Houston Style Magazine vol 28 No 12

Houston Style Magazine March 16, 2017 - March 22, 2017

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication

Volume 28 | Number 12

Complimentary

Jesse Jackson

Trump Administration’s Lies Are Starting to Hurt

Cory Solomon: Hometown Favorite Shines at RodeoHouston

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor / Photo Mike Copeland

Follow ollow Us #TeamStyleMag

Twitter @HoustonStyle

Instagram @StyleMagazine

Sheila Jackson Lee Health Forum

Facebook: Houston Style Magazine

Armando Mendez

Longtime Houston Taco Truck Owner Faces Deportation

Imani Hakim

Burning Sands Has a Familiar Face In a Surprising New Role

Vicky Pink’s Thank You Birthday Bash RodeoHouston 2017

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

USE YOUR MACY’S MONEY IN STORE & ONLINE 3/28-4/2/17, EVEN ON TOP OF COUPONS! HOW IT WORKS: For any single transaction of $50 or more you make from in store & online 3/22-3/27/2017, we’ll give you a $10 (spend $50-74.99), $15 (spend $75-99.99), $20 (spend $100-149.99), $30 (spend $150199.99) or $40 (spend $200 or more) Macy’s Money Reward Card at the register. EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING PURCHASES: Apple Products, tech watches/jewelry/ accessories, gift cards, services & fees, sales tax, macybed, all phone & live chat orders, lease depts, restaurants, international orders, online backorders, e-gifting orders. USE YOUR MACY’S MONEY REWARD CARD from 3/28-4/2/2017.

May not be: redeemed for cash, used to purchase Macy’s gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your credit card account. If a purchase used to accumulate Macy’s Money is returned, your return may result in a reduction of the value of your Macy’s Money Reward Card and/or a reduction of your total refund amount. The remaining balance of your Macy’s Money Reward Card will reflect the Macy’s Money amount you qualify for after deducting the returned item(s) from your original purchase amount. For more information, go to macys.com/macysmoney

get 10 $

MACY’S MONEY FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND THROUGH MON, MARCH 27!

GET UP TO $40 MACY’S MONEY.

3O-75% OFF STOREWIDE

MACY S MONEY NOW-SUN, MARCH 26

EXTRA

20% OFF

WITH YOUR MACY’S CARD OR PASS

SELECT SALE CLOTHING, JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES EXTRA 15% OFF SELECT SALE WATCHES, SHOES, COATS, SUITS, DRESSES, LINGERIE, SWIM FOR HER, MEN’S SUIT SEPARATES & SPORT COATS & HOME ITEMS MACYS.COM PROMO CODE: MONEY Exclusions may differ on macys.com EXCLUDES ALL: Deals of the Day, Doorbusters/web busters, Everyday Values (EDV), Last Act, M by Macy’s Marketplace, Macy’s Backstage, shoes for her, specials, Super Buys, athletic clothing/shoes/accessories, cosmetics/fragrances, designer jewelry/watches, designer sportswear, electrics/electronics, furniture/mattresses, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, maternity, select licensed depts., previous purchases, rugs, services, smart watches/jewelry, special orders, special purchases, select tech accessories, 3Doodler, Apple products, Barbour, Ben Sherman, Brahmin, Breville, Brooks Brothers Red Fleece, COACH, Dyson, Eileen Fisher SYSTEM, Fitbit, Frye, Hanky Panky, Jack Spade, Kate Spade, KitchenAid Pro Line, Le Creuset, Levi’s, littleBits, Locker Room by Lids, Marc Jacobs, select Michael Kors/Michael Michael Kors, Michele watches, Movado Bold, Natori, Original Penguin, Rudsak, Sam Edelman, Samsung watches, Shun, Stuart Weitzman, Tempur-Pedic mattresses, The North Face, Theory, Tory Burch, Tumi, UGG, Vans, Vitamix, Wacoal, Wolford & Wüsthof; PLUS, ONLINE ONLY: baby gear, kids’ shoes, toys, Allen Edmonds, Birkenstock, Hurley, Johnston & Murphy, Merrell, RVCA & Tommy Bahama. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. Extra savings % applied to reduced prices.

VALID 3/22-3/26/2017

MACY’S MONEY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 3/22-3/26/2017, EXCEPT AS NOTED.

22

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

FREE SHIPPING ONLINE & FREE RETURNS

FREE SHIPPING WITH $99 PURCHASE. EXCLUSIONS APPLY; SEE MACYS.COM/FREERETURNS

DON’T MISS OUR LOWEST PRICES OF THE SEASON ON FURNITURE & MATTRESSES!

Volume 29 | Number 12 | March 16, 2017 - March 22, 2017

06

Sunnyside Residents

Publisher Francis Page, Jr.

09

Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode Creative Director Will Pharaoh

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org Roland Martin www.rolandmartin.com

Netflix’s Iron Fist

Judge Greg Mathis www.askjudgemathis.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS VICKY PINK vhpink@gmail.com

15

ROSWITHA VOGLER photosbyrovo@gmail.com William Ealy Williamealy1906@gmail.com Semetra Samuel semetra@artistikrebelcreative.com Mike Munoz artrepreneur91@gmail.com Robert Franklin editorial@stylemagazine.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

advertising@stylemagazine.com 713-748-6300

Captain “Iron Bill” Dowling

Minority Print Media, L.L.C.

dba Houston Style Magazine & StyleMagazine.com Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035

©2015 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 2007 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 Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)

mwww.StyleMagazine.com owww.stylemagazine.com c.enizagaMelytS.www

4Mar. 102 ,Dec 616 2 yr29 -rbJan eF-22, 4, 022017 y2017 raurbeF -auMar.

B egaP33

COMMENTARY

The Trump Administration’s Lies Are Starting to Hurt

By Jesse Jackson, National Writer

F

or many of his supporters, Donald Trump’s casual relationship with the truth was at first amusing, part of his brash, anti-establishment appeal. He says what he thinks, went the argument, and if it isn’t true, so be it. His voters, we were told, have learned to take him seriously but not literally.

Now, however, the lies are beginning to hurt. The president’s use of what White House adviser Kellyanne Conway calls “alternative facts” -- aka falsehoods -- has been mimicked across his administration and by Republicans in Congress. Now House Speaker Paul Ryan, Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney and Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price have joined the president and others in a fusillade of lies to sell the Republican replacement for the Affordable Care Act. The president promised that the Republican plan would cover “everybody,” that it would offer better and cheaper care than that available under the ACA. Price pledged that “nobody will be worse off financially” under the Republican act. Mulvaney promised that “Medicaid is still there,” and the bill “actually helps a great many people.” Vice President Mike Pence told a crowd in Louisville that the ACA was a “nightmare” that had “failed the people of Kentucky,” a state in which the percentage of people without insurance was cut in more than half by the law. House Speaker Paul Ryan’s lies are too numerous to detail.

The facts are inescapable. The Republican bill offers people less help to purchase health insurance, particularly older workers. Millions will lose coverage or pay more for less. The expansion of Medicaid to lower-wage workers covered 10 million people under the ACA. The Republican bill savages Medicaid -- after two years so voters might not notice in 2018 -- and millions of the working poor will lose coverage. It does this not to reduce complexity, or regulation, or administrative nightmares, but to pay for a repeal of the taxes on the rich built into the ACA. Congressional analyses show, as The New York Times’ Jesse Drucker reports, Trumpcare’s two biggest tax cuts will lard $144 billion into the pockets of those

POLITICAL

with incomes over $1 million or more over the next decade. To pay for that, the working poor and older workers take the hit.

And that isn’t all. Rural areas will be hit hard from the cuts in Medicaid and decline of subsidies for poorer workers. Older blue-collar workers who don’t get insurance from their employers will be hurt the most. States will suffer a devastating budget cut that will force cuts in education, in roads, bridges and other services. Jobs cuts will follow in large numbers.

These are not facts that the administration likes, so it lies and then attacks the messengers.

This weekend, administration spokespeople fanned out to discredit the Congressional Budget Office’s official assessment before it was released. House Speaker Ryan forced passage of the act through two committees before CBO could complete its assessment so the anticipated bad news would not influence legislators. OMB Director Mulvaney -- who knows better -- dismissed the CBO estimate as not “the best use of their time.” If CBO isn’t going to deliver good news, it shouldn’t say anything at all.

The president’s bizarre denial of reality -- about the election results, about the size of his inaugural crowd, about getting wiretapped -- initially were treated as the amusing signature of an entertainer. But now the lies hurt. If the Republican health care bill becomes law, millions will end up worse off. Will a handful of Republican senators have more respect for the truth than the White House? That may be the only thing that will keep Republicans from depriving millions of health insurance and costing jobs, while ladling tax breaks to the very wealthy.

You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson in care of this newspaper or by email at jjackson@ rainbowpush.org. Follow him on Twitter @RevJJackson.

Share this story online at www.stylemagazine.com.

Michelle Obama’s Healthy School Lunch Program in Jeopardy?

By Betsy Klein [CNN/ Style Magazine Newswire]

O

ne of Michelle Obama’s signature accomplishments as first lady may be in jeopardy under the Trump administration. A key lobbying group, the School Nutrition Association, released recommendations earlier this month to scale back federal nutrition standards she championed and were set under the Obama administration. The group is a national nonprofit professional organization representing over 57,000 members in the school food service industry, per its website.The organization called for “practical flexibility under federal nutrition standards to prepare healthy, appealing meals,” specifically recommending that the US Department of Agriculture allow saltier foods that would have otherwise been allowed and cutting current whole grain requirements in half. The effects would mean tastier, less healthy school lunches -- more salt, less quinoa.The School Nutrition Association’s recommendations would roll back key provisions of the “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act,” legislation spearheaded by Obama, and her “Let’s Move!” campaign.

The 2010 law, implemented in cafeterias across the country at the beginning of the 2012-13 school year, was aimed at improving nutrition and reducing child obesity and authorizing funding for federal lunch programs. It called for more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk products and less sodium and fat. It also awards additional funding to schools that meet the standards -- to the tune of six cents per healthy lunch. “The talented people who cook the food at your school will be offering you all kinds of healthy, delicious new choices. Foods that are good for you and taste good, too,” then-first lady Michelle Obama said in a “back-to-school” message at the time. “It’s about ensuring that all of you have everything you need to learn and grow and succeed in school and in life.”

An Obama spokesperson declined to comment.Some research has shown the Obama-era law has improved nutrition. Researchers in 2016 study of a Washington state school district found that the program resulted in increases in the levels of six nutrients in the schools’ meals, and found that school meal participation did not change when the law when into effect.

But Obama’s school lunch regulations drew the ire of unhappy students and Republicans alike.

44

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

Michelle Obama In 2014, students posted viral photos of their unappetizing school lunches with the sarcastic #ThanksMichelleObama hashtag.Former GOP presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz often joked about repealing the law, a crowd pleaser on the campaign trail.“If Heidi’s first lady, french fries are coming back to the lunchroom. Call me crazy, but I thought cardboard was supposed to be in the tray and not in the food,” Cruz would say during primary appearances.

In a January 2016 town hall in Iowa, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, also a 2016 presidential candidate, said the then-first lady had “no business” pushing healthier lunches on children.“Using the government to mandate her point of view on what people should be eating everyday is none of her business,” he said. With a Republican administration in the White House (and a President who is known to enjoy fast food), the School Nutrition Administration hopes to earn the support to scale back the regulations.“Overly prescriptive regulations have resulted in unintended consequences, including reduced student lunch participation, higher costs and food waste. Federal nutrition standards should be modified to help school menu planners manage these challenges and prepare nutritious meals that appeal to diverse student tastes,” the association said in its recommendations.

T:10.8125”

All net With XFINITY X1, keep all your sports’ fans happy. Catch your favorite matchups with live sports available in any room, on any device. Plus, X1 brings it all to you with live stats and the latest scores right on your TV while you watch the game. Looking for your favorite teams? Find them instantly with the X1 Voice Remote. You can even stay on top of the action on the go with the XFINITY Stream app. Swoosh! That’s X1 for the win, baby.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. © 2017 Comcast. All rights reserved. ©ESPN is a registered trademark of ESPN, INC.

0

mwww.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www Mar. 4102 16 ,Dec 62 y-r29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 022017 yraurbeF www.stylemagazine.com Mar. 2017

B egaP 55

LOCAL & STATE BRIEFS

A crew at Bellfort Landfill site in Sunnyside

Sunnyside Residents Rebel Over Potentially Toxic Site of New Multi-Service Center [Houston Press]

C

ontroversy is swirling in Sunnyside over the move of the Sunnyside Multi-Service Center. Residents are concern over the potential new home for the center that may be the place of toxic chemicals due to the Bellfort Landfill.

Although Houston officials have said publically the land is safe, investigations prove that might not be the case.

Evidence proves that the site of the landfill was safe but there are no tests to prove the safety of Sunnyside Park that is adjoined to the Bellfort Landfill.

H-E-B Primo Picks

Calling All Local Food and Beverage Innovators for H-E-B Primo Picks Quest for Texas Best [Style Magazine Newswire]

H

-E-B Primo Picks Quest for Texas Best is visiting Houston on Tuesday, March 21 to share insight with local food and beverage creators interested in participating in the 2017 statewide competition. Potential entrants are invited to meet with H-E-B leaders who will advise on product development and best practices for submitting their creation in the competition. H-E-B Primo Picks Quest for Texas Best offers Texas-based food and beverage manufacturers the opportunity to showcase their uniquely Texan products and a chance to win a cash prize and coveted placement in select H-E-B stores throughout the state. Entrants may submit their product details online at heb.com/ quest February 22 through April 5, 2017.

Follow ollow Us #TeamStyleMag

66

Armando “Piro” Garcia Mendez

Longtime Houston Taco Truck Owner FacesDeportation After ICE Arrest [Eater Houston]

I

n light of President Trump’s focus on anti-immigrant policies, restaurateurs across the country are facing a number of tough uncertainties over next four years. But for one Houston taco truck owner, Trump’s plans have become terrifyingly real. According to National Public Radio, Taqueria Gomez owner Armando “Piro” Garcia Mendez was arrested

by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials while preparing to open his truck a few weeks ago, and has since been detained in an ICE facility as he awaits deportation proceedings. As a result, Garcia’s arrest is already having an impact on business at Taqueria Gomez.

Congressional Map

Texas Congressional Map Discriminates Against Hispanics, Federal Judges Say [Breitbart]

Home Library

New Home Library Project Aims to Close “Book Gap” in Houston [Houston Public Media]

T

here’s a new effort to bridge what some call the “book gap” and it’s putting books in the hands – and homes – of hundreds of children in Houston. It’s a pilot project, called My Home Library, from the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation. To start, it distributed mini-libraries to over 500 children.

The $30 cost was paid for by volunteers and subsidized by corporate sponsors. Three more schools are expected to join the “My Home Library” program later this year.

Rep. Jessica Farrar

Texas Bill Would Fine Men $100 Each Time They Masturbate [CNN/Style Magazine Newswire]

T

A

The 2-1 decision nullifies three of the congressional voting districts drawn by the Texas Legislature in 2011. The order does not set forth how the nullified district maps will be redrawn, but the opinion creates more uncertainty.

The bill points out a sexist double standard that is meant to shine a light on the obstacles women deal with when it comes to their health care. We will continue with this story as more details develop.

wo federal judges have released an opinion that accuses Lone Star State legislators of drawing a congressional map in a “rushed and secretive process” that intended to discriminate against Hispanic and Democrat voters. The only problem says the dissenting jurist–the panel could not legally issue the decision because the Fifth Circuit made clear that after Texas repealed the 2011 plan, “the case became moot and eliminated the district’s jurisdiction.”

Twitter @HoustonStyle

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

Instagram @StyleMagazine

Texas lawmaker has proposed a bill that would fine a man $100 each time he masturbates. The bill also imposes a 24-hour waiting period if a guy wants a colonoscopy or a vasectomy, or if he’s in the market for some Viagra. Rep. Jessica Farrar, a Democrat, knows her bill isn’t going to get very far. But she proposed it last week to make a point and give male lawmakers a taste of their own medicine.

Facebook: Houston Style Magazine

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Read Food

Mexico

Bush Airport Recognized as a Top Choice for Airport Dining in U.S. [Style Magazine Newswire]

W

hen it comes to finding something good to eat — and something healthy to eat, as well — George Bush Intercontinental Airport is one of the top airports in the United

Mexico Launches $50M Effort to Help Illegal Aliens in U.S. [Breitbart]

A

s the Trump Administration continues its efforts to round up criminal aliens, the Mexican gov-

ernment is beginning a nationwide campaign in the U.S. to help “protect” migrants. The camStates, according to a top travel industry website. RewardExpert.com ranked Bush Airport paign will be waged in all 50 Mexican consulates across the U.S. No. 5 overall in its 2017 Airport Dining Scorecard released this month, and ranked tops among the top 20 most trafficked airports for vegetarian and vegan dining options. The top The Mexican consulates are joining up with law schools, immigration clinics, and nonprofit organi20 most trafficked airports in the United Stated were determined using 2015 North American zations that specialize in helping foreign nationals. The Mexican government will place attorneys in

Passenger data from the Airports Council International. RewardExpert.com determined the these facilities to provide assistance to those facing deportation, the AP reported. We will continue final overall rankings using three indicators: satisfaction, price and quality. to follow this story as more details become available.

MEMBER FDIC

The key element in every personal loan?

The person.

Unmatched service. Multiple loan options.

And a trusted partner to help you find the right one.

Talk to a Frost banker at (800) 51-FROST or visit your nearest financial center. mwww.stylemagazine.com www.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www

410216 ,Dec 62 -yr29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 022017 2017 yraurbeF Mar. Mar.

B egaP 77

ENTERTAINMENT

T

Burning Sands Has a Familiar Face In a Surprising New Role

By TotallyRandie

he little sister from Everybody Hates Chris moved on to embody Olympic Medalist Gabby Douglas, and has now blossomed into a young woman starring in her first role as a love interest. That’s right, the Sharknado 4 actress Imani Hakim is starring in Common’s new Netflix movie Burning Sands. The Cleveland, Ohio native shows us that LeBron James is not the only greatness the city produced. She has been studying acting since the age of seven and landed her first role at age eleven. Now at 23-years-of-age, Imani is ready to show off her skills as an adult. Burning Sands allows her to do that.

How so? Well, she went one-on-one with us in a recent interview.

TotallyRandie: Before we talk about Burning Sands, I keep thinking of you as the little sister (Tonya Rock) from Everybody Hates Chris. But who is Imani Hakim now as an adult?

Imani: I’m a professional; I’m a young woman. I’m all about women empowerment, support, and uplifting women. In my professional life and in my personal life, I just love to empower women you know, let young girls and all women know they can be who they want.

TotallyRandie: How was the transition from child actor to adult?

Imani: For me, it wasn’t that hard. I have a good support system. I’m also not into too much partying and drinking. That’s just not for me. I keep like-minded friends around as well, plus I’m focused. I am just sharpening my craft and building, and I think that helps when transitioning.

TotallyRandie: Ok, let’s talk Common’s Burning Sands. Common. It’s Common!

Imani: [Laughs] I know right! So Common wasn’t on the project originally. When I found out he joined I was like OMG that’s so amazing that I’m working with Common. I really respect him and I had so much fun working with him.

TotallyRandie: Is Imani dating?

Imani: [laughs] Yes, I am in a relationship and he is in the industry. OMG! I just said his name [Laughs]. It’s not hard or anything. It can get frustrating because he works and I work but we make it work.

TotallyRandie: I like that! So, who would you like to work with in the future?

Imani Hakim Imani: I would love to work with Jada Pinkett Smith, of course, because she is like my inspiration and I love her. And, of course, Will. I would love to work with Ava Duvernay. She’s amazing! I had no idea she was in PR first. I just want to do amazing things with all the amazing women out there. Even my peers Zendaya, she’s doing her thing. I just want to work with all the empowering women.

TotallyRandie: You sound like you are extremely multifaceted. Is acting it for Imani?

Imani: Wow, that’s a good question. And thank you. No, I used to write a while back. I love writing. I haven’t had much time to do that lately but writing is something I love. I want to write, produce, and see some projects birthed. It will happen!

TotallyRandie: I’m sure it will! So what’s next for you?

Imani: More shows, auditioning. Right now I’m just focused on building and sharpening my brand and craft.

Follow Imani Hakim online at: Twitter: https://twitter.com/anakih1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficialImanihakim Instagram: http://instagram.com/anakih1

Alicia Keys Takes Rodeo Houston

By Kelsey Whittington, Feature Writer

Alicia Keys made this year’s Black Heritage Night at Rodeo Houston a success by bringing in over 73,000 people. Even with such a huge crowd, it was very clear she wanted to pull everyone into her performance and feel a connection with everyone there. Keys has not performed at Rodeo Houston since 2005 and it was definitely worth the wait.

Despite the crowd being a mixture of people from all backgrounds and ages all were moved by the music of Keys.

From playing beautifully on the piano to great vocals, and working it carefree across the stage, she made it sure that only good vibes filled the setting. Songs from her sixth and most recent studio album, Here, such as “Pawn It All” and “Blended Family” also managed to keep the crowd moving. Proving that Keys is still a powerhouse superstar and a force to be reckoned with.Aside from the melody of hits, it was evident why Keys is a Grammy award winning artist she is amazing live. Every word she sung had such a strong emotion behind it and the piano was a perfect touch. With so much emotion in her voice, she really set an amazing ambiance for a great night and was able to make such a huge setting feel small and intimate.

Alicia Keys

88

“I feel like we’re having a really intimate basement party tonight, and I feel like if we were in my basement right now, I would want to play a song that sounded like this,” said Keys as she went into the intro of “You Don’t Know My Name.”

Keys is popular among her fans for her ballads that are a perfect mix of soulful and sultry, which makes you wish you had a babe to dedicate a song to them. Thousands of lights instantly lit up the stadium, making for a gorgeous environment for a beautiful array of songs such as “Like You’ll Never See Me Again.” She made sure she took her time with this song to showcase the raw emotion behind the song, as well as “If I Ain’t Got You” and the song that introduced Alicia Keys to the world, “Fallin.”

Keys ended the show by making sure to leave her mark on the Bayou City. She closed the show with “Empire State of Mind” and even changed some parts in the song from saying New York to Houston, which really won over the crowd.

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

ENTERTAINMENT Marvel Finally Nails A Dud With Iron Fist

By Brandon Caldwell, Feature Writer

E

Iron Fist / Netflix

very company is due for a dud. Marvel had given its three other Defenders properties their own identity and appeal. Daredevil took up Hell’s Kitchen with plenty of Catholic virtue about revenge wrapped around a constantly tectonic shift. Jessica Jones gave more weight to its characters and the power of will. Luke Cage allowed Harlem to breathe as a living set piece from music to ideology on down. So where in New York did that leave Iron Fist? The most supernatural of the four Defenders characters, his story seemed far more intriguing on a surface level than his three counterparts.

Over the course of the first six episodes* of Marvel’s fourth foray into set ups for The Defenders, Danny Rand (Finn Jones) stumbles into a world of naiveté that gets far more convoluted as time progresses. Iron Fist slips up in regards to the punches it wants to throw and pull; the stories it wants to lead the audience on. The initial introduction we have to Rand is him walking down a street, barefoot while listening to OutKast’s “So Fresh, So Clean”. Commendable since the plot of Iron Fist asks us to believe that iPods were still a thing in 2001. However as the first episode reveals, it’s a dowdy paced, fish-out-of-water tale that sometimes decides to bring action into it.

Rand returns to New York, 15 years following he and his parents’ plane crashed in the Himalayas. His entire existence in New York has been washed out and as the heir to a family enterprise worth billions, he wants answers. The Meachum kids Ward (Tom Pelphrey) & Joy (Jessica Stroup) who’ve ascended to the throne in his place are steadfast at

keeping him from it. All of this is standard plot devices for any superhero to give his identity a bit of a humane aspect to it. But Iron Fist does this terribly, almost to the point where it feels more like a badly thought out procedural drama rather than mystical superhero show.

What faults Iron Fist outside of a plodding script and plot that are nowhere near as engaging as they were in the three other Netflix shows? Almost everything else. Jones’ Rand is more aloof surfer type than controlled practitioner of taoism. The episodes drag into a sluggish nature and when action does arrive, it arrives with little heart or bite attached to it.

Iron Fist’s entire appeal as a hero is the action seeing that he’s the greatest warrior of the four Defenders. But in his own show, he arrives to a very weird point. How does the one character in Netflix’s Marvel universe be such a dull in the one aspect that he’s suppose to be superior? Luke Cage & Jessica Jones were blunt with their action, elevated by strong plot devices of womanhood and African-American culture, respectively. Rand? Nothing. Just drab boardroom dynamics and exposition where Danny explains to Jessica Henwick’s Colleen Wing the finer aspects of running a dojo and how he’s better at it — in the middle of the damn dojo that she owns. Yes, it’s as condescending as the last sentence made it out to be.

What actually does go right in the world of Iron Fist are its female protagonists. Stroup’s Joy Meacham is the lone member of the family with a semblance of heart and knowl-

mwww.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www www.stylemagazine.com

edge of gravity. Carrie-Anne Moss’ Jeryn Hogarth returns to represent Rand in his re-takeover of his father’s company. Rosario Dawson’s Claire Temple once more proves that the Night Nurse is the sole unifier of this entire Netflix Universe. But Henwick as Colleen Wing is the series true regular bright spot, even if the show routinely tells us that her partner-in-crime in regards to defeating The Hand is a Very Special White Guy. Henwick portrays Wing with a sense of urgency, a woman with a determined purpose that goes well beyond the “save the universe” trope that Iron Fist runs into. To her, it’s about keeping the lights on, saving kids through martial arts and learning how to combat her own blood lust.

If we find no redeemable qualities in Danny Rand himself, then how are we expected to endure the second half of the season? Even RZA, someone who has spent years making his own serviceable, if not great kung-fu action movies couldn’t manage to save episode 6. And it’s the episode he directed.

I could run off the number of stereotypical hero arcs Iron Fist runs into from the first six episodes. The “hero Gaslighting” moment? Episode 2. The son turning into a disappointing henchman with father issues? Episode 1. Our hero running into a gauntlet to truly prove his powers? Episode 6. Normally, Marvel’s Netflix series hit a wall around the mid-point of a season, around episode 8 or 9 before finding balance and confidently seeing the ends through. Iron Fist is already there, well before things actually get interesting.

4102 16 ,Dec 62 y-r29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 022017 yraurbeF Mar. Mar. 2017

B ega9P9

FEATURE

Cory Solomon: Hometown Favorite Shines at RodeoHouston

By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor

W

hen most boys have dreams of being a professional football player or basketball player, Cory Solomon wanted to trot down a different path. For as long as he could remember his goal has been to become a professional cowboy. Now he is living his dream and we are privy to see him do it at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

“It is such a blessing,” said Solomon about being in the positon he finds himself. The Houston native grew up 45 minutes outside of Houston with not a lot of money or material things. Despite what he didn’t have, he focused on what he did have and that was heart. The love he has for roping has allowed him to be considered one of the best in the world while still being in his early twenties.

“Don’t let what you lack stop you from doing it,” Solomon advises anyone going after what they love and have a passion for doing. Taking up his craft at the age of four after watching his dad and brothers advance in the field, Solomon knew what his destiny would be.

Roping cattle was just second nature to him and as he puts it “the cowboy way.” So much so that he says the only time he ever really got in trouble was for roping a kid at his daycare who dared him that he couldn’t do it. He shut that kid up real quick.

Cory Soloman / Photo Courtesy of Mike Copeland Shutting up doubters and proving people wrong about him is something that he relishes in. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall, Solomon is considered small in stature for roping. The average roper is about 5 feet 9 inches. However, he doesn’t think height is the secret to winning in his sport but strength and agility. “It is more about the technique and your horse,” he said.

A cowboy needs to be strong and have an extended reach to capture his pry. Solomon practices for hours on end to ensure his reach and strength re just right to stay competitive. His methods have garnered him great success. The professional tie-down roper is a three time National Finals Rodeo qualifier and 2012 Calgary Stampede Champion.

He has set numerous records dating back to his days in high school.When he is not roping he is helping out with the family business. His father and brothers have a cattle business where they haul rodeo equipment in Prairie View, TX. He also has a love for watching and playing basketball in his spare time. He favors that sport almost as much as roping.

If he had not been successful at roping, Solomon would have gone aggressively after a career as a professional basketball player. Now he channels his hoop dreams to focus on getting a professional basketball and football player as a sponsor.It takes a lot of money to be competitive in roping.

Solomon commented on the high cost of horses and equipment on reasons why the industry is so expensive. But raising money is not his only goal with NBA and NFL athletes as sponsors.

The goal is centered on a respect of roping and admiration that basketball and football has.Cory Solomon is one to watch, if you can keep up with all his tricks and speed as he ropes in cattle and fans. Nothing will keep him from going after his goal. Cheer on the

Follow Us #TeamStyleMag Twitter @HoustonStyle Instagram @StyleMagazine Facebook: Houston Style Magazine 10 10

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

SPORTS

SWAC

I

2017 SWAC Tournament“Playing for Pride”

By Brian Barefield, Sports Writer

t was very hard coming into a game knowing that nothing was really on the line but your pride, yet our guys still rose to the challenge,” said Head Coach of Texas Southern University Mike Davis. Texas Southern defeated Alcorn State 53-50 to win the SWAC Championship at the Toyota Center. This game was no different than the previous two hard fought meetings, both of which was won by Texas Southern 67-65 and in overtime a win of 94-88. The Tigers had wrapped up a spot in the 2017 NCAA Tournament the night before when Alcorn State defeated Southern University. Alcorn is ineligible to advance past the conference tournament due to academic reasons. Yet, they still came out fighting as if they were playing for a date in the “Big Dance.” But on tonight, Texas Southern was the only one with dancing shoes on.

The Tigers were led by SWAC Tournament MVP Marvin Jones who was a constant anchor in the middle on both ends of the floor. His tenacious defensive effort proved to be too much for the Braves. “I feel numb. It’s just a blessing.

You just have to find faith in yourself and God,” said Jones, who was also the 2017 SWAC Defensive Player of The Year.

When asked how important Jones was to the Tigers Coach Davis responded, “Here is a kid who on last year averaged 1 point and 1 rebound. To see how hard, he has worked to get to this point, especially after we lost the 2016 Player of The Year (Derrick Griffin). This young man stepped up and made plays for us this year.” All tournament players, forward Kevin Scott (15 points and 12 rebounds) and guard Demontrae Jefferson (13 points) made up for the less than stellar performance by 2017 SWAC Player and New Comer of The Year Zach Lofton. The high-powered guard ended the game with 3 points. It was Jefferson’s (SWAC Freshman of The Year) five points at the end of the game to end Alcorn’s season.

The number two seeded Braves are as talented as they come with three All-SWAC selections in Reginal Johnson, Marquis Vance, and A.J. Mosby, but on tonight only one star came to play. Reginal Johnson led Alcorn in scoring with 16 points and 6 rebounds while Vance and Mosby combined for 9 total points. “Our nemesis all year has been dry spells.

Game-to-game it changes up. Last game our offense was flowing, but this game we were stagnant,” said 2017 SWAC Coach of The Year Montez Robinson of Alcorn State. Even with the lack of production the Braves had an opportunity to send the game into overtime with six seconds left after they played great defense to tie the ball up with the possession arrow going their way. Coach Robinson drew up a brilliant play for A.J Mosby that rattled in and out. “He is

normally, percentage wise, our best shooter from behind the arc. You couldn’t have asked for a better shot,” Coach Robinson said.

Texas Southern (23-11) has a hard task in front of them starting with #1 seed and ACC regular season champs University of North Carolina who was seconds away from winning the 2016 National Championship. They will face off in the South Region of the 2017 NCAA Tournament in Greenville, South Carolina. “This time of the year everybody is giving maximum effort out there on the floor,” said Coach Davis, who has a four-year consecutive streak of playing in the postseason. So, the Tigers once again find themselves right back where they started on Saturday night in the Toyota Center. Playing for Pride. Except this time the head coach wants more. “Everybody thinks, you’re in the NCAA Tournament. Make us proud,” a very upbeat but determined Mike Davis said. But he has reiterated time and time again that it is more than just making it to the tournament.

It’s about winning it all, which he almost did with Indiana University back in 2002. We, here at Houston Style Magazine Sports, wish the hometown Texas Southern Tigers all the best. Good Luck.

SWAC

mwww.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www Mar. 4102 16 ,Dec 62 y-r29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 022017 yraurbeF www.stylemagazine.com Mar. 2017

B egaP11 11

BEAUTY When Passion Meets Purpose: Meet Kimo Bentley of the All Natural Kimo Bentley Skincare Brand By: Rebecca Briscoe

R

B: Tell us about the Kimo Bentley brand, what was your inspiration behind the skin care line?

KB: At my core, I am a visionary, a mother, a motivator, a daughter, a friend a believer, an ITEC qualified Skincare professional and a person filled with passion to see others fulfill their dreams. My daughter had eczema as a baby. I was desperately seeking a solution for her problem. After extensive research and trial and error I fell into my career path, there was no door so I built my own.

RB: How did you know working in the skin care industry was your purpose?

KB: My talents were recognized by young mothers and women in my neighborhood. I began helping others who were in the same situation as myself. I did not start my business for financial gain, it was out of a need to clear my daughter’s skin. I fell in love with the results and realized that this is where I needed to be.

RB: With so many skin care brands that cater to women of color, what makes yours different from the pack?

KB: People should take notice of our difference, because we are a company that educates our customer. It’s not always about the sale for us it about building relationships. Building trust, once you gain a person’s trust, you are able to transition that into sales and loyal customers/supporters for life.

RB: With women of color being at the forefront of entrepreneurship what is your best tip of advice for a successful business?

KB: Advice that I would give to women would be to launch out into the deep! Before you go high you must go deep. You must find yourself. Leaving corporate America is a big deal especially when it is all you have done. Going deep is Rogue. It is understanding that once you leave there is no cushy paycheck deposited into your back account bi weekly and you have to be strong and fearless. You have to be ok with the fact that you cannot walk into the Louboutin store and walk out with everything your hands touched. You have to be ok with late nights, early mornings, long hours and people not saying thank you for all of your hard work. There are no bonuses at the end of the year, family will get angry with you because

Kimo Bentley they cannot see your vision, and people judge you and criticize you. You’ll sometimes feel low, but you have to be able to inspire and motivate yourself.Going deep requires strength, tenacity, resilience and the ability to not giving up. You have to be able to release the life jacket and launch into the deep end of the pool.

RB: What are the best Kimo Bentley products for women to maintain their “black girl magic” in their 20’s, 30’s, and beyond?

KB: Women in their 20’s and 30’s always need hydration and a good cleanser, especially as we are all getting our faces beat with layers and layers of makeup which goes into the pores we need to completely remove and hydrate your skin, the product of choice would be our Activated Charcoal facewash/mask and our facial moisturizer which are both packed with essential oils.

RB: What’s next for the Kimo Bentley brand?

KB: We are going to continue to build more relationships with new customers and also help them on their skincare journey. Brand building is necessary and we will also continue to grow distribution, broaden our horizons to international markets as well as continue to provide our customers with new and innovative additions to our skincare line.

For More Information: Twitter: Kimo Bentley Facebook – Kimo Bentley

FASHION

T

Fashion Group International of Houston Spring Trends Event

By Andrea Bonner, Fashion Writer

he Fashion Group International of Houston, Inc. (FGI) hosted its biannual Trends event to educate its members and guests on the fashion, beauty and home trends of the season. Hosted at the innovative LAUNCH Pop Up shop in downtown Houston, a dynamic panel of experts including Merin Guthrie, Founder and CEO of KIT; Andrea Bonner, Image Consultant, Fashion Merchandising Professor at Houston Community College; Eric≠Green, Executive Creative Director for Charming Charlie; and Dick Clarke – Interior Decorator, Co-Founder of Strut; offered sound perspective to attendees, which will serve as a guide to curating a stylish season. Introductions were given by FGI Houston Regional Director, Martha Mtegha and the panel discussion was moderated by Jerry Mathis, FGI Houston Membership Director and Co-Founder, Owner of Space Showroom.

The Spring fashion trends that were highlighted included a neutral or blush color palette, ruffles and flounces and head turning earrings to name a few. It was also noted that colors and textures can be incorporated into home décor to update any living space, regardless of the season. Guests enjoyed light bites sponsored by London Sizzler as well as an enlightening evening of networking with industry professionals.

FGI is a global, non-profit professional organization whose goal is to be the preeminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to provide informative programming aimed at helping its members become more successful in their careers. Educational events such as the Trends events, member networking breakfasts and other similar program help to accomplish this goal.

12 12

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

FGI Trends Panel

Twitter: @shahadijo | Instagram: shahadiwrightjoseph Facebook: Shahadi Wright Joseph | Snapchat:shahadijo

ENTERTAINMENT

Demi Lovato

O

Demi Lovato Takes Control of the Houston Rodeo

By Cecilia Smith, Feature Writer

n Tuesday night, songstress Demi Lovato made a triumphant return to RodeoHouston’s famous rotating stage. It’s been several years since she first appeared alongside Austin Mahone in 2010 - and again with the Jonas Brothers in 2013 - but the third time was indeed the charm for the Disney sensation, who drew over 66,740 people into NRG Stadium.

Stepping in after Meghan Trainor was sidelined by a vocal injury, Lovato thanked the crowd for coming out for the show with, “I’m really grateful you all stuck around for the show, cuz I know you’re here for the rodeo. I’m really glad you guys didn’t leave. It brings such joy to me that you guys didn’t leave.”

Sporting a flattering bob and a white sundress, the singer exuded a quiet confidence, a reflection of her growth as an artist. Kicking the show off with a dazzling light display, Lovato got the crowd rocking with anthems “Heart Attack” and “Confident”, a hit from her 2015 album, before diving into “Got Dynamite” and “Firestarter.”

Throughout the night, Lovato seemed as in awe of the crowd as they were of her admitting “There’s a lot of people here. And the stage moves. This is kind of new for me.”

She added, “This is amazing. I don’t know what else to say so I’ll just sing the next song.” And sing she did. Flexing her vocal muscles, the “Neon Lights” singer moved with ease between rock and soulful cuts like “For You”, “Nightingale”, “Body Say” and a southern rendition of “Natural Woman.”

Sharing an intimate moment with the crowd before “Stone Cold,” Lovato explained “This song means so much to me.

It’s about heartbreak. I get completely lost in it when I sing it. It hurts every time I sing it, but I sing it because I know someone out here is going through the exact feelings I had when I wrote this song.” A subtle nod last summer’s end of a six-year relationship with actor Wilmer Vaderrama.

Thanking best friend Nick Jonas for guiding her through the experience, Lovato revealed “Last summer, I went through heartbreak and had kind of a spiritual experience.

I matured. My music matured as well, and Nick encouraged me to allow myself to be free.”

Voice soaring throughout the stadium, Lovato ended the night with fan favorites including “Neon Lights”, “Cool for the Summer” and more. Making her own mark on the RodeoHouston stage, the “Give Your Heart a Break” singer is on her way to becoming a rodeo favorite.

Demi Lovato

mwww.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www Mar. 4102 16 ,Dec 62 y-r29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 022017 yraurbeF www.stylemagazine.com Mar. 2017

B egaP13 13

EAT WITH STYLE

PicMonkey ImageFlemings

Explore the Southern Hemisphere of Wine and Food at Fleming’s

By Yolanda Pope, Culinary Writer

O

n March 10, 2017, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar hosted its annual Wine Harvest Dinner. In the private dining area of their luxurious, but down to earth restaurant, a small group of us gathered and indulged our taste buds into a four course meal fit for a king.

As soon as we entered, we were handed a sparkling glass of Sophora Sparkling Rose’ from New Zealand, which was paired with the Colossal Shrimp and Passion Fruit appetizer. The bubbling elixir was crisp, with a subtle fruit taste, which was not overly sweet at all. The shrimp were seared to perfection; the flavors were aromatic as well as tasty.

The second course was the colorful Spring Salad, which consisted of orange segment, red bell pepper, grape tomatoes with lemon balsamic vinaigrette which was paired with the Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc. This plate was a harmonic melody of sweet and tart flavors that played well with the white wine.

Next, we experienced “The Southern Hemisphere Trio” which was a hardy plate of New Zealand Rack of Lamb, Ora King Salmon and Filet and Flavor Flight. The lamb was braised and served over crispy leeks and truffle parsley mashed potatoes and paired with the Yalumba, Shiraz Barossa Patchwork. The fish was prepared with a panko mushroom truffle crust, sautéed beech mushrooms in a garlic butter sauce and was partnered with Cloudy Bay, Sauvignon Blanc; this was my favorite of the two white wines. Number three of the proteins was the filet mignon that was accompanied by a symphony of sauces: rich mole and cabernet butter sauces, savory chimichurri, and black lava salts which was paired with Catena Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina. My favorite of this group was the black lava salts on top of the lamb, which added a layer of texture and a burst of flavor to the meat.

Lastly, we finished the evening with a Raspberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding which was simply a warm bread pudding, crème anglaise, and raspberry sauce topped with a crisp butter cookie. This is where I tapped out; my table mates finished their desserts and described it as decadent and amazing. The evening was a journey in fun, food, and drinks in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere. We were treated like royalty by the staff members who helped keep the food and wine flowing to our tables.

To view Fleming’s full menus and locations, visit: www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations.

14 14

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

IN MEMORIAM

Captain William “Iron Bill” Dowling D

owling was with the Houston Fire Department for 13 years. He worked at Stations 12, 19, was an EO (driver) at 25, transferred to 48 as a Captain, and started at 68 as a Captain in January. He was also a part time employee at Champions Emergency Services District 29. Houston Fire Department Captain William Dowling was one of 14 severely injured in the deadliest blaze in the Houston Fire Department’s history. He was in a medically induced coma for the first few months after the fire, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Medical Center.

He is survived by his wife Jacki and 3 three children. (Photos Courtesy of Facebook)

Yi Chin Lee

mwww.stylemagazine.com www.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www

4102 16 ,Dec 62 y-r29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 022017 yraurbeF Mar. Mar. 2017

B egaP15 15

REAL ESTATE Mortgages and the Self-Employed Borrower

By Greta Jordan Williams

I

n my last article, I discussed the first step to home ownership which was understanding your credit. The next step to homeownership is understanding your full financial picture.

Most borrowers will be W-2 employees, meaning they’re employed full-time, receiving monthly or bi-weekly payments from a company. The company will in-turn issue pay stubs that show all tax deductions, insurance deductions, 401K payments, etc. At the end of the year, the company will issue a W-2 to use for your federal tax filing.

Borrowers with a W-2 will simply give all of this information to a lender for approval. This scenario is pretty simple, but what happens if you’re not W-2 employee? What do you do if you own your own business or receive 1099s? For these borrowers the steps can be a bit more challenging. Wikipedia defines The American Dream as the set of ideals (democracy, rights, liberty, opportunity, and equality) in which freedom includes the opportunity for prosperity and success, and an upward social mobility for the family and children, achieved through hard work in a society with few barriers. There are many avenues that can lead to achieving “the dream” with the most popular being business ownership. Being your own boss has its advantages such as setting your own hours, dress code, policies and procedures, etc. Another advantage is being able to “write off” business expenses on your tax returns. Not owing “Uncle Sam” at the end of the year is definitely a blessing, but can quickly turn into a curse when applying for a mortgage.

Greta Jordan Williams years tax returns should show an increase in income. The lender determines your monthly income by taking an average of the two years after write offs. Declining income will reduce your tax liability, but lenders will interpret that decline as an unstable or inconsistent business, therefore resulting in possible loan denial. You must also report all income to the IRS, including cash. If they don’t know about it, you can’t use it. Pay business debt with a business account or business credit card. Do not comingle personal funds and business When applying for a mortgage, the lender examines your complete financial picture. They’ll funds. Once those waters have been muddied, there is no separation. ask you to submit two of your most recent pay stubs, two month’s bank statements and tax returns for the past two years. Self-employed borrowers normally do not receive pay stubs, In the event there is not enough income after your write offs to qualify for a mortgage, there however, there are exceptions. If your company is a registered LLC and you’ve structured are some alternatives. A W-2 borrower can be added as a co-borrower. There are also new your business so that you are paid from the LLC, you will very likely have pay stubs but alternative income verification loans that have been developed to help the self-employed for the sake of this article, we’ll use a sole proprietorship as an example. After taking all applicant. These loans allow the lender to look at 12-24 months business and personal bank legal and available tax deductions, a self-employed borrower’s income can be much less statements to determine cash flow. These loans require a very large down payment and than expected, therefore reducing the loan amount that the borrower will qualify for. It can offer a higher interest rate. These loans are offered through niche lenders. All lenders do not participate in alternative income verification loans. also result in loan denial.

If you are self-employed and want to purchase a home, it is imperative that you take the The bottom line, when you are ready to purchase a home, proper planning and a knowledgetime to plan. You should ensure that all tax returns have been filed on time. Your last two able Realtor® are key to making sure you make an informed decision.

BOOKS

“My Brown Baby” by Denene Millner

By Terri Schlichenmeyer, Book Reviewer

R

aising a child is quite a challenge. When they’re small, you feel as though the entire world is dangerous. As they grow, you waffle between encouragement and fear, wings for them and tears for you. Teenagers, well, they’re a whole separate category and in the new book “My Brown Baby” by Denene Millner, some parents have even more to worry about.

It’s not an overgeneralization to say that all moms want the same things for their kids: kindness, honesty, trustworthiness, success, love, to mention a few. Every mom teaches those things but, says Millner, African American mothers parent their kids differently than do other mothers.It often starts when a brown baby is born.When her first daughter entered the world, Millner says that, though she was married, insured, and well-employed, the hospital treated her reprehensibly and she had to be vocal about it – something that she says other mothers of color have experienced. She was also criticized for wanting to breast-feed her child, and again for breast-feeding as long as she did.

Millner, mother of two young women, remembers the joys – oh, the joys! – and the aggravations of having small daughters. Raising brown girls means teaching them to love their curly hair and their “bubble-butts.” It means making them understand that they might never have straight blonde hair but that boys will still like them. It’s showing them how to love their bodies by loving yours.Raising older children of color means being sure they understand their history, so they know why certain rap songs are inappropriate. It’s giving them confidence to explore, swim, bike (but not too far), and play to win. No matter how hard it is to find a bedspread with black ballerinas on it, it means you keep looking. You’ll particularly need to teach confidence.

My Brown Baby

You’ll learn to heed some advice, ignore others, and either reach for your own mother or miss her fiercely. And if, like Millner’s stepson, your child is a boy who’s almost a man, raising him means making sure he knows the warnings…Much like morning sickness, weight gain, and pregnancy, advice arrives right along with the announcement of a new baby. Some of it’s crazy-talk, while some of it – like what’s inside “My Brown Baby” - is absolutely useful.While the shelves are full to bursting with pregnancy and childrearing books, author Denene Millner tackles the subject from a different angle, one that’s perhaps more rare and that speaks directly to parents without a lot of fuss. Millner uses humor, but it’s clear when she’s being serious; she’s also common-sense and offers a nice mix of old-school, modern ideas, and new viewpoints on things your Mama never had to consider.

While Millner says this book is for parents of color – which is true - a white mother might find some useful advice in here; even though this book isn’t for her, there’s no denying that some things are universal. Still, “My Brown Baby” is for just what it says and your brown baby will appreciate it.

16 16

Mar. 16- Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

HOUSTON RODEO

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys

mwww.StyleMagazine.com oc.enizagaMelytS.www Mar. 4102 ,16 Dec 62 y-r29 aMar. u-rbJan eF22, -4, 022017 yraurbeF www.stylemagazine.com 2017

B egaP17 17

2017

HOUSTON,TEXAS

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Health Forum Photography by Vicky Pink

C

2017

ongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee hosted a critical forum on health care at Hamilton Middle School. Congresswoman Lee was joined by health care professionals and concerned citizens o discuss the Affordable Health Care Act. People are frightened by what Donald Trump and his administration are doing to overturn Obamacare. This is a crucial forum on the Republican #PayMoreForLess Bill exploring what it means for your health care and the fight to save the Affordable Care Act.

Laughter and Liberations Comedy Show Photography by Vicky Pink

O

ld School was on the menu at the Dolce Ultra-Lounge thanks to the Laughter and Liberations Comedy Show with Chris Thomas and Shucky Ducky. Veterans comedians known as Chris “The Mayor” Thomas and Shucky “Quack, Quack” Ducky shut down Houston with belly gut laughter with a dose of old school, hip-hop comedy. The weekly#LaughterAndLiberations Comedy Series took attendees back to a time where hip-hop was plentiful and the world of comedy was king. It was mostly, due, in part to the comedy of Chris Thomas and Shuckey Duckey. Al Rucker Productions hosts the live show every Wednesday and Thursday at Dolce UltraLounge.

18 18

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

HOUSTON, TEXAS

2017

HOUSTON, TEXAS

Vicky Pink’s Thank You Birthday Bash Photography by Amir Pink t was a fun and interactive evening at Houston Style’s own chief photographer Vicky Pink’s Thank You and Birthday Bash. Many gathered to wish Vicky a very Happy Birthday. But Vicky was not the only one celebrated as she turned the tables on guests to show appreciation to them for supporting her as a professional photographer over the past 11 years. It also was an opportunity for Vicky to show off her brand new office space. Guests enjoyed crawfish, cake and cocktails. Happy Birthday Vicky and many more!

2017

I

HOUSTON, TEXAS

Creative Women Unite 11th Showcasing Party

T

Photography by Vicky Pink

he Creative Women Unite hosted their 11th annual celebration and exhibition showcasing art featuring over 25 women artists who through performances, readings, visual art, and vending will explore the ongoing effects of labels in their lives. The affair was co-hosted by Busi Peters Joyce Day. Music was provided by DJ Keva and panel discussion was lead by Busi Peters from Women Healing and Empowering Women.

mwww.stylemagazine.com www.StyleMagazine.com owww.stylemagazine.com c.enizagaMelytS.www

4Feb. 10216 ,16Dec 62 -yFeb. r29 au-rbJan e22, F-4, 02017 22017 2017 yraurbeF 22, Mar. Mar.

B egaP19 19 19

®

®

11 in 5 items!

Get up to

$

meal deal!

save more than

8 BUY

$ 68 in

FREE

items! with in-store coupons

buy

29

Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treats, 16 ct.

assorted varieties

X H-E-B Boneless Skinless

That’s up to

$

8 oz., assorted varieties • 7•Up, 2 L btl. assorted varieties (7•Up Brand Only)

• H-E-B Picante Salsa

16 oz., assorted varieties

• H-E-B Frozen Fajita Vegetables, 16 oz.

• Tortillas Aguilar® Flour Tortillas, 20 ct.

GET

free! with in-store coupon

Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers

Llévatelo

¡gratis!

GET

free! with in-store coupon

H-E-B Select Ingredients Ketchup 20 oz.

That’s up to

$

1.50

free!

buy

• Kraft Shredded Cheese

with in-store coupons

6 - 7 oz. assorted varieties

2 Chicken Breasts, Thighs free! or Pork Fajitas, or buy Mi Comida Beef or Pace Chicken Leg Meat for Picante Sauce oz.

Fajitas, or Hill Country Fare 8assorted varieties Beef Fajitas, value packs only

5

FREE

H-E-B Frozen Sweet Corn on the Cob 6 ct.

Llévatelo

¡gratis!

GET

free! with in-store coupon

H-E-B Frozen Texas Style Green Beans

12 oz.

That’s up to

$

1.68

free!

buy

H-E-B Fully Cooked Burgers, 6 ct.

assorted varieties

Llévatelo

¡gratis!

GET

free! with in-store coupon

Whataburger Signature Sandwich Sauce 14 - 16.5 oz. assorted varieties

That’s up to

$3.24

free!

buy

two (2) Hillshire Farm Lunchmeat

7 - 9 oz. tub assorted varieties

Llévatelo

¡gratis!

GET

free! with in-store coupon

Tillamook Sliced Cheese 7 - 8 oz. assorted varieties

Prices Good Wednesday, March 22 Thru Tuesday, March 28, 2017 At Your Neighborhood H-E-B Stores.

Some items may not be available in all stores. Items not valid at Central Market. Due to the popularity of our Extra Low Prices Every Day, we reserve the right to limit quantities. Limit Rights Reserved. We Accept Lone Star Card, WIC And Manufacturers’ Coupons. ©2017 HEB 17-1235 visit www.heb.com

20 20

Mar. 16 - Mar. 22, 2017 www.stylemagazine.com

That’s up to

$2.87

free!

Llévatelo

¡gratis!