Houston Style Magazine Vol 32 No 22 by Houston Style Magazine (HSM)

Houston Style Magazine May 27 – June 2, 2021

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 32 | Number 22

H MENTAL HEALTH: MOVING FORWARD AFTER DIFFICULT YEAR H

Complimentary

Jesse Jackson

Mark Of History Scars In Tulsa Oklahoma

Kristen Clarke: Civil Rights New Heroine

Mayor Sylvester Turner Reflects On The Death Of George Floyd

Words By Jo-Carolyn Goode

Photo by david@davidhillsphotography.com

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HFD Receives International Recognition

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HISD Closing Community Food Distribution

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

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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 Sports Editor Brian Barefield

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org Roland Martin www.rolandmartin.com Judge Greg Mathis www.askjudgemathis.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

President Joe Biden awarded his first Medal of Honor since becoming president. The medal went to retired Colonel Ralph Puckett Jr, for his couADVERTISING/SALES rageous actions during the Korean War. “Today we are hosting a true MINORITY PRINT MEDIA, LLC, D.B.A. American hero and awarding an honor that is long overdue, more than 70 years overdue,” Biden said of Puckett. William Ealy Williamealy1906@gmail.com

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©2021 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)

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

COMMENTARY

THE MARK OF HISTORY SCARS TULSA By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

emorial Day marks one year since the murder of George Floyd by the hands of the Minneapolis police. This week also marks the 100-year anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre - a brutal government-aided leveling of a prosperous African American community for which there still has been no accounting and no justice. Few even know about the massacre. It hasn’t even been taught in the Tulsa public schools until this year. Although 100 years old, the massacre poses questions of justice and of decency that America cannot avoid. After World War I, a neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, named Greenwood grew to be among the wealthiest Black communities in the country. Booker T. Washington called it the “Black Wall Street.” Here were successful entrepreneurs, doctors, and lawyers who through hard work and good minds were building a prosperous Black community. The district was lined with black-owned shops. restaurants, a 54-room grand hotel and the Dreamland Theater. It supported two newspapers and a hospital. Then on the day after Memorial Day, a white mob gathered to lynch a young black 19-year-old who had startled a 17-year-old white girl, an elevator operator in an elevator. Rumors inflated the incident into an alleged rape. Black veterans of World War I rushed to the jail to try to protect the young man from the mob. A shot was fired - and the enraged white mob chased blacks back into Greenwood. Then the massacre began. The police and National Guard joined the mob rather than enforce the peace. Planes circled overhead to drop turpentine bombs on homes and businesses. As Reverend Robert Turner, pastor of the historic Vernon African Methodist Episcopal Church that was torched in the massacre, notes, “The first time in American history that airplanes were used to terrorize America was not in 9/11, was not at Pearl Harbor, it was right here in the Greenwood District.” The 2001 report of the Oklahoma Commission to Study the Race Riot of 1921, created by the state legislature, found that the city of Tulsa conspired to destroy Greenwood. According to the commission’s report, the massacre destroyed some 40-square blocks in Greenwood. Nearly 10,000 people were left homeless as 1,256 homes were looted and burned down. And the thriving commercial district - including the black hospital -- was looted and burnt to the ground.

A man looks over the remains of buildings after the attack on Tulsa’s Greenwood neighborhood in 1921. From the ashes of the Tulsa Star rose the Oklahoma Eagle. (Oklahoma Historical Society/TNS) White hospitals turned away Greenwood’s wounded. Many bled to death, including Greenwood’s most prominent surgeon. The number of dead is estimated to be as many as 300 but went uncounted. Many were simply dumped in unmarked graves. Ten thousand African Americans were left homeless; some 6,000 were herded into internment camps for weeks. Government officials committed no public money to help Greenwood rebuild. Instead, they opposed any revival, even rejecting offers of assistance from outside of Tulsa. No one was held responsible for the deaths and injuries. No one was held accountable for the millions in property losses. Not one insurance company honored a claim by an African American. City and state officials covered up the crime for decades. As Dreisen Heath, author of a Human Rights Watch report on the massacre summarized, “the Greenwood neighborhood in Tulsa was destroyed, but survivors of the massacre and their descendants are still suffering the consequences. Decades of Black prosperity and millions of dollars in hard-earned wealth were wiped out in hours but nobody was ever held accountable, and no compensation was ever paid.” That history lives today. Tulsa is still one of the most segregated cities in the country. The current may-

May 27 - June 2, 2021

or acknowledges “the history of racial disparity that exists in our city. A kid that’s growing up in the predominantly African American part of our city is expected to live 11 years less than a kid that’s growing up in a whiter part of the city.” Tulsa still suffers from discrimination institutionalized in the police, in zoning laws, in housing policies and more. One hundred years later, the African American community still seeks justice. Rev. Turner marches each week to the city council to demand repair - reparations for the damage done. The state-created commission called for reparations such as direct payments to “riot survivors and descendants,” a scholarship fund and a memorial. The Human Rights Watch report on the massacre calls on the Tulsa and Oklahoma governments to provide reparations, including “direct payments to the few massacre victims still living and the descendants,” efforts to recover remains from mass graves, and a “comprehensive reparations plan,” including targeted investments in health, education and economic opportunities.” A House subcommittee has opened an inquiry into what can be done. The issue of reparations always meets with resistance. Why should this generation pay for the crimes of those who lived 100 years ago? Yet once the massacre is admit-

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ted; the violation done to people can’t be simply ignored. And the damage incurred - erasing a prosperous Black community and enforcing racially discriminatory policies through the decades - is real. The mark of history scars Tulsa today. There, and elsewhere in America, there needs to be a process that can officially recognize the injustice, act to repair the damages done, and bring us together, so that our society can continue to make its difficult way to an inclusive, and better America. You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson in care of this newspaper or by email at jjackson@rainbowpush.org. Follow him on Twitter @ RevJJackson. Share this story online at StyleMagazine.com

Follow him at: Twitter @RevJJackson Share this story online at:

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

Houston Celebrated Africa With A Series of Events in Observance of Africa Day By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

Photo by Karen Eure Wilson

Mayor Sylvester Turner, 2019 African Day Celebration

City of Houston Celebrates Africa Day, May 27, 2021

he City of Houston marked its 4th annual Houston Africa Day celebration on May 27 by hosting the African Union Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Ambassador Hilda Suka-Mafudze, and 13 Ambassadors from African nations to Houston.

are welcome to join in the celebration with the African community to commemorate the business and cultural contributions of the African diaspora in Houston. The day began with an invitation-only business forum. Houston is Africa’s

with the vibrant art, culture, and food of our African diaspora in Houston,” said Mayor Turner. “Houston takes great pride in our rich diversity, and Africa day is a chance to showcase Houston’s ties to the African continent.” In addition to the cultural celebration, the Mayor’s Office of Trade and International Affairs host the inaugural Houston Africa Day Business Forum for Houston’s top business leaders and stakeholders interested in doing business in Africa. This half-day forum engaged business executives with African leaders and discuss the tremendous opportunities and potential on the continent. “The opportunities in Africa in the areas of health care, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy are a great match for sectors in which Houston companies are global leaders,” notes MOTIA Director Chris Olson. Confirmed guests included the Ambassadors of Angola, Burkina-Faso, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, Togo, and Uganda. “As Africa grows, Houston will ensure that our relationship with this rich and diverse continent will continue to flourish as well. Africa Day is one of our ways to showcase this relationship,” said Houston’s Global Trade Manager for Africa, Mazda Denon.

The events had limited in-person attendance due to COVID-19 protocols and security. Houston Africa Day Business Forum began at 9 a.m., followed by Africa Day Reception at 5 p.m.

Africa Day, also known as African Unity Day, is celebrated annually on May 25. It commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the African Union (AU), on this day in 1963. Houston Africa Day, held annually by Mayor Sylvester Turner, showcases the diversity of the nation’s 4th most populous city and its global presence. People from all backgrounds

May 27 - June 2, 2021

3rd largest trade partner and speakers will discuss opportunities for future business. During the evening celebration, Houston showcased the different regions of the continent through arts, culture, and ‘A taste of Africa,’ keeping with the African Union 2021 Africa Day theme: Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa we Want. “Houston Africa Day is a way to celebrate business and trade opportunities along

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Houston Africa Day is made possible through the support of our partners: Houston First, Chevron, Wazobia African Market, Office of Business Opportunity, Houston Airport System, Zoa’s Moroccan Restaurant, Peli Peli South African Kitchen, Lucy’s Ethiopian Restaurant and Who’s Who: The African Diaspora.

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

LOCAL NEWS: Houston Fire Department Receives

International Recognition From CFAI By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

he Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) recommended the Houston Fire Department for accreditation to the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). On May 18, 2021 the CFAI reviewed the recommendation and awarded the HFD accreditation with full honors, recognizing the Houston Fire Department as an Internationally Accredited Organization. For the second time in 5 years, the HFD has voluntarily participated in the rigorous review process in pursuit of accreditation. Industry PEER assessors provided objective verification and validation of key performance indicators across all programs. Accreditation is an achievement that not only helps to improve internal operations, but it establishes credibility, and ensure accountability. To receive accreditation, an organization must be committed to self-improvement and transparency in the best interest of the community it serves. An

organization must be devoted to accepting constructive criticism and possess the will to make changes necessary for improvement. A major benefit of accreditation is the validation that an agency has satisfied certain levels of research. Mayors, administrators, city managers, and the like, seek data-driven best practices recommendations from the departments they oversee. Accreditation provides a justification for expenditures and a way to ensure the organization is operating with innovation, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality of services at the forefront. “This is truly a team win. Congratulations to the men and women of the Houston Fire department for this achievement and I thank them for their dedication to duty. We also thank the citizens of Houston, Mayor Turner, and the City Council for providing us the tools to do our job. Achieving Accredited Agency status demonstrates our commit-

ment to provide the highest quality of service to the residents and visitors of our city. We will continue to use the accreditation process as a proactive mechanism to plan for the future of this department and identify areas where we can improve on the quality of service we provide”, said Fire Chief Sam Pena. In addition to receiving international accreditation from CFAI, the HFD has also earned one of the highest possible recognitions by receiving a Class 1 Public Protection Classification from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). City residents, business owners and visitors to Houston can count on first class fire protection. This is all possible because of the dedication of our men and women on the Houston Fire Department and the City’s investment in tools, technology, and infrastructure..

www.houstontx.gov/fire/

Mayor Turner Reflects On the Year Following George Floyd’s Murder By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

his past year has not only shined a spotlight on interactions between law enforcement and people of color, but also underserved or marginalized communities. During the in-depth conversation with Turner about the last year, he spoke about community investment. Born in Houston’s Acres Homes, Turner still lives there, and understands the need. ““Since I’ve been mayor, I’ve dealt with one crisis after another,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “I recognize the conditions that exist,” he said. “That’s why, when I came into office in 2016, on Jan. 4, 2016, when I was sworn in, I didn’t want to be the mayor of two cities in one. Cities of haves and have nots.

May 27 - June 2, 2021

And that’s why we started this initiative called Complete Communities.” He pushed for public and private partnerships to invest in housing, shopping, schools, and parks to narrow the gap. Issues that became part of the central argument from demonstrators across the country and those here in Houston, who demanded change peacefully. “There are areas, there are communities that have been underserved,” Turner said. “Marginal communities, and unless we invest in these communities in a real, substantive, transformational way, the next time, it could be worse.” He believes among the many things we should

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take from this past year, as we move forward, we should bring along a better understanding of those communities. He said there is an investment opportunity everywhere. “We’ve gotten more attention though since the death of George Floyd,” he said. “And when you invest in these neighborhoods, then you reduce the shocks and the stresses in these neighborhoods, which will reduce your need to have even greater policing.”

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ith just three weeks left in the school year and public health conditions improving across the city, the Houston Independent School District is preparing to shut down its Neighborhood Supersite community food distribution program. The two final distributions will be held this Wednesday, May 2 6 , 2 0 2 1 a n d n e x t We d n e s d a y, June 2, 2021. Both will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. at Barnett Stadium, 6800 Fairway Drive. No further Saturday distributions are scheduled. At the final two community distributions, food and supplies are available to all and student meals are available to anyone aged 1 to 18. If children are not in the car, families must provide a birth certificate or proof of school enrollment for each child needing meals. “I am so proud of this team and our partners for stepping up when our community needed them most,” Nutrition Services Officer B e t t i Wi g g i n s s a i d . “ We k n e w our students and families needed help and they offered it without hesitation.” HISD’s Nutrition Services department launched its community food distribution program last March, just days after the district had to close its doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the team has

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

Kristen Clarke: Civil Rights New Heroine By Jo-Carolyn Goode www.StyleMagazine.com

Kristen Clarke is first African American woman to head the DOJ’s Civil Rights Department in history.

f ever one’s life was predestined to make a change in the world, it is that of Kristen Clarke. Before she even graduated high school, she challenged the universe to envision “a world with more justice, greater equity, and equal access.” She is now in the best position to evoke clarity to that vision. The history maker just became the first African American woman to lead the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division as Assistant General Attorney since its formation in 1957. “Our nation is a healthier place when we respect the rights of all communities. In every role I’ve held, I have worked for and with people of all backgrounds -- regardless of race, national origin, religion and disability status,” Clarke said. Her eyes have always been keen in seeking to right the wrong of the injustices of the world. Starting with her early days as a trial attorney in the United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division working to combat voting rights, hate crimes, and human trafficking to her

May 27 - June 2, 2021

full circle moment leading the division on the national stage. A career full of many successes and loses and, of course, controversy. She became a headline maker as a Harvard University undergrad when she invited anti-Semite Tony Martin to speak at a Black Student’s Association event. In the Harvard student newspaper Clake was quoted saying Martin’s views were based on “indisputable fact.” Her name would once again appear in black and white for a letter she wrote in The Harvard Crimson where she noted neuroscientist Carol Barnes for saying the melanin in Blacks’ skin gave the race of people superior physical and mental abilities. These exploits in Clarke’s past where just some of the controversial points that skeptical senators harped on during her confirmation hearings. Clarke responded by apologizing calling the infractions an error in judgment. Clarke also had to address her views on calling Donald Trump’s judiciary picks white male extremists, hot topic Twitter tweets, and whether she supported defunding the police to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

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“I do not support defunding the police,” she said. “I do support finding strategies to ensure that law enforcement can carry out their jobs more safely and effectively and channeling resources to emotional health treatment and other severely under resourced areas.” Clarke has said that she is one to listen to all sides of a debate before making a decision. In her view, “there is no substitute to listening and learning.” She continued, “I pledge to you that I will bring that to the role if confirmed.” With only one Republican to vote in her favor, Kristen Clarke was confirmed to the position Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights by a vote of 51 to 48. Quite a milestone to achieve on the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death, a Black man whose life was taken by the hands of a white Minneapolis police officer. President Joe Biden was among the first to offer Clarke congratulations on her new position. “Congratulations to Kristen Clarke on making history — there’s no one better to lead the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. I know

Vice President Kamala Harris, right, swears in Kristen Clarke, far left, as assistant attorney general for civil rights, Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at the Department of Justice in Washington. At center is Clarke’s mother, Pansy Clarke. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) she’ll work tirelessly to advance civil rights and General for the Civil Rights Division,” Senator py to have Clarke on board. Before her confirmapush our nation closer to our founding ideals of Ted Cruz said in a statement to CNN. tion, he said he needs her skill set and experience liberty, justice, and equality for all,” President Many who did applaud the nomination to be a successful Attorney General. He wants to Biden said via Twitter. said the negative feedback all boiled to Clarke’s investigate police departments’ operations and Vice President Kamala Harris was the race. practices around the country that violate the civil first to officially congratulate Clarke after she “I think it’s race, there is no other way to rights of Americans. He wants to offer grants to administered the oath of office to her. “Kristen describe it,” Derrick Johnson, the president of the their practices and relationships with the comClarke has spent her career fighting for equal NAACP, told CNN. “No one else is being treated munity. This is something Clarke wholeheartedly justice and protecting Americans’ civil and voting the way they are being treated in this moment,” supports. rights. As the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Johnson added. “When you compare that to the “I do not support defunding the police,” Rights, she will continue that fight as we see a appointments that the former administration pre- she said. “I do support finding strategies to enrise in voter suppression and hate crimes across sented, and how under qualified they were for the sure that law enforcement can carry out their the country,” Vice President Harris tweeted. positions especially for lifetime appointments to jobs more safely and effectively and channeling “This is a historic moment because for the federal bench, you can’t draw any other con- resources to emotional health treatment and the first time since its creation, following the clusion but [that] it is racially motivated.” other severely under resourced areas.” enactment of the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the Attorney General Merrick Garland is hapconfirmed Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights will be a woman, and will be a black woman, and that is Kristen Clarke,” Vice President Harris spokesperson Symone Sanders. Attorney General Merrick Garland is happy to have Clarke on board as well. Before her confirmation, he said he needs her skill set and experience to be a successful Attorney General. He wants to investigate police departments’ operations and practices around the country that violate the civil rights of Americans. He wants to offer grants to their practices and relationships with the community. This is something Clarke wholeheartedly supports. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer commented on the competency of Clarke. She “is an accomplished civil rights attorney who has earned the respect of all sides,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said. All were not praising Clarke’s confirmation. “This is not the right nominee for a crucial post at a crucial time,” Senator Mitch McConnell said. “Kristen Clarke’s brazen disdain for law enforcement -- evidenced by her repeated calls to defund the police and her troubling history of advocacy on behalf of brutal cop killers -- should be disqualifying to serve as Assistant Attorney Kristen Clarke’s record as a champion of civil rights for all people in America is unassailable.

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

Access to Mental Health Among Minority Communities How To Move Forward After A Tumultuous Year

By Olawale Adio-Oduol with Bee Busy Wellness Center / www.StyleMagazine.com

hen Olawale Adio-Oduola (Wale), graduated from Prairie View A&M, and then pursued a Master of Science in nursing from University of Texas, at the Houston Health Center, specializing in psychiatric and mental health he knew psychiatry was his calling. But when he shared that he decided to become a psychiatrist instead of specializing in another field of medicine, the response he received was one of disappointment. “One person asked why I didn’t want to become a ‘real’ doctor,” Olawale said. “Another asked why I would want to work with ‘those’ people.” Olawale said it was challenging to hear this from those closest to him—individuals he knew to be compassionate, smart, and supportive to others. Olawale, who is Black, said at that point he truly understood the depth of mental health stigma in the Black community. “Ironically, as my career in psychiatry progressed,” he said, “I came to learn that many who responded most negatively to my career choice were the very people I was dedicating my life to helping— African Americans who silently live with mental illness for fear of being judged.”

Steeped In Stigma Adults seeking access to mental healthcare services in general are predominantly differing in demographical representation. However, the opportunity to gain access and utilize the available resources towards purposeful ends is contingent on certain variables. Some of the variables are seemingly confounding, notable among these variables are low socioeconomic status, unemployment, level

May 27 - June 2, 2021

of education, complexity or severity of illness and social support dynamics, among others. All these variables are extensively prevalent among the individuals represented in the minority communities. In the light of recent unprecedented global and local events, the mental healthcare system is beginning to experience exponential growth, even more so in the last few decades. Consequently, the services provided to the communities are shifting in paradigm, with an increasingly overwhelming demand for mental health services as individuals are becoming more cognizant and taking ownership of their mental health status. It is relevant to note that most individuals do not have mental health insurance coverage even while they have general health insurance, which imposes limitations that undermines the overall health of individuals. The implementation of ACA in 2010 aimed at expanding health care coverage for millions of Americans especially low-income individuals by extending Medicaid coverage and providing marketplace subsidies for families below the 400% poverty line (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2018). However, these advancements are not significant enough to facilitate access to healthcare and eradicate the existing disparities given complexities such as but not limited to inability to meet criteria. Despite the difficulty experienced with navigating the healthcare system for the population seeking mental health needs, there is a high prevalence of accessibility problems to care among the minority communities. Although, one of the initiatives that lightened some of the burden was the parity laws, which offered better coverage for mental health and substance use disorder, it was first introduced in 1996 and then again in 2008. However, it has its limitations, but

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a noteworthy step to improving healthcare access. According to the department of health and human services, the aggregate of individuals who will benefit from federal parity protections because of the affordable care act presents with immense variance when comparing data. As of 2013, data supports that individuals who will gain access to services pertaining to mental health, substance use disorder or both benefit under the affordable care act including federal parity protections that are currently enrolled in individual plans adds up to approximately 3.9 million, while those who are currently uninsured remain at 27 million. African Americans develop mental health conditions at a rate equal to anyone else. They also experience trauma as a result of living within a society of systemic racism. According to Mental Health America, Black people experience direct traumatic stressors (including being heavily policed or being the victims of physical and verbal attacks), indirect stressors (such as the effects of viewing the video of the killing of George Floyd), and transmitted stressors (from traumatic stress passed from one generation to the next). Despite these challenges, however, Black people are far less likely to seek care. Statistics tell us that about 25% of African Americans seek mental health care, compared to 40% of whites. Unequal access to health care is one major contributor to this disparity. Olawale added that other factors include “the lack of cultural sensitivity by health care professionals, African Americans feeling marginalized, and the reliance on family, community, and spiritual support instead of medical or psychiatric treatment— even when it is critically necessary.”

You Are Not Alone! #MyBBWC #Mental Health Each one of us can take steps to become an ally to someone—especially in the Black community—who is experiencing mental illness. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, healthcare insurance coverage for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychotic disorder amongst others were either expensive or unobtainable. In cases where they were obtainable, the premiums made affordability impossible for low- and middle-income families. Other barriers affecting access to health insurance include high out of pocket cost, cost of medications, increased denial rate by insurers and problem finding psychiatrist or other mental health personnel accepting their insurance plan. These issues plummeted and complicated the ability to purchase health insurance by individuals represented in the minority communities. As inaccessibility to mental healthcare services is becoming an extensive phenomenon among the minority communities, which is why nonprofit FQHC organizations such as Bee Busy Wellness Center and others in the local communities are established as a channel for new alternatives to bridge existing disparities and increase access to care beyond the minority communities.

Olawale is particularly passionate about bridging disparities and increasing access to mental health services amongst the minority communities, which led to taking a position as a provider with Bee Busy Wellness Center in efforts to continue his mission while focusing on his passion. Olawale has been working with Bee Busy Wellness Center since July 2020 and since then working closely with the communities.

Additional Helpful Sites:

• National Institute of Mental Health: www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/ mental-illness.shtml • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health: www.minorityhealth.hhs.gov/ omh/browse.aspx?lvl=2&lvlid=26 • American Psychological Association Office of Ethnic and Minority Affairs: www.apa.org/pi/oema/resources/ index • American Psychological Association Office on Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity: www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/ resources/lgbt-health

For more information, visit:

www.MyBBWC.org

Olawale Adio-Oduol Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Bee Busy Wellness Center

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

Springtime Travel To The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino By Lisa Valadez www.StyleMagazine.com

Resort Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino is in the heart of North Lake Tahoe in Incline Village.

oustonians don’t get to experience true springtime weather. You could easily wake up one morning, feel a simple breeze, and then be hit with humidity and crazy heat by noon. There’s no better time to embrace the beauty and openness of North Lake Tahoe during the spring and thanks to partners such as Southwest Airlines, getting there is as less stressful as ever before. The airline offers direct flights from Hobby into the Reno/Tahoe Airport. Your destination to the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort and Casino is a short 30 to 45-minute drive, although my drive took a little bit longer thanks to capturing nature and the beautiful views along the way. Seriously, photo opportunities are necessary when going to Tahoe and I practically stopped every few miles to take in all of its splendor. What the Hyatt boasts and achieves is in its variety of rooms. There are suites and cottages on the grounds, all with breathtaking views. I stayed on the 10th floor in the Sugar Pine Junior Suite, waking up every morning to surreal yet idealistic mountain views and calm. Imagine spending an entire year caught up in the bustle of everyday life in Houston only for one morning to feel something completely different! That was what those mornings felt like. I felt reawakened. Every morning started in a spacious room with plenty of seating to enjoy a little morning coffee and even more breathtaking views, a large bathroom with a massive walk-in shower and oversized tub. The days practically planned themselves, waking up to nature and wind down at night, soaking and unwinding with a glass of wine. Here are a few preferred methods for taking on Lake Tahoe the Houston way: Before you arrive at the Hyatt, stop by the Alibi

May 27 - June 2, 2021

Ale Works - Incline Public House for a late lunch and craft beer. I’m not a beer drinker but when the waiter is knowledgeable to the point it turns into a craft tasting, indulging is a must. Don’t judge me, I drank all of them. The Wagyu Burger and fries were so good I had to ask specifically how the fries were made and sure enough - some of their craft beer ingredients help give the fries an added layer of taste. Now, resting or checking out the casino is a strong pair of options, but once the night begins, head to dinner at the Lone Eagle Grille, located on the hotel’s private beach front. An absolute delight of a culinary experience with views of Lake Tahoe, the menu is American with a wide range of steaks, seafood and wild game meats along with a varied assortment of vegetarian favorites. Start with a glass of Prosecco and follow it up with scallops for a light appetizer. For the main course, the pork chop is a winner but there’s no “bad” pick with any of the sharable sides - and yes, I tried every single one to prove it! Although I paired my main dish with a Malbec, the staff has an extensive knowledge about all of the wines available at the restaurant, making it easy for any novice or even expert to ask which wine pairs best. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert as the Baked Alaska, the restaurant’s signature end of the night snack, is too good to pass up. But that’s food, what about the adventure? A day can fly by when you’re having fun but when embracing nature at the same time? It can feel like a blur full of bliss. When you awake, head to Provisions, the hotel’s all-day coffee shop and opt for breakfast to go. Indulging in the variety of drinks, teas, fresh deli, breakfast items, in-room snacks and beverages can be done but we’ve got to get a move on. The hotel offers Tahoe To Go, a service that is a

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quicker, more reasonable alternative to in-room dining. Place your order by dialing ext. 54 from your room and it’ll be ready for you at Tahoe Provisions to avoid service and delivery charges. It took less than 15 minutes from my initial order to my food being ready, that’s how accurate and stress-free the service is. Provisions offers arguably the best vegetarian breakfast meal I’ve ever had with their Beyond Meat Burrito and is a great stomach settler for the road ahead. Load up on water using the refillable water stations located in the lobby and snacks because adventure awaits. The Hyatt is so spacious, the hotel has its own bike rental shop: Big Blue Bike Rentals. Featuring a brand-new fleet of Beyond bicycles, Big Blue offers a choice of hybrid, electric and mountain bike rentals, not to mention kids’ equipment. Being from Houston (and not used to the inclines present in the area), I opted for the hybrid bike and set out for the East Shore Trail. You can find every idea you have about idyllic scenery for a trail at East Shore. Traveling down the three-mile bike path offered glimpses of how much the trail wrapped around the hotel’s curve of the lake. I saw riders cycling through the spacious bike path and pulling up for pit stops at Sand Harbor or relaxing at hideaway beaches such as Hidden or Memorial or even the vistas at Memorial Point. Even in the midst of adventure, stopping to reset seemed like the desired feeling. Most restaurants in Houston have a hard stop for breakfast at 11 a.m. unless your appetite calls for eating at specialty restaurants. Luckily, the pancake connoisseur in me was not only able to grab a bite at the Tunnel Creek Café but also taste some of the best pancakes I’ve ever had in my life. Who knew pancakes were the perfect recharge

Poolside view of Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort to take in more adventure? Once everything settles, prepare yourself for a hike to Monkey Rock with Julie, the Hyatt’s Adventure Specialist. If you’re fit, the level of difficulty with the hike is moderately low. However, if you’re like me, someone who isn’t world-class fit but active, the hike may be a little challenging. It may be a three-mile hike but there’s a 400-foot gain in regards to elevation. I had to tackle the climb at a personal, steady pace. Don’t break out your fashionable shoes for this, stick to a pair of shoes with some traction and hydrate! After a full day of on-the-go adventure, the yearround lagoon-style pool was next on my agenda. I washed up beforehand because again, manners and decency. Plus, a 90-degree heated pool with a tranquil view of the Sierra Mountains immediately put me into relaxation mode. There was no need to do any further exploration because after taking in the sights of Tahoe, a girl needed a bottle of wine and a pizza from Provision’s Tahoe To Go. Another sunrise on day three brought on a renewed sense of taking on more of North Tahoe. The first stop was Sierra Café and a hearty breakfast with casual dining in a comfortable alpine atmosphere. The café proud-

Views from the East Shore Trail

ly serves ingredients from the Tahoe Food Hub, which ties restaurants with locally grown and organic produce and ingredients at a fair price. A short drive parked me at King’s Beach, a nice little detour where I could walk through the downtown corridor and discover some lakeside shopping. Not fully satisfied, I headed over to Tahoe City and explored the downtown stretch, including locally owned shops and good, welcoming people. My mind immediately thought, ‘Today’s the last day. Pamper yourself.’ The Hyatt’s Stillwater Spa was the perfect location to smooth out any kinks in the body thanks to the use of the elements and stone massages, pure water facials, and full-body renewal inspired by the mountain fires and change of the seasons. Plus, no matter where you look, the tranquility of the Sierra Mountains makes their presence felt. Most of all, all COVID-related protocols were in place for added safety and comfort. With only one night to go in Lake Tahoe, dining at the Crystal Bay Steak & Lobster House was the top choice. Not only did the venue have amazing eats such as the Australian Rock Lobster, it’s also one of the restaurants

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where Hollywood royalty such as Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack used to eat! Of course I had to sit in the same cozy booth Marilyn herself sat at. Realizing my travel and time in North Lake Tahoe had come to a close, I gained not only a greater appreciation for Hyatt and especially their partnership with Southwest but their ability to create a gateway to combine luxury and nature. Lake Tahoe is the perfect spring getaway for anyone and as you drive through Reno, you can only find yourself lost not only in your trip but the sites which surrounded your journey one more time. A note from the Editor: The North Lake Tahoe Community invites you to take a pledge to help reduce your footprint and to promote sustainable practices throughout the region by committing to exploring the Lake Tahoe region responsibly. For more information about the Traveler Responsibility Pledge, please visit, www. gotahoenorth.com

May 27 - June 2, 2021

2021

DON’T FORGET + MAY 31ST IS MEMORIAL DAY www.StyleMagazine.com

H 2021 School Graduates Haute Shots + Around Town H

Gianna Floyd – White House Visit

Honoring George Floyd

Mary Young #Graduation21

Kim Ogg Supports George Floyd

Proud Parents – Tina & James Erika and Brittany #Graduation21

Valerie LaVar #Wheaton #Graduation21

Erika Stepter and Family #Graduation21

All Black Attorneys #Graduation21

Proud Dad – Mario, Gaston, Lauren Glenn and Mom – Gina (Gatson) Elie #Triplets #Graduation21

Cydnay and First Lady Stevenson #JDAt24 #Graduation21

May 27 - June 2, 2021

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2022 HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 ELECTRIC CUV PREMIERE By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

2020 Hyundau Ioniq 5

yundai presented the allnew 2022 IONIQ 5 to the North American market. IONIQ 5 introduces advanced technology, innovative use of interior

space and a new global electric platform. During today’s virtual presentation the following executives will share insights about the IONIQ 5.

José Muñoz, Global Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor Company | President and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America | President and CEO, Hyundai Motor

America S i m o n L o a s b y, H y u n d a i Vice President, Head of Hyundai Styling Olabisi Boyle, Vice President, Product Planning and Mobility Strategy, Hyundai Motor North America IONIQ 5’s progressive design explores a new freedom offered by a dedicated battery electric vehicle platform. IONIQ 5 is also a power source on wheels. The innovative Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function allows customers to freely use or charge electric devices, such as electric bicycles, scooters or camping equipment out of the vehicle. During the debut, Hyundai’s leadership will discuss commitment to electrification, IONIQ 5 design, North American product attributes and other major announcements.

www.HyundaiNews.com

Do not leave kids or pets in a closed vehicle for any amount of time! Cars can become an oven in just 10 minutes!

ALWAYS

. Park safely . Look in your back seat . Lock up To report kids/pets in hot cars call 911 Office of District Attorne y harris count y, TX

Kim Ogg

HarrisCount yDA.COM

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May 27 - June 2, 2021

2021

DON’T FORGET + MAY 31ST IS MEMORIAL DAY www.StyleMagazine.com

H 2021 Social Media Haute Shots + Around Town H

Beauties and Brains of Houston! Photo by DemeseBlack Photography

Dr. Alvia Wardlaw – Honored Lifetime Achievement in Arts

George Floyd – Your Life Still Matters Gabby Bought First House

Joycelyn Williams #FiveCentral

May 27 - June 2, 2021

Angelo Blackson Foundation’s First Annual Spring Fling For Autism Families #H43 #LynnClouser #Ron Reynolds

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Sheila Jackson Lee Wishing Patti LaBelle a Happy Birthday

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May 27 - June 2, 2021