Houston Style Magazine Vol 21 No 23

H Take Your lunch from ordinary to extrordinary H Complimentary H Houston's Urban Weekly Publication Volume 21 H Number 23 June 9 - june 15, 2011 SPOTLIGHTS

roland martin

Talks About...Putting Bishop Long on Blast

Lexus ct 200h

The Most Affordable in the Line Up

Words By Jo-Carolyn Goode

Military Families

Speak About Emotional Scars

then heirs A family that prays TWEF Enriching men Re-elect Ron green If Sons, Terri Reviews a * News * Commentaries * Sports * Health * Entertainment

Book by Lorene Cary

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

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Volume 21 • Number 23 • June 9 - June 15, 2011 E D I TO R I A L

editorial@stylemagazine.com FRANCIS PAGE, JR. Publisher and Editor Jo-carolyn goode Managing Editor/Editor-at-Large

Local Feature Writers latoya blaze edwards, lillie nobles, susie stillwell; yolanda pope, rebecca briscoe H.B.(RICKEY) SPIVEY, JR. LCC Criminal Justice Editor TONJA WARD, DR. LOVELL JONES Health Editors PAMELA CRAWFORD Political Editor JESSE JACKSON, ROLAND MARTIN, JUDGE GREG MATHIS National Feature Writers

ART Susan Nguyen Art Director

KERMIT WILLIAMS Web Master and Graphic Designer webmaster@stylemagazine.com JEFFERY T. CRUMP, JR., Chief Web Designer ANTHONY W. MORRIS • 832.785.4855 anthonymorris@att.net VICKY PINK • 281.857.7635 vhpink@gmail.com ROSWITHA VOGLER • 832.876.9541 photosbyrovo@gmail.com COLLINS METU • 832.471.5704 collins@collinsmetu.com Photographers

09 No Bishop Long, We Cannot..

10 What’s In Style 12 What is Flirting?

15 Not All Wounds Can Be Seen

By Roland Martin

See What’s Happening in Houston

By Jo-Carolyn Goode

this week departments

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4 Commentary 5 Local Briefs 6 Haute Shots 8 Haute Shots 9 Commentary 10 What’s In Style 12 Feature 13 Entertainment 14 Travel/Health 15 Health 16 Book Review 18 Education/Culinary 19 Auto/Haute Shots 20 Business 21 Classifieds 22 Classifieds

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 3

H

ow do you end America’s longest war that is an abject failure? No, not Afghanistan. This month marks the 40th anniversary of the day Richard Nixon launched the “War on Drugs.” And now, four decades later, it would be impossible to invent a more complete failure.

About $1 trillion has been spent on the war. Millions of citizens who pose no threat to anyone have been incarcerated in prison. Some 2.3 million now overcrowd America’s prisons -- 25 percent of whom have been arrested for nonviolent drug crimes. Our neighbors to the south -- Mexico and Columbia -- are being torn about by gang violence and corruption. In Afghanistan, where our soldiers risk their lives, fully one-third to one-

40 Years Later: America’s Failed War on Drugs half of the entire economy is generated by the opium and heroin trade. All of this is in reaction to nonviolent acts that were not even crimes a century ago.

Yet despite this, drugs are just as available as and cheaper than they were 40 years ago. As the U.S. drug czar, Gil Kerlikowske concluded: “In the grand scheme, it has not been successful. Forty years later, the concern about drugs and the drug problem is, if anything, magnified, intensified

And the war’s casualties are mounting. The war on drugs turned, early on, into a new Jim Crow offensive against people of color. Although whites abuse drugs at higher rates than African-Americans, African-American are incarcerated at 10 times the rate of whites for drug offensives. Millions have been deprived of the right to vote for being convicted of nonviolent crimes. Hundreds of thousands have died and millions suffered because the drug war made treating addiction as a public health problem more difficult.

Now the state fiscal crisis is forcing states -- even states as conservative as Texas -- to empty overcrowded prisons and seek alternatives to incarceration. Yet the war goes on, the money is wasted, the violence and corruption escalates, and more lives are ruined.

In a new report, the Global Commission on Drug Policy calls for admitting that the war is a failure and turning instead to

dealing with drugs as a public health problem.

I have spent decades talking with young men and women about the perils of drugs, in classrooms, in church basements, in prisons and jails and on the street. The scourge of drugs is destructive of lives and of hope.

But so, too, is the war against drugs.

We must use the 40th anniversary of a failed war to call that war into question.

What if we treated drug addiction like alcohol addiction as a public health problem? Marijuana accounts for one-half of all drug arrests in the U.S.; decriminalizing it would save millions that could be used to treat addicts rather than arrest kids. Alternatives to incarceration should be preferred for those who pose no threat to others. Harsh mandatory and minimum sentences should be repealed. Why not take drug addiction out of the criminal justice system and treat it in the public health system?

It surely would be better to spend the money not on locking people up, but on clinics that

legal

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ost, if not all, African-Americans look at President Barack Obama as the ultimate symbol of the gains our people have made in the last several decades. Yes, there is still work to be done but we are, on the surface, doing better economically and financially than we were just a few generations ago. Dig a little deeper, however, and you’ll find that huge disparities still exist. Health and healthcare are two of the areas you’ll find those glaring holes.

According to the Center for Disease Control, African-Americans are affected by and die from heart disease, diabetes, cancer, HIV and homicide at disproportionate rates. Our infant death rate among is more than double that of whites. Heart disease death rates are 40 percent higher for African Americans than for whites and the death rate for all cancers is 30 percent higher for us than for whites. The death rate from HIV/AIDS for African Americans is more than seven times that for whites, while the rate of homicide is six times that for whites.

Sobering news, indeed. Why are affected at such alarmingly high rates?

There are many reasons and poverty is among them. Many African-Americans have no health insurance and a trip to doctor is an expense many can’t afford. For those who do have insurance the co-pay for

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

might treat their illnesses.

Ending the “War on Drugs” doesn’t mean we abandon the effort to regulate them, to teach children of their dangers, or to treat those who are hooked. But it does mean we don’t waste millions more lives and billions more dollars on a war that cannot be won.

The drug war has been waged by both parties. Politicians have postured tough on crime, competing to invent the harshest punishments. Money was no object. An entire prison complex -- with powerful private interests -- has grown up to warehouse the prisoners of the war. But now, 40 years later, isn’t it time to put aside the posturing, and have a fundamental debate about alternatives to this failed war?

You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson care of this newspaper or by e-mail at jjackson@rainbowpush.org.

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Closing Healthcare Gap

Judge greg mathis

jesse Jackson

Commentary

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a doctor’s visit is often too high. Lack of access is another reason. Health clinics in urban areas have been closing as local governments have struggled to balance their budgets. Without a doctor in their neighborhood, many don’t have the resources to travel to seek care.

We can’t let ourselves off the hook: as a people, we must take responsibility for the food we eat and the unhealthy lifestyles we live. We must learn portion control, monitor our intake of salt and limit fatty and fried foods, no matter how good they taste. We must also incorporate physical activity into our lives and practice safe sex. And we must teach our children to do the same.

To be fair, eating healthily is easier said than done, especially for those living in urban cities, surrounded by food desserts and few grocery stores that stock healthy, well-priced item. The government is doing its part to help address these and other issues that lead to health disparities.

The Department of Health and Human Services is providing $100 million in community grants to promote healthier lifestyles and the CDC, with their , Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health, is steering funds to local programs that target blacks and Latinos in an effort to close these gaps.

The healthcare law President Obama fought to pass includes provisions for programs that work in underserved communities to provide healthcare and screening; that law is one of the best tools we have at our disposal. Our local legislators must work to ensure the funds provided are utilized in the best possible way, while we must work on a personal level to take control of our health. It’s important that we stay healthy so that we may continue to achieve.

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Local Briefs Houston Tribute to Michael Jackson Will Benefit Non-Profits

Pop Star Michael Jackson

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or the second year, the Silver House Theatré will be celebrating Michael Jackson’s life with the 2nd Annual “Tribute to Michael Jackson.” Silver House founder Marie Marcel decided to turn it up a few notches. To do so, she’s rallied a full team of inspired professionals. “The objective of this event is to honor Michael Jackson’s music, dance, humanitarian spirit and at the same time support local non-profits and local talent”, says Marcel. The performers & non-profits involved so far, as well as the event committee, intend to do just that. Some of the performances will include those from Praise N’ Motion Center, Ambassadors International Ballet Folklorico, Swing Floetry’s House of Dance, and (of course) a classic MJ homage routine

or two from some talented local choreographers. Some of the non-profits who will benefit from the show’s ticket sales include La Rosa Family Services and Youth Group of NHPO, and The Women’s Resource Center. Tickets for the 2nd Annual “Tribute to Michael Jackson” can be purchased from any benefiting non-profit, or committee member. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information visit: www.mjtributehouston.com.

Houston Symphony Achieves $8 Million+ Record-Breaking Annual Fund Goal

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he Houston Symphony announced a series of fundraising and financial achievements that will propel the institution toward its centennial season in 2013-14. One year into a comprehensive five-year plan, the Symphony has qualified for the first of two $1 million challenge grants from Houston Endowment,

raised a record Annual Fund of over $8 million, and is expecting a balanced fiscal year 2011 budget.

Prairie View A&M University Hosts ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp

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rea middle school students are curing the summer “brain drain” this year with a heavy dose of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fun

at the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp hosted by Prairie View A&M University. The hands-on program offers students an exciting way to beat the heat as they design space suits, build rockets and more while experiencing life on a college campus. For the sixth consecutive year, the ExxonMobil Foundation has partnered with Harris and his nonprofit organization, The Harris Foundation, to provide residential camps to underrepresented and underserved middle school students at 25 universities across the country.

school students will have big options this summer by participating in one of 13 Project GRAD College Institutes that provide a closer look at college life. The goals of these Institutes are to familiarize students with a colle-

This is the fifth year Prairie View A&M University has had the honor of participating in the program. The camp runs from June 5-17th. The camp program aims to fill this critical need by offering a curriculum that features hands-on experiments, team competitions and field excursions to help students build essential skills.

Campers receive quality instruction from local educators and hear from ExxonMobil engineers about the exciting and rewarding aspects of their profession.

Over 1,300 HISD High School Students Will Get A Glimpse of College This Summer

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eginning June 6, 2011, over 1,300 Houston Independent School District (HISD) high

giate environment, explore potential career options, strengthen their academic and leadership skills, and help them earn the Project GRAD $4,000 college scholarship. Students can choose to spend part of their summer attending an Institute at: Rice University, the University of Houston – Main Campus, the University of Houston – Downtown, the University of Texas Health Science Center, the University of St. Thomas, or Houston Community College. The HISD high schools that partner with Project GRAD are Davis, Reagan, Wheatley, Yates, and the Sam Houston Math, Science, and Technology Center. For more information, visit www.projectgradhouston.org.

local

Managing Your Time Is Useless Unless You Manage Your Purpose, Asserts Author and Educational Expert Lavaille Lavette

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ormer Special Advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Education, educational expert, and radio host Lavaille Lavette reveals the secret to using each day to its fullest in her new book 86,400: Manage Your Purpose to Make Every Second of Each Day Count (FaithWords; Spring 2011); 9780446571470; $21.99). Sharing a seismic awakening to the power in viewing each day as comprised of 86,400 seconds that must be used to accomplish your ultimate purpose, Lavette writes, “Viewing each day as a gift, a blessing of 86,400 seconds to do with what you will, spoke to me in ways that no book, seminar, workshop or lecture on time management had ever done in my many years dealing with the topic.”

Along with Lavette’s life story and illustration of the value of purpose management, she also shares stories of other wellknown people who also engage in the practice. (Attorney Ricky Anderson, Ralph De La Vega-AT &T CEO, Sherri Shepherd-The

Lavaille Lavette, Author and Educational Expert

View, Les Miles-LSU Head Coach, Minister Paula White, Elvin Hayes-NBA Great, Pastor Marcos Witt-Lakewood Church Houston, Tx, Bill Cosby, Don Fertman-Subway and others). Through these easy-to-follow howto’s and entertaining personal anecdotes, the book equips readers to achieve a desired effect by exercising their control of actions to carry out a plan—a continuing cycle of success moving them ever closer to their wildest dreams.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 5

THIS WEEK:

100 Women for Ronald Green Fundraiser

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Photography By Roswitha Vogler

n Thursday, June 2, 2011, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Grotto Ristorante for a fundraiser for Ronald Green. One hundred Women for Green hosted the affair for City of Houston Controller Ronald C. Green. Some in attendance were Judge Hilary Green, Arvia Few, Anita Smith, Cindy Clifford, Divya Brown, Jackie Pope, Patti Kagan, Melanie Parks, Sharon McLaughlin, Stephanie Linder, Tameka Lord, Wendy Willis, Amanda Janicek, Debbie Dillard, Dr. Davetta Daniels, Erica Graham, Bridgett Joe, Alexander Obregon, Kristi Thibaut, Catherine Flowers, Audrie Lawton, Shawnell Holman, Lloyd Gite, Giti Zarinkelk, Michael Bagstad, Chris Robinson, Jonathan Hamilton, Paul Cannings, Shannon Nobles, Lydia Evans, Jason Few, Shirley James, Nicole Walters, and CJ Martin.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

Houston, TX

Drexel Society, Inc. – Houston Chapter’s Peaceful Mediation

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Photography By Vicky Pink

n Saturday, June 4, 2011, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Brady’s Landing as the Drexel Society, Inc. – Houston Chapter provided an opportunity for people of faith to come together, to unite and share. Under the theme “Peaceful Meditation through Joyous Praise,” Rev. Gwenn Pierre served as the guest speaker. Some in attendance were President Mary Reescano, Lady Marie Washington, Elise LeNoir Morris, Gary Patterson, Katie Roberson, Jonathan Smith, Sylvia Carrier, Miracle Leveston, Consuella Broussard, Mary Ross, Joan Chopp, Pastor Wilkie Law, Melina Volair, Rev. Dr. Albert L. Lemons, Charlotte Davis, and Mike Dozier.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 7

THIS WEEK:

TWEF Honors Community Leaders

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Photography By Vicky Pink

n June 6, 2011, Houston Style Magazine was on at the InterContinental Hotel-Galleria as the Texas Women Empowerment Foundation (TWEF) honored community leaders. This affair was in association with TWEF’s Mentoring Education Networking (M.E.N.) program that is designed to mentor young men in the community of Houston and surrounding areas with a five point agenda. Using the theme “Celebrating the Power and Purpose of Men and Mentorship – Mentorship: Not by Choice, by Mandate,” the following were honored James Adams, Ruby Cavazos, Joel Clary, Dominique Hermez, Darell Mitchem, Ricky Mayes, Ken Lovelady, Fred Hoyer, Danny Nguyen, Dr. Anthony Pinn, Kevin Reed, Jaa St. Julien, James Smith, Pratt L. Robinson, and Godfrey Uduma. Andre Gurode and Richmond Punch were celebrity honorees. Irv Ashford and John Garcia served as honorary chairs. Edward A. Smith, chancellor of the Joseph Business School, was the keynote speaker. A special ceremony was held honoring the 2011 TWEF Eagle Scholars Student Enrichment Program Participants.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

Houston, TX

8th Grade Promotion Ceremony Photography By Vicky Pink On Friday, June 3, 2011, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at the Shrine of the Black Madonna for the 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony for the students at KIPP Liberation College Preparatory. With their chest stuck out proud students were recognized the knowledge they have obtained and for the completion of 8th grade. City of Houston Councilwoman Wanda Adams was the keynote speaker. Some members of the class of 2015 were Nickolas Abbott, Paris Bell, Christina Blair, Sara Chachere, Jamara Lewis, Lauren Fontenot, Ciara White, Larnetra Young, Kierra Hearne, and David Gibbs.

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No, Bishop Long, We Cannot Ignore the Past

roland martin

Commentary

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hen Bishop Eddie L. Long stood before his congregation in Lithonia, Ga., May 29 to declare that he would be looking forward, not focused on the past, his supporters said that’s the right thing to do. He had just settled civil lawsuits that alleged he had coerced young male followers into sex.

Sorry, bishop, as a man of God who is the shepherd of an international ministry, we cannot simply let you off that easily.

From the moment Bishop Long was first accused eight months ago, he had the benefit of the doubt. He was innocent until proven guilty, and I wrote in a column that if he was innocent, he should defend his name and character with every fiber in his body.

And he said as much before his congregation.

Yet now he settles a lawsuit, keeps the details private, refuses to speak publicly about the accusations, and expects some form of forgiveness? It’s just not that simple.

To my legal friends, I get the whole issue of settling a lawsuit to risk further damage and put it behind you. But when you are a pastor who has preached against gay marriage and homosexuality, has openly talked about the covenant between a husband and wife, and has talked about the importance of men leading their families as strong men of faith, there is an expectation on you that is greater than the one on the average man.

Some have suggested that I and others who aren’t members of his church should shut up and that it’s up to them to accept him at his word. Again, I disagree.

I remember vividly hearing Bishop Long for the first time in June 1999 and loving the sermon, “A Fresh Anointing for Change,” quoting it on many occasions. When I worked on a television project in 2000, I attended Long’s New Birth Missionary Baptist Church for three months, regularly attending services and tithing to his ministry. When I served as news editor at Savoy magazine, we did a photo spread of pastors and fashion and recommended he be a part of it. Last year, my wife and I spoke at a black marriage summit at Hampton University in Hampton, Va. We were the luncheon speakers, and Long was the evening speaker.

I’ve watched his worship services on the Trinity Broadcasting Network, bought and read several of his books, and purchased numerous videotapes and tapes of his sermons. Lastly, I’ve discussed his efforts to reach out specifically to black men to get them involved in the church, even writing about it in an essay in my book “Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith.”

So count me as one of the committed Christians who poured a seed into his ministry and who has a reasonable expectation for the pastor to be a stand-up man and speak honestly about what has happened.

He is someone whom thousands follow, and they should hear the truth and nothing but the truth from Bishop Long. Not his lawyer, not his spokesman, not his wife -- him! He should not have decided on a private mediation; he should have demanded that everything be discussed in public.

Again, count me as someone who believes that if you are truly innocent of such heinous allegations, you don’t go behind closed doors. You defend yourself publicly and shame those who try to muddy your name and derail your ministry.

Bishop Long has utterly failed even his own preaching.

He has stood in the pulpit and demanded accountability of others but clearly believes that different rules apply to him.

With his refusal to address the issue publicly, openly and truthfully, I don’t see how any pastor could participate in a conference with Long on the rostrum. I don’t see how any gospel musician could go to his church and stand in the pulpit with him to sell CDs.

As a churchgoing man, there is no way I could sit under the spiritual leadership of a pastor who was unwilling to stand before his congregation and address the issue head-on.

I know all about forgiveness. It is one of the tenets of being a Christian. But I am not to forgive foolishly. If Bishop Long wants forgiveness, he needs to be open in discussing what really happened -- or didn’t happen -- with those young men and allow all of us to decide for ourselves whether we are willing to grant it.

If his followers are angry with me for writing this, then so be it. But there is no way that I can sit here and talk about the righteousness of ministers of the Gospel (my wife is an ordained minister) and make excuses for Bishop Long or any other pastor in a similar situation.

As Christians, we are supposed to expose darkness with light. In this case, Bishop Long chose to keep the truth behind closed doors and say, “Trust me; it’s all good. Everything is fine.”

John 8:32 says Jesus told his disciples, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Bishop Long, I’m not saying you are Jesus, but to your followers, it’s time for YOU to reveal the truth so YOU can be set free.

Roland S. Martin is an award-winning CNN analyst and the author of the book “The First: President Barack Obama’s Road to the White

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House as originally reported by Roland S. Martin.” Please visit his website at www.RolandSMartin.com. To find out more about Roland S. Martin and read his past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 9

There will be entertainment, food, giveaways, moonwalk, face painting, cooking demos, health screenings, basketball contests, and fitness bootcamps.

June 10

June 11

l Michael jackson’s this is it - district d movie night Council Member Wanda Adams presents the 2nd Annual District D Movie Night at Miller Outdoor Theater featuring Michael Jackson’s This Is It. Last year over one thousand residents showed up to watch Avatar at Houston’s most foremost venue for outdoor entertainment, Miller Outdoor Theatre. Like last year Majic 102 will sponsor this community event providing door prizes and giveaways to attendees. Absolutely FREE! Starts at 8:00pm at the Miller Outdoor Theater.

June 10 - 11 l big brothers big sister’s bowl for kid’s sake Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Bowl For Kid’s Sake, at Palace Lanes, 4191 Bellaire Blvd., Houston. One of BBBS’s largest events in which participants secure sponsors to enjoy a large, high energy bowling party where bowlers of all skill levels enjoy two games of bowling, food and drinks. To register a team log on to http:// houstonbfks.kintera.org .

l Houston texans host annual first down dads field day The Houston Texans will host the annual First Down Dads Field Day on Saturday morning at the Methodist Training Center, the team announced today. The field day will run from 10:00 a.m. until Noon CDT on Saturday, June 11. Dads and their kids will be able to participate in football drills together, hear testimonials from speakers such as Texans special teams coordinator Joe Marciano and create their own unforgettable experiences. Joining Marciano will be Texans Ambassadors J.J. Moses, Ricardo McDonald and Mike Quinn.

Registration for the field day is open through Friday, June 10 at 5:00 p.m. online at www.

HoustonTexans.com <http://www.HoustonTexans.com> . The registration fee is $25 per family, including one adult and up to four kids, ages five and older. Children under five will be admitted free.

June 11 Houston Area Urban League’s Young Professionals hosts “Total You” Health and Wellness Fair l

On Saturday, June 11, 2011, the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals in partnership with the Houston Area Urban League and the HAUL Guild will host the “Total You” Health and Wellness Fair held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Emancipation Park in the Third Ward community. The “Total You” Health and Wellness Fair is located at 3018 Dowling Street. The hosts expect more than 300 residents from the Third Ward area and surrounding communities to participate in the health fair festivities. The free event will include fitness boot camps, health screenings, basketball contests, youth activities, entertainment and food.

June 11 Totally You health & wellness fair Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals and Houston Area Urban League Guild invite you to the Totally You Health & Wellness Fair from 10am2pm at Emancipation Park, 3018 Dowling Street, Houston, Texas 77004. This free event will help Houstonians take control of themselves and improve personal health and overall quality of life. l

June 13 l Get off Your Butt and Do

Something Book Signing Event On June 13, 5:00PM- 7:30PM, Tom Jackobs will host a book signing at Body3 Fitness Center in the Heights/1987 W TC Jester Blvd, 77008 (18th Street & Ella Blvd). During the book signing, all guests will receive a complimentary tour of Body3 Fitness Center, a 7-Day VIP pass, and be able to purchase a signed copy of Tom’s book outlining his secrets to a healthy life. During the signing visitors can enjoy our high-energy classes and refreshments. For more information email info@body3fit.com or go to www.body3fit.com.

June 16 BETZ ART GALLERY PRESENTS FUNDRAISING EVENT for AIDS FOUNDATION HOUSTON; “THE ART OF PRIDE June 18th - 25th with a variety of events, BETZ ART GALLERY, located at 1208 West Gray in Houston’s Montrose district, is the place to be when LGBT Artists come together to present an art exhibition entitled “THE ART OF PRIDE.” The juried exhibition, which opens on June 16th with a public reception on June 16th, from 6pm until 9pm, includes a variety of contemporary, abstract and figurative mixed media works by local artists. Proceeds from the event, including a portion of Artist’s sales, will be donated to AIDS Foundation Houston. For information on “THE ART OF PRIDE” Exhibition, Betz Gallery resident Artists, or future events contact Lori Betz at 713.576.6954, via email at <info@betzgallery.com> or by visiting the Gallery’s website, www.betzgallery.com. l

June 18 Urban Souls Dance Company presents playlist Urban Souls Dance Company invites everyone to their final performance of its inaugural season, entitled Playlist, using familiar music to help celebrate the Company’s milestones and achievements over the past year. Playlist promises to be a night of good music and soulful dancing that will take place on June 18, 2011 at Houston Baptist University’s Morris Cultural Arts Center (7502 Fondren Road). Artistic Director Harrison Guy will premiere his latest production, Pluck’d by Duke, a tribute to Houston’s

own jazz legend, Barrie Lee Hall, Jr. with live music by The Conrad Johnson/Barrie Hall Big Blue Sound. Inspired by the company’s recent trip to Rwanda, Walter Hull premieres a new work, Women of Ishyo. The evening will also include the Company’s first collaboration with one of Houston’s favorite choreographers, Jhon Stronks with his new work, “The Situation As It Currently Stands.” Tickets are $20 pre-sale and $25 at the door. Visit www.urbansouls.org for tickets.

June 20 The Ensemble Theatre’s reading of trouble in mind The Ensemble Theatre’s reading of Trouble in Mind is on Monday, June 20, 2011, 5:30PM. The Ensemble Performance Centre – Fannin and Berry St. Entrance at 3535 Main St. Houston, TX 77002. For information visit: www.ensemblehouston.com/ programs/workshops. A donation of $10 to the theatre is encouraged for admission. l

July 7 - 9 l The Houston Ck scrapbook convention The Houston CK Scrapbook Convention (CKC), at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, 1601 Robbins Drive, Spring, TX. Looking for incredible shopping, inspiring classes, and time to work on projects? The CKC is for you! Featuring a Vendor Faire, day classes, workshops, Preview, Celebration & Super Crops, and more! Register online now through Monday, June 27, 2011 midnight at www. ckscrapbookevents.com/houston .

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

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July 10 - 11 2011 image expo 2011 The Image Expo, at the Reliant Center. Promising to be the hottest new hair and beauty show in the Southwest, Image Expo will focus on education in the cosmetology industry, featuring cutting-edge seminars, workshops and celebrity presentations. Log on to www.TheImageExpo. com for more information.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

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feature Culinary

What is Flirting?

Congressman Anthony Weiner

Former California Govenor Arnold Schwarzenegger

Former Presidential Candidate John Edwards

By Jo-Carolyn Goode Editor-at-Large

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e have a new catch phrase in America, “weinergate.” The word was coined in reference to the current political scandal involving Congressman Anthony Weiner of New York and his inappropriate text messages to women, none of whom was his wife, sent on company time. In the dictionary of pop culture “weinergate” is defined as the act or process of cheating via text messaging. This hot topic that is on the lips of people across the country has generated a burning question causing a great debate among the citizenry, “Is flirting actually cheating?” I have found the multiplicity of answers is just as complicated as the question. In a random unofficial poll, over half of those participating said all forms of flirting, be it a live physical act with something as simple as a look or online through social media or via cell phone with text messages involving emotions, is cheating.

On the other hand, the remainder of those polled was a little more forgiving with the majority in this group stating that cheating takes place when emotions become involved, so it is a matter of the intent of the heart. I decided to examine this phenomenon a bit further.

If we buy into the Webster Dictionary definition, flirting is behaving amorously without serious intent. This is the response of most single people. I understand their thought process. The phrase “single and ready to mingle” immediately comes to mind. Being single is all about mingling. To

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Former New York Governor Elliot Spitzer

Former New York Governor David Paterson

a great degree mingling is all about flirting. A number of singles flirt all the time.

One reason given is when people are single there is no commitment or no strings are attached so if their eyes happen to wander, no one is hurt.

In the instance of one single person meeting another single person and there is a mutual attraction, flirting leads to dating. The table is turned a little because what started Former South Carolina Govenor Mark Sanford

June 9 - June 15, 2011

out as a simple act of flirting evolves into a committed relationship of emotions.

This takes me to the married folks point of view.

Married people are under the umbrella that flirting of any kind is cheating. The number one reason behind their position is the potential of an emotional relationship that could lead to some form of commitment is frightening. They surmise

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Former President Bill Clinton

that when emotions become involved logical thinking goes by the wayside and the loss of their mate is, more often not, imminent. Emotions are attached to the heart and everyone knows that matters of the heart lead to love.

Examining this issue with both sexes is somewhat similar with most men on the side of single people who think that flirting is harmless and most women believing that flirting is cheating. One of the persons who was polled even went so far as to say, ”If you can’t do it in front of your spouse, it is cheating.” I also agree with this statement, probably because I am a woman who knows that most women fall in love because of their emotional attachment. They conclude that flirting is cheating and should not be a part of the marriage. In the marriage vows a promise is made that neither party will look to no other person for carnal love.

Flirting will always be a sticky problem within the confines of a marriage, therefore, it should be solved by the couple. In the Weiner debacle I understand why as of this date his wife has decided to “stand by her man.” She loves her husband. In addition, it has been reported that she had been made aware of his reckless tendencies before they were married, so she was not totally blindsided by this revelation. He was caught and now they need to talk and move on. Flirting is not an American problem; it is a couple problem. The lesson learned here is to be diligent in watching what is texted and put online. It may come back with serious repercussions.

Entertainment Sean Kingston Doing Better

No Appeal for Snipes

Wesley Snipes, Actor Sean Kingston, Singer and Rapper

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ean Kingston walks just days after a watercraft accident that left him with a broken jaw, a fractured wrist and water in his lungs. The singer was brought to Miami’s Jackson Memorial Hospital in critical condition on May 29. The watercraft in which Cassandra Sanchez and Kingston were riding crashed into a Miami bridge. Impact was so forceful that Kingston’s life vest came off causing him to sink below water. Lucky for him nearby boaters came to his rescue to keep his head above water. Doctors expect Kingston will need six weeks to recover.

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ctor Wesley Snipes will remain in prison for failing to file taxes during the years of 1999, 2000, and 2001. Sources report that the Supreme Court will not hear his appeal of his federal conviction. Snipes has been in the McKean Federal Correctional Institution in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, since last December serving a three-year term. A juror convicted Snipes in February 2010 on misdemeanor charges but was acquitted of the more serious charges since jurors believe that he was ill advised by financial professionals.

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First African American Digital Story Book Now Available in the AppStore

Clarice Taylor Dies

A Song for Miles, First African American Digital Story Book

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Song for Miles by Dr. Tiffany S. Russell takes children on a colorful and interactive musical journey. Through the lyrics of soul songs by artists like Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind, and Fire and Marvin Gaye, children learn the meaning of determination, kindness, and love. The digital book nurtures children’s inquisitive nature and love of music and sounds, all while teaching valuable lessons and the importance of having good character. A Song for Miles is available for sale online on the Apple AppStore on June 1st, 2011 for download on the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch to honor the start of Black Music Month. A Song for Miles can be found by searching for “Song for Miles” in the AppStore or by visiting www.asongformiles.com.

June 9 - June 15, 2011

Clarice Taylor, Actress who played Anna Huxtable on the Cosby Show

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larice Taylor has died at the age of 93. Best known as Anna Huxtable -great grandmother to Nelson, Winnie, and Olivia; grandmother to Sondra, Denise, Theo, Vanessa, and Rudy; and mother to Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable - a reoccurring character on Bill Cosby’s iconic television show, The Cosby Show, Taylor played the loveable role from 1985-1992.

She died at New Jersey home of congestive heart failure. The Emmy nominated actress performed on radio, television, in film, and on stage. Two sons and four grandchildren survive Taylor.

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travel

Soldiers’ $2,800 in Bag Fees Spark Outrage, Policy Changes

By A. Pawlowski, CNN Special to Style Magazine

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tung by online comments calling it “disgusting” and “un-American,” Delta Air Lines on Wednesday announced it will allow U.S. military personnel traveling on orders to check more bags for free.

The policy change, which is effective immediately, came a day after U.S. Army soldiers returning from Afghanistan complained that they were charged almost $3,000 in bag fees by the carrier.

“We regret that this experience caused these soldiers to feel anything but welcome on their return home,” wrote Rachael Rensink, manager of Delta Social Media, in an updated post on the carrier’s blog.

The Delta incident sparked outrage online after the servicemen spoke out about their experience in a video posted on YouTube.

In the clip -- which the men say was recorded on board a Delta flight from Baltimore to Atlanta on Tuesday, a day after

health

they returned from Afghanistan -- the soldiers explain they had “a little issue with the bags.”

CNN affiliate WXIA in Atlanta identified the soldiers as U.S. Army Staff Sgts. Fred Hilliker and Robert O’Hair.

The men, who were bound for Fort Polk, Louisiana, said their military travel orders allowed them to carry up to four bags, but when they arrived at the airport in Baltimore, Delta told them it allows military personnel to check only three bags for free.

Members of the unit who were traveling with four bags ended up paying out of pocket for their extra luggage, the soldiers said in the video. They were charged $200 per extra bag, so the 34-member unit ended up paying more than $2,800 in bag fees, the soldiers added.

Any extra bag fees charged by an airline will be reimbursed by the government, a military spokeswoman told CNN affiliate WGCL in Atlanta.

One of the soldiers in the video said the bag he had to pay for was a weapons case that contained “the tools that I used to

protect myself and Afghan citizens while I was deployed in the country.”

The other man then looked into the camera, exasperated.

“Good business model, Delta,” he said sarcastically. “Not happy, not happy at all,” he added, shaking his head.

The airline apologized for “any miscommunication” about its bag allowances, but reiterated that its policy for U.S. military personnel allowed them to check up to four bags in First/Business class and three bags in coach for free.

Other airlines, such as United, American, Continental and US Airways, have had or continue to have similar rules.

On Wednesday, Delta changed its policy and said U.S. military personnel traveling on orders would now be allowed to check up to four bags for free in coach and up to five bags at no charge in First and Business Class.

In wake of the Delta incident, United/Continental announced Wednesday it was also allowing more bags.

“United and Continental are waiving the fourth checked bag fee for

military personnel traveling on orders in recognition of their sacrifice and service to our country,” Christen David, a spokeswoman for United/Continental Airlines, said in an e-mail.

The two airlines closed a merger deal in October.

Delta said it deeply respects and admires men and women in uniform and added that it has worked hard to ensure that U.S. military personnel get “additional flexibility” when they travel on the carrier.

The carrier said it’s “continuing to work with the soldiers individually to make this situation right for each of them.”

The soldiers may have been misinformed about how many bags traveling active duty military personnel can check for free, Stars and Stripes reported.

Drug That Treats Breast Cancer Found to Prevent it Too

By Miriam Falco, CNN Special to Style Magazine

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octors and patients have a new tool to prevent breast cancer: A drug that is already approved for the treatment of the disease.

Women who are at high risk for breast cancer that is fueled by fueled by the hormone estrogen could reduce their risk of getting cancer by taking the hormone-blocking drug Aromasin, according to a study presented at a conference in Chicago on Saturday.

“We proved that exemestane (Aromasin) reduced the risk of invasive breast cancer by 65%,” said lead author Dr. Paul Goss, who is a breast cancer specialist at Boston’s Massachusetts General Hospital. Goss presented his research at the annual conference of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The study has also been published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Aromasin is one of three drugs in the class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, which block the production of estrogen in postmenopausal women.

Two other estrogen-blocking drugs exist, but few women use them to prevent breast cancer because there are rare but serious possible side effects, such as an increased risk of uterine can-

PG 14

cer and blood clots.

Previous studies showed that cancer drug tamoxifen reduced the risk of getting breast cancer in older women by 50% and osteoporosis drug raloxifene reduced the risk by 38% after five years of taking the drugs.

Exemestane, better known under the brand name Aromasin. was found to have fewer side effects than tamoxifen, according to Goss. His study enrolled 4,560 healthy postmenopausal women at high risk for breast cancer in a placebocontrolled, double-blinded clinical trial.

The 65% risk reduction was found after women had been taking the drugs for only three years. The study continues.

“This is the first study to show that a new class of drugs, aromatase inhibitors, have the ability to prevent breast cancer in high-risk women,” said Dr. Jennifer Litton, who is a breast cancer specialist at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and is not connected to this research.

Litton says she prescribes tamoxifen a lot in her practice and believes it’s a very good and very affordable drug. But when she tells women about the possible side effects like uterine cancer, “it definitely scares women away, even though the incidence of these side effects is really rare.” She hopes

June 9 - June 15, 2011

more women in the high-risk category will now be open to taking a cancer-preventing drug like Aromasin.

Dr. Jose Baselga is the associate director of Massachusetts General’s Cancer Center, but did not participate in the research. He says the study is very good but cautions that the side effects of Aromasin should not be ignored.

“Aromatase inhibitors do have side effects and they are significant,” Baselga said. Women can have hot flashes, get arthritis and suffer bone loss from taking the drugs, which can have a big impact on a woman’s quality of life, especially for someone who doesn’t actually have cancer, he said. He also pointed out that 94 women were treated with this drug and did not benefit before one woman was prevented from getting breast cancer.

So when it comes to prescribing Aromasin, “I would limit it to patients who have very high risks” for getting breast cancer, Baselga said.

According to the study, women taking Aromasin had no serious toxic effects and only “minimal changes in health-related quality of life.”

Women are considered to be at high risk for breast cancer if they are older than 60, postmenopausal and/or have had abnormal breast biopsies in which

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Preventing Breast Cancer

there are some lesions.

All the experts agree that women need to talk to their doctor to fully understand the risks and benefits of taking these drugs to prevent getting breast cancer.

Pfizer, the maker of Aromasin, announced in May that the U.S. patent for this drug had expired, making it eligible for generic drug manufacturers to produce and sell it.

Goss expects the price of this drug to decline quickly because of this.

However, he says Pfizer would not reveal to him if they plan to ask for an extension of their patent based on this research. A spokesperson for the company, which funded some of this research, would not comment on this topic either.

Health

Not All Wounds Can Be Seen

Military Families Share Wounds as Service Members Transition to Life Back Home

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Family and friends anxiously await for troops to arrive

t’s common for service members and their families to experience stress as a result of deployment and other life transitions. Service members and their families are not alone. Resources like the Real Warriors Campaign exist to support families’ overall well-being.

The campaign, sponsored by the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE), is a public education initiative designed to encourage help-seeking behavior for service members, veterans, and military families coping with invisible wounds. The tools and resources available through the campaign promote the processes of building resilience, facilitating recovery and supporting reintegration for returning service members, veterans and their families.

The website (www.realwarriors. net) offers articles and practical tips for spouses and families of service members aimed to cover all aspects of military life and the deployment cycle, including articles about how to adjust to changes preparing for homecomings and how to help children cope with deployments and reunions.

Additional resources through campaign partners offer services and support for families of service members for coping with deployment, locating support and obtaining military benefits. They include: • Sesame Workshop’s Talk, Listen, Connect initiative uses the friendly and familiar Muppet characters to provide resources for military families with young children coping with issues related to deployments, changes from combat-related injuries and the death of a parent. On www.SesameStreetFamilyConnections.org you can find extensive video and print resources on these topics, or use child-friendly tools to create a family network and stay connected.

• Blue Star Families (www.bluestarfam.org) provides online and physical chapter-based communities to bridge families with support and service organizations that help make military life more sustainable.

• The National Military Family Association

(www.militaryfamily.org) educates military families concerning their rights, benefits and services available to them and to inform them regarding the issues that affect their lives.

NMFA provides resources and programs to educate the public, the military community and Congress on the rights and benefits of military families and to advocate an equitable quality of life for those families. NMFA sponsors Operation Purple Camps for chil-

A family happily reunites

dren of deployed service members in many U.S. military communities around the world.

• FOCUS (www.focusproject.org) helps military families meet the challenges of deployment and reintegration by offering resiliency training and teaching practical skills.

Through state-of-the-art family resiliency services, the organization’s programs guide families on how to effectively communicate and solve problems, set goals together and create a shared family story.

Families looking for additional support can reach out to trained health consultants at the DCoE Outreach Center through the live chat feature at www.realwarriors.net or by calling 866-966-1020 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

All families of service members should know that they should feel comfortable reaching out to service members’ units and other military and national organizations for support. Reaching out is a sign of strength that benefits your family and your service member.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 15

Terri Schichenmeyer

“If Sons, Then Heirs” by Lorene Cary

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ou never got Grandma’s recipe book.

You didn’t get Grandpa’s favorite pocketknife, either, and that little knick-knack you loved - a china reminder of childhood – went to a cousin who cherished it, too.

But that’s okay. While you never inherited tangible things from your grandparents – no favored bowl or lucky coin – they left you better legacies: strength, knowledge, and a sense of who you are.

For fifty years, Selma Needham kept a farm for her great-grandson, Rayne. She knew he would care for it, just as his great-grandad had.

But in the new novel “If Sons, Then Heirs” by

PG 16

Lorene Cary, the passing-down may never come to pass.

Jewell Thompson was sorry for a lot of things in her life. Most of all, she was sorry that, all those years ago, she’d put her 7-year-old son on a train by himself and sent him to North Carolina for her folks to raise.

Jewell was a bad mother then. She wished she could make it up to her boy, now a man.

Alonzo Freeman Rayne never had a bad childhood, though he always wondered why his mother sent him to the farm. When he looked back, though, he had a pretty good bringing-up. Grandpa Bobo gave him discipline. Uncle Jones gave him understanding and guidance. And his great-grandma Selma gave him the love he never got from his mother.

No, Rayne couldn’t complain about how he was raised. The responsibility he learned, and the work ethic he got, led him to college in Philadelphia and owning his own business. It led him to a good woman, Lillie, and her son, Khalil.

Oh, how Rayne loved that boy. And since the feeling was mutual and Rayne was heading south to visit Nana Selma anyhow, he asked Lillie if Khalil could go along. It might do the child

June 9 - June 15, 2011

good to spend time with the old woman who raised Rayne.

But things in North Carolina weren’t as Rayne remembered. There was much work to be done, and Selma’s health wasn’t what it was.

Though it was his great-granddaddy’s beloved land, Rayne hoped to sell it so that Selma could live comfortably somewhere else, somewhere safe.

She’d been “holding” the farm for fifty years. But the farm may never have been hers to hold…

“If Sons, Then Heirs” is like a lingering, warm summer day just before a storm arrives: you’ll want to savor every minute of it, even though you know it won’t last long and it won’t always be pleasant.

Author Lorene Cary weaves a story of several generations of family held together by love and a determination to remember where they came from, and she does it by moving easily from era to era, bygone times to the present and back. That allows you to completely immerse yourself into this engrossing novel, its characters, and their lives.

This is not a book to read casually. You’ll want to pay attention to the details, because they are what makes “If Sons, Then Heirs” a recipe for a great summer read.

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“If Sons, Then Heirs” by Lorene Cary c.2011, Atria $24.00 / $27.99 Canada 306 pages Terri Schlichenmeyer can be reached at: The Bookworm Sez, LLC N5593 County Road C West Salem, Wisconsin, 54669 bookwormsez@yahoo.com

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 17

Education

The Argument Against Double Standards in Education

By Benjamin Todd Jealous Special to Style Magazine

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ew York City has become the latest battleground in the national fight for education equality.

In some schools, hallways serve as a stark dividing line. Classrooms with peeling paint and insufficient resources sit on one side, while new computers, smartboards and up-to-date textbooks line the other. One group of students is taught in hallways and cramped basements, while others under the same roof make use of fully functional classrooms.

New York City has increasingly resorted to co-locating charter schools inside existing public school buildings as way to cut costs. When handled improperly, co-location can lead to visible disparities, division and tension among students. In many instances, traditional students are forced into shorter playground periods than their charter school counterparts, or served lunch at 10 am so that charter students can eat at noon. The inequity is glaring, and it is certainly not lost on the students themselves.

Throughout our history, the NAACP has fought for equal educational opportunities

Culinary

for all Americans. When we saw inequality in school districts from Los Angeles, California to Topeka, Kansas, we never hesitated to fight for what was right. Today, the fight continues in the nation’s largest school district.

The struggle of black parents to create a better life for their children is one we cherish.

We know that a good education is one of the most effective pathways out of poverty. There is no greater anguish for a parent than to live in a community where there are often little to no choices of a quality school. As a father, I personally know the yearning to give my daughter the best education possible. This is what makes us responsible, loving parents.

Our commitment is to continue the historic fight for a quality education for all, but even as we wage that important effort, we support parents who are able to find a good education for their child – whether at a traditional or charter public school.

Last month, after a year of attempts to negotiate with the New York City Department of Education to correct these inequalities after they lost to us in court, the NAACP was forced to go to court again to compel them to comply with state law.

Our return to court has triggered a smear campaign against the NAACP. In recent days we have faced a coordinated media attack designed to distort the conversation and inaccurately cast us as opponents of charter schools, which we are not. Unable to dispute the facts of the case, they’ve chosen to cast aspersions on the NAACP, to question our motivations, and to sling mud at our legacy.

This is a tactic meant to silence the NAACP, but we will not be silenced.

The NAACP will always work for the day when all students can access high-quality public education. We will not tolerate the neglect of the hundreds of

thousands of families depending on traditional public schools, nor will we stand by as public schools are illegally closed, communities are ignored in defiance of the law and student success is left to chance. And we will never be silenced by attacks on our reputation.

As the largest public school system in the United States, New York City is often viewed as a trend-setter on issues of education. Co-location schemes are being considered in other states and counties nationwide, from Florida to Texas. The city is acting irresponsibly by allowing blatant inequality and lax enforcement of the law.

We are determined to stand against this bad precedent before it spreads to other school systems.

The NAACP has always believed that educating children in a separate and unequal system that provides a quality education to the lucky few at the expense of the many is the wrong kind of education. We will continue to fight, as we always have, for equal opportunity for all.

Benjamin Todd Jealous is President and CEO of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Simple Meets Special for Summertime Brunch

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athering with friends and family for brunch is a fun and budgetfriendly entertaining alternative.

To transform a brunch celebration from average to outstanding, follow some simple tips from Hollywood chef and caterer Paul McCullough.

“Brunches are the entertaining solution for any occasion. They’re great for baby showers, birthdays, family reunions, weddings, or just gathering for fun. There’s something revitalizing about friends and family coming together in the late morning, enjoying great food, coffee and conversation,” says McCullough.

To get started, plan the menu around one of McCullough’s simple, yet crowd-pleasing recipes:

Coffee Granita: Brew two cups of double strength coffee. Pour into a bowl and stir in a quarter cup of sugar until dissolved. Cool to room temperature. Mix in one-half cup half and half.

Place in an 8-inch square dish and freeze two to two and a half hours. After the first hour, use a fork to scrape up the coffee crystals; scrape again at the second hour mark. Keep in the freezer until ready to serve. For an upscale presentation, serve in a martini glass and top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate.

McCullough recommends using Starbucks Natural Fusions Vanilla flavored coffee for this refreshing treat because unlike other flavored coffees, it’s made with natural flavors and real ingre-

PG 18

dients — like vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg — blended right in with the coffee.

Super Hero Scramble: Mix one pound sautéed spinach, one pound browned and crumbled turkey sausage, and one-half cup julienned sundried tomatoes, then set aside. Scramble eggs until almost done but still soft. Fold the spinach mixture through; then sprinkle with eight ounces of seasoned feta.

“A brunch should incorporate elements of breakfast and lunch with harmony. Contrast sweets like blueberry muffins and coffee-glazed scones with savory elements, like smoked salmon with capers and onions. Or try a scramble with new flavor combinations like chicken and asparagus or crab and avocado with a dollop of sour cream and chives,” McCullough suggests.

Once you’ve decided on the menu, set the stage for a special morning with these fresh presentation ideas:

sentation nicely.

• Create centerpiece arrangements using colorful veggies like Swiss chard, kale, parsley and bok choy. These beautiful and unique displays will cost less money than flowers, and can be incorporated into a meal in the near future.

• An omelet bar requires a fair amount of prep work for all the toppings, but it’s a real favorite for guests and a sure way to satisfy picky eaters. Just remember to keep the guest list small or enlist a co-chef to handle all the enthusiastic orders.

Owner of Paul’s Kitchen catering business, McCullough specializes in classic American cuisine and is known for his simple and down-to-earth approach to cooking, resulting in upscale food that’s not uptight.

For more about Starbucks Natural Fusions flavored coffee, visit www. starbucks.com.

• Liven up bread baskets by lining them with fresh rosemary for added color and aroma.

• A cheese board makes for an attractive and functional display. Create the perfect mix of flavors with this twist on a familiar adage: Something old, something new, something smoked, something blue (e.g., aged cheddar, fresh bocconcini mozzarella, smoked Gouda and blue cheese). Water crackers and sliced baguettes will round out the pre-

June 9 - June 15, 2011

Use Starbucks Natural Fusions Flavored Coffee for Your Culinary Creations

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Auto

Changing the Script with the Lexus CT 200h

By Jo-Carolyn Goode Editor-at-Large

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want a new car, but I don’t have enough money to buy one. I don’t have enough money to buy one because I haven’t saved enough money. I haven’t saved enough money because I have not

mode. How cool is that? Drive in the eco mode for low emissions and when good fuel economy is desired. Emissions are at their lowest in this mode because CO2, NOx, and particular emission production is

Summer Jazz Workshop

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Photography By Vicky Pink

n June 6 – July 9, 2011, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at the Houston Central Public Library that hosted the 40 Seasons of Jazz photo exhibit. The free photo exhibit is displayed in celebration of the Jazz Education Inc.’s Summer Jazz Workshop 40th anniversary. Photos from the workshop beginning in 1972 to today are depicted. The Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation are presenting the exhibit. A reception hosted by Dr. Jonita and Representative Ron Reynolds kicked off the affair. Today the workshop started by Bubbha Thomas is known as the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Summer Jazz Workshop, an intensive five-week instructional program for middle school, high school, and college students. Some in attendance were Danielle Burns, Helen George, Donna Franklin, Joseph Carmouche, Horace Young, Thomas Melanson, and George Thomas.

Side view of the Lexus CT200h

made enough sacrifices. Well, my friends, I have good news for you. Lexus is flipping that familiar merry-go-round script with the presentation of the 2011 Lexus CT 200h premium. It exceeds the consumer’s expectation of style, size, and luxury. More importantly, the Lexus 200h premium is eco-friendly and the price of this super vehicle is comparatively low.

Taking a look inside the Lexus CT200h

It is just plain impossible for any Lexus vehicle to not be stylish. The name Lexus exudes style. Al- zero. If there is a need for speed slip into though the 2011 Lexus CT 200h premium the sports mode. The engine revues up, the is eye-catching my first look at the car left steering is sharp, and the throttle responsive me scratching my head. It had an elegant is heightened. The car really comes alive and distinctive look for which Lexus is even when driven in the normal mode. known. The 2011 Lexus CT 200h premium The Lexus CT 200h is powered by has such superiority in style that heads turn a 1.8 liter VVT-i petrol engine. Also under when it passes by. Basically, the shape of the hood are an electric motor, a generator, the body is rectangular but what makes it a high performance battery, a power condifferent is its attitude. First of all, the front trol unit, and a power split device that helps end has that I’m-no-pushover look. Sharp with the coordination of the operational reangles and a low frame highlight its sporty quirements. EPA estimates are 43mpg city, appeal, which makes it more noticeable on 40 mpg highway, and 134 horsepower. The the road maximum speed the vehicle can achieve

This baby is so much fun to drive is 112mph and it can go from 0 to 60 in that it should be kept on the road all of the 9.7 seconds. It is important to note that the time, Now, how about this – the 2011 Lex- Lexus does not park like the average car us CT 200h premium is the first full hybrid but parks at the push a button. This is just in the Lexus line that has the ability to op- another added touch to the uniqueness of erate in eco mode, sports mode, or normal the Lexus CT 200h premium.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 19

National Apple Unveils ‘iCloud’ Storage, New Operating Systems

By John D. Sutter and Mark Milian, CNN Special to Style Magazine

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pple’s Steve Jobs announced a new service called “iCloud,” which lets Apple product owners store documents and music on the internet instead of on their own computer hard drives or mobile phones. iCloud expands on the trend of cloud computing, which refers to t h e idea that computer users are storing more of their information “in the cloud” of the Internet rather than on their own storage drives. All of a person’s Apple devices -- iPhone, iPads and Mac computers -- sync wirelessly with Apple’s iCloud, giving users access to their documents, photos, apps, calendars and e-mails from any location, not just on a specific gadget.

Official Notification of African American Farmers About $1.25 Billion Class Action Settlement Begins

articles about the Settlement.

Class members eligible for the Settlement are African Americans who farmed (or attempted to farm) between January 1, 1981 and December 31, 1996; were prevented from applying for or were denied a USDA farm loan during that period or were given a loan with unfair terms; and who filed or attempted to file a late claim between October 13, 1999 and June 18, 2008 in the original Pigford case that was never considered because they tried to submit it after the late claim deadline.

Heirs or kin of people who fit this description but have since passed away may also be class members.

Class members’ rights may be affected by the Settlement even if they do not act. Those who wish to object to the Settlement must do so by August 12, 2011. The deadline for filing claims under this Settlement may be as early as February 28, 2012.

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia will consider whether to grant final approval of the Settlement at a hearing in Washington D.C. on September 1, 2011 at 9:30 a.m.

Airline Industry Profits to Plunge in 2011

By Aaron Smith, Staff Writer

Local Exxon Mobil Finding of 700 Million Barrels of Oil Will Create Hundreds of New Jobs

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ongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, ranking member of the House Homeland Security Transportation Security Subcommittee, acknowledged the new oil and gas discovery of 700 million barrels in the Gulf of Mexico. This finding will generate hundreds of jobs for Americans living along the Gulf Coast.

Congresswoman Jackson Lee is a strong supporter of new procedures for deep water drilling that will provide safer and more secure drilling. Additionally, Congresswoman Jackson Lee authored the REMEDIES Act, which included provisions on oil spill cleanup responses, and she has worked hard to ensure that Gulf Coast residents affected by the BP oil spill are fully compensated. Congresswoman Jackson Lee issued the following statement on the new oil and gas discovery in the Gulf of Mexico.

“America needs jobs. The econ-

Special to Style Magazine

T

he Court-ordered process of officially notifying African American farmers and their heirs about the $1.25 billion “Pigford II” class action settlement, In re Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation, is underway.

Class members should visit www.

BlackFarmerCase.com or call 1-877-8108110 for complete information, including the detailed notice, key dates, and claimsfiling information. Media are requested to include the toll-free number and website in

Get in Style...

PG 20

June 9 - June 15, 2011

Houston Engineering Firm Takes Home “Golden Bucket” in One of World’s Largest Amateur Sandcastle Competitions

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Houston engineering firm proved you can “Have Your Sandcastle and Eat it Too” Saturday in Galveston

when they took home the first place prize in one of the world’s largest amateur sandcastle competitions. The phrase was the title of their “Golden Bucket” award-winning sandcastle design at the 25th annual AIA SandCastle Competition held on Galveston’s East Beach. The event, hosted by the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, included more than 60 teams who had only five hours to build their sandcastles. The winning design featured an elaborate sandcastle guarded by a dragoneating dragon.

Greater Houston Partnership Hails ExxonMobil’s Commitment to Region

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his year is going to be a tough one for the airline industry, based on a dismal profit forecast from the International Air Transport Association. The group said that it expects profits to plummet 78% to $4 billion this year, compared to last year’s net profit of $18 billion. This makes for a measly margin of 0.7% in 2011. The industry group downgraded this year’s preSee what’s hot on vious profit forecast of $8.6 billion, which it issued back StyleMagazine.com in March, following a series of disruptions to global airlines. Rising fuel prices Now exclusive were blamed as a major culprit in cutting profitability, partners with compounded with regional sources of turmoil including earthquakes, a tsunami, nuclear power meltdowns and political strife.

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reater Houston Partnership leadership expressed enthusiasm over ExxonMobil’s renewed commitment to the Houston region by way of a new north Houston facility announced by the company. “We

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee

omy is improving, but more work needs to be done. President Obama has outlined and orchestrated a strategy to improve America’s economy and increase job creation. Now in the Gulf, we can add hundreds of jobs to that strategy with this important discovery.”

Congresswoman Jackson Lee has been a strong advocate for the environment and expressed great consternation for the BP oil spill. Since that time she has fought for environmentally safe procedures to ensure smart and responsible oil and gas drilling. Further, Congresswoman Jackson Lee

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are very excited over this announcement and we firmly believe that this decision cements the Houston region as the home of ExxonMobil,” said Craig Richard, GHP’s Chief Economic Development Officer. “It speaks volumes to the fact that Houston is the Energy Capital of the World, that the largest energy company in the world will be making the capital investment and creating hundreds of construction jobs necessary for this project.” The company is continuing to study whether any other office functions from other cities will eventually relocate to the new north Houston campus.

Classifieds Advertise with Houston Style Magazine call 713-748-6300 and place an ad TODAY!

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Available Space Place Your Ad Here TODAY! 713-748-6300 HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE TO PROPOSERS The Houston Independent School District located in the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center at 4400 West 18th Street Houston, Texas 77092 will accept proposals, until the stated date and time deadlines, in the Board Services Office, Level C1 ‘ • Project 11-06-06 – RPF – Contract Printing and Bindery Services – with a deadline of 2 P.M. July 6, 2011. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 2W26 at the above stated address on June 20, 2011 at 10 A.M. • Project 11-06-05 – RFP Annual Building Envelope Maintenance Repair Services – with a deadline of 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 12, 2011. The pre-proposal conference for this project will be in Room 3C10 at the above stated address on Tuesday, June 21, 2011, at 10:00 A.M. Proposals are available on the HISD web-site at www.houstonisd.org.

The District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or, to accept the proposal that is most advantageous to the District.

The District sells obsolete assets on-line at www.PublicSuprlus.com.

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

PG 21

Classifieds Advertise with Houston Style Magazine call 713-748-6300 and place an ad TODAY!

Advertise with Houston Style Magazine call 713-748-6300 and place an ad TODAY! Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds.

Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer “employment” but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it’s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

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PG 22

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

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June 9 - June 15, 2011

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