Houston Style Magazine Vol 32 No 37 by Houston Style Magazine (HSM)

Houston Style Magazine Magazine September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 32 | Number 37

SOLUTION TO A PROBLEM THAT DOES NOT EXIST

Complimentary

Jesse Jackson

Texan Taliban Wing of the Republican Party

Jo-Carolyn Goode, Houston Style Magazine Tamir Kalifa / Getty Images

Janet Jackson

Tells All in 2-Part Documentary "Janet"

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CORONAVIRUS – US NUMBERS: Cases: 41,391,539 Deaths: 671,132 TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

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Honor 9/11 Victims By Volunteering

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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

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

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Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com Social Media Editor/Videographer Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com Sports Editor Brian Barefield

NATIONAL WRITERS

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

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Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com William Ealy Williamealy1906@gmail.com Semetra Samuel semetra@artistikrebelcreative.com Mike Munoz artrepreneur91@gmail.com Robert Franklin editorial@stylemagazine.com

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Houston Style Magazine & www.StyleMagazine.com Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035 ©2021 Houston Style Magazine, a Minority Print Media, L.L.C. Company. All Right Reserved. Reproduction in whole or within part without permission is prohibited. Houston Style Magazine has a 2019 Audit by Circulation Verification Council (CVC). Houston Style Magazine is a member of the Texas Publishers Association (TPA), Texas Community Newspaper Association (TCNA), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Independent Free Paper of America (IFPA), Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP). National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP, Inc.), Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Latin Women’s Initiative (LWI), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and Supporters of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)

President Biden announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an all-out effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant that is killing thousands each week and jeopardizing the nation’s economic recovery.

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September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

COMMENTARY

TEXAN TALIBAN WING OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY

By Jesse Jackson

merican papers are filled with pundits speculating about the horrors the Taliban may inflict on the people of Afghanistan, particularly its women. Less attention has been paid to the horrors Texas Republicans - the Taliban wing of the Republican Party - are inflicting on the State of Texas. In total control of the state, Republicans have a free hand that they've used to enforce extremism. Dubbing them the Texas Taliban isn't just name-calling. The parallels are chilling. The Taliban scorn democracy. They see their opponents as heretics and heathens. The Taliban are bigots, rejecting people of other religions. The Taliban enforce a religious zealotry with suppression of women a central tenet. The Taliban invoke religious law to supplant the civil law. The Taliban reject modernity, scorn science, and seek return to a fundamentalist society that never was. Now consider the Republicans in Texas. They too are afraid of democracy. From Sen. Ted Cruz to Attorney General Ken Paxton, they sought to overturn the presidential election, while the party leaders echo Donald Trump's Big Lie that the election was stolen. Worried that Republicans are in danger of becoming a minority in the state, Gov. Greg Abbott and the Republican state legislature just pushed through election suppression measures to make it harder for workers, minorities, seniors, young people and the disabled to vote, harder for civic groups to assist people in voting, easier for partisans to intimidate voters, and opened the way for the partisan legislature to overturn election results they don't like. Republicans too prey on racial and religious prejudices. Their party chairman, Allen West, is a former Florida congressman who described Barack Obama as "Islamist," charging that he was "purposefully enabling the Islamist cause." When the Supreme Court tossed Trump's baseless challenge to the election, West suggested that the South should rise again and secede: "that law-abiding states should bound together and form a union of states that will abide by the constitution." The party markets the slogan "We are the storm," an echo of anti-Semitic, white nationalist slogans that date back to Hitler's stormtroopers. The Republicans also target women in their zealotry. The governor just signed

a law effectively banning abortion in Texas, by outlawing any abortion after six weeks (most women don't even know they are pregnant in that period of time). Worse, the law turns citizens into bounty hunters, offering cash rewards for turning in anyone who assists someone seeking an abortion. This law, if it survives challenge, will lead to deaths - from illicit abortions, from suicide, from pregnancies that take the mother's life. An effort to stay the enforcement of this vicious law - a clear violation of the Supreme Court's constitutional precedents - was just denied by the Supreme Court's right-wing justices acting without issuing an opinion. The Republicans also turn their backs on science. Texas has suffered record-breaking floods, droughts and winter storms over the last decade. Yet, with the state a leader in fossil fuel production, its politicians have been in denial about climate change. They were unprepared when Hurricane Harvey hit the state in 2017. Then extreme weather caused a major snowstorm that froze an unprotected energy grid. Gov. Abbot laughably blamed the deadly energy failure on solar and wind energy. Now Abbott and Texas Republicans are trying to ban local authorities and school districts from enforcing mask mandates. Pandering to the Trump-aroused zealots in their own party, they are prepared to put children and teachers at risk, even as Texas hospitals and ICUs are filling up with the surge of new cases from the Delta variant. The Taliban, of course, patrol the streets of Kabul armed with AK-47s, terrorizing those who might cross them. The Texas Taliban hasn't gone that far, but they did just force through a law allowing its citizens to carry handguns without a permit. In an era when we've witnessed armed gangs marching on the Michigan legislature and the sacking of the U.S. Capitol, one can only shudder to think what would happen in Texas if Republicans were to lose political control. Unlike the Taliban, Texas Republicans still have to face the voters. Big oil money can help insulate them. Voter suppression laws can hold down turnout. The Big Lie can rouse their base. In the end, however, Texans will decide whether they will bring an end to this misrule or continue

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

Texas Governor Greg Abbott to support a party that is ever more unhinged. The last two weeks the Taliban honored an agreement to help the U.S. military get 123,000 Afghans and Americans out of the country and promised to do more as they seek to work with other nations. In that same period, the Texas legislature and Gov. Abbott sought to restrict voting and take away a woman's right to self-determination. Who are we to not trust a newly emerging Taliban as it seeks its place in the family of nations while being asked to trust a Republican Government of Texas that

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attacks democracy and the rights of women? It's the old tried-and-true Confederate State of Texas, the last state to inform its slaves they were free, for which we now celebrate Juneteenth. You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson in care of this newspaper or by email at jjackson@rainbowpush.org. Follow him on Twitter @RevJJackson.

For more information visit:

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HBCUs are more than an education They are a legacy. It’s the place you become, where you’re uplifted by past generations. It’s your family’s history and newfound family’s future. It’s your HBCU. That’s why Xfinity recognizes the legacy, community, and importance of HBCUs. And now that gatherings are a little different, it’s time to reconnect to the culture. Just say, “HBCU,” into your Xfinity Voice Remote to experience more HBCU. Visit xfinity.com/blackexperience to learn more.

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September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

PANDEMIC UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS AND EVICTION PROTECTIONS HAVE EXPIRED. HERE'S WHAT STILL AVAILABLE By Tami Luhby and Katie Lobosco, www.CNN.com – Newswire

Additional nutrition assistance

mericans are no longer protected from evictions or receiving beefed-up unemployment payments, but they are still benefiting from many other federal coronavirus rescue measures. More support may be on the way, as Democrats on Capitol Hill hammer out a 10-year, $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation billthat would greatly expand the nation's safety net programs. Yet passage of that legislation isn't guaranteed, and while the economy is in better shape than it was earlier in the pandemic, many families are still struggling to get back on their feet. These relief measures remain in effect.

Food stamp recipients will continue to receive a 15% increase in monthly benefits through the end of the month, as part of the Democrats' March relief bill. Starting in October, monthly food stamp benefits will jump 27% above pre-pandemic levels, on average -- the largest increase in the program's history. Under the revision, which is permanent, beneficiaries will see a $36 hike in average monthly benefits. The boost stems from the US Department of Agriculture's update to the Thrifty Food Plan, which determines the benefit amounts of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, the formal name for food stamps. The update is part of a USDA review of the food stamp program required under the 2018 Farm Bill.

Enhanced child tax credits

Tens of millions of American families will receive four more monthly child tax credit payments as part of Congress' enhancement to the program for 2021. The next installment -- up to $300 for each child up to age 6 and $250 for each one age 6 through 17 -- will be sent next week. Eligible families will receive a total of up to $3,600 for each child under 6 and up to $3,000 for each one age 6 to 17 for 2021. That's an increase from the regular child tax credit of up to $2,000 for each kid up to age 17. Parents will receive half their credit this year and can claim the other half when they file their 2021 taxes next year. The full enhanced credit is available for heads of households earning $112,500 and joint filers making up to $150,000 a year, after which it begins to phase out. For many families, the credit then plateaus at $2,000 per child and starts to phase out for single parents earning more than $200,000 or for married couples with incomes above $400,000.

Beefed-up Affordable Care Act subsidies

Rental assistance

Although the federal eviction moratorium expired in August, roughly 90% of the $46 billion in federal emergency rent relief money was still available as of last month. The funds, which started flowing in January, have been slow to reach those in need. Typically, renters must apply for the money -- but the process varies by state, many of which had to build new administrative systems to distribute the money. Sometimes landlords need to submit applications first. Eligibility is based on a household's financial situation and housing needs. The money can be used to cover rent, utilities, late fees and moving expenses.

Lawmakers enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies for 2021 and 2022, seeking to address the main complaint about the law -- that policies are not affordable, especially for the middle class. Enrollees now pay no more than 8.5% of their income toward coverage, down from nearly 10%. And lower-income policyholders can receive subsidies that eliminate their premiums completely, as can out-ofwork Americans who received unemployment benefits this year, depending on the plan they pick. Also, those earning more than 400% of the federal poverty level -- about $51,000 for an individual and $104,800 for a family of four in 2021 -- are eligible for help for the first time. While the special enrollment period for the uninsured has closed, those who have lost work-based coverage or had major life changes, such as marriage or divorce, can sign up for policies. And the open enrollment period for 2022 coverage starts on November 1.

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NATIONAL: HOW TO HELP, VOLUNTEER AND HONOR 9/11 VICTIMS THROUGH PUBLIC SERVICE By Christopher Dawson and Ben Burnstein, www.CNN.com – Newswire

wenty years ago, terrorists seized control of four airliners, killed 2,977 people and shook the national conscience of the United States. But the attacks of 9/11 also aroused a sense of patriotism, duty and civic resolve not seen in generations. In the two decades since that tragic moment, a spirit of service has transformed September 11 into a day to make a positive difference. 911Day.org, a website enabling people to search by city for volunteer opportunities, hopes to facilitate 20 million acts of kindness and charity for the 20-year remembrance of 9/11. Volunteering on September 11 September 11 is designated by Congress as the annual National Day of Service and Remembrance, and organizations across the country are hosting volunteer opportunities in all 50 states. Here are some of the ways you can sign up to participate. • AmeriCorps lists volunteer opportunities by ZIP if you enter #911 into their search tool. Programs seeking volunteers can also register. • 911day.org is organizing volunteer projects and packing meals in 10 select cities. They

also provide a search tool to find volunteer opportunities in communities across the country. • Points of Light provides DIY tool kits and planners to volunteer at home, and their Engage platform lists both virtual and in-person volunteer events. • Youth Service America has a searchable map showing volunteer opportunities, and they offer tool kits to help young people create events in their hometown. Charities take donations to help those affected on 9/11 Charities have distributed funds over the last 20 years to help the families who lost loved ones and offer assistance for the rescue teams facing health issues. They have provided financial support, covered medical expenses and offered mentoring and scholarships for children. "It's been a gift to watch these kids grow up and become the future leaders of America," Rhianna Roddy, the executive director of the Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund told CNN. Here are the organizations that you can support on our 9/11 Public Good campaign. The FealGood Foundation provides advoca-

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

cy and support to 9/11 responders who are now dealing with catastrophic health issues. The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund distributes financial aid to children of 9/11 victims. Tuesday's Children supports youth and families impacted by 9/11, and the post-9/11 Military Families of the Fallen, who have suffered losses as a ripple effect of the 9/11 tragedy. The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation sets up 5K runs nationwide to raise money for veterans and first responders who lost limbs in the line of duty. The Leary Firefighters Foundation helps fire departments receive training and buy new equipment.

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There are also maintenance funds included in our campaign for many of the 9/11 memorials. Participating at the day's events at these memorials, supporting these charities and volunteering your time are all ways we can come together. "I pray on this 20-year remembrance, that we all put aside our differences and ideologies and unite around those we lost that day," John Feal, the founder of the FealGood foundation told CNN. "We are all stakeholders of 9/11, and we are all connected by it."

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BUSINESS: MEET THE AFRICAN AMERICAN FOUNDER THAT RAISED $1.05M FOR HER CONSUMER ELECTRONICS STARTUP By www.BlackNews.com – Newswire

t’s not every day you see people of color entering the consumer electronics and telecom space. It’s certainly not every day that it’s a Black woman. Two years ago, Chaymeriyia Moncrief, an Alabama native, broke the news that she was launching a prepaid wireless carrier, Tesix Wireless Network. Shortly after the news broke, the wireless carrier quickly garnered the attention of various news outlets, and the announcement went viral. Not long after the company launched, a Black Enterprise article reported the company’s surprising valuation of $5.9M. It turns out Chaymeriyia was offered $4.4M for her wireless carrier before she officially launched and received $1.5M in investments — she turned down the sell offer. When asked why she would possibly turn down such an offer, she responded: “Before anything, I look at the numbers, so I understand why I was offered $4.4M for a company I hadn’t launched yet. From the waitlist and presales, they saw early on what Tesix could be — and so did I. There was no way I was selling off a company I hadn’t had a chance to experience yet,” she explains. Since launching in late 2018, Chaymeriyia has been quietly building and developing her brand right in her hometown of Montgomery, AL. She talks about how this has been one of the hardest things she has ever done, but the hardship has been well worth it.

“This isn’t just an industry; you just wake up one day and say: I’m about to start a phone carrier.” This is a space that you have to ask yourself, am I prepared for this? Will I be fully committed to the risk, time, and amount of energy this will take? Not to mention the financial risk that comes with it all. It’s been a lot, but I haven’t wanted this for so long to get here and fold under the slightest pressure. I love it, I love my brand, and the love for it makes it all worth it,” she expresses. But, she didn’t stop there; in 2020, during the pandemic’s peak, Chaymeriyia did the unthinkable; she launched her very own smartphone under her second venture, NSPRE® (Inspire). In a letter to her supporters, she talks about this being a 19-year long dream of hers, to have her own smartphone and electronics as her love for tech peaked at just seven years old. “I use to take things apart at home, like the remote, the radio, and even the family computer. I would challenge myself to put all the pieces back together in hopes that it would work, and each time that it did, I would fall more and more in love with the process. I was in trouble A LOT for this, but honestly, I couldn’t help myself,” she remembers. Over the course of 3 years, Chaymeriyia has been building both of her companies and is on her journey to make them household names. She recently opened her headquarters in Alabama and is continuing to develop her team.

Chaymeriyia Moncrief, CEO Tesix Wireless Network All in all, Chaymeriyia is showing what’s possible. Being only 26-years old and an African American woman in her space shows that we can enter rooms that others may see as impossible.

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September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO A FOOTBALL GAME OR OTHER SPORTING EVENT, WHETHER YOU'RE VACCINATED OR NOT By Kristen Rogers, www.CNN.com – Newswire

have to get in a line. That's something that's hard to avoid. But you can avoid the concession stands during busy times. So, bring your own drinks if you can. You don't want to necessarily have to go to a concession stand just to buy some water if you need it." You could also pack your own snacks, but consider packing something that won't take a long time to eat.

HARRIS COUNTY COVID-19 DATA WEEK OF SEPT 6, 2021

201 18.7% 40.8% 7,467

NEW CASES

s more people get vaccinated against Covid-19 and the National Football League season starts September 9, you may be wondering whether the time to trade your couch for a stadium seat is finally here. The factors that made pre-pandemic sporting events fun -- excited people crowding together, cheering, talking, eating, drinking and sometimes doing all of these things indoors -- make games potentially problematic now. Ignoring the risks associated with these activities could leave us "stuck in outbreak mode," Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said on CNN's New Day September 7. Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and others breathe in those droplets, or when virus accumulates in or flows through the air. Getting the virus from surfaces is also possible, but this isn't a primary mode of transmission, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said. The safety or risk level may partly depend on your vaccination status, since unvaccinated people remain unprotected against coronavirus. The CDC recommends that unvaccinated people steer clear of large gatherings with others outside of their household. Of course, the safest way to enjoy the big game is by viewing it on television or online. But if you choose to be there in person, here's what you need to know about planning for and attending sports events, regardless of your vaccination status. Preparing for an in-person sporting event Before you go to a sporting event, find out the number of Covid-19 casesboth where you live and where the event is taking place. "The higher the transmission of COVID-19 in the community, the higher the risk of transmission" at the event, the CDC has said. Call the venue or look at its website to check whether the venue is following CDC guidelines for sporting events or large gatherings, or similar guidance. Some of these safety measures include holding the event outdoors, requiring that all attendees wear masks, regular cleaning and blocked-off seats or visual cues for physical distancing, the CDC has said. A higher-risk event would be if it's in an indoor space, if most but not all people wear masks, and if the event is using just a couple of strategies to reduce risk. Some venues might require attendees to provide either proof of a negative coronavirus test taken

within a few days prior or full vaccination. Indoor events should be well ventilated, said Dr. Ada Stewart, a family physician with Cooperative Health in Columbia, South Carolina, and the president of the American Academy of Family Physicians, in April. Signs of a well-ventilated room include the ability to run fans and open windows or doors. High ceilings and portable air cleaners that have HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters also help. If you'd like to be extra ambitious in protecting yourself and assess the actual ventilation yourself, you can take an inexpensive carbon dioxide monitor to track concentration levels and changes over time, Pollitt said. Levels above 800 to 1,000 parts per million would be concerning, Pollitt added, since that would mean the air isn't circulating well enough. What to do on game day Pack hand sanitizer and more than enough masks. To reduce the risk of infection with the Delta variant, fully vaccinated people should wear masks in public indoor and crowded outdoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission, and if they or their housemates are immunocompromised or at higher risk for severe Covid-19, the CDC has recommended. Unvaccinated people should wear masks in these settings regardless of coronavirus transmission level. CNN Medical Analyst Dr. Leana Wen suggested wearing a surgical mask that's at least three-ply. Venues should be sanitizing common and seating areas at least once daily or between every game, the CDC has advised, but bring sanitizing wipes to use if needed. Eat beforehand "so that your opportunity to not have your mask (on) is limited," Stewart said in April. If you don't eat beforehand, there are two concerns, said Wen, who is alsoan emergency physician and visiting professor of health policy and management at the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health. "One is people taking off their masks to eat if they are in close proximity with one another," Wen said. "If everybody's well spaced out and it's outdoors, the risk is very low. But if they are close together and taking off their masks to eat, in close proximity or indoors, that increases risk." The other is "people gathering together," Wen added. "Probably in order to get in (the game), you do

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

POSITIVES IN ICU

Harris County per 100,000 residents reported within 14 days of test date is 201 new cases per 100,000 residents. In Harris County the 14-day average of positive tests is 18.7% 14-day trend for COVID ICU Population indicates that the number of severely ill COVID19 patients has slightly risen in two weeks. 14-day rend there are 7,467. total number of COVID-19 deaths in Harris County.

"Tailgating is another one of those time-honored traditions," but don't tailgate with people from outside your household, said Regina Davis Moss, the associate executive director of health policy and practice at the American Public Health Association. In all areas, unvaccinated, immunocompromised and other vulnerable people should try to stay at least 6 feet away from others as much as possible. To reduce your contact with frequently touched surfaces, opt for touchless payment where available. If you must use the restroom or buy food, try to go during less busy times instead of during halftime or time-outs. And scope out other ways to reduce risk when buying food, Davis Moss said. When you're getting the mustard for your hotdog, for example, make sure to use hand sanitizer before and after since condiments "are surfaces that a lot of people are going to be touching." Condiment packets are safer. Not screaming about a score or bad play may be hard, but the louder you make your voice, the higher the chances of your producing virus-carrying droplets or aerosols if infected -- even if you're wearing a mask. Try to keep your voice to a normal volume at most, Pollitt said. Lastly, you could leave a little bit before the game ends to avoid crowds as you navigate the parking lot or transportation. There are few no-risk activities during the Covid-19 pandemic, but there are ways to mitigate risks. Fully vaccinated people are, of course, at much lower risk of contracting and spreading coronavirus than people who haven't been vaccinated. CNN Medical Analyst Dr. Leana Wen advises approaching your activity decisions with that in mind. This story has been updated to reflect the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new guidance on mask wearing issued August 13.

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September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

A SOLUTION FOR A PROBLEM THAT DOES NOT EXIST By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor H www.StyleMagazine.com

Buried in the GOP proposal is a requirement that could—whether by intention or just sloppy legislative work—disenfranchise thousands of voters.

ow do you give an answer to a problem that never existed? Gov. Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 1 - the election integrity bill - into law on September 7th on the basis that the legislation now makes it easier to vote and harder to cheat. In order to claim cheating in an election doesn't there need to be some form of evidence showing proof of the crime? Many have searched and investigated but have found no such evidence. Claims of election fraud initially blared from the mouth of the businessman turned politician Donald Trump and his tribe of Republicans took the claim and ran with by backing him up. The passage of SB1 in Texas is the result of that false claim. Texas is known throughout the country as a state that doesn't play when it comes to politics. Having some of the strictest voting rights laws in the nation, Texas would be a state that could recognize election fraud if it existed. The problem in Texas was election fraud but election turnout, especially among black and brown communities. In Harris County, interim Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins examined that problem and churned out innovative ideas that resulted in record-breaking election turnout numbers. Under Hollins' tenure, he increased souls at the polls by making it easier for everyone to vote by thinking about their circumstances. All people don't work the traditional 9-5 schedule so 24-hour voting locations were ideal for them. Transportation is not readily available for some so more polling locations closer neighborhoods with extended

hours was established to meet their needs. Then there were so many scared to vote because of the pandemic. Drive-thru voting became a safer way for them to cast their vote. Lastly, ballot drop boxes and mail-in ballot application delivery to those 65 and up hit everybody else that might have been missed. Everyone in Harris County had voting options that fit their schedule and that made them feel safe and secure. The initial goal of Hollins was reached and Harris County had the smoothest election ever. Whenever something works that was orchestrated by Democrats look for Republicans to poke holes in it. The passage of SB1 is what is being used to fill their holes in a system that had finally starting to see some positive results.

SB1 does the following:

"S.B. 1, as promoted, endorsed, and signed into law by the Governor of Texas, limits voter accessibility by assigning criminality to individuals who violate state laws designed to create challenging barriers to individuals seeking to vote. The law maliciously targets seniors, young people, language and religious minorities, in addition to other historically marginalized groups. This law is predicated off of a history of insidious practices common and rife throughout the Jim Crow Era which facilitated the conditions surrounding the necessity of the Voting Rights Act of 1965." Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee continued, "We must continue to safeguard our most cherished right and the bedrock of our democracy, the right to vote.”

-INSTITUTES new voter assistance rules for those with special needs

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

-BANS 24-hour voting -BANS drive-thru voting -LIMITS early voting hours -BARS the sending of unsolicited ballot applications to registered voters -ENFORCES new voter ID requirements for mail-in ballots -INCREASES poll watchers access

-HELPS voters to make corrections on mail-in ballots and applications -REQUIRES the Secretary of State to carry out monthly citizenship checks of voter rolls Most of the modern day voting procedures used in the Harris County 2020 elections are now illegal. Why would one put some many restrictions on something that produced such a positive voter outcome? Is that really showing the Texans that their voice matters? The Democrats, impart, are saying it is voter suppression and, specifically, pushes the minority vote

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BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND

“SB8 says no to both 24-hour and drive-thru voting, but neither was creating a hardship for the people in the state of Texas. There is no reason to ban them,” Congressman Al Green said. “I have many constituents who benefit from drive-thru voting and 24-hour voting. Many of them do not have a 9-5 job. They work at all hours or have multiple jobs, are getting home late, and would still like to vote," said Congressman Al Green to Houston Style. “This is why I voted in favor of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. We must do what is necessary to pass righteous laws at the federal level to keep states accountable, have free and fair elections, and allow people to participate equally and fairly in the political process.”

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NATIONAL: BEYONCÉ, JAY-Z AND TIFFANY & CO. CREATE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HBCUs By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

ollowing the launch of the ABOUT LOVE campaign starring The Carters, Tiffany & Co. announced details on the launch of the Tiffany & Co. About Love Scholarship program in partnership with BeyGOOD and the Shawn Carter Foundation. As part of the campaign announcement, Tiffany & Co. pledged USD $2M in scholarship funding for students in the arts and creative fields at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Tiffany & Co. About Love Scholarship will be awarded to five small private and select state schools: Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, Norfolk State University in Virginia, Bennett College in North Carolina, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and Central State University in Ohio. “We would like to thank the Shawn Carter Foundation, BeyGOOD, The Carters and the Tiffany & Co. family for including Lincoln University in this amazing gift,” said Dr. Brenda A. Allen, President, Lincoln University. “Over the years, we have developed a wonderful partnership being a part of The Shawn Carter Foundation HBCU Bus Tour. Lincoln has placed a high priority on supporting

the arts and humanities on our campus. Providing financial support for students pursuing these majors enhances their ability to more fully engage their studies.” “We are only as strong as the work we do together, and we are honored to partner with The Carters,” said Anisa Kamadoli Costa, Chief Sustainability Officer, Tiffany & Co. “Their relentless dedication to lifting underrepresented groups is the inspiration for the About Love Scholarship program.” Students must qualify for financial aid as determined by the HBCU they attend, and the scholarships will be awarded to students who meet all eligibility requirements. This scholarship supports incoming and current students interested in pursuing degrees in creative fields (visual arts, media, performance, design, etc.), history and communications. Priority will be given to students who are facing financial hardships and in need of emergency financial assistance. Award sizes will range per student, based upon need. Online applications will open at each participating school on

Jay-Z and Beyonce (Credit: Mason Poole) Friday, September 10 and close on Sunday, September 26 at 11:59 PM EST. “We are appreciative of the support of BeyGood, the Shawn Carter Foundation, The Carters and Tiffany & Co.,” said Dr. Jack Thomas, President, Central State University. “This opportunity is timely as our students come from many different socioeconomic backgrounds. These funds will have a tremendous effect on who we recruit and our students’ success as they move on to graduate and professional schools and into their careers.”

Learn more at

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LOCAL: HOUSTON NATIVE SERVES ABOARD NUCLEAR POWERED AIRCRAFT CARRIER “MIGHTY IKE” A

By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach – Newswire

Houston native is serving aboard one of the world’s largest warships, the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Airman Dominique Leday, a 2013 Phillis Wheatley High School graduate, joined the Navy one year ago. “I joined because it’s a family tradition,” said Leday. “I have family members who served in both the Army and Navy.” According to Leday, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Houston. “My hometown gave me three things; integrity, energy and intellect,” said Leday. “Mighty IKE” is a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier named for Dwight D. Eisenhower (or “IKE”), one of four 5-star Generals of the Army and a hero of World War II, and would later serve as the 34th President of the United States of America. "President Eisenhower is remembered for his enduring virtues of duty, honor, integrity and decency," said Capt. Paul F. Campagna, commanding officer of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. “We see these every day in the content of character and quality of work shown by Sailors assigned to Mighty IKE as they keep this city on a ship operating safely.” The Mighty IKE, like each of the Navy’s aircraft carriers, represents an enduring investment in America’s security. Each carrier is built to provide a formidable response to just about any global crisis. When the air wing is

embarked, the ship carries more than 70 fighter attack jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea and can provide over the horizon and from the sea combat air power anywhere in the world within 12 days. This inherent flexibility is why aircraft carriers are often the first response to a global crisis and a proven solution for protecting America. “The Mighty IKE crew launches and recovers aircraft at sea every day, and there are thousands of tasks that make this possible," added Campagna. “Whether the 4,500 Sailors on board work to provide power to the ship, repair aircraft, steer IKE through congested waters, prepare over 14,000 meals a day, work in laundry or keep our waste water moving, every job is critical and must be performed well for this ship to execute assigned missions from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean and everywhere in between. No other nation can do what we do at the pace we do it, and it is because of the incredible men and women from all over that volunteer to serve and represent the best of our namesake and our country." Homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, Eisenhower is longer than three football fields at 1,092 feet. The ship is 252 feet wide and weighs more than 100,000 tons. It has two pressurized water reactors producing more than 260,000 shaft horsepower that drive four massive propellers at a max speed in excess of 35 mph. Serving in the Navy means Leday is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military read-

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

Airman Dominique Leday (Photo complements of U.S. Navy) iness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy. “It protects the sovereignty of our country by circumnavigating the globe and helping others by assisting and aiding other countries,” said Leday. 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. As a member of the U.S. Navy, Le-

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day as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow. “It’s both an honor and a privilege to wear this uniform because I have family members who have served and fought for this country,” added Leday. “I want to be an inspiration for the next generation of my family.”

www.Navy.mil

LOCAL: NEIGHBORHOOD MATCHING GRANT PROGRAM CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Application Deadline – November 5, 2021 By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

he FY 2022 Neighborhood Matching Grant Program application period is open! The program supports neighborhood improvement and beautification projects by providing dollar-for-dollar matching grant reimbursements ranging from $500 to $5,000. The application deadline is November 5, 2021, 5 p.m. The program is administered by the Department of Neighborhoods (DON) in partnership with participating Houston City Council offices. “The Neighborhood Matching Grant Program is designed to promote relationships among neighbors, cultivate a spirit of volunteer community service, and develop projects that build sustainable and stronger neighborhoods,” said DON director TaKasha Francis. “Our goal is simple. We want to improve the quality of life for Houston communities and partner with active residents to improve neighborhood organization and pride, improve community appearance and beautification, and increase community participation.” ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS • Neighborhood-based organizations and civic clubs with State of Texas 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) non-profit certification are eligible to apply. • Neighborhood-based organizations without official nonprofit status may apply in partnership with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) organization as co-applicant.

• Grant projects must represent a specific geographic area located within the Houston city limits. • Grant applicants must identify how the organization will fund and support the project in the future. Political organizations and individuals are not eligible for participation in the program. Eligible Projects The program helps pay for physical improvements that are accessible and beneficial to the community. The program will not pay for ongoing operations or maintenance such as upkeep of landscaping or a community garden. Projects that have already been completed are ineligible for funding under the program. Grant funds may not be used to lobby or participate in political campaigns and/or elections. Proposed projects must meet the following requirements: • Create physical improvement to a neighborhood • Involve neighborhood residents and have long-standing benefits • Be accessible to the public For the program guidelines and application form, go to www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods and click on “Neighborhood Matching Grants.”

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

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September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

LOCAL: 'READING WITH A RAPPER' MAKING BIG IMPACT WITH POP UP MUSEUM IN HOUSTON By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

(L-R): Co-founders, Jarren Small and Douglas Johnson (Photo: Pagegirl101.com)

ow do you keep children engaged with education when they’re so easily distracted by social media, smartphones and pop culture? The founders of a local non-profit think they have the answer -- blending culture into the classroom. It’s called “Reading With A Rapper.” The non-profit uses relatable, innovative tools and metrics to teach

English Language Arts (ELA) skills to students in grades 4-12. Pre-pandemic, the organization launched its campaign, “Turn Texas Yellow” to get the program in as many Texas schools as possible. Through their efforts, the organization has reached over 30,000 students and educators and has partnered with multiple school districts, including Aldine ISD and Yes Prep Public Schools. “RWAR has done so many won-

derful things in education that people may not know about,” says RWAR co-founder Douglas Johnson. “It’s important for people to know where we’ve come from in order to understand where we are headed.” To coordinate with back-toschool, RWAR opened its own pop-up gallery for two weeks in Houston to help shift the landscape of academics. According to the initiative’s co-founder Jarren Small, the exhibition will help “tell the story of how we can be more innovative when it comes to how our youth learns today.” The opening event, featured the new Nike collaboration introducing the limited edition RWAR Pollen OG Jordan 1’s. The sneakers featured RWAR’s signature yellow color along with the brand’s “R” symbol. Houston Style attended the, “There’s A Unicorn In my Backyard,” event and there was a live interactive reading from Super Bowl Champion Martellus Bennet, which also featured his new children’s book, “Dear Black Boy.” RWAR was created to relate English Language Arts (ELA) metrics

and academics with socially conscious lyrics, video content and technology. Through this platform RWAR can relate and uplift our youth socially and academically to skills necessary to thrive in Secondary and Collegiate Level courses. Reading With A Rapper teaches and strengthens literacy skills through rap lyrics, core English Language Arts (ELA) metrics, content and technology. RWAR connects literary and musical arts directly to the classroom by exposing mainstream and rising artists to students (as early as 3rd grade) and correlating reading and writing – essentially meeting students “where they are” through a medium they can relate to. Because music is powerful and captivating, educators and artists can use RWAR as a tool to enrich students while fusing education. Social Media: @readingwarapper

Learn more at

www.ReadingWithARapper.com

LOCAL: BUN B’S H-TOWN RODEOHOUSTON TAKEOVER By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

ouston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials announced today that Bun B will make his RODEOHOUSTON debut Friday, March 11, 2022, for Black Heritage Day. His performance, known as Bun B’s H-Town Takeover, will include some of Houston’s most wellknown rap icons. “The Rodeo can’t wait to bring Bun B and many of Houston’s most legendary rappers to the RODEOHOUSTON stage in 2022,” said Rodeo President and CEO Chris Boleman. “Celebrating Black Heritage Day with many of our city’s own superstars should make for an epic night for Houstonians and Rodeo fans alike.”

Additional local artists who will join Bun B’s RODEOHOUSTON’s 2022 performance will be announced in the coming months. Individual tickets for the March 11 performance will go on sale to the public in January 2022 at rodeohouston.com. Ticket prices start at $20, plus a $4 convenience fee. Bun B joined Beyoncé during her 2007 RODEOHOUSTON performance, and in 2018, he surprised Rodeo concertgoers with a cameo appearance alongside headliner Leon Bridges. The remaining 2022 RODEOHOUSTON entertainer lineup will be announced at a later date. Bun B has expanded his reach beyond the music industry. He created “Bun B’s Rap Color-

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

ing and Activity Book” with author Shea Serrano, the “You Gotta Eat This!” food blog and recently announced his next step into the Houston restaurant scene with his burger concept, Trill Burgers. He is also an active member of the Houston community, dedicating his time to various philanthropic endeavors. For more information, visit rodeohouston. com and connect with #RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.

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Learn more at

www.RodeoHouston.com

SPORTS: ALLEN IVERSON TEAMS UP WITH VIOLA TO CHANGE THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY By Njera Perkins. www.AfroTech.com – Newswire

Al Harrington, left, and Allen Iverson new collaboration in Viola, the largest Black multi-state cannabis operator—Getty Images

wo NBA stars are teaming up for a one-of-a-kind brand partnership to revolutionize the cannabis market. Today, Viola — the largest Black multi-state cannabis operator in the nation — announced its latest brand partnership with NBA legend Allen Iverson that will span cannabis, product, and merchandise. Founded by NBA vet Al Harrington, Viola plans to make this new alliance an industry-leading and scalable collaboration. Iverson previously got a chance to get a glimpse of the growing process behind the Viola brand. After witnessing its full-scale operation, dedication to the cannabis plant and minority participation as well as ownership in the industry, he knew the partnership was meant to be. “I’ve had a lot of people approach me with business opportunities, but this one with Al was different,” Iverson said in a statement. “After seeing how devoted he is to this business, and him educating me on how beneficial the plant is, it just felt right. I’m excited to be a part of it. Together, we’re about to change the game.” Harrington was also a big fan of making this partnership happen, noting the manner in which Iverson helped change the culture of sports and Hip-Hop through his style and skill. The Viola founder hopes to bring that same level of influence to his brand as well as the cannabis market. “In the same way Allen impacted the culture, we’re going to continue to

impact the cannabis industry,” Harrington shared in a statement. “We’re going to keep pushing boundaries. I’m honored to have Allen on board. We want to continue to inspire others and encourage people of color to participate in the cannabis space.” Iverson’s partnership with Viola will feature a variety of cannabis and non-cannabis products — including his own namesake collection that will launch a series of strains across Viola’s already established markets. According to a press release, the first strain is set to debut in California this October exclusively at Elevate and Jade Room. Harrington is currently on a mission to make Viola the biggest Black-owned cannabis brand in the weed industry. Earlier this year, he made history as the first Black-owned brand to expand into territory outside of the U.S., taking its products over to Canada. He’s also formed partnerships with other big entertainment figures like T.I. to help with the brand’s community advocacy and social equity work.

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ENTERTAINMENT: JANET JACKSON TEASES ABOUT DOCUMENTARY "JANET" By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

anet Jackson fans will get the opportunity to reflect and celebrate the 40th anniversary of her debut album, "Janet" from 1982, with a two-part documentary, "Janet," to air on Lifetime in January 2022. The documentary will take viewers through an intimate look at the entertainer's life from birth to present showing never-before-seen footage, home videos, and more. Jackson recently released a teaser of the project. Fellow entertainers Mariah Carey and Paula Abdul speak

Janet Jackson (Credit: A&E Network) about their connection as well as members of Jackson's family offer commentary. "This is my story told by me, not through someone Jackson then brings fans with her to present day as a mother. else’s eyes,” Jackson says. The documentary is executively produced by JackJackson gets deeply personal discussing her child- son with Randy Jackson. Ben Hirsh is the director. hood with Joe Jackson as her father and the painful death of her brother Michael Jackson. She even hits on the most To stay up to date at talked about wardrobe malfunction performance at the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show with Justin Timberlake.

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ENTERTAINMENT: MICHEAL K. WILLIAMS, 'WIRE' ACTOR, FOUND DEAD By www.CNN.com – Newswire

Mickeal K. Williams (Credit: Rodin Eckenroth\FilmMagic)

ichael K. Williams, an actor best known for his role as Omar Little on HBO's "The Wire," has died. He was 54. Williams was found dead in his New York City apartment Monday afternoon, a law enforcement official told CNN. Investigators found drug paraphernalia near his body, the official said. The investigation is ongoing, according to another law enforcement source who spoke to CNN. "It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth

Williams. They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable loss," his long-time rep Marianna Shafran of Shafran PR told The Hollywood Reporter. In a 2017 interview with the New York Times, Williams spoke openly about his struggles with substance abuse. "Addiction doesn't go away," he said at the time. "It's an everyday struggle for me, but I'm fighting." Williams, a Brooklyn native, most recently appeared in HBO's "Lovecraft Country" and the series "F Is for Family." He became an almost iconic figure for many thanks

to his role in "The Wire" as Omar Little, a shotgun-wielding character who made his living robbing drug dealers. He followed that up as a mobster in the HBO Prohibition-era mob drama "Boardwalk Empire," and most recently earned an Emmy nomination for another series on the pay network, the macabre "Lovecraft Country."

To stay up to date at

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ENTERTAINMENT: CARDI B GIVES BIRTH...IT'S A BOY! By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

ardi B and husband Offset announced the birth of their second child together, a baby boy, on Sept. 6 "We are so overjoyed to finally meet our son," Cardi and Offset told E! News in a joint statement.

Offset and Cardi B (Credit: Cardi B Twitter Account) "He is already loved so much by family and friends and we can't wait to introduce him to his other siblings." The couple's bundle of joy joins 3-year-old sister, Kulture Kiari 11, Kalea Marie Cephus, 6, and Kody Cephus, 6, from Cephus. Meanwhile, Offset is also a father to Jordan Cephus, previous relationships.

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

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t’s about to get easier for renters with limited credit history to qualify for a conventional loan. Beginning September 18, 2021, Fannie Mae will have a new feature in its automated underwriting system that will incorporate rent payments with the permission of the loan applicant. Single-family lenders will be able to automatically identify a pattern of recurring rent payments in an applicant’s bank statement during the underwriting process. This is huge news for responsible renters with a short credit history. The fact that timely rent payments will count toward mortgage eligibility is a good thing, but the sole act of paying your landlord on time won’t guarantee that you’ll be able to borrow money to buy a home when you want to. To qualify, borrowers will need to: - Be a first-time homebuyer, which means you haven’t owned a home for the past three years. - Meet Fannie Mae requirements, which includes a FICO score of at least 620 for fixed-rate mortgages; an acceptable down payment (at least 3%, depending on the

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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

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September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

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H Tigers Care For Louisiana! Hurricane Ida Relief H

Texas Southern University's Tigers Care: TSU Board of Regents Chairman Albert H. Myres and DeAndre Sam, CEO A-Rocket Moving & Storage, TSU student leaders, and TSUPD loaded trucks with much-needed supplies to send to our Louisiana neighbors impacted by Hurricane Ida. A big thank you to KTSU, TSUDPS A-Rocket, and Talley Tree Productions for providing the trucks and supplies. Tigers Care for Louisiana.

September 9, 2021 - September 15, 2021

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