Houston Style Magazine Vol 32 No 36

Houston Style Magazine Magazine September 2, 2021 - September 8, 2021

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

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Volume 32 | Number 36

Dr. John E. Warren Contracts, Grants, And Those Intended To Be Served

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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

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President Biden: Pandemic, Fires, War, Voter Rights, Hurricane and the Economy!

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September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

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COMMENTARY

CONTRACTS, GRANTS AND THOSE INTENDED TO BE SERVED

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By Dr. John E. Warren, San Diego Voice and Viewpoint

t has come to our attention that a number of organizations have received contracts and grants to serve intended communities, often without verification of communities intended to be served. Some of this happens without ever providing notice that contracts or grants are available. For the benefit of both grantors and grantees, it should be stated as a reminder that public policy requires a notice of the availability of such funds and the right for those interested or affected parties to have an opportunity to apply for such funds. This is done by issuing a “RFP” (Request for Proposals) or a “RFQ” (Request for Quotes) on a proposed project. Due Process under Federal Statutes (Title 5 USC Sec 554 and 555) sets out this process.

Under the California State Codes, there exists the Administrative Procedures Act which carries the same requirement. To date, there have been no amendments to the State Government Code allowing the internet publication to become a substitute for such notices being published in adjudicated newspapers of general circulation of which this newspaper is and has been since 1966.

It appears that some well known organizations are receiving grants and contracts because of their name recognition rather than a verification as to whether they can perform the needed task. In an increasing number

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of instances, the public is only hearing of these contracts and grants after they have been awarded. A number of these grants or contracts are not being advertised before being awarded. It should also be noted that while these rules do not apply to private foundations, many of them provide such notice in advance of awards, which is much appreciated.

Many times, communities intended to be served are listed in the Statement or Work, often included in the response to such contracts or grant RFPs,

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

without the knowledge of such designated groups. Some recipients of such grants or contracts often never spend dollars with those designated communities in terms of real outreach.

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint intends to take a very long look at who is receiving contracts and grants for service to elements of our communities. We want to know if social media has become a designated substitute for due process. We are increasingly having people announce contracts after they have been awarded with

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no prior communication with the people intended to be served. We are concerned about oversight and actual service received.

We would like to know if you, the reader, have recently found out that there were services available to you that you didn't know about and, if so, how did you find out?

We look forward to your response.

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POLITICAL: MARCH ON WASHINGTON 2021 FOCUSES ON VOTING RIGHTS

By Lauren Victoria Burke, ww.BlackPressUSA.com – NNPA Contributor

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell with others at March On Washington

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n the 58th anniversary of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, marchers focused on voting rights. Voting rights have reemerged as a somewhat unexpected political battlefield as Republicans across the country pass new laws placing barriers in front of the ballot box.

Last week, the U.S. House passed the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act which would restore pre-clearance, a 1965 Voting Rights Act provision requiring states with a history of restricting voting rights to receive pre-approval for changes in

election laws.

“January 6 you saw an insurrection against people’s right to vote,” said Rev. Al Sharpton, a primary organizer of the March on Washington 2021. Today, Sharpton said, represents “Dr. King’s resurrection of the right to vote.”

In Washington, D.C. and several other cities, marchers focused on voting rights along with the minimum wage, evictions and justice reform issues.

Marchers at the Washington, D.C. event featured members of Congress and voting rights activists.

“Fifty eight years ago today, a preacher from

Georgia stood on these steps and declared, in the face of racism and economic justice, a nightmare — a nightmare that was lengthened by congressional and state filibustering,” said Rev. Dr. William Barber, President of Repairers of the Breach.

Marchers in Washington, D.C. wore “good trouble” t-shirts and face masks and held signs on voting rights and ending the filibuster.

Voting rights activists have been putting pressure on Congress to end the filibuster and make it harder for state legislators to change voting laws that place barriers in front of the ballot box.

“Fifty-eight years after the #MarchOnWashington, Americans are marching again today for our democracy. With state laws disenfranchising voters and making it harder to vote, we need the Senate to pass the For the People Act and the House-passed John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act!” wrote House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on social media.

The Senate is expected to return to session in September and deal with a close vote that will include the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent journalist for NNPA and the host of the podcast BURKEFILE. She is also a political strategist as Principal of Win Digital Media LLC. She may be contacted at mailto:LBurke007@gmail.comLBurke007@gmail. com and on twitter at @LVBurke

NATIONAL: IDA WIPED OUT POWER TO THOUSANDS. NOW, RESIDENTS FACE GAS SHORTAGES AND DWINDLING SUPPLIES

By Madeline Holcombe, www.CNN.com – Newswire

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long road to recovery is ahead for Gulf Coast residents impacted by Hurricane Ida, and now some families are scrambling to stock up on food and gas as supplies in the region dwindle.

In the New Orleans neighborhood of Algiers, Yolanda Teague told CNN her family is running out of enough to eat and drink.

Teague, along with her boyfriend, eight children and two of her children's friends are living in a couple rooms of their four-bedroom house, sequestered after the roof collapsed into the living room. One of her children has a heart condition that makes overheating extremely dangerous for him.

In Plaquemines Parish, about 65 miles away, officials reminded residents in a Tuesday release that there isn't a confirmed timeline for the power to be restored.

"Due to this - supplies such as water, groceries, gasoline and medical supplies have been depleted and will not be readily available," the release said.

More than 990,000 customers in Louisiana and nearly 30,000 in Mississippi were without power early Wednesday morning, according to PowerOutage.

US. Some parishes have warned residents that the pow-

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er outages could last at least a month as the state recovers from now-Tropical Depression Ida, which made landfall Sunday as a Category 4 hurricane and contributed to at least five confirmed deaths.

With the incoming heat, the lack of electricity could prove life-threatening.

"This is not a livable condition," Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng told CNN's Don Lemon of the destruction in the area, adding that residents who chose to ride out the storm are now packing the highways to get out.

All of New Orleans was left completely dark by the storm, but Mayor Latoya Cantrell said there should be "some level of transmission" into the city by Wednesday evening. Regional energy provider Entergy announced two possible ways to do that: one restores transmission lines and the other creates a temporary "stand-alone grid" for the area.

In New Orleans, cars were lined up overnight at the few gas stations in the area that were open.

"I'm not satisfied with 30 days, the Entergy people aren't satisfied with 30 days, nobody who's out there needing power is satisfied with that," Gov. John Bel Edwards said.

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Infrastructure for New Orleans Ramsey Green explained that to get power back, the city does not need all eight of the power lines that feed the city to be restored.

"We can get power to this city, but we may not be able to get it to your house immediately," Green said.

Hundreds of people have been rescued, but

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search-and-rescue crews haven't been able to access some of the hardest-hit areas, so it's not yet clear how many residents might be still be trapped by flooding or debris. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

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BUSINESS: COMERICA BANK SELECTED AS A 2021 LEADERS IN FINANCIAL EDUCATION AWARD WINNER By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

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omerica Bank has been selected as one of four Leaders in Financial Education Award (LiFE) winners by the Texas Bankers Foundation. The bank was recently honored at the Texas Bankers Association’s 136th Annual Convention in Austin during a special awards luncheon on August 26.

“At Comerica, we remain committed to making impactful and innovative investments in the communities we serve.” said Vanessa T. Reed, Comerica Bank National External Affairs Manager. “In addition to providing access to capital, we quickly identified the importance of empowering under-resourced small business owners and entrepreneurs through financial education and technical assistance as they navigated through unprecedented times. We are honored to receive the LiFE award for our contribution to a more inclusive and equitable economic recovery for all Texans.”

The Leaders in Financial Education Award (LiFE) acknowledges and honors Texas banks that are dedicated leaders in promoting consumer and financial education in their communities.

Last spring, the Comerica Bank External Affairs team launched Business $ense

bootcamps in partnership with several of its community partners that serve underserved communities; including but not limited to Women and Minority Business Resource Centers and Minority Chambers of Commerce and Diversity & Supplier councils.

The free virtual workshop series were designed to help small businesses and entrepreneurs scale and sustain during the pandemic.

Some of the topics presented include marketing/branding, legal matters, government contracting and access to capital.

Participants also have access to business coaches from the nonprofit partners in addition to Comerica Bank representatives, who lend their financial expertise during each bootcamp. The Comerica Financial Education Brigade, comprised of colleagues at every level have volunteered, ranging from the chief economist and supplier diversity manager to market presidents and commercial and retail bankers.

“It is our great pleasure to recognize this year’s LiFE Award recipients. This award celebrates the banks and bankers who are dedicated leaders in promoting financial education,” said Chris Furlow, president & CEO of the Texas Bankers Association.

(L to R): Brandon Jones, Texas External Affairs Manager; Vanessa T. Reed, National External Affairs Manager; and Irvin Ashford, Jr., Chief Community Officer Photo: Rob Wilson of RC Photographic Productions, Inc. “Those recognized this year have had a give back to the community, promote fisignificant impact on their communities nancial literacy and showcase excellence and we are honored to congratulate them in their fields. on their efforts.”

For 32 years, the Texas Bankers For more information visit: Association and Foundation have honored those who have served in the banking industry for 50 years or more. The Foundation has since expanded its awards portfolio to recognize banks and TBA members who

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NATIONAL: 7 BLACK MEN WERE EXECUTED FOR AN ALLEGED RAPE IN 1951. DECADES LATER, THEY'VE BEEN PARDONED

By Kristina Sgueglia, www.CNN.com – Newswire

Rose Grayson, niece of Francis DeSales Grayson, top, comforts James Grayson, son of Francis DeSales Grayson, left, and Rudy MCollum, great nephew of Francis DeSales Grayson

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group of young Black men executed after being convicted by all-White juries of allegedly raping a White woman have been pardoned in Virginia 70 years after their deaths.

O n Tu e s d a y, G o v. R a l p h Northam granted posthumous pardons

to the "Martinsville Seven."

"While these pardons do not address the guilt of the seven, they serve as recognition from the Commonwealth that these men were tried without adequate due process and received a racially biased death sentence not simi-

larly applied to white defendants," Northam's office said Tuesday.

"We all deserve a criminal justice system that is fair, equal, and gets it right -- no matter who you are or what you look like.

I'm grateful to the advocates and families of the Martinsville Seven for their dedication and perseverance," he added.

The "Martinsville Seven," were convicted of raping 32-year-old Ruby Stroud Floyd, who had gone to a predominantly Black neighborhood in Martinsville, Virginia, on Jan. 8, 1949, to collect money for clothes she had sold.

Four of the men were executed in Virginia's electric chair on Feb. 2, 1951. Three days later, the remaining three were also electrocuted. At the time, rape was a capital offense.

Northam was joined by descendants of the men on Tuesday where he ceremonially signed pardons for: Francis DeSales Grayson, 37; Booker T. Millner, 19; Frank Hairston Jr., 19;

Howard Lee Hairston, 18; James Luther Hairston, 20; Joe Henry Hampton, 19; and John Claybon Taylor, 21.

During the ceremony, relatives described the devastation of hasty trials and the brutal legacy of the electric chair.

Prior to abolishing the death penalty earlier this year, Virginia had executed more people than any other state -- and studies have shown that a defendant is more than three times as likely to be sentenced to death if the victim of a crime is White than if the victim is Black. From 1908 to 1951, all 45 prisoners executed for rape in Virginia were Black men. In 1977, the Supreme Court ruled that imposing the death penalty for rape was cruel and unusual punishment.

"While we can't change the past, I hope today's action brings them some small measure of peace," Northam said.

These latest pardons mark the Virginia governor's 604th pardon since his time in office.

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NATIONAL: DOROTHY OLIVER SUCCEEDS IN GETTING 94% OF HOMETOWN VACCINATED From USA TODAY Network and wire reports – Newswire

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orothy Oliver, General Store owner Dorothy Oliver has persuaded and helped almost everyone in her community to get their COVID-19 shots.

In her decades living in Panola, Oliver has become one of the most influential people in the area. She is the vice president of the local day care center and on the board of the community center, in addition to owning her store. “All of them know me,” she said of her customers.

“They come in, and I just start talking to them like I know them. I don’t have to know you to talk to you.” And she isn’t afraid to ask about their vaccination status. “Back in December, whenever vaccination started, I started with it,” she said. “I went to calling all the older people around in the community, trying to make sure how their mind is and make sure they started thinking on going and getting a shot whenever it got ready for them.” By the time doses were readily available in Alabama, there were not any vaccination sites in the immediate area, with the closest facilities about 40 minutes away. So Oliver volunteered to schedule neighbors’ appointments and drive them to and from the sites. According to Oliver’s records, only about 20 adults in the community of roughly 350 people are left unvaccinated. “I know all my people that haven’t got it,” she said. She is also getting national attention

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and receiving high praises for her dedication to helping almost everyone in her small town to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Panola, Alabama, a small rural town that currently has about 400 residents, did not have its own vaccine center and the nearest is 40 miles away. That’s when Oliver, along with county commissioner Drucilla Russ-Jackson, took the initiative to coordinate a pop-up vaccination clinic with the nearest hospital.

“I just felt like I had to do it because the government, nobody does enough in this area,” she said, according to The New Yorker. “This area here is majority Black. Kind of puts you on the back burner. That’s just it. I mean, you don’t have to put nothing else with that.

That’s just it. I don’t have to elaborate on that one.”

But she didn’t just stop with bringing the vaccine center to the town. As the hospital requires at least 40 people to sign up for vaccination before they could start the vaccination, Oliver did her best to eliminate vaccine hesitancy by personally talking to the residents.

Her mission in getting many people in her town vaccinated is featured in a short documentary called The Panola Project by Rachael DeCruz and Jeremy S. Levine.

Moreover, Alabama has one of the lowest

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

Dorothy Oliver talks to customers at her General Store in Panola, Alabama to persuade and help almost everyone in the community get their COVID-19 vaccination. vaccination rates in the country, but Panola has a 94% vaccination rate thanks to Oliver. And she is working on persuading the other residents who haven’t got vaccinated yet.

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LAYING DOWN THE LAW

666 NEW STATE LAWS

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor H www.StyleMagazine.com

S

Governor Abbott signs the controversial "heartbeat bill" into law at Texas Capitol. (source: Governor Abbott Facebook Page)

eptember 1st marks a new day in the state capitol with the passage of new state laws approved at the 87th Texas Legislature. State legislators have been busy orchestrating changes to such issues as gun control, abortion, medical marijuana, buying sex, alcohol, vaccinations, and a myriad of other subjects with the new bills.

There are 666 new state laws but not all went into effect on Sept. 1. Some were enacted before Sept. 1 and others won't go into effect until early next year.

Below are a few that raised our eyebrows and may do the same for you.

HB1927

authorizing a private civil right of action.

The Heartbeat Bill

Abortions as early as six weeks in pregnancy are prohibited under SB8. Medical professionals may also be sued by private individuals if found to have done an abortion once a heartbeat has been detected for the baby.

HB9

HB9-Relating to the criminal punishment and conditions of community supervision for the offense of obstructing a highway or other passageway; increasing a criminal penalty.

Emergency Blocking Protection

HB1927-Relating to provisions governing the carrying of a firearm by a person who is 21 years of age or older and not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law from possessing the firearm and to other provisions related to the carrying, possessing, transporting, or storing of a firearm or other weapon; creating criminal offenses.

This bill will have you rethink where you park.

Any vehicle owner caught blocking a hospital entry point or an emergency vehicle with its lights and sirens on with their vehicle will be charged with a felony.

Younger Texans to Carry Guns

HB1518-Relating to the hours for selling alcoholic beverages in certain establishments.

Now one can do more things when they turn 21.

House Bill 1927 grants citizens 21 years and older the permission to carry a gun without training or a license if they can legally do so.

SB8

HB1518

Alcohol On Sundays

The sale of beer and wine on Sunday expands to two hours earlier. Sales can start at 10 am instead of noon.

SB8-Relating to abortion, including abortions after detection of an unborn child's heartbeat;

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September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

HB1925

HB1925-Relating to prohibitions on camping in a public place and to a political subdivision's designation of property for camping by homeless individuals; creating a criminal offense.

No Vacancy Here

The Homeless population could be fined up to $500 if found living in places undesignated for public dwelling. The crime is considered a misdemeanor.

HB929

HB929-Relating to law enforcement policies and procedures regarding body worn cameras.

Botham Jean Law

Police must keep body cameras on for the entirety of all active investigations.

HB1535

HB1535-Relating to the medical use of low-THC cannabis by patients with certain medical conditions and the establishment of compassionate-use institutional review boards to evaluate and approve proposed research programs to study the medical use of low-THC cannabis in the treatment of certain patients

More to Get Medical Marijuana

More people may not get medical marijuana under the Texas Compassionate Use Program. Cancer patients and those with post-traumatic stress disorders are among those who may have access to law-THC cannabis for medical purposes only.

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that will be legal beyond the pandemic.

SB3

HB2315

SB3-Relating to preparing for, preventing, and responding to weather emergencies and power outages; increasing the amount of administrative and civil penalties.

HB2315-Relating to the forfeiture of contraband relating to the criminal offense of racing on a highway.

Protecting Texans From Another Big Freeze

Street Racing Bill

This bill attempts to keep Texans warm by requiring power companies to upgrade their equipment and facilities so Texans aren't left out in the cold.

Companies who do not comply could be hit with a daily million dollar fine. Texans will also get an alert when companies’ supply exceeds the demand.

HB3979

HB3979-Relating to the social studies curriculum in public schools.

Systemic Racism Teaching Banned

Teachers will no longer be allowed to teach students about America's dark history in "so-called critical race theory" classes covering subjects of slavery, racism, and other topics of current events that make children feel uncomfortable about their race.

SB4

SB4-Relating to provisions in agreements between governmental entities and professional sports teams requiring the United States national anthem to be played at team events.

National Anthem Requirement

Professional sports teams that receive state funding must now play the Star Spangled Banner at all games.

HB1540

HB1540-Relating to regulation of certain facilities and establishments with respect to, civil remedies for certain criminal activities affecting, and certain criminal offenses involving health, safety, and welfare; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties.

Prostitution as a Felony

Vehicles maybe seized for drivers who are repeat offenders of speed racing, driving under the influence, and/or a death occurs as a result of their driving.

SB69

SB69-Relating to the use of force by peace officers.

Police Chokeholds Banned

Police use of chokeholds or any unnecessary force is banned unless to stop injury to an officer or bystander.

HB1382

HB1382-Relating to the availability of certain information regarding early voting.

Election Ballot Tracking

The Texas Secretary of State will operate a system to track mail-in ballots and applications for mailin ballots.

HB19

HB19-Relating to civil liability of a commercial motor vehicle owner or operator, including the effect that changes to that liability have on commercial automobile insurance.

Commercial Vehicles Drivers Liability

Drivers involved in cases concerning commercial vehicles that result in injury or death will be found liable in court before the case can go to their employer.

SB224

SB224-Relating to simplified certification and recertification requirements for certain persons under the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

SNAP Access Opened

Texas leads the way by becoming the first state to designate the solicitation of prostitution as a felony crime. Persons who prey on homeless or foster children at treatment centers will be included as a human trafficking crime.

The usual barriers of enrollment interviews and a long application process are gone for those seeking access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

HB1024

HB103-Relating to establishment of the Texas Active Shooter Alert System.

HB1024-Relating to the pickup and delivery of alcoholic beverages from certain premises for off-premises consumption.

Alcohol-To-Go

As a result of the pandemic, many restaurants started to include beer and wine with pickup and delivery orders to help with income. Well now

HB103

Active Shooter Alert

Texans near a scene of an active shooter will receive notifications on their phone from the Texas Active Shooter Alert System.

www.Gov.Texas.gov

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Justice Sotomayor wrote a blistering dissent on the US supreme court failing to block an extreme Texas abortion law.

We are republishing it here

T

he court’s order is stunning. Presented with an application to enjoin a flagrantly unconstitutional law engineered to prohibit women from exercising their constitutional rights and evade judicial scrutiny, a majority of justices have opted to bury their heads in the sand.

Last night, the court silently acquiesced in a state’s enactment of a law that flouts nearly 50 years of federal precedents. Today, the court belatedly explains that it declined to grant relief because of procedural complexities of the state’s own invention. Because the court’s failure to act rewards tactics designed to avoid judicial review and inflicts significant harm on the applicants and on women seeking abortions in Texas, I dissent.

The act is clearly unconstitutional under existing precedents. See, e.g., June Medical Servs LLC v Russo, 591 US ___, ___ (2020) (ROBERTS, C J, concurring in judgment) (slip op, at 5) (explaining that “the state may not impose an undue burden on the woman’s ability to obtain an abortion” of a “nonviable fetus” (citing Roe v Wade, 410 US 113 (1973), and Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pa v Casey, 505 US 833 (1992); internal quotation marks omitted)).

The respondents do not even try to argue otherwise.

Nor could they: no federal appellate court has upheld such a comprehensive prohibition on abortions before viability under current law.

The Texas legislature was well aware of this binding precedent. To circumvent it, the legislature took the extraordinary step of enlisting private citizens to do what the state could not. The act authorizes any private citizen to file a lawsuit against any person who provides an abortion in violation of the act, “aids or abets” such an abortion (including by paying for it) regardless of whether they know the abortion is prohibited under the act, or even intends to engage in such conduct. Courts are required to enjoin the defendant from engaging in these actions in the future and to award the private-citizen plaintiff at least $10,000 in “statutory damages” for each forbidden abortion performed or aided by the defendant. In effect, the Texas legislature has deputized the state’s citizens as bounty hunters, offering them cash prizes for civilly prosecuting their neighbors’ medical procedures.

Taken together, the act is a breathtaking act of defiance – of the constitution, of this court’s precedents, and of the rights of women seeking abortions throughout Texas. But over six weeks after the applicants filed suit to prevent the act from taking effect, a fifth circuit panel abruptly stayed all proceedings before the district court and vacated a preliminary injunction hearing that was scheduled to begin on Monday.

The applicants requested emergency relief from this court, but the court said nothing. The act took effect at midnight last night.

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

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LOCAL: H-E-B NAMES WINNERS OF THE 2021 QUEST FOR TEXAS BEST COMPETITION By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

botanicals for recovery, immunity, and superfood properties. Certified Paleo, low glycemic with packaging that reduces the carbon footprint by a substantial 89% compared to other traditional PET options, Bhoomi’s flavors include: ginger, turmeric, and moringa.

–––– Third Place Winner ($10,000): Howdy Homemade Ice Cream – Dr Pepper Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Tom Landis & Coleman Jones (Dallas)

A

(L to R) James Harris, H-E-B Director, Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity, Sabina Israelian-Garcia, H-E-B Vice President of General Merchandise & Seasonal, Kevin Blessing, H-E-B Group Vice President of Bakery, Grand Prize Winner Keli Watts and Winell Herron, H-E-B Group Vice President of Public Affairs.

and pistachio along with specialties like s’mores, cookies ‘n cream, and birthday cake.

First Place Winner ($20,000): 2F Akaushi Beef – Texas Wagyu Ground Beef Felo and Stephanie Martinez (Santa Elena, Rio Grande Valley)

fter tastings, intense deliberations, and review of everything from books, beignets, and bottled water, to syrups, sausage and seasonings, H-E-B’s Quest for Texas Best named FOUR winners at the eighth annual competition. The winners of the 2021 event hail from Dallas, Austin and Santa Elena (Rio Grande Valley) and received a combined $70,000 in cash prizes and coveted space on H-E-B store shelves statewide.

“Each year we are amazed by what Texans bring to this competition. Despite the disruption of COVID-19, these entrepreneurs demonstrated creativity, determination and perseverance in pursuit of growing their businesses,” said James Harris, Director, Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity, H-E-B. “H-E-B is thrilled to shine light on these four outstanding businesses and their Texan-made products that will add to the diversity of products on our shelves and The Martinez family has been breeding and raising to our roster of suppliers.” commercial cattle since 1984 on the family’s 1927 Rancho Santa Fe. Using certified Akaushi Wagyu THE 2021 QUEST FOR TEXAS BEST genetics, the 2F Akaushi Ground Beef is a special WINNERS ARE: 80/20 blend of chuck, rump, and steak trimmings, is all natural, hormone free, and contains no antibiotics. 2F Akaushi Beef offers premium Wagyu beef to restaurants and households –––– Second Place Winner ($15,000): Bhoomi – Enhanced Sugar Cane Water Arpit & Elora Bhopalkar (Austin)

Savor Pâtisserie – French Macarons in HEB stores soon Grand Prize Winner ($25,000): Kelli Watts (Dallas) Kelli Watts who is half French but born and raised in Texas, developed her own version of the French macaron, and founded Savor Pâtisserie in 2016. The beautifully delicious under 100 calorie treats are larger Bhoomi, a line of high-quality rehydrating cold pressed than most, are naturally gluten free with select flavors cane elixirs blended with ancient Ayurvedic super dairy free. Flavors include vanilla, strawberry, lemon,

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September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

Howdy Homemade Ice Cream is renowned for its iconic Dr Pepper Chocolate Chip ice cream and its mission to change the way businesses hire people with special needs. With two locations in Dallas with five more on the way, Howdy Homemade Ice Cream also works with numerous special needs organizations to hire, train, and employ people with Down syndrome and autism.

–––– Now in its eighth year, H-E-B Quest for Texas Best has expanded its search for the finest foods and beverages in the Lone Star State to also include non-food items.

In addition to food creators and innovators, the company invited Texas-based purveyors of beauty items, toys, home goods, household necessities, gardening supplies, coolers and everything in between.

The 2021 Quest for Texas Best competition drew more than 1,200 product entries from cities and towns across the state. Through two qualifying rounds, submissions were judged on taste and flavor, customer appeal, value, uniqueness, market potential and differentiation from current products at most H-E-B stores..

The 2021 judges included: Winell Herron, H-E-B Group Vice President of Public Affairs, Diversity and Environmental Affairs; Kevin Blessing, H-E-B Group Vice President of Bakery, Deli, MTO, Culinary and Prepared Foods; Mike Jarzombek, H-E-B Northwest Division Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing; Sabina Israelian-Garcia, H-E-B Vice President of General Merchandise & Seasonal; Greg Beam, H-E-B Director of Marketing & Merchandising, San Antonio Region; Paul Stephen, San Antonio Express-News Staff Writer; and Chef Sean Robertson, H-E-B Culinary Academy Chef & Product Development.

Learn more about Quest for Texas Best at

www.StyleMagazine.com

www.HEB.com

LOCAL: TSU EXPANDS ITS EDUCATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS Texas Southern University Partners with Apple and Tennessee State University to Become a Community Center for Coding and Creativity By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

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through partnerships with local K-12 schools, community organizations, local governments, and more.

As part of its Community Education Initiative, Apple is supporting Texas Southern University with equipment and ongoing professional development to become the pre-eminent HBCU C2 community center to bring coding and creativity to Houston.

Faculty and educators will learn about coding and app development, and work with Apple to identify opportunities to incorporate its comprehensive Everyone Can Code and Everyone Can Create curricula, which utilizes the easyto-learn Swift programming language.

Support from Apple also includes mobile iPad and Mac labs, opportunities for student jobs and scholarships, and funding for staff.

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exas Southern University announced it will become a community center for Coding and Creativity as part of Apple’s Community Education Initiative and Tennessee State University’s HBCU C2. The teaching and learning initiative is designed to empower Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to expand technology and creativity experiences within their institutions and broader communities.

“I think it’s an extremely innovative partnership that will allow our students to be prepared for the careers of tomorrow and I’m excited that we have the opportunity to partner with Apple,” said Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, president of Texas Southern University.

TSU is now among nearly four dozen universities across the country serving as HBCU C2 community coding centers or regional hubs. Since 2019, participating HBCUs have offered new learning opportunities to thousands of degree-seeking students and community learners and expanded their impact

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COMMUNITY: MACY’S DONATES $50,000 TO CAJUN NAVY GROUND FORCE AND ANNOUNCES ROUND-UP CAMPAIGN By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

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Force. One hundred percent of all funds raised will benefit the organization.

Macy’s will continue to work with the Texas community to identify meaningful ways to support those impacted by Hurricane Ida as the community begins to rebuild.

Macy’s, Inc. is helping those colleagues in need by offering the North Star Relief Fund, a designated 501(c) (3) charity which is funded primarily

by Macy’s and its employees. This Fund will provide rapid, direct financial assistance to employees in need during times of natural disaster or personal hardship.

Anyone, including Macy’s, Inc. employees, vendors, customers, and community groups may donate to the Fund. For more information or to make a donation, please visit Macy’s Community Give Back site at mygiveback.benevity.org/ community.

Cajun Navy during Hurricane Harvey. Photo by Travis Spradling

acy’s is committed to strengthening the community as neighbors, customers and colleagues begin the recovery process following the damage and devastation from the recent Hurricane Ida. To assist the community’s

immediate needs, Macy’s has donated $50,000 to Cajun Navy Ground Force to support its Hurricane Ida relief efforts. will launch a charitable round-up campaign with the help of its colleagues and customers.

Additionally, from today until September 14th, all Macy’s stores in Texas will offer customers the opportunity to round up their in-store purchase to the nearest dollar (up to $.99) and donate their change to Cajun Navy Ground

Learn more at

www.Macys.com

MOVIES: 'CANDYMAN' DIRECTOR NIA DACOSTA MAKES HISTORY

By Marianne Garvey, www.CNN.com – Newswire

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andyman" director Nia DaCosta has become the first Black female director to have a film debut in the top spot in the US box office, Universal Pictures.

According to Box Office Mojo, the horror film, a sequel of the 1992 movie, made over $22 million over the weekend.

The movie is also now the second highest-gross-

14

DaCosta said in a recent interview with the New York Times that she welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with Peele.

"I was really excited because Jordan Peele was co-writer and a producer -- no-brainer. So, I felt really safe in the process because I'm a huge fan of his."

Next up for DaCosta is directing "The Maring three-day opening for a Black female director, led by vels," the follow to 2019's "Captain Marvel" for Marvel Ava DuVernay for "A Wrinkle in Time."

Studios.

DaCosta co-wrote the movie with Jordan Peele "Candyman" can currently be seen in theaters. and Win Rosenfeld. This version of "Candyman" has all Black leads and addresses racism, chronicling the story of a Black man who was killed for falling in love with a White woman.

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

www.CandymanMovie.com

www.StyleMagazine.com

SPORTS: WHY AREN'T THE WILLIAMS SISTERS AT THE US OPEN

By Christopher Brito, www.CBSNews.com – Newswire

Venus, left, and Serena Williams at Wimbledon in July 2015 Mark Leech—Getty Images

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ennis superstars Serena and Venus Williams both announced that they are withdrawing from the upcoming U.S. Open due to injuries. Serena said she has a torn hamstring, and Venus said she's suffering from a leg injury.

Serena, who has won the event six times in her career, was the first to announce she would not participate this year. She said in an Instagram post she was advised to let her body fully recover rather than play in the Grand Slam tournament in Queens, New York, which is scheduled to begin August 30.

"After careful consideration and following the advice of my doctors and medical team, I have decided to withdraw from the US Open to allow my body to heal completely from a torn hamstring," she wrote. "New York is one of the most exciting cities in the world and one of my favorite places to play – I'll miss seeing the fans but will be cheering everyone on from afar."

Hours later, Venus an-

nounced that she, too, was withdrawing. "Not the best news from Serena and I today," she said in a video posted to Twitter.

"I too am unable to play the U.S. Open."

Venus, who has won the event twice, called the decision "super super disappointing," but said she was "having some issues with my leg all this summer, and just couldn't work through it."

"I'm gonna miss the Open — it's my favorite Slam," Venus said. "I've had so many amazing memories there, and I can't wait to get back out on the court, whenever that is."

The sisters aren't the only big stars to sit out this year's tournament. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have also withdrawn from the competition.

Learn more at

Let’s

END ELDER ABUSE With more than half a million people over the age of 65 in Harris County, the District Attorney’s Office urges you to report those who hurt our elders.

Report abuse or suspected abuse to the Houston Police Department at 311 and Harris County Sheriff’s Office at 832-927-2975

www.CBSNews.com www.StyleMagazine.com

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

15

CULTURE: THIS FORGOTTEN LANGUAGE IS SEEING A REVIVAL THANKS TO TikTok Tut, a centuries-old language once used by enslaved Black people, has found its way to social media.

Learning Tut has built a connection to their ancestors and community.

By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

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ia, 20, was scrolling through TikTok one night when she came across a video about a forgotten secret tongue.

She learned this language was called Tut. It was a clandestine form of communication, rooted in English and created by Black people during the 18th century.

Cia said she did not know about the existence of Tut prior to the video. In fact, she never knew African Americans had their own form of communication during slavery.

"I am learning Tut now," said Cia, who asked to only use her first name to avoid jeopardizing future career prospects. "I personally found it easy to learn, but then later found out there were three different dialects — two from the South and one western."

The video Cia found isn’t the only one, nor is she alone as a student of this language. Videos teaching how to speak and write in Tut, and the history behind the language have flooded TikTok in recent months, but Tut’s reach is spreading throughout social media.

On Twitter, one user said, "Wait, so us AA’s are learning Tut language? How do I learn and where do we start."

Another user tweeted, "I just learned AA enslaved people created a language called Tut.

I have convinced my family to learn it, and I am incredibly excited to start this journey."

Now Tut speakers are teaching others through Google Classroom and Discord. Instagram pages have shared guides on writing and reading the Tut alphabet.

In 1995, author Gloria McIlwain, published a guide on Tut. McIlwain wrote in an article in American Speech Journal, “I was told by my aunt that her father (who could read and write English) had referred to TUT Language as a 'disguised language' that could have got him killed; thus, as a grown man he refused to speak it.”

In Tut, every letter in the English alphabet becomes a distinct sound. Tut, according to McIlwain's website, may have originated from the word "talk." It’s also been referred to as “Tutnese” and “King Tut.” Though there are no known restrictions to the language, some say that not all Black people can learn it, only African Americans whose ancestors were enslaved in the U.S. and former colonies.

But as the language continues to travel on social media, is there any way to stop non-African Americans from learning it?

The language's spread on social platforms is a double-edged sword, Cia said. Anyone regardless of their background can learn Tut, if it

keeps spreading online, which she said makes the language lose its power. But without its emergence on different platforms, many African Americans "still wouldn’t know we have our own language."

Kiara, a teacher from Missouri, recently picked up Tut after seeing its popularity online. As an African American woman, Kiara tweeted that she doesn't believe the language should be kept hidden from other Black people.

"I don’t think any parts of our heritage should be hidden," she said in a tweet. "Black America has had so much stolen and destroyed. We are just now, at mass, discovering parts of historical culture that belong to us."

“I’m able to expose my students to parts of my culture in ways that they wouldn’t experience it without me,” Kiara said.

For Kiara, Tut's importance does not become diminished by other Black people learning it but sharing it allows for others to regard it in a new light.

"We deserve and should fight for all aspects of our heritage to be correctly identified and appreciated as ours," Kiara said.

To stay up to date at:

www.tutlanguage.com

ENTERTAINMENT: HOUSTON INSTAGRAM MODEL MERCEDES MORR DEAD AT 33 IN MURDER-SUICIDE

By Shelley Childers, Charly Edsitty and Stefania Okolie, www.ABC13.com – Newswire

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Mercedes Moor and Kevin Acorto

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September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

ho was Mercedes Morr?

Morr was known as an Instagram model who, according to her Instagram page, worked with the brand Fashion Nova.

With over 2.6 million followers on Instagram, rappers Cardi B, Snoop Dogg, and Megan Thee Stallion were among them.

While not much information is available on the model, she was 33 years old at the time of her death.

at her home alongside the body of 34-year-old Kevin Alexander Accorto, around 4:30pm on Sunday, August 29.

Accorto's motive is still being investigated.

The Fort Bend County Medical Examiner ruled Morr's death a homicide by strangulation and traumatic concussion, while Accorto's death was ruled a suicide by multiple sharp force trauma.

What was her cause of death?

According to a news release, the Richmond, Fort Bend authorities said that Morr's body was discovered

www.StyleMagazine.com

www.StyleMagazine.com

To stay up to date at:

W

e are living in unprecedented times, and many are fearful of making the leap into home ownership. Psalms 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”

In these times, it is important to seek wisdom and gain knowledge from professionals in the industry. Seeking guidance and understanding of the real estate market helps to build trust in the process. One of the most important aspects of making the leap into home ownership is having faith in God, which will lead to faith and trust in the process.

As a Real Estate professional my purpose is to educate and help my clients navigate through the home buying process. As a woman of faith, I also lead my clients to make decisions through having faith in God and praying for perspective. “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 NLT). As the Unyielding Realtor with the Unyielding Realty Group - Keller Williams Professionals, the needs of the client are met through the customization of a home buying action plan, that is catered to the exceptional needs of a family or an individual entity.

Buying a home is a journey.

As you journey through the process there will be times of uncertainty and

Faith or Fear: Where Is Your Heart

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Unyielding Realty Group

fear. When you are faced with fear in continuing in your home buying journey, lean on your faith, seek wisdom, and take the necessary steps to reach your goal of home ownership. You are always going to pay a mortgage, either your landlord’s or your own.

You get to choose what is right for you! “Don’t worry about anything;

Realtor with the Unyielding Realtor Group. I am here to serve you with all your Real Estate needs.

instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done” (Philippians 4:6 NLT).

As a great rule of practice, consult homeownership professionals that can guide you along the way. Looking to buy, sell, lease, or invest, contact TaMeka Martin, your Unyielding

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COMING SOON TO HOUSTON Star ting November 13, 2021, at the Sam Houston Race Park Buy your tickets now at cirquedusoleil.com/alegria

www.StyleMagazine.com

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

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2021

REMEMBER + TO HAVE A SAFE LABOR DAY! www.StyleMagazine.com

H 2021 Social Media Haute Shots + Around Town H

TSU President Lesia L. Crumpton-Young, PVAMU President Ruth J. Simmons, TSU Regent Stephanie D. Nellons-Paige, former U.S. Secretary of Education and TSU Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Rod Paige, TSU Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Kevin Granger, Head Football Coach Clarence McKinney, Houston ISD Superintendent Millard House II, Founder and owners of Frenchy’s Chicken Sallie Creuzot and Percy Creuzot III, President of the Touchdown Club of Houston Nick Mirgeaux, and Touchdown Club of Houston member Earl Jimmison were present at yesterday’s TSU vs. PVAMU Labor Day Classic Luncheon hosted by the Touchdown Club

Letitia Plummer and Senator John Whitmire at the 2021 Women Making History, Rising Star #TDWHarris #TDWHarrisAwards #WomenMakingHistory

Teneshia Hudspeth with Senator Carol Alvarado at the 2021 Women Making History#TDWHarrisAwards #WomenMakingHistory

Congratulations to the 2021 Women Making History, Honorees: Rose Salas, Shelly Kenny, Kathleen Gunter, Sandra Burleson, Anne Sung, Letitia Plummer, and Judge Lina Hidalgo #WomenMakingHistory

Women on Boards Institute - Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Twins Jessie, and D’Lila Combs arriving #DolceAndGabban Alta Moda in Venice, Italy Houston Texans President, Greg Grissom and cheerleaders dropped by Mayor Turner's Office to personally deliver the 2020-2021 Community Impact Report.

Texas Southern University 2021 Award Recipient Rod Paige, former U.S. Secretary of Education, former TSU Athletic Director and former Dean of the TSU School of Education at Labor Day Classic Luncheon

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VP of Athletics Kevin Granger and TSU coach Clarence McKinney.

September 2 , 2021 - September 8, 2021

Bryce Kennard of Comcast appeared on the Amanda Sapp Show, Amazing 102.5 FM HTX to discuss digital equity and the Comcast Internet Essentials program

www.StyleMagazine.com

HOUSTON NATIVE SERVES ABOARD US NAVY SHIP COMMEMORATING 911

By Lt. Rich Locklear, Navy Office of Community Outreach

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s the Nation prepares to observe the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept.

11, 2001, a Houston, Texas, native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard USS Somerset, named for Somerset County, Pennsylvania, in honor of the 40 passengers and crew who died during the hijacking of United Airline Flight 93.

On Sept. 11, 2001, Airman Denzel Carthen, was in middle school.

“It's important to remember those who fell and sacrificed,” said Carthen.

Carthen joined the Navy one year ago.

“It was my lifelong dream to protect and serve while supporting my family,” said Carthen.

According to Carthen, a 2012 Spring High School graduate, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Houston.

“Growing up, I learned how to take responsibility for my own self and my own affairs, and that has helped me to become an effective sailor,” said Carthen.

Over the weeks following the Flight 93 crash, recovery personnel retrieved more than 95 percent of the airplane's wreckage from the 9/11 World Trade Center attack. USS Somerset’s bow and keel are forged from steel salvaged from the crash. Every deck of the ship contains mementos of Flight 93, including a dedicated passageway leading to the memorial room, which bears the names of the passengers.

According to Department of Defense (DoD) officials, "We honor the lives of those lost and the courage and bravery of the first responders who tirelessly worked to save lives. They have become part of the DoD extended family."

According to U.S. officials, the flight’s passengers and crew prevented terrorist hijackers from reaching their presumed destination in Washington, D.C.; instead crashing near Shanksville in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.

Those aboard Flight 93 embodied the strength and determination of the people of the United States: to recover, rally, and take the fight to the enemy, honoring the memory of those who were impacted by the attacks.

“It’s an incredible honor to carry on the legacy of service of the 40 heroes of United Flight 93,” Capt. Dave Kurtz, Commanding Officer, USS Somerset. “As sailors we play the away game so that Americans don’t have to react the way those passengers and crew members did 20 years ago. Their actions remain our inspiration.”

Serving in the Navy means Carthen is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The Navy is a big part of our national security,” said Carthen. “We help provide our

Airman Denzel Carthen. Photo by Jesse Hawthorne, Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class nation a constant presence around the world.”

With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.

According to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, four priorities will focus efforts on sailors, readiness, capabilities, and capacity.

“For 245 years, in both calm and rough waters, our Navy has stood the watch to protect the homeland, preserve freedom of the seas, and defend our way of life,” said Gilday. “The decisions and investments we make this decade will set the maritime balance of power for the rest of this century. We can accept nothing less than success.”

Carthen and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“I’m most proud of completing a deployment to the Middle East and pushing to complete qualifications like my enlisted Surface Warfare pin,” said Carthen.

As Carthen and other sailors continue to train, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“Being able to protect my country means everything to me,” added Carthen. “It’s truly an honor.”

For more information about the Navy's commemoration of 9/11, please visit www.history. navy.mil.

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