Support Minority Owned Businesses NEWS | COMMENTARIES | SPORTS | HEALTH | ENTERTAINMENT Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989 Complimentary AUTO: Tesla Sparking a Charging Revolution HAUTE SHOTS: 2024 Houston Rodeo Black Heritage Day Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX Twitter: @HoustonStyle TAG US: #TeamStyleMag Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine Empowering a Legacy at the 'Men Who EmpowerHer' VIP Reception Tyra Banks Dr. John E. Warren The Democrats, President Biden, and The Black Vote Volume 35 | Number 12 Houston Style Magazine VOTE - Vivan King A Trailblazing Force for Equitable Justice MARCH 21, 2024 - MARCH 27, 2024 H BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL H MARCH 23rd-24th H DOWNTOWN HOUSTON H
Lowers Crawfish Prices
Lotus
by Featured Artist
Llegro
ART
- Karina
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
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 2
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
AdVertising emAil advertising@stylemagazine.com
MINORITY PRINT MEDIA, LLC, D.B.A.
Houston Style Magazine & www.StyleMagazine.com
Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320
Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035
©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)
3 www.StyleMagazine.com March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024
COMMENTARY THE DEMOCRATS, PRESIDENT BIDEN AND THE BLACK VOTE
By Dr. John E. Warren, National Political Commentator
Imagine President Biden appears to be the only hope for America. As we know this nation, it does not follow that many who understand this crisis could and will engage in not voting this November out of the feeling that there is no real choice given Biden and Trump on the ballot. The sad truth is that a Third Party candidate on the Democratic side could almost for certain guarantee that former President Trump would be elected. A Third Party candidate on the Republican side would certainly guarantee that President Biden would be re-elected. Likewise, a stay at home vote on the Democratic side could also guarantee that Trump would be re-elected.
Let us not forget that it was the Black vote that put Biden in office. With all he has done to bring the country back from the brink of collapse, including having a Black Vice President, he has still failed the Black vote. He has not used the power of his office to break the filibuster in the Senate so that the George Floyd and John Lewis proposed laws could have a fighting chance to become a reality.
How is it that a man who spent 36 years in the Senate and 8 years as Vice President has failed to learn how to use the power of those positions, as such men as the late President Lyndon Baines Johnson did, to get the Voting Rights and Civil Rights laws enacted? President Biden
was more worked up over the Supreme Court’s Decision on Roe vs. Wade than the voting rights and civil rights legislation mentioned above. The President and the Democratic Party should understand that Black people can and will live with Donald Trump if necessary, because our fight for equality and inclusion has never ended.
The Black vote, just like all other votes in an election, needs more than the waving of the flag and promises, many of which have been made before. Dollars must be invested in our Black communities the same way they are being, and will be, invested in other communities to get out the vote. It should be remembered that
Black faces in the White House do not mean Black faces at the voting booths.
BLACK VOTERS should also remember that in addition to re-electing President Biden, the Democrats need four more seats in the House of Representatives to RESTORE A DEMOCRATIC MAJORITY and to make Hakeem Jefferies the first Black Speaker of the House of Representatives. It takes money to educate a public to save democracy, as we know it, rather than endure the browning of America.
At the end of the day, Donald Trump is not the problem but the instrument of an old idea that says America has to be ‘white in order to be right’. This idea only sees “We the People” as White. Fortunately, there are still people in this nation Black, White, Brown, Yellow and Red, immigrants and citizens by birth who believe that America is all of us, even when we disagree with each other.
The Black vote is still strong enough to once again make the difference. The question is, will WE get the support necessary to make that vote once again, go to the polls and re-elect this President who must do more. The issue is not his age, but his commitment to getting our vote. People are not as concerned about “saving democracy” or the number of jobs recovered as much as they are concerned about the value of our dollars, food, rent, housing and gas. If the Democrats reach us where we live on these issues, the salvation of democracy will follow.
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
4 March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com
5 www.StyleMagazine.com March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 1-800-xfinityxfinity.com/10GVisit a store today Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Young ballers are more connected at home than ever. Unlike last season’s crew, this generation has it easy thanks to the Xfinity 10G Network. Now, today’s players are scoring reliable connections from every yard line, running at faster speeds, and using the most cutting-edge WiFi to soar their imagination. Introducing the Xfinity 10G Network. The future starts now. The next generation network got game S:10.3125" S:12.5" T:10.8125" T:13"
Vivian King is poised to make a significant impact in Harris County as the leading candidate in the upcoming runoff for the 486th District Court judge position. With a historic win on Super Tuesday, King commands the spotlight with her impressive credentials and unwavering commitment to justice.
King, a stalwart champion of fair and consistent criminal justice, brings a unique perspective to the bench. Her journey from cheerleader to board-certified legal expert epitomizes the American dream. A University of Houston alumna, she swapped corporate pursuits for courtroom battles, advocating for black women in the legal field. Her tenure at the Thurgood Marshall Law School was distinguished, graduating cum laude—a testament to her tenacity and intellect.
Today, King stands as the only black woman in Houston to be Board Certified in Criminal Law. Her 31 years of experience span roles from prosecutor to private defense, overseeing a team of 900 at the Harris County District Attorney's Office. King's intimate knowledge of the county's legal intricacies and her frontline experiences provide her with the insights needed to address systemic issues.
POLITICS: VIVIAN KING: A TRAILBLAZING FORCE FOR EQUITABLE JUSTICE SET TO TRANSFORM HARRIS COUNTY'S LEGAL LANDSCAPE
By Burt Levine, Political Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com
King's strategy to alleviate the backlog of jail cases is both innovative and pragmatic. She proposes giving inmates definitive trial dates to promote plea bargains and reduce costly resets. This plan reflects her deep understanding of the fiscal and social implications of the current system.
As a single mother who rose through personal and professional challenges, King's story is one of resilience and dedication. Her legal career is distinguished by over 150 tried cases, including death penalty cases, and extensive pro bono work, underscoring her commitment to justice for
all. Her contributions to the legal community, including mentoring and educating the public about the criminal justice system, have earned her numerous accolades.
King's influence extends beyond the courtroom. She has been a voice for the voiceless, creating platforms like "Truth & Justice with Vivian King" to highlight stories of incarceration and redemption, and she has graced the screen on WEtv's "Sisters In Law." Her multifaceted engagement with the community demonstrates her holistic approach to justice.
Houston Style Magazine's readers, who are poised at the intersection of culture, advocacy, and community, will find King's candidacy and vision for Harris County's future in line with their values. As early voting approaches, the impact of King's election could resonate far beyond the courthouse, ensuring a safer, fairer, and more just Harris County for all residents. With King's eye firmly on the May 28 election, her potential to reshape the criminal justice landscape in Houston is not only clear but vital.
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 6
www.StyleMagazine.com www.HarrisVotes.com TRUTH IN TEXAS BANKING CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT TEXAS | VERITEXBANK.COM Leighanne Mitchell Mortgage Home Originator, NMLS #1098710 Veritex Community Bank (713) 400-7169 buy your home with buy your home with the right partner the right partner Competitive rates and flexible terms Competitive rates and flexible terms Fast turnarounds and quick loan Fast turnarounds and quick loan approvals approvals Open, honest communication Open, honest communication Mortgage loan officers who work Mortgage loan officers who work directly with you directly with you A friendly staff who understands your A friendly staff who understands your community community Speak to a Veritex Banker today! NMLS #414688 Vivan King
Houston seafood lovers reveled in a delicious surprise as Lotus Seafood announced a delightful price drop on their succulent Cajun crawfish—making a splash with affordability. As of March 13, 2024, connoisseurs savored the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine for just $9 per pound, down from the typical $10 to $14 citywide average.
Established in 2006, Lotus Seafood solidified its status as a beloved staple in Houston's diverse food tapestry. They didn't just slash prices; they enhanced the crawfish dining escapade across their five Houstonian havens in Pearland, Kirkwood, Stafford, Bissonnet at 59, and Veterans Memorial Drive.
Guests indulged in top-notch crawfish, carefully hand-sorted and seasoned to individual preference. Patrons selected their ideal spice level, from a mild tickle to the blaze of Spicy x5, and personalized their plates with tempting sides like corn, sausage, turkey necks, among others.
The season's bounty was enjoyed daily post-noon, paired with the unique "Crack Sauce" and chilled frozen daiquiris for the perfect culinary affair. Lotus Seafood's delectable dishes were made available for phone-in, in-store, and online orders via their dedicated website.
Lotus Seafood's journey from a
LOCAL: LOTUS SEAFOOD DELIGHTS HOUSTON WITH LOWERED CRAWFISH PRICES
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
quaint seafood market on Braeswood Blvd to an iconic culinary chain, complete with five restaurants and an innovative Food Truck for events, was commemorated by a vibrant social media following, boasting over half a million fans on Instagram.
Throughout the season, Lotus Seafood remained committed to cost-effectiveness, extending savings to their cherished patrons. As the community feasted on the reduced-priced crawfish, the menu details and updates flowed continuously through their website and Instagram presence at @lotusseafood, ensuring diners were always in the loop with the latest offerings and deals.
Houstonians reveled in the rich heritage and flavors presented by Lotus Seafood, turning each meal into a festive amalgamation of taste and value.
Patrons visited Lotus Seafood and delved into a legacy of exquisite dining, celebrating the culinary prowess that Lotus Seafood delivered with aplomb in the heart of Houston.
Their eclectic menu featured hits like the "Loud Packs," "Hot Boxes," and a sumptuous array of fried and boiled seafood, from lobster to crawfish, oysters to Cajun shrimp, and beyond—catering to every taste bud's desire.
7 www.StyleMagazine.com March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024
www.StyleMagazine.com www.lotus-seafood.com
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 8 2024 SEE MORE + NRG STADIUM & PARK www.StyleMagazine.com
Headliner – Bun B
Photos By Team Style Mag Supporters & Photographers H 2024 Houston Rodeo Black Heritage Day H BunB & FRIENDS – Record Breaking SOLD OUT Night With 75,005 Fans H www.RodeoHouston.com H Friday, March 1 1, 2024 H NRG Stadium & Park H
Headliner – Drake
Mayor
& Family at the Rodeo Houston
Headliner – Nelly
Whitmire
9 www.StyleMagazine.com March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 2024 SEE MORE + NRG STADIUM & PARK www.StyleMagazine.com
Bishop James Dixon
Photos By Team Style Mag Supporters & Photographers
Headliner – Ying Tang Twins
Headliner – Rapper Eve
H 2024 Houston Rodeo Black Heritage Day H BunB & FRIENDS – Record Breaking SOLD OUT Night With 75,005 Fans H www.RodeoHouston.com H Friday, March 1 1, 2024 H NRG Stadium & Park H
Headliner – Too Short
& Coco
Join the heart of East Houston, a stellar institution stands dedicated to the wellbeing of its community. East Houston Hospital & Clinics, a full-service acute care facility, is the only hospital catering to East Houston's diverse population. This medical haven offers round-the-clock emergency services, urgent care, and a newly unveiled Advanced Imaging & Breast Center, ensuring cutting-edge diagnostics are within reach.
Comprehensive Care Across the Board East Houston Hospital & Clinics' spectrum of services is vast, extending from prevention and early detection to managing more complex conditions. The hospital's specialties include Diffusion Tensor Imaging, advanced diagnostics, and emergency services, highlighting a commitment to providing solutions for every health concern. From orthopedic surgery to cancer treatment, this institution's patient-first philosophy ensures a healthcare experience tailored to individual needs.
An Environment That Fosters Excellence The hospital's affiliation with the Advanced Diagnostics Healthcare System guarantees an environment where collaborative care flourishes, resulting in superior patient outcomes. Under the leadership of Dr. Christopher Douglas-Oguneko, CEO
HEALTH: EAST HOUSTON HOSPITAL & CLINICS: A BEACON OF COMPREHENSIVE HEALTHCARE IN EAST HOUSTON
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
of Advanced Surgeons and Physicians Network, Inc., the hospital embraces a synergy of high technology and human touch, often exceeding patients' hospitality expectations.
A Leader with a Vision Dr. Douglas-Oguneko's journey to healthcare leadership is as inspiring as it is unique. His transition from a sports enthusiast with the NFL Houston Texans to a visionary in healthcare is a testament to his versatility
and commitment to community service. With a rich educational background from Rice University and the University of Houston, Dr. Douglas-Oguneko's ascent in the healthcare field has been meteoric, marked by pioneering innovations such as the mobile radiology branch.
A Commitment to Community and Family As a respected member of various healthcare and community organizations, Dr. Douglas-Oguneko’s influence
extends beyond the hospital walls. His dedication is mirrored in his family life, where he's a role model to his three young boys, sharing with them the ethos of exceeding one's achievements.
Embracing the Future with Open Arms East Houston Hospital & Clinics, alongside its sister institution, River Oaks Hospital & Clinics, remains steadfast in its mission to deliver top-tier medical services. With facilities equipped to address a myriad of health concerns and a leadership team that's passionately invested in community wellbeing, the hospitals are pillars of health in the Houston area.
For those seeking compassionate, comprehensive healthcare in East Houston, the hospital welcomes you. To learn more about East Houston Hospital & Clinics and the services offered, visit www.adhealthcare.com, and for information on River Oaks Hospital & Clinics, browse www. rohc.care.
East Houston Hospital & Clinics: Where healthcare and community converge. 4200 Twelve Oaks Place, Houston, TX 77027 832-584-9200 Direct
www.StyleMagazine.com
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 10
Dr. Christopher Douglas-Oguneko
Join the Texas Women's Empowerment Foundation (TWEF) in celebrating a milestone—the 20th Anniversary of advocating for and fostering women's leadership and empowerment. In honor of this significant occasion, we are excited to invite you to the "2024 Men Who EmpowerHer Connect VIP Reception." This premier event will take place on Monday, April 22, 2024, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at the Hotel Zaza Museum District, an emblem of luxury and sophistication located at 5701 Main St, Houston, TX.
The Men Who EmpowerHer Connect is an integral part of the TWEF Women's Leadership Summit, providing an exclusive networking platform where leaders and advocates for women's leadership come together to share insights and strengthen bonds. We are delighted to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding gentlemen who have demonstrated unparalleled support and dedication to women's advancement and community development.
Over the years, the event has been graced by the presence of an illustrious roster of past participants, including Grammy Award-winning artist Ron Isley; the eminent business guru Dr. John Maxwell; Houston's own former Mayor Sylvester
LOCAL: EMPOWERING A LEGACY - TYRA BANKS HEADLINES TWEF'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY 'MEN WHO EMPOWERHER' VIP RECEPTION
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Tyra Banks
Turner;
Academy Award-winning talent Cicely Tyson; and the esteemed business powerhouse Tina Knowles, among others. These individuals exemplify the spirit of empowerment and service that TWEF stands for.
This year's VIP reception promises to be no less inspiring, with the formidable Tyra Banks, a paragon of fashion and entrepreneurship, engaging in an intimate fireside chat hosted by ABC 13's renowned news anchor Melanie Lawson. Tyra's presence and dialogue will undoubtedly enrich
the conversation on leadership and empowerment.
Tyra Banks' influence in the fashion and media industries has left an indelible mark, making her participation a perfect alignment with TWEF's commitment to empowerment. With her remarkable achievements as a model, host, and CEO, she embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and the empowering message we aim to convey.
Following the reception there will be an exclusive luncheon which doubles
as a fundraiser to support TWEF scholars. This is a chance to not only dine in good company but also to contribute to the cause of education and empowerment.
Your participation at the 2024 TWEF Men Who EmpowerHer Connect VIP Reception is not just a privilege but a reinforcement of our shared goals. You will be among those who champion the path to greater heights for women and by extension, for entire families in achieving and maintaining a sense of empowerment that is evident through life's achievements.
We eagerly await your presence and contribution to this prestigious gathering. Together, we will continue to champion the cause of empowering men, women, children, and entire families towards achieving their utmost potential.
Anticipating your affirmative response and esteemed presence, Deavra Daughtry Founder, Texas Women's Empowerment Foundation (TWEF)
Please mark your calendars and join us in this commendable tradition, ensuring your place in the ongoing legacy of men who truly 'EmpowerHer.' For more info and tickets, go to: www.TWEF.org
www.StyleMagazine.com
11 www.StyleMagazine.com March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 There’s plenty to get done when running a small business. That’s why a Frost Business Loan includes more than just capital. From award-winning online banking tools to nationally recognized dedicated service, get all the banking solutions you need — and deserve. Give us a call 24/7 at (800) 513-7678 or visit your nearest financial center to get started. We take care of the financing, so you can focus on growing. FrostBank.com | Member FDIC Exactly What You UnexpectedTM
the
The electric vehicle (EV) landscape is undergoing a monumental transformation, promising a greener, more connected future. As we pivot towards sustainability, several automotive giants are aligning with Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS), heralding a new era of compatibility and convenience in EV charging.
Houston, We Have a Revolution: The Surge of NACS in the EV Industry The EV revolution is picking up speed faster than a Tesla on Ludicrous Mode, and Houston Style Magazine readers are at the forefront of this shift. By 2030, the majority of new cars from every major automaker will be electric, spearheading an environmental renaissance. Texas may be oil country, but it's also home to some of the most enthusiastic EV adopters and advocates for cleaner transportation.
The winds of change are blowing through the auto industry, with a collective move towards the Tesla NACS charging port. This move is a game-changer, offering unparalleled charging capabilities and signifying a unified front in the EV sector. Leading the Charge: Automakers Embracing NACS
Several leading brands have committed to adopting the NACS port by
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
2025, promising a seamless and integrated charging experience for EV owners:
Ford steps into the future with the F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, E-Transit, and other upcoming models. General Motors brings innovation with its 800-volt Ultium architecture, despite a current limitation with Tesla's 400volt Superchargers.
Rivian prepares its R1S, R1T, and the forthcoming R2 models for the NACS era.
Volvo and Polestar electrify their lineups, including the XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2.
Mercedes-Benz commits its EQB, EQE,
for the Air sedan and the new Gravity model.
Supercharged Network: Tesla's Pioneering Legacy
Tesla's Supercharger network is the golden standard in EV charging, boasting over 12,000 stations across the U.S. and Canada. Its user-friendly interface, reliability, and advanced technology make it a favorite among EV enthusiasts.
EQS, and more to NACS.
Nissan revamps its strategy, beginning with the Ariya.
Fisker joins the fray with the Ocean, Pear, Ronin, and additional models.
Honda and Acura plan to integrate NACS into models like the Prologue and ZDX.
Jaguar reaffirms its all-EV future in North America with a NACS pledge. BMW, Rolls-Royce, and Mini not only switch to NACS but also incorporate payment functions within their apps.
Toyota and Lexus make the leap towards a unified charging network.
Lucid sets its sights on a NACS future
In a notable collaboration, Ford CEO Jim Farley and Tesla and Twitter CEO Elon Musk announced that Ford EVs will have access to the Tesla Supercharger network starting in early 2024. This interim period will see the use of adapters, leading to 2025 when Ford EVs will be fully equipped with NACS, ensuring a frictionless charging experience.
Embracing NACS: The Future of EV Charging
The adoption of NACS by various automakers signifies a united step towards a future where charging an electric vehicle is as commonplace and easy as refueling a gasoline car.
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 12 INCEPTION AUTO • 12836 Westhiemer Rd, Unit B-600, Houston, Texas 77077 • Call Li @ book your CAR: 346-552-4165 BEST QUALITY. . . CAR WRAP H PPF H WINDOW TINT H CALIPER H BLUETOOTH UNDERGLOW CAR LIGHTS H COMMERCIAL VEHICLE WRAPS Tesla • Mercedes • BMW – Porsche – Farrari • Lamborghini • Land Rover • Chevy • Ford • Honda • GMC • Cadillac • Bentley • Audi • Jaguar • Lexus We Install These Fine Products: CALL NOW IN-STOCK SPECIALS 346-552-4165
Read More at: www.StyleMagazine.com
ELECTRIFYING UNITY: LEADING AUTOMAKERS RALLY BEHIND TESLA'S NACS, SPARKING
CHARGING
AUTO:
A
REVOLUTION
As the Houston skyline stands as a testament to innovation, the Housing Opportunities Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) Summit has echoed this spirit, weaving a new narrative in community empowerment. On March 19-20, 2024, industry visionaries congregated in Houston, TX, casting a spotlight on the city's commitment to reinventing affordable housing. In a milestone collaboration, Nan McKay & Associates (NMA) and the Houston Hous-
LOCAL : Houston Takes the Lead in Housing Innovation
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
ing Authority (HHA) joined intellectual forces, unveiling pathways to knowledge and proficiency for housing professionals. This partnership, sealed in 2023, has been a driving force in fostering excellence and augmenting the effectiveness of housing solutions.
David A. Northern, Sr., the charismatic President and CEO of HHA, heralded the summit as a harbinger of positive transformation, pledging to serve communities with renewed vigor. NMA, with its nationwide acclaim in compliance-centric housing strategies, infused the event with unmatched expertise.
The summit unfurled as a tapestry of in-depth training sessions and dialogues, helmed by NMA's Senior Manager of Professional Services, Samantha Sowards. A coterie of industry-leading trainers imparted wisdom on HOTMA intricacies for PIH programs, including the Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing initiatives. Since its inception in 2016, HOTMA has evolved, mirroring the dynamism of the sector it aims to reform. The summit's training encompassed this evolutionary journey, preparing attendees to face the multifaceted challenges of housing policy and practice.
Shaping the Future of Housing in Houston
The Houston Housing Authority has long been a bastion for over 60,000 low-income residents, managing a vast array of housing programs. The summit reinforced HHA's vision to broaden its canopy of services, ensuring more families secure the cornerstone of stability—a home.
Nan McKay & Associates, with its four-decade legacy, has sculpted a reputation as a champion for community-centric solutions. Sprawling across the nation, the woman-led powerhouse emphasizes strategic, compliance-focused approaches to uplift neighborhoods.
As the curtains close on the HOTMA Summit, the alliance between NMA and HHA stands as a testament to Houston's enduring spirit of collaboration. Together, they pledge to continue breaking
ground, sowing the seeds for robust, affordable housing landscapes.
Houstonians are invited to witness this ongoing transformation, as the city emerges as a lodestar in the national housing dialogue. For those stirred by the summit's call to action, the voyage towards innovation and community enhancement continues.
For a Brighter Tomorrow
The conversation does not end here. To dive deeper into the pivotal role played by HHA in Houston's housing fabric, visit www.housingforhouston.com. For insights into NMA's revolutionary approaches to public housing support, explore www. nanmckay.com. Houston Style Magazine stands with these vanguards, chronicling each step towards a brighter tomorrow for all Houstonians.
www.StyleMagazine.com
13 www.StyleMagazine.com March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024
StopHateNow The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has prosecuted 77 hate crime cases in the last 7 years. The most ever, by any District Attorney’s office in Texas. If you see or experience a hate crime, report it. HCDAO VICTIMS SERVICES (713) 274-0250 ANTI-DEFAMATION LEAGUE (713) 627-3490 LGBT SWITCHBOARD 24-HOUR HELPLINE (713) 529-3211 THE MONTROSE CENTER (713) 529-0037
#
David A. Northern Sr.
Campus Chronicles
Join the staff and students at Create Fest—an exhilarating arts festival highlighting the talents of Spring Branch ISD Visual Arts! Community members are invited to compete, exhibit, connect, and celebrate on Saturday, April
6, 2024, from 10AM to 2PM at the Altharetta Yeargin Art Museum, Westchester Academy. Don't miss out—be part of the excitement! For details, visit SpringBranchisd.com and join in for a day filled with creativity and fun!
Nancy Avila, a new addition to Spring Branch Middle School, swiftly became integral to student safety and well-being. Drawing from her parenting experiences, she instills confidence in parents and nurtures students beyond her law enforcement role. Her
journey reflects resilience, reshaping perceptions of law enforcement with compassion and community partnership. Through her bilingualism, Nancy fosters connections, empowering students with resilience and kindness.
Spring Branch ISD School Nutrition Services expressed immense pride in Pine Shadows Elementary for receiving the Breakfast Innovation Award from No Kid Hungry Texas. The team celebrat-
ed, recognizing Pine Shadows' implementation of a "grab and go" school breakfast program, which earned them the prestigious award.
On March 1st, Spring Branch ISD's Health Science Clinical students embarked on their hospital rotations at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Hospital, marking an exhilarating be-
ginning to their journey toward future careers in the health profession. The district extends gratitude to their valued partner, Memorial Hermann, for providing this invaluable opportunity.
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 14
For inclusion SUBMIT Your Education Event To: editorial@stylemagazine.com
Get ready to ignite your senses at the Bayou City Art Festival Downtown on March 23-24, 2024, in the heart of Houston. The iconic festival, curated by the Art Colony Association, will convert the urban sprawl into a vibrant outdoor art gallery, boasting a rich tapestry of artistic wonders and an exclusive culinary art and tasting journey.
Embark on a flavorful adventure with Houston's finest chefs at the celebrated Chef’s Table. Culinary maestros including Patti Delgado from The Original Ninfa's and Oscar Garcia Santaella of La Taquiza Street Tacos will enchant your palate while providing live cooking shows. Sample their iconic dishes and immerse yourself in the culinary arts on both days of the festival.
The festival's spotlight will beam on Karina Llergo, the featured mixed media artist from Chicago, along with 250 illustrious artists from across the nation. Engage with the creators directly, feast your eyes on their original pieces, and maybe even take home a fragment of their vision.
Prepare for an endless stream
ARTS: The Bayou City Art Festival Returns to Downtown Houston, an Oasis of ART and Flavor!
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
of live entertainment stages, where the rhythm of the city will pulsate with performances for all. Food aficionados will revel in an array of gourmet food trucks, each offering a slice of culinary heaven.
Younger visitors will find delight in the Active Imagination Zone, teeming with oversized bubbles and a chance to meet and create with caricature artist Bonnie Blue. Meanwhile, the festival’s craft beer and wine gardens offer panoramic views of Houston's skyline — the perfect backdrop for a
Karina Llegro
toast to the arts.
The festival also honors the burgeoning talent of the Collegiate Art Collective and the stars of the 11th Annual Middle School Art Competition. The exhibition of top student artwork and the anticipation of the "People’s Choice Award" will add another layer of excitement.
For the young, and young at heart, the Barbie Dream House near the Active Imagination Zone will be a pink-hued paradise. Dive into a world of sparkles and imagination with art activities designed for all ages.
A heartening aspect of the festival is its commitment to philanthropy. A portion of the proceeds will bolster the vibrant Houston arts scene through its nonprofit partners. And for those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the VIP Hospitality Lounge awaits, offering an array of amenities for the discerning art lover.
Tickets are available online, with general admission set at $20, and the joy of free entry for kids under 12 as part of the Kids Free Program. VIP passes offer an all-inclusive experience at $75. Be advised, tickets must be pre-purchased online and will not be sold at the gates.
Stay updated with the latest news and updates by following the event hashtags #HouArtFest and #BCAF. For more information and to secure your tickets, please visit www.bayoucityartfestival.com. Don't miss this chance to indulge in the arts and join Houston's grand celebration of creativity and community!
www.StyleMagazine.com
15 4 - March 27, 2024
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Leader of Houston’s New Majority®
WOMEN-OWNED Brands
UNCLE FUNKY’S DAUGHTER CRAZY ABOUT CURLS
Uncle Funky’s Daughter offers sustainable, chemical-free hair care products to a blossoming curly hair market. While it is true that curly girls have more fun, with more fun comes more frizz. Challenged with finding all-natural products that truly tame frizz and provide long-lasting defined curls, Uncle Funky’s Daughter products for kinky and curly textures was born.
AFIA
TRUE MEDITERRANEAN FLAVOR
Afia is committed to the authenticity and elevation of Mediterranean cuisine in the retail space. What began with a generational family recipe book, Afia offers both vegan falafels and halal beef kibbeh that are made with clean ingredients and ready to heat & eat.
March 21, 2024 - March 27, 2024 www.StyleMagazine.com 16 ©2024 HEB, 24-2809 Learn more about these products and other women-owned brands at heb.com/bethechange
SUPPORT
H-E-B IS PROUD TO
Farrah Moussallati Sibai, Founder
Renee Rhoten Morris, Chief Curl Officer