

Pricing and Availability: The

Future is Affordable Rivian aims to redefine affordability in the electric vehicle space, positioning the R3 below the R2 in price, likely in the high $30,000s to low $40,000s range. The R3X, as a high-performance model, will command a premium. While exact pricing and availability are yet to be announced, Rivian's commitment to accessible electric driving remains firm, with the R3 series set to follow the R2's release scheduled for the first half of 2026.

For Houston Style Magazine readers looking to stay ahead of the curve, the 2027 Rivian R3 series represents the vanguard of compact electric SUVs, marrying innovation with practicality for an electrifying future.

Stay tuned for more updates on these groundbreaking vehicles that promise to charge up the roads and your lifestyle.

www.Rivian.com

CYouth Art Month in Austin, as Tristen Lopez, a student from Alief ISD Taylor High School, receives recognition for her artwork. Her

Sfrom Mr. Briones' Electric class at Alief ISD Marshall Center for Advanced Careers recently visited the Center Point training facility. They

the vast array of opportunities within the gas and electric fields, where entry-level positions start at $40k.

The Kendra Scott Foundation recently hosted the grand unveiling of its Little Yellow Library at Alief Sneed Elementary! Courtney Zavala joined students for a reading session and Q&A, add-

ing to the excitement of the special guest reader's presence. Moreover, Sneed received a $2,500 grant from the Foundation in celebration of the occasion.

Forty years ago, Jolanda Jones etched her name in history by securing an independent victory at the 1984 Track and Field State Meet for Alief Elsik HS. Her legacy resonates not only in

ics but also through her enduring commitment to serving Houston and its environs. Jolanda's inspirational journey continues to uplift us all, and we express our gratitude for her remarkable contributions.

tudents

elebrating

explored

piece titled "A New Beginning" will be showcased at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Roar with Lion pride!

LOCAL: Houston Celebrates The Promise of Spring At The Dazzling Navroz Festival

By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com

On a day brimming with promise and color, Houstonians from all walks of life gathered by the thousands at The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park to herald the arrival of spring at the Navroz Spring Festival on March 3, 2024. This resplendent celebration of diversity was presented by the Ismaili Council for Southwestern USA, with noteworthy backing from cultural pillars of the city including the City

of Houston Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs and Buffalo Bayou Partnership, among others.

Navroz, meaning "new day" in Persian, transcends mere calendrical significance, encapsulating the spirit of rebirth and unity across various cultures, particularly in Iran, Central Asia, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Preceding the official date of Navroz on March 21st, this festival was a vibrant tapestry

of cultural showcases, manifesting the rich cultural heritage and communal harmony that characterizes Houston.

The festival's program was a cascade of live cultural acts, headlined by Sitora Nazarova, whose music is a melting pot of ethno-fusion genres. She was accompanied by the enthralling local Zikr Band, the dynamic DJ Safin Momin, and an array of traditional dance troupes that illustrated the cultural richness of Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and India through their performances.

Highlighting the vast cultural mosaic of the Ismaili community, Farah Lalani, Communications member for the Ismaili Council for Southwestern USA, drew attention to the 'One Jamat Dance', a testament to the Ismaili Muslims' geographical and cultural diversity.

The imminent Ismaili Center, a beacon of knowledge and unity, is under construction near the festival grounds, signifying the Ismaili community's deep-rooted presence in Texas. This center aims to be not only a symbol of the community's aspirations but a

nexus for intercultural dialogue and understanding.

In a celebration of life and renewal, attendees engaged in various activities, from egg painting, symbolic of life's rejuvenation, to calligraphy sessions, fostering artistic expression. They also contributed their hopes to a Wishing Tree, enveloping the festival in a collective yearning for harmony and togetherness.

An integral tradition, the HaftSeen Table, was also on exhibit, its 'Seven-S' emblematic of the facets of the coming year, such as rebirth, love, and patience, grounding the festivities in a profound cultural ethos.

As the Ismaili Council for Southwestern USA continues to champion the values of cultural understanding and community engagement, the Navroz Spring Festival stands as a resplendent reflection of Houston's spirit of pluralism and collective joy in the face of a new beginning.

Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Leader of Houston’s New Majority®