Houston Style Magazine Vol 34 No 41

Houston Style Magazine Magazine OCTOBER 12 - OCTOBER 18, 2023

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 34 | Number 41

Complimentary

Ben Jealous

Protecting Their Dream Homes from a Fracking Nightmare

SIMONE BILES

Solidarity With Isreal

Houston Stands with Israel against Hamas Aggression

MOST DECORATED GYMNAST IN U.S. HISTORY H ILLUMINE GALA + OCT 14 + BAYOU PLACE H Mayor Sylvester Turner TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

Twitter: @HoustonStyle

RIP: Honoring Two Titans of Journalism

Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX

Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine

HAUTE SHOTS: The Alliance - United We Dine Gala

MBK-H Makes Profound Commitment To Metamorphasing Lives

Project Row Houses

N E W S | C O M M E N TA R I E S | S P O R T S | H E A LT H | E N T E R TA I N M E N T Support Black Owned Businesses

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Charles Porter, Jr.: A Legendary Voice and A Beacon of Excellence

By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.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 Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian_barefield@yahoo.com Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com Arts Editor Kathleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com NATIONAL WRITERS Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org Burt Levine TotallyRandie PHOTOGRAPHERS Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

Charles Porter, Jr.

W

ith profound respect and admiration, we remember the life of Charles Porter, Jr., a broadcasting giant and a heartfelt leader who touched countless lives through his impeccable career and warm demeanor. Born on February 20, 1942, in Arcola, TX, Charles was a shining gem from the beginning. As the sole child of Charlie Porter, Sr., and Rosa Rainey (Robinson) Porter, he was destined to leave an indelible mark in the world.

Charles’s journey began at H.I.S.D. schools, culminating with his graduation from Booker T. Washington High School.

Here, his passions bloomed as he serenaded many with the melodious tunes from his saxophone. His academic pursuits led him

Dr. Dianne Jemison Pollard: A Legacy Remembered

By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.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©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)

to Texas Southern University, where fate intertwined his path with Lola McIntosh, his future life partner.

His love for his nation was evident when he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1960. As a proud frogman, he regaled many with tales of valor and camaraderie.

An honorable discharge in 1964 marked the end of this chapter, but it was just the beginning of his life’s narrative.

In 1966, the beautiful city of Houston bore witness to Charles and Lola’s union. Their love blossomed, leading to the birth of their beloved “rascals”, Charles III, Stacy, and Phillippa. Life took another turn, and he later married Helen Santee, welcoming their son, Jonas. Family was Charles’s anchor, and his relationships, especially with his first cousin Shirley Mae Ingram, were a testament to his unwavering love and commitment.

His spiritual connection was deeply rooted in the Episcopal Church. Charles’s enchanting voice was not just reserved for broadcasting; he served his faith and community as a “lay reader” in his parishes.

To say that Charles was a pioneer would be an understatement. Beginning his illustrious career at KCOH AM Radio, he soon expanded his horizons to KYOK AM radio as a diligent News Director. But the world was yet to witness his true magnificence. His transition to KTRK-TV, ABC-13, was nothing short of historic. Becoming the first Black television news reporter and

T

Dr. Dianne Jemison Pollard

he Houston Style Magazine family, along with the world, stands somberly still as we remember the monumental life and legacy of Dr. Dianne Jemison Pollard. On October 4th, 2023, this veritable titan in the world of journalism and academia gracefully departed this realm, leaving behind an awe-inspiring legacy that will undoubtedly continue to illuminate the path for many.

Dr. Jemison Pollard was a beacon of dedication, resilience, and unyielding love for her family, students, and the countless souls she touched both directly and indirectly. She was survived by her

son Edward (Vanessa), daughter Celestine, grandchildren EJ and Nadia, and siblings Bettye Wagner and Ted Jemison. The memory of her parents, Celestine Catlett Jemison and the civil rights icon Rev. Dr. TJ Jemison, undoubtedly served as her guiding light.

The Home Going Celebration, a grand homage fitting for such a revered figure, will be held on Monday, October 16th, at the historic Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Houston, Texas. The doors open at 9:30 am, and as per the family’s wishes, attendees are kindly requested to be seated by 10:00 am.

Dr. Dianne Jemison Pollard’s storied journey in academia began with her earning degrees from illustrious institutions such as Fisk University and the University of Wisconsin. She culminated her educational journey with an Ed.D degree from Texas Southern University, where she passionately dedicated 44 years of her life, shaping the minds of future leaders. Her notable positions at TSU, including the Dean of the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College and Chairperson of the Department of Fine Arts, are testaments to her unmatched dedication and leadership.

In addition to her profound impact in academia, Dr. Jemison Pollard’s reach extended to the stage, where she directed over fifty diverse productions, and to com-

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producer in Houston, Charles broke barriers, set new standards, and inspired a generation.

His award-winning programs, especially the insightful documentary on Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, are testaments to his dedication to authentic storytelling.

With an incredible five-decade career spanning radio and television, Charles was not just a professional; he was a mentor, a guide, and a beacon of hope for many budding journalists. His contributions paved the way for countless professionals, ensuring that his legacy would thrive for generations to come.

After a prolonged illness, Charles Porter, Jr. made his heavenly transition on October 2, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of love, including two daughters, two sons, 14 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. The depth of his influence is immeasurable, and his absence will be profoundly felt.

Services Details: Visitation: Monday, Oct. 9th, 5-7 p.m.

Location: Missouri City Funeral Home at Glen Park, 419 Present St., Missouri City, Texas F u n e r a l S e r v i c e : Tu e s d a y, O c t . 1 0 t h , 11 : 3 0 a m Location: St. Thomas Episcopal Church – 4900 Jackwood St., Houston, TX 77096

munities worldwide through her eighteen religious pageants. Her contributions weren’t limited to just academia and arts; she was a stalwart in her community, involved in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Links Spring Cypress Chapter.

In December 2022, the city of Houston celebrated her immense contributions by declaring a day in her honor.

However, amidst all the titles and accolades, she cherished “Mom” above all, a testament to her unwavering love for her family.

Her father, Rev. Dr. TJ Jemison’s groundbreaking contributions to the civil rights movement, notably his mentorship to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., highlighted the lineage of service and dedication Dr. Pollard hailed from.

Dr. Dianne Jemison Pollard’s unwavering faith, impeccable dedication to service, and enduring love for all she encountered will forever be etched in the annals of history. The Houston Style Magazine family and the broader global community salute this irreplaceable icon, forever grateful for the brilliance she shared with the world. Rest in eternal peace, Dr. Dianne Jemison Pollard. You are gone, but your legacy will forever illuminate our path.

The Home Going Celebration will be held on Monday, October 16th, at the historic Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Houston, Texas. The doors open at 9:30 am, and as per the family’s wishes, attendees are kindly requested to be seated by 10:00 am.

October 12 - October 18, 2023

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COMMENTARY

PROTECTING THEIR DREAM HOMES FROM A FRACKING NIGHTMARE

By Ben Jealous

F

orever home. That’s how folks from Aurora I met last week describe the houses they bought outside Denver.

Now those dream homes are caught in what may be America's most dire urban fracking nightmare.

Over the la st yea r, re sidents have discovered, and began a grassroots challenge against, a plan to erect 174 10-story-high oil wells that stretch horizontally underground for thousands of feet.

The project is to be built next to a pristine, vital reservoir that hugs on the city’s edge and shares its name. Nearby communities without reservoirs buy their water from Aurora. The snowmelt-fed water is so clean you can drink it while you swim in it.

That all could change fast.

Civitas, an oil company whose biggest investor is the Canadian equivalent of the Social Security Administration, wants to frack -inject water, sand, and toxic chemicals underground to free oil -- under the reservoir, neighborhoods, and close to a Superfund toxic waste site. The entire area in the proposal is more than 33,000 acres with one drilling pad within 3,000 feet of a neighborhood.

What started as a Facebook page grew into a full-fledged campaign involving residents and allied environmental groups pushing city, county, and state officials to stop the fracking proposal from moving forward. Residents only learned of the plan when Civitas started trying to acquire the mineral rights under their houses and common areas controlled by homeowners’ associations.

When they go to a hearing, “it’s the suits versus the t-shirts” says Marsha Goldsmith Kamin,

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referring to the blue shirts she and other opponents wear. Kamin and her husband learned about the fracking proposal after they moved in November to be closer to their three grandchildren. Opposing the wells amounts to a full-time job for the retiree now.

In Colorado, like most Western, states access to water remains a contentious issue. As its name suggests, the leading opposition group Save the Aurora Reservoir leads with the threat to drinking water for much of metro Denver.

Beyond the direct threat of fracking under and around the reservoir, the proposed wells will demand billions of gallons of water that end up so polluted they’re lost to other uses. So Aurora, which has experienced recent droughts, would see precious water used to produce fossil fuels that are accelerating climate change that can make water even more scarce.

The fracking would worsen Denver’s poor air quality as well.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) raised its concern about ozone levels in the Rockies’

October 12 - October 18, 2023

Front Range from serious to severe last year. The proposed wells would emit thousands of tons of “volatile organic compounds” and nitrogen oxide that make up ozone.

The Superfund site, created by a now-closed Air Force base and city and county dumping, could be an unlikely hero in the story. The EPA won’t allow fracking under the unlined landfill, and more recently has raised questions about the impact of fracking close by on the already leaking site’s structural integrity. Opponents hope that federal concern will help sway regulators in Colorado.

Opponents have made progress. Civitas agreed to move five well sites. The county commission, which narrowly defeated a drilling halt, this week is considering closing loopholes to its oil and gas ordinances to ensure no development within a mile of the reservoir. U.S. Representative Jason Crow wrote to commissioners reiterating residents’ concerns.

But Save the Aurora Reservoirs activists are learning how far powerful interests can tilt the

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playing field. Civitas needs mineral rights from fewer than half of the property owners to force fracking on the rest. While the city has a onemile setback preventing drilling near the reservoir, opponents must fight for the same from the county.

“We think it’s so obvious that the downside is so much greater than the upside. But it feels like so much of the structure – the laws and regulations and approval process – are really working against us,” says Julie Huygen, an Air Force veteran who moved to Aurora two years ago.

Kamin said she’s fighting for the grandchildren she relocated for. She’s energized by her eightyear-old granddaughter’s desire to take part. “She asked me, if they do that to the ground, where are the prairie dogs going to go?”

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

LOCAL: HOUSTON STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH ISRAEL

M

By Burt Levine, Political Writer For StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

ayor Sylvester Turner, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, U.S. Reps. Sheila Jackson Lee, Sylvia Garcia, and Lizzie Fletcher, District Attorney Kim Ogg, County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, City Council Members Sallie Alcorn and Abbie Kamin, and NAACP President James Dixon brought Houston together on Monday, chanting, "Long Live Israel."

"On Saturday, we witnessed evil in its most exact form, killing thousands of innocent children, civilians, men, women, and the elderly. As human beings, we try to ask why, but there is no reason to justify what is happening to our brethren in Israel. Hate has caused this inhumane treatment of man against man. Israel has a right to live. Hate can never be tolerated; it must always be confronted and stopped," said Turner to more than 2,000 gathered in the Barg Sanctuary at Southwest Houston's Congregation Beth Yeshurun, the largest Conservative Synagogue in the United States.

Dozens of Americans have been among the dead, including up to 1,000 killed and 3,000 wounded, while the world watches with outrage. Americans are being held in captivity.

the people and the State of Israel. We will continue our unwavering support for Israel's right to independence."

Jackson Lee said she was there because America recognized Israel's independence within minutes of its declaration in 1948, and as an African American, she appreciates that in the history of America's abolition movement against slavery and in every step of civil rights marches, Jews were with African Americans, just as she stands Mayor Sylvester Turner with America's Jews.

In Houston, Jews, Christians, Senator Cruz said the barbaHouston City Council at-large Muslims, and Hindus came together. rism and heinousness of seeing women candidates Conchita Reyes and Marina The Hindu community contributed kidnapped by terrorists and Christians Coryat were there to represent all the $10,000 to the Jewish Federation of beheaded live on television, music city of Houston, each said. Reyes has Houston, where everyone joined arms festivals marred by the massacre of traveled to Israel in Latino exchange to sing in harmony the Israeli National untold masses, and more Jews killed at visits to support American military.

Anthem, "Hatikvah." any one time than at any time since the She added that she was also there as a "Tonight, our City Hall is lit Holocaust cannot stand or be accepted Christian and as the mother of a young blue and white to show our city's support in the modern world. He said, "Never U.S. Navy sailor deployed as a military for Israel. In the most diverse city in again should be the motto when facing policeman. this country, we stand with one another the modern genocide of Jewish people My heart goes out to the people and with other cities across this coun- here on this earth." of Israel and those who have lost loved try and around the world to say, 'Am Congresswoman Jackson Lee ones through these acts of violence. As a Yisrael Chai,' which means 'Long Live said she is "heartbroken by the massive Christian woman, I will stand in prayer Israel.' We stand with love to condemn loss of life of Israelis in the surprise for the peace of Jerusalem,” said Coryat hate. Houstonians and Israelis, African attack by Hamas, just following the Americans and Jews have always come Holiest of Holy Days on the Jewish caltogether as family," he said. endar. We must never fail to stand with

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There’s a little bit of all of us at Miller...

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Houston AAMA GALA Illuminating Aspiring Minds and Celebrating Progress

By Francis Page Jr. for StyleMagazine.com

G

et ready, Houston! As the glitz and glamour of the city’s social calendar unravels, there’s one event that stands out not just for its glitz, but for its golden mission. This year, AAMA (Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans) invites every soul in our vibrant community to leave an indelible mark on the future of countless budding talents through their annual Illumine Gala.

On Saturday, October 14, 2023, the heart of our city will pulsate with warmth, inspiration, and a unified goal to foster education. Held in the elegant confines of The Ballroom at Bayou Place located at 500 Texas Avenue, Houston, TX 77002, the event is poised to be an extraordinary showcase of our local talents, aspirations, and the boundless spirit of Houston.

While every Illumine Gala has been a night to remember, this year’s occasion is doubly special. Not only are we raising a toast to the impressive accomplishments of our students at the Work & Learn Center, but we’re also heralding an exciting future with the unveiling of a magnificent new building on Houston’s north side. This expansion aims to amplify the resonating

mold learners of diverse backgrounds and ages into the leaders of tomorrow.

Join us, as we come together to not only celebrate the achievements of today but also to ignite the limitless possibilities of tomorrow. Let’s illuminate the path for our future generations, one student at a time.

For sponsorships and more details about the Illumine Gala, please contact: www.AAMA.org Don’t miss this chance to be a beacon of hope and change in our beautiful Houston community.

AAMA Learning Center • 6001 Gulf Freeway, Building E • Houston, TX 77023 • 713-967-6700 impact of AAMA’s services, weaving even more dreams into the city’s fabric.

Houston Style Magazine is proud to champion this noble cause and extends an open invitation to our esteemed readership to be part of this pivotal moment. By gen-

erously sponsoring this event, you are not merely donating; you are investing in the dreams, aspirations, and potential of countless individuals. Your support translates to invaluable education, crucial skill-building programs, and an arsenal of resources that

Image: Four young African American women standing beside a convertible automobile, ca. 1958. WANN Radio Station Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution

Stories of community, business innovation, and creative self-determination

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October 12 - October 18, 2023

SEP 1, 2023 – NOV 26, 2023 ON VIEW AT

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www.AAMA.org #HoustonStyleSupportsAAMA #IllumineGala2023 #AAMA #TeamStyleMag #EducateEmpowerElevate

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Installation, taxes & fees extra, and subj. to change during and after promo. After 24 months, or if any service is canceled or downgraded, regular charges apply to internet and mobile services and devices. Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. $45 Mobile Discount: Must sign up for Xfinity Mobile Unlimited and activate a new line within 90 days of internet order and maintain the line to receive the $45 mobile discount for 24 months. Discount applied to Xfinity Internet bill and will appear on statement within 30 days of Xfinity Mobile line activation. If Xfinity Internet or Xfinity Mobile is cancelled, or if you change Xfinity Internet to a tier below Fast, you will no longer receive the $45 discount. If you change all Xfinity Mobile lines to By the Gig, your discount will decrease from $45 to $10 per month for the remainder of the discount term. Internet: Actual speeds vary and not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. All devices must be returned when service ends. Mobile: Reduced speeds after 20 GB of data usage. Data thresholds may vary. Line limitations may apply. For Xfinity Mobile Broadband Disclosures visit: www.xfinity.com/mobile/policies/broadband-disclosures. Actual savings vary and not guaranteed. Call for restrictions and complete details or visit xfinity.com. NPA400384-0012

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2023

SEE MORE +

Hotel ZaZa - Museum District www.StyleMagazine.com

H The Alliance – UNITED WE DINE Dining Among the Stars H

Co-Chairs Miya Shay and Gene Wu and Sofia and Nadeem Sheikh H www.theAllianceTX.org H Thursday, October 5, 2023 H Hotel ZaZa H

Miya Shay & Gene Wu

Photos By Alicia Castelan Photography

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2023

SEE MORE +

Hotel ZaZa - Museum District www.StyleMagazine.com

Photos By Alicia Castelan Photography

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Mayor Sylvester Turner Lauds The Triumphant Evolution of MBK Houston

By Francis Page Jr. for StyleMagazine.com

I

n a heartwarming event today, Mayor Sylvester Turner took to the stage to magnify the monumental strides made

by My Brother’s Keeper Houston (MBKH) during his stewardship spanning eight impactful years. The event was further illuminated by the introduction of its spirited new Director, Chazz Bailey, who enlightened the audience with his visionary plans for MBKH’s forthcoming endeavors.

Embarking as a pioneering initiative under the Houston Health Department, MBKH has been a beacon for boys and young men of color in the city. By synergizing the prowess of educational stalwarts, diligent nonprofits, and various collaborative partners, MBKH has architectured a robust framework to amplify opportunities and bridge the persistent disparity gaps plaguing underserved sectors of our community.

Mayor Turner eloquently remarked, “Our journey isn’t merely about ticking off activities; it’s a profound commitment to metamorphosing lives, nurturing them to see a brighter horizon beyond challenges.” He further emphasized the unwavering dedication to embrace everyone, regardless of gender, age, or background, ensuring they envision a promising tomorrow.

Since its inception in 2014, MBKH

Facilitating High School Graduation with College and Career Preparedness.

4. Assisting in Postsecondary Education or Vocational Training Completion.

5. Guiding Seamless Entry into the Professional Arena.

6. Keeping Our Youth on the Right Path and Offering Redemption Opportunities.

MBKH’s influential allies encompass stalwarts like the Houston Youth Workforce Council, MBK Wrap Network, MBK ReDirect Diversion Program, and the MBK TeamUp for Houston’s Youth.

Stephen L. Williams, the esteemed director of the Houston Health Department, expressed, “It’s an honor for the Houston Health Department to spearhead such a transformative initiative, charting a triumphant course for our city’s young men.”

In a rousing conclusion, Mayor Turner reaffirmed his unwavering allegiance to MBKH and the future torchbearers of Houston, stating, “Consider this a revitalized beginning. The mayor stands resolutely with MBKH, and in the coming months, this program will be graced with my undivided attention and intensified endeavors.”

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MBK-H Project Director Chazz Bailey, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Houston Health Department Chief of Staff, Judy Harris and Houston Health Department Director Stephen Williams has been an indispensable catalyst, uplifting young souls from the depths of poverty in some of Houston’s traditionally marginalized neighborhoods. The initiative has been at the forefront, championing pivotal changes in the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, initiating mentorship programs, and fostering alliances for a compounded positive impact.

Director Bailey outlined his aspirations for MBKH and shed light on the ‘Six Milestones’ - a stellar blueprint that has been instrumental in sculpting the future of Houston’s young populace. He fervently

stated, “Our objective is crystal clear – forging a world where access to unparalleled opportunities, unwavering support, and transformative change for our young men isn’t just a dream but a tangible reality.”

The Six Pillars Guiding MBKH’s Ethos Are: 1.

2.

Fostering a Healthy Beginning and School Readiness.

Ensuring Proficiency in Reading

by Third Grade.

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Let’s make Houston happen!

PLEDGE to HOUSTON We All Love Houston. Houston should be in the same breath of the great cities in the World.

To get there, we must get on the right track, together. As Mayor, I pledge to complete or initiate the following reforms within the first 100 days. Join me to MAKE HOUSTON HAPPEN! 1.CRIME Expand community policing to improve response time.

Increase civilian employees to free up officers for neighborhood engagement.

Improve Law enforcement coordination among jurisdictions.

To sign my pledge, donate, volunteer, or request a yard sign, scan the QR code below or call 346-316-6051

2.TRANSPARENCY Place the city’s past 8 years check registry online.

Conduct an audit of the City’s Housing Department to address concerns of corruption.

Conduct an audit of the City’s Health Department to address issues surrounding the FBI raid.

3.INFRASTRUCTURE Implement improvements to the city’s water system.

Fix potholes effectively on the first attempt.

Spend drainage fee money on drainage projects.

4.FINANCES Institute financial best practices, write off worthless assets and avoid structural deficits.

5.QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL HOUSTONIANS Address affordable housing challenges in Houston.

Collaborate with local groups regarding stray animals.

Evaluate recent car lane eliminations to prevent future traffic nightmares.

Increase fines NOW for illegal dumping.

Audit the recycling program to make sure the trash gets where it is supposed to go.

visit my website:

www.garciaforhouston.com Follow me on Social Media:

gilbertandrewgarcia giilbertandrewgarcia1

@gilbertgarciatx @gilbertandrewgarcia www.linkedin.com/in/gilbertandrew-garcia-532b7522b

6.REPAIR GOVERNMENT RELATIONS Implement the will of the voters by entering into arbitration with the Houston Firefighters.

Improve relations between Austin and Houston.

Engage with TEA to understand the pathway for HISD’s success.

7.MAKE CITY HALL WORK FOR EVERYONE Place reasonable Council Member Requests on the Council Agenda.

Streamline the permitting process and adopt market-based pricing.

Ensure a FAIR procurement process so insider influence is eliminated.

Consolidate city departments to eliminate redundancies and improve efficiencies.

Make board appointments easier and eliminate conflicts.

Pol. Adv. Paid for by Garcia for Houston Campaign

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LOCAL: JUDGE KP GEORGE CELEBRATES SUCCESS OF 3RD ANNUALBy HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

T

he Historic Fort Bend County Courthouse courtyard came alive on Saturday, October 7, 2023, as the community gathered to celebrate the 3rd Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, presented

by Fort Bend County Judge KP George. This lively event, honoring the richness of Hispanic culture, traditions, and contributions, was a grand success.

From the exceptional performances by Fort Bend ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD mariachi bands to the engaging traditional Loteria games and everything in between, attendees were truly transported through the diverse world of Hispanic heritage. Authentic Hispanic dishes, the allure of lowrider vehicles, a lively petting zoo, and pinatas made it a day to remember for everyone in attendance.

Fort Bend County Judge KP George, honoree Karina Luna and master of ceremonies Pasadena councilman Emmanuel Guerrero pictured during Saturday's proclamation ceremony at Judge

"It's heartwarming to see our community come together in such a vibrant way," commented Judge KP George. "This festival showcases the beauty of Hispanic culture and underscores the unity and diversity that make Fort Bend County truly special. I'm honored to have witnessed our community's spirit in full

display."

Special recognition goes to trailblazing honorees Fort Bend County Sheriff Office Captain Tiffaney Budnik, Fort Bend County Constable Precinct 3 Captain Veronica Martin, Fort Bend County Director of Animal Services Rene Vasquez, Fort Bend County Indigent

Health Care Manager Martha Hernandez, St. John Fisher Catholic Church Facilities Manager Robert Salazar, and City of Stafford Councilman, Mayor Pro Tem Xavier Herrera. Their dedication and contributions to the community were a focal point of the celebration. Moreover, the advocacy efforts of actress and businesswoman Karina Luna, championing education and women's rights, were particularly inspiring.

Talented performers, encompassing singers, poets, drum players, and dancers, truly embodied the Hispanic heritage's essence, ensuring the festival's heartbeat was felt by all.

Fort Bend County acknowledges all participants, families, and sponsors for their contributions to the event, highlighting our community's diverse heritage.

SHOW SUPPORT BY DONATING TODAY!

VOTE OBES NOV. 7TH

OBESFORTWO.COM REDUCED TRAFFIC IMPROVING WATER RESOURCES INVESTMENT IN HOUSTON Paid for by Obes Nwabara for Houston City Council Leif Hatlen, Treasurer

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October 12 - October 18, 2023

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ENTERTAINMENT: Simone Biles Secures Title as Most Decorated Gymnast in U.S. History

By StyleMagazine.com - Newswire

imone Biles, the celebrated Olympic champion and gymnastics sensation, has achieved a remarkable milestone by earning her 33rd World and Olympic medal, a feat that not only solidifies her position as the most decorated gymnast in U.S. history but also ties her for first place in the world rankings. This awe-inspiring accomplishment unfolded at the 2023 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships held in Antwerp, Belgium.

Reflecting on her triumphant return to competitive gymnastics, Biles shared, "Before stepping onto the floor, I felt the weight of expectations. It was an unusual sensation, as typically, I don't sense that level of pressure. Nevertheless, we rose to the occasion."

Biles' return to the competitive stage marked a significant moment in her career, as she had withdrawn from five out of six events at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her courageous decision to prioritize her physical and emotional well-being resonated deeply with athletes worldwide, inspiring several other elite performers to also take time for their mental and emotional health.

After her two-year hiatus from competitive gymnastics, Biles demonstrated her remarkable resilience by clinching victory at the U.S. Classic over the weekend. In a heartfelt message to her devoted fans and supporters on social media, she expressed, "Tears of joy as I make this comeback, surrounded by the love you've shown!

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Thank you for believing in me."

Adding to the celebration, Jonathan Owens, her husband since April, showered her with admiration and praise. In the comments section, he wrote, "So proud of you, baby. It warms my heart to see you radiate happiness while doing what you love and having fun! I love you immensely."

Biles, reflecting on her recent win, shared her thoughts with the BBC, saying, "This victory means the world to me because, after

October 12 - October 18, 2023

everything that transpired in Tokyo, I dedicated myself to personal growth. I continue with weekly therapy, and it's incredibly exciting to return to the arena with the confidence I possessed before."

She went on to say, "Everything has fallen into place. I feel genuinely content with my mental and physical state. While there are aspects of my routine that require refinement, considering it's my first meet back, I am pleasantly surprised by the outcome. It's a wonderful feeling."

During her hiatus from the 2020 Olym-

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pics, Biles courageously disclosed that her decision was motivated by a commitment to her mental health and safety. She revealed her struggle with the "twisties," a condition that causes gymnasts to lose spatial awareness while airborne.

Simone Biles' incredible journey and indomitable spirit continue to inspire and resonate with people around the world, reaffirming her status as a dominant force in gymnastics history.

This inspiring story was originally published in the Chicago Defender.

ARTS: PROJECT ROW HOUSES:CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF ART AND COMMUNITY

P

roject Row Houses (PRH), a nonprofit organization, empowers communities through engagement, art, and direct action, is gearing up to commemorate its remarkable 30-year journey in transforming communities through art and collective action. Join the celebration at "The Founders Round + PRH’s A Legacy Mixtape Block Party" on October 14, 2023, from 1-9 pm in Houston, Texas. In this story, we'll delve into the rich history of PRH, its visionary founders, and the exciting festivities planned for this milestone event.

In 1993, seven visionary Black artists, including James Bettison, Bert Long, Jr., Jesse Lott, Rick Lowe, Floyd Newsum, Bert Samples, and George Smith, embarked on a mission that would forever change their community.

They saw potential in abandoned shotgun houses on Holman and Live Oak, a canvas for positive transformation in Houston's Third Ward.

Danielle Burns Wilson, PRH Curator, and Art Director, pays tribute to these artists by curating "Project Row Houses: The Founders Round." The event showcases newly installed and original works of art created by these

By Kathleen Coleman, Arts Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

visionaries in the very row houses that kickstarted PRH's journey. It's a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in their creative brilliance.

The Founders Round is part of a larger celebration, the "A Legacy Mixtape Block Party," where art and entertainment collide. This family-friendly event features dedicated kids' zones, games, and crafts. Two stages will host multiple DJs and guest performers, ensuring electrifying performances that will get everyone dancing. A local market will showcase businesses and artists, and food trucks will offer a variety of delectable treats.

Throughout its existence, PRH has empowered individuals to support their communities and ideas, equipping them with the tools to make a positive impact. The Founders Round + Block Party is a testament to the transformative power of art and community, highlighting the importance of celebrating collective creative action.

Event Details: - Porch Talks + Opening: Saturday, October 14, 2023 | 1-2 PM - Block Party: Saturday, October 14, 2023 | 2-9 PM

- Location: 2521 Holman Street, Houston, TX 77004 - On View: Saturday, October 14, 2023 – Sunday, February 18, 2024 For more information and updates about the event, please visit PRHTurns30.org.

Each of the seven founders of PRH had a unique and profound impact on the project: - James Bettison's vibrant art fused realism and the abstract, a testament to perseverance.

- Bert Long, Jr., a painter, photographer, and sculptor, believed in going with the flow of life's organic rhythm.

- Jesse Lott's urban frontier art turned trash into treasure, inspiring generations.

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- Rick Lowe, a distinguished artist and community organizer, submerged himself into socially engaged art projects.

- Floyd Newsum's bold art explored social and environmental issues, influenced by the Civil Rights Movement.

- Bert Samples invoked magic and symbolism in his art, uplifting communities.

- George Smith's sculptural works synthesized art movements and cultural influences.

Artist Rounds are held biannually, with openings in March and October. These rounds last approximately four months, during which seven row houses are open to visiting artists who address topics, questions, or challenges facing the community.

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