Houston Style Magazine vol 27 No 1

Houston Style Magazine December 31st - January 6th, 2016

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication

Volume 27 | Number 1

Complimentary

Jesse Jackson

Chicago’s Deformed Prison System

Tamir Rice

No Charges for Officers

BE A HEALTHIER YOU IN 2016 Story by Jo Carolyn Goode | Photo of Crystal Hadnott Follow Us #TeamStyleMag Twitter @HoustonStyle Instagram @StyleMagazine

Mayor-Elect Turner’s Thank You Reception

UH Football Team Facebook: Houston Style Magazine

Congresswoman Lee Toys for Kids Holiday Party

Ready for Peach Bowl

Concussion Private Screening

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

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Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

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Volume 27 | Number 1 | DEC. 31 - JAN. 6, 2016 EDITORIAL

FEATURE WRITERS Rebecca Briscoe Francis Page, Jr. National Entertainment Publisher and Editor Susie Stillwell - Entertainment fpagejr@stylemagazine.com Lan– Arts Mical Roy – Feature Jo-Carolyn Goode Yolanda Pope – Culinary Managing Editor Dr. Lovell Jones – Health Editor editorial@stylemagazine.com Kim Davis – Sports Lisa Valadez Erick Cork - Feature Hispanic Managing Editor Aiaina Mayes – Blogger lisa@stylemagazine.com Demez White – Feature Dawn Paul – Feature Brandon Caldwell Lindsay Buchanan – Fashion Online Editor bcaldwell@stylemagazine.com Burt Levine – Political Jade Gold – Entertainment Eric Ford – Editorial Intern DESIGN/WEB De’Neisha Bell – Feature Gabrielle Deculus – Trevor G. Piper Writer/Events Coordinator Creative Director/Graphics trevor@tpipermedia.com Keandra Scott – Entertainment

Cecilia Smith - Entertainment Kermit Williams Erynn Haskins - Feature Web Master webmaster@stylemagazine.com Yvonne Guidry - Entertainment Raegan Allen - Arts Jeffery T. Crump, Jr. Abimbola Farinde - Health Chief Designer Sloan Hood - Sports webmaster@stylemagazine.com Jessica Crawford - Feature Marcus Carter - Culinary Willie Grace Web/Graphics Franceli Chapman - Entertainment CoCo Dominguez - Entertainment Dr. Kimberly McLeod - Education NATIONAL WRITERS Erica Ponder - Feature Sonia Zuniga - Feature Writer JESSE JACKSON jjackson@rainbowpush.org CIRCULATION VIDEOGRAPHY ROLAND MARTIN Martin Troupe www.rolandmartin.com Distribution Manager Reginald Dominique – 832.884.6716 Video/Social Media JUDGE GREG MATHIS reggiedominique@me.com Willie D. Scott, Jr. www.askjudgemathis.com 225.802.1593 Distribution Team 832.343.2992 PHOTOGRAPHERS Jay Weber Dale Lemar - Editing Distribution Team Vicky Pink 312.330.3866 vhpink@gmail.com Burt Levine 281.857.7635 ADVERTISING/SALES Distribution Team 832.496.0003 Roswitha Vogler Lisa Valadez advertising@stylemagazine.com photosbyrovo@gmail.com Vernon Nelson 713-748-6300 832.876.9541 Distribution Team 832.665.0979 William Ealy Williamealy1906@gmail.com Sametra Scott semetra@artistikrebelcreative.com Mike Munoz artrepreneur91@gmail.com

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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)

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COMMENTARY

Jesse Jackson

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National Writer

n Chicago, “too many people continue to be incarcerated pretrial, for far too long,” and “unjust incarceration of the mentally ill and poor remains at a crisis point.” This is the stark conclusion of Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart who has led a campaign to transform what he denounces as a “system that actively facilitates the unjust incarceration of the mentally ill and poor.” (Source: Press release, Cook County Department of Corrections, Dec. 23, 2015)

When the sheriff indicts the system that he enforces, people must listen and respond. Dart’s campaign has already succeeded in creating the “Rocket Docket,” a pilot program that insures that those charged with nonviolent, low-level “survival” crimes like retail theft or criminal trespass will have their cases completed in 30 days or

POLITICAL By

Chicago’s Deformed Prison System be released from jail pending trial. The Rocket Docket has proved a valuable but insufficient step. On December 23, Dart issued a press release detailing the numbers of those incarcerated and sounding once more the “urgent need for additional reform.”

The numbers are staggering.

In 2015, the sheriff reports, there were approximately 70,000 admissions into the Cook County jail. About 2,200 spent all of the year incarcerated before even getting a trial. About one in eight people admitted-- 8,700 -- spent time in jail despite eventually having their charges dropped entirely.

Think about that. Arrested, incarcerated, their lives torn apart. They can’t show up for work. They are ripped from their families. They spend nights in prison. And then the charges are dropped. “Never mind,” says the state, but the damage done can’t be undone.

More than 1,000 of those incarcerated spent so much time in jail before their trail that when they were convicted, their sentence had already been served. Many served more than their final sentence waiting for trial -- a total of 79,726 days, the equivalent of 218 years of excessive incarceration beyond their ultimate sentences. Each year, Chicago taxpayers are paying for 218 years’ worth of excess time in jail.

And it isn’t cheap. Sheriff Dart

notes that this requires an “assembly line of daily accommodations -- food, medication, sanitary supplies, laundry, transportation, etc.” Cook County Jail is an industry that employs some 4,000 people to keep it running 24/7.

They deliver 10 million meals, 150 semi truckloads of milk, 500 tons of meat, 250 tons of vegetables. They do 2.1 million pounds of laundry.

Almost 6,000 buses log 120,550 miles transporting prisoners to hearings.

Doctors dispense 6.5 million doses of needed medicines. This tally does not include the police, the prosecutors, the judges and courtroom staff, the defense attorneys, those staffing community corrections programs, the contractors and much more.

This prison-industrial complex is big business. Thousands of incomes and millions in profits are earned incarcerating largely poor and minority offenders before they are tried.

Cook County Jail’s admission statistics reveal a structural bias. Nearly 90 percent of those incarcerated are black or Latino. The vast majority of inmates are male. Of those charged with drug-related, nonviolent crimes, 91 percent are black and Latino. Eightynine percent of those incarcerated have a high school education or less; 45 percent haven’t finished high school. This is a system that is focused on poor men of

color.

Sheriff Dart urges reforms that will move “toward a humane and fiscally prudent approach” to incarceration. He wants the county to be an example to the rest of the country in 2016. The Sheriff is calling us to act. He’s exposing the harsh realities and costs of treating poor black men as disposables. It is time for Chicago’s elected officials to meet his challenge -- and for its voters to demand that they stand up.

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.

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Local Primary Ballots Bring Out Bevy of Black Candidates

Burt Levine, Political Writer

M

arch 1st, less than 60 days away, are the Democratic and Republican Primaries throughout Texas that could cement not just who is featured on next fall’s elections for President but also award African Americans unprecedented nominations across Harris and Fort Bend County for down ballot Democratic and Republican political party positions never before held by Blacks.

African American former Alief ISD educator Jasmine L. Jenkins, Ph.D., manager of Advantage Testing Tutoring Services is running for State Board of Education District 6 in the Democratic Primary. African American Rodney Ellis, first elected Texas Senator for SD 13 in 1990, is unopposed for his seventh term.

African American Attorney Sarah DeMerchant is unopposed in her race for the Democratic nomination to face Republican HD 26 Rep. Rick Miller.

African American Attorney and State Rep. Ron Reynolds is highly motivated with support from Senator Ellis, Congressman Al Green and most Fort Bend Democratic elected officials for his HD-27 seat. He faces former party chair Steve Brown, attorney Chris Henderson and Angelique Bartholomew.

African American Attorney Joy Dawson is running for State Rep. 126 in north Harris County.

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Alma Allen, retired HISD educator and State Education Board Member in 2004 won House District 131. In the Democratic Primary, she faces Muslim American businessman John Shike.

African American Pastor Dr. Kendall Baker recently ran for city council. This March he will be unopposed for the Republican nomination for HD 137. In the fall, he hopes to face incumbent State Rep. Gene Wu or African American Attorney Ed Pollard who provides a spirited challenge.

African Americans Social Worker Kimberly Willis, Attorney Randy Bates, former City Council Member Jarvis Johnson and recent TSU graduate Jerry Ford, Jr. are running to succeed Sylvester Turner in the State Rep. District 139. Turner held the position for 26 years.

African American Attorney and former educator Senfronia Thompson with four graduate degrees is Texas’ second longest serving legislator and is unopposed this year in pursuing her 22ndterm in the seat she’s held since 1972.

African American attorney Hal Dutton is unopposed for the HD 142 seat he’s had since 1984.

African American insurance firm owner Boris Miles is unopposed for the HD 146, which he won in 2006 and Garnet Coleman, CEO of Apartments for

Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

America, is unopposed for the HD 147 seat he has held since 1990.

African American businesswoman Demetria Smith, fresh from a Houston Mayor race, is going to give State Rep. Hubert Vo the first Democratic Primary race he’s had in his 12 years there. African American Pastor Dr. Theresa Hearn Haynes is running in the GOP Primary for HD 150.

African American Attorney Kevin Fulton is unopposed in the Republican Primary for the Harris County’s 11th District Court and African American Attorney Aaron Adams faces Jeff Hastings for the Republican nomination for the 151st District Court.

African American Judge Alexandra Smoots Hogan will face Bruce Bain next fall while African American Attorney Ursala Hall, daughter of city attorney Anthony Hall, is challenging Judge Debra Ibarra Mayfield for Harris County’s 165th State District Court.

African American former

Judge Hazel Jones is running for Harris County’s 174th State District Court but first faces a crowded Democratic Party Primary. African American Attorney Nikita «Niki” Harmon is running for 176th State District Court in the Democratic Party Primary hoping to face Judge Stacey Bond but first must beat Shawna Reagin.

African American Judge Elaine Palmer faces three Democratic Primary opponents for the 338thDistrict Court and then faces Fred Shuchart in the

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fall. African American Democrat Attorney Ramona Franklin will face Republican Judge Brock Thomas in the fall when African American Judge Maria T. Jackson will be challenged by Republicans Antonio Benavides or Mary McFaden for the 339th District Court. African American Democrat Attorneys George Powell and Fredericka Phillips, Vice Chair of the Texas Democratic Party are running for the 351st and 61st District Court.

African Americans Republican Carl Pittman and Democrat Anne Harris Bennett are running for Sheriff and County Clerk and Harris County Commissioner El Franco Lee is unopposed in running for the post he has held as Harris County’s first and only black County Commissioner since 1970.

Share this story online at www. stylemagazine.com.

EDUCATION

The Needle in the Haystack

By Dr. Kimberly McLeod

S

ome leaders will search for the needle in the haystack – and find it! Others will take an entire haystack and spin it into gold.

Many students are like the straws of hay, a potential untouched clearly sitting in front of an academic leader searching for a needle in a haystack.

Discarding hay into other piles, drop out piles, under achieving piles, special education piles, suspension piles, irrelevant piles, don’t know what to do with piles, while searching for that needle in a bushel of hay. Chances are, as you read this, you may have been that straw of hay in someone else’s hand. What is your testimony?

I am NOT saying that those that can find a needle in a haystack are not good leaders, quite the contrary. It takes discipline, patience, perseverance and persistence to find a needle in a large stack of hay. However, who gets to be the person that defines and judges what is “good” and what is “bad”? Certainly, I am not the one to accept that challenge – nor do I care to. However, I will ask the question not of “good” or “bad” but rather, what is effective and ineffective as a leader in today’s schools. You can have “good” leaders that are incredibly ineffective. “Good” leaders are not as valuable to me as effective ones.

I challenge common schools of thought with the belief that there are practicing and emerging leaders that can take an ordinary bale of hay and spin gold. I believe that there are leaders that exist that defy odds and create individual genius, by transforming environmental deficits into cultural capital. I know many will read this and vehemently disagree with me. Many will say, those leaders don’t exist or how difficult it is to spin gold from the “kind” of hay in current school and political cultures. For those that BELIEVE that to be true, what you are really saying is that YOU are not able to do that. However, just because YOU are not able to do that does not mean it can’t be done – or isn’t currently being done. Nor does it mean that you will not ever be able to do it.

However it does mean that where there is a belief gap, there will also be a vision gap and as a result an achievement gap, is sure to join the gap party – along with an economic gap, health gap, skill gap, etc..

Without defining or labeling what is good or bad, I will voice my opinion on what is effective and ineffective. What if the building leader of your child’s school told you this: •

Two out of three eighth-graders at

our school won’t be able to read proficiently.

•

Nearly two-thirds of our eighthgraders will score below proficient in math.

•

Seventy-five percent of our students will not be proficient in civics.

•

Nearly three out of four of our eighth- and 12th-grade students will not be able to write proficiently.

And if your loved one is African-American or Hispanic student there is a 40 percent chance they will drop out.

Then they close by saying, but maybe –just maybe- your child will be that needle in the haystack.

Umm hmm. Yeah. Ineffective. Good is irrelevant.

Those statistics are an overview of American schools from NAEP 2011 and 2012. Chances are your loved one is already attending that school. If your loved one’s building leader told you that, you would want a leader that can spin gold too, because there is a greater chance that your child will be a straw of hay, and not the loan needle in a haystack. You would want a leader that can ensure that every student in that classroom has the assets and cultural capital they need to create effective life

outcomes.

Let’s have a moment of truth.

I believe most school leaders want effective schools that produce desired outcomes, but it’s not easy. The difficult journey can produce tiredness, burnout and a deficit model of thinking, however, it can also produce golden haystacks – resilience, perseverance, discipline and wisdom because while it may be difficult, it is POSSIBLE. It. Is. Possible.

The first step is see your belief perspective for what it is. It’s like going on a diet, you know things can be different – where there is belief, there is no doubt. It’s not a matter of if you can change your weight or health, the question is will you persist and persevere and do what needs to be done to change your outcome - DAILY. You must see each child as capable, competent, and contributing –without doubt.

Secondly, you have to think different. You have to give up your deficit mindset and see the child/system and the potential of the child/system at the same time. You must adjust your mindset to see the hay and the gold simultaneously – as one.

Lastly, you MUST do different.

To go on an effective diet, you can’t keep eating junk. You have to change your dietary practices to get a different result. You can’t keep doing things they

way they have always been done. Your goal is change - changing hay into gold.

I believe in the potential of educational leaders because I have to believe. I must believe, because there is no other acceptable alternative. I teach and train many others that believe as I do. What is your belief and what outcomes does your belief produce? What will be your story?

Dr. McLeod is the presidentelect of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators she has presented as a keynote, and an invited speaker for teachers, administrators, school board trustees and students in a number of districts, national and international conferences. She is an expert consultant in the field of cultural responsiveness.

Connect with Dr. McLeod on Twitter @mcleodkr, FB/drkmcleod, Linkedin/KimberlyMcLeod or email DrKMcLeod@gmail.com. Share this story online at www.stylemagazine. com.

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LOCAL BRIEFS

Sock Out Poverty Donates 200 Socks & Blankets to Local Shelter

P

rincess Jackson’s Sock Out Poverty, Inc. organization donated new pairs of socks and blankets to the Salvation Army’s Harbor Light Center & Red Shield Lodge, a men’s rehabilitation program and homeless shelter to benefit the influx of residents during the winter months. Surrounded by 15 volunteers, Jackson and her crew were loaded down with bags of socks and blankets tied up as neatly wrapped presents. This has been Jackson’s personal mission for several years now and to date she has donated approximately 7,000 pairs of socks through her organization in Houston, Beaumont, and San Antonio. For more information, visit www.princessjjackson.com.

University of Houston Cougars are Peach Bowl Ready

U

niversity of Houston fans are showing their pride in red and white, as they get ready to cheer on their guys in At-

NATIONAL

lanta’s Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl. The University of Houston’s football team left Houston over the weekend headed to Atlanta, GA. The team has already held a couple of practices, done tons of interviews, and enjoyed the festivities surrounding the Peach Bowl. The UH Cougars will face the Florida State Seminoles on Thursday, December 31st. Continue to follow their journey and wish them well online at www.uh.edu.

METRO Offers Free Rides for New Year’s Eve

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n an effort to help prevent drunk driving, METRO is once again offering free rides to revelers on New Year’s Eve. Free rides will begin at 6 p.m. New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) until 6 a.m. New Year’s Day (Jan. 1) on both local bus and METRORail.

METRO’s service for New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31., 2015, will follow regular,published schedules. METRORail hours are extended and trains will operate until 2 a.m.

A quick recap of METRO’s service for New Year’s Day, Jan. 1: local bus routes and METRORail will operate a Sunday schedule; no Park & Ride service; customer Care Center will be closed; and METRO’s RideStore and Lost & Found will be closed. For more information, visit www.ridemetro.org.

Black Cemetery Receives Needed Renovation

T

he once abandoned College Park Cemetery is finally getting some tender loving care thanks to

P

rosecutors say the police officer who killed 12-year-old Tamir Rice outside a Cleveland recreation center last year won’t face criminal charges. Neither will the other officer who was with him.

An Ohio grand jury decided not to indict Officers Timothy Loehmann and Frank Garmback, prosecutor Tim McGinty said Monday.

“Given this perfect storm of human error, mistakes and communications by all involved that day, the evidence did not indicate criminal conduct by police,” McGinty said.

Loehmann, an officer-in-training, shot 12-year-old Tamir on November 22, 2014. Garmback was training him.

“It is likely that Tamir, whose size made him look much older and who had been warned his pellet gun might get him into trouble that day, either intended to hand it over to the officers or show them it wasn’t a real gun,” McGinty said. “But there was no way for the officers to know that, because they saw the events rapidly unfolding in front of them from a very different perspective.”

It was “reasonable” to believe the officer who killed the boy believed Tamir was a threat, the prosecutor said, adding that the toy gun looked real.

A recent FBI video analysis, the prosecutor said, showed Tamir “was drawing his gun from his waist as the police slid toward him and Officer Loehmann exited the car.” After the shooting, officers discovered it was a toy gun.

The shooting swiftly sparked controversy given Tamir’s age and the fact that he had a pellet gun, not a handgun.

In a statement released Monday evening, Tamir’s family accused the prosecutor’s office of mishandling the case.

New Café Is One Stop Shop for College Finding out everything there is know about getting into college just got easier with the opening of CaféCollege Houston on Houston’s north side.

The resource center is a multi-organization partnership with several city entities, Mayor Pro-Tem Ed Gonzalez and Project GRAD reports Houston Public Media. Located inside Carnegie Neighborhood Library, the café has a plethora of information about preparing, going, and graduating from college as well as career opportunities. Counselors, who have both high school and college experience, are onsite for additional help. The café is open Monday through Saturday with various hours of operation. For more information, visit www.houstonpublicmedia.org.

Tamir Rice Shooting: No Charges for Officers

CNN Newswire

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one local nonprofit organization. For months now members of the College Park Cemetery Association have been volunteering to clean up the cemetery. They have removed trees, bushes and debris to rediscover historic gravesite like that of former slave Jack Yates. Houston Public Media reports that the group is making progress this year with a new drainage system and a new road with shell surface. For more information, visit www.houstonpublicmedia.org.

Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

Tamir Rice

“Prosecutor McGinty deliberately sabotaged the case, never advocating for my son, and acting instead like the police officers’ defense attorney,” the statement said. “In a time in which a nonindictment for two police officers who have killed an unarmed black child is business as usual, we mourn for Tamir, and for all of the black people who have been killed by the police without justice. In our view, this process demonstrates that race is still an extremely troubling and serious problem in our country and the criminal-justice system.”

In an earlier statement, the family said it was grateful for community support, calling for those upset with how the case was handled to respond “peacefully and democratically.”

“We renew our request that the Department of Justice step in to conduct a real investigation into this tragic shooting of a 12-year-old child,” the family said.

The prosecutor hasn’t responded to the family’s accusations. On Monday, he repeatedly told reporters that no crime was committed by police and said he’d recommended the officers shouldn’t be indicted.

What’s next?

Police officials in Cleveland will conduct an

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administrative review of the shooting now that the criminal investigation is completed, Mayor Frank Jackson said Monday after prosecutors announced the grand jury’s decision.

It’s possible the police officers involved could face disciplinary action if the committee set to review the case determines policies or procedures were violated, Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams said.

“Both of the officers are and will remain on restricted duty. They have been on restricted duty since this incident happened,” he said. “That’s part of our process, not to allow officers involved in critical incidents to go back out there into the fray. They will remain on restricted duty until we complete the administrative process.”

A federal review of the case is ongoing.

“We will continue our independent review of this matter, assess all available materials and determine what actions are appropriate, given the strict burdens and requirements imposed by applicable federal civil rights laws,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Northern Ohio said Monday.

Civil courts may provide some accountability to Tamir’s family “that they deserve,” McGinty said.

No matter what happens next, the public is likely to be skeptical, given how long it took to complete the investigation and the prosecutor’s comments about the case, CNN legal analyst Sunny Hostin said.

“This case screamed out for a special prosecutor,” she said. “I think people will be uncomfortable with the process here. I think it doesn’t take a year to investigate and present a case in front of the grand jury.”

As a cold rain pelted Cleveland on Monday night, a group of protesters walked through the streets, chanting, “Hey hey, ho ho, these killer cops have got to go.”

For the entire story, visit www.cnn.com.

HEALTH

3 Steps to Kick Off a Year of Good Health

Courtesy of Family Features

A

fresh beginning with a new year is the perfect time for a health assessment to ensure you are ready to take on a full and active year ahead.

Even if you’re feeling great, it’s a smart practice to take time to identify potential problems before they become more serious health concerns.

Early detection of ailments, such as cardiovascular disease, can significantly impact an individual’s ability to cope with the disease, allowing you to make adjustments such as changes in diet and lifestyle, or when necessary, drug therapies and other medical treatments. Delaying detection of this serious disease until its more advanced stages can have dire consequences.

With these three steps, you can get a better picture of your cardiovascular health and identify silent, hidden risk factors (like plaque in your arteries) that you may not even know are there.

• Get your blood pressure checked. Blood pressure measures how much force a person’s blood is putting on the artery walls as the heart pumps.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when your heart has to work extra hard to pump blood throughout the body. High blood pressure often happens when arteries lose their elasticity through hardening caused by cholesterol, plaque or scarring. Many people do not experience symptoms of high blood pressure, so it’s important to have your blood pressure checked periodically.

Screening for high blood pressure involves placing a pressure cuff around your upper arm to monitor both diastolic and systolic blood pressure. A

normal systolic reading is between 90 and 119, and a normal diastolic reading is 60-79.

•

•

Get your cholesterol checked. A simple finger-stick screening measures total cholesterol as well as three different kinds of lipids in your blood (HDL, LDL and triglycerides), which are important in determining your heart health. Lowdensity lipoprotein, or LDL, is known as the “bad” cholesterol and can build up in the walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. Along with other substances, it can form plaque – a thick, hard deposit that can clog those arteries. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is known as “good” cholesterol because it carries LDL away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it’s passed from the body. A high HDL level helps prevent heart disease, while a low HDL level increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Triglycerides are the most common type of fat. Like cholesterol, they circulate in blood but are stored in the body for extra energy. A high triglyceride level combined with a low HDL or high LDL can speed up the process of plaque formation in the arteries.

Learn about other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Many people in the early stages of cardiovascular disease are asymptomatic, meaning they have no symptoms to indicate their health is at risk. Some common risk factors include age

(55 and older), family history, tobacco use and high blood-pressure, other factors, such as high cholesterol, aren’t as easily observed. Preventive health screenings, such as those provided by Life Line Screening, can give you a fuller picture of how risk factors may be stacking up. The screenings are designed by doctors and administered by trained professionals to help detect hidden health issues. Within a couple of weeks, you can receive easy-to-understand test results to share with your doctor so you can work together to prevent serious problems before they start.

To starting the year off right with a preventive health screening, visit lifelinescreening.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

REAL ESTATE

HSM’s Designer Spotlight: Rhonnika Clifton of RJ Clifton Designs

Interior Residential Design

dential design I’m still able to service & help people in a way that I really enjoy.

ByTiffany N. Stepanski

By Tiffany N. Stepanski Photos by RJ Clifton Designs Portfolio

A

passion is only a dream unless shared with the world... Houston’s own RHONNIKA CLIFTON with RJ Clifton Designs, walks, talks and shares her passion with her eclectic modern style profile everyday - And loves it. Get to know this rising star of the Houston Interior Design World below: HSM: Share with us about your self How long have you been in Interior Design?

9 years after graduating with my degree in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Houston.

HSM: What inspired you to head in to that direction of design?

I started nursing school & as a poor college kid I need furniture for my little apartment. My sister who owns a resale shop and would let me come in & have my picks. As I began putting the space together, she would showcase my apartment while I was at school. She encouraged me to use my love of fashion to translate into interior design.

After working on updating my mom’s house, a light bulb went off and I said “I’m going to do this!” I applied for (design) school & kept going from there.

HSM: So was the transition from nursing to interior design difficult?

At the core of it I love people so I wanted to still connect with (them) and through nursing or resi-

HSM: So where do you draw inspiration for your designs?

Really from everywhere, but especially fashion designers. I love Fashion and the lines really can cross when it comes to fashion and interiors.

Everyone has something unique or a quirk that they don’t allow to be pulled out. They should show it, and if (I) can do it in their space to show of that something that they love, why not. People inspire me.

HSM: How long have you been involved in American Society of Interior Design (ASID) & with what benefits?

I joined as a student member in school & I’ve always been the type of person to want to get involved with organizations. The ASID allowed me to meet some priceless experienced designers that have been in the (design field) for many years. Through continuously networking I’ve received many opportunities for my career and portfolio, and been able to reach back and connect with upcoming design students as a Co-Chair of Student Outreach. ASID does a good job of keeping us connected.

HSM: What words of encouragement would you provide to Student’s wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Take the leap & follow your dreams if its your passion. If you have any God given talent – trust yourself and do it. Play up on your strengths and find your niche area is. Gain confidence and stay true to

your strong suites. And Network, Network, Network!

HSM: What are your top three tips for quick home holiday makeovers?

Use what you have – Update prior years’ decorations. Grab your hot glue gun & start replacing or refreshing items that might have gotten cracked or faded.

Add a great seating (area) to your home – Add some warmth with pillows and throw blankets. Touch on the senses by adding nice scents and textures to the space where guest will be seated.

Stay Organized – Throughout the holiday season keep yourself organized. Get your storage early and use it throughout the season so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Thank you, Rhonnika for sharing your passion with us! Keep up the amazing work as you create, motivate & inspire others to follow their dreams too.

To enjoy more of the designs from Rhonnika Clifton, visit her at the 2015 ASID Houston Holiday Show House at 54 North Windsail Place, The Woodlands, TX. 77381 or Like & Follow her on Facebook.com at RJCliftonDesigns.

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FEATURE

By Jo

Be a Healthier You in 2016

Carolyn Goode,Managing Editor

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s an old year rolls out and a new one rolls in people tend to do a lot of self- evaluation.

Whether a list is made of highs and lows or a simple recall in the mind is done it is natural to want to make improvements or adjustments to present the best self possible. In that shift subjects of getting your financial house in order, learning a new skill, and taking a great adventure may be on the list. But one thing that always tops everyone’s list is something centered on health and fitness.

Weight loss, strength training, better eating habits, we all have some health improvements that we want to make. For many of us, that something is getting rid of a few pounds. Be it that we regret

of over indulging at Thanksgiving and Christmas have caught up with us in a major way and we want the extra weight off.

With our goal in mind we do our usual beginning of the year routine. We head to our local gym, sign up for a gym membership with personal training, and then head home to clean out everything that is boxed, processed and loaded with sugar from our pantry. We begin working out and eating lots of fruits and vegetables. Pumping with gas, we are going strong on our program. And here is where the problem lies. A few weeks later we are stopped dead in our tracks like BOOM. We don’t see the results from that week of working out hard. Our taste buds are shot from our super bland diet. The excitement is gone. What happened? Too much too fast.

According to Health and Wellness Expert Crystal Hadnott a common mistake of people not sticking to a lifestyle change with diet and exercise is they tackle too much too fast and

are affecting your way of life so give yourself time to adjust to the changes slowly. For example, instead of taking on the monumental objective of voiding sugar completely out of your diet, why not cut down on sodas to 1 – 2 a week instead of every day. Or don’t attempt to workout every day for 2 hours if you haven’t done it in a while. Instead commit to working out 2 to 3 days a week for 30-60 minutes for 2 weeks and then gradually increase.

Another barrier to sticking with our health and fitness routine is taking up activities that we don’t like to do. Hadnott says if you like the exercise you are more likely to stick to it.

Hadnott’s exercise of choice is running since she loves being outside, working out by herself, and being unrestricted. Running is perfect for her. If you are at a lost as to what exercise to do, try out

several. Many gyms, especially now, offer free passes or will let you try a class for free so you can find out what you like. Personally, I love group exercises that have a dance feel to them. Find your niche and get moving.

Now that you are moving right what are you taking in your body? If you are not taking in water then all your exercise and diet changes are for null and void. Hadnott says she always tells her clients to hydrate because water is so beneficial for excellent health and wellness. The recommended amount of water for a person per day is based on a calculation of their body weight multiplied by 2/3. This will give the required fluid ounces per day for that person.

Hadnott’s last tip is centered on carbohydrates. She is not a fan of the no carb diet. According to her all carbs are not bad so that is why it is necessary to have some in your diet.

Of course there are some bad carbs like white rice, white potatoes and such but there are some good carbs like some fruit and vegetables. Just be mindful of what a good carb is and what a bad carb is.

Crystal Hadnott

Get fit with Crystal Hadnott for the New Year. For more information, visit www. that second piece of Aunt Charlotte’s homemade too soon. “Have small goals,” said Hadnott. She synergytotalholistichealthandwellness or call Blue Velvet cake or the extra large scoop of teaches that people must remember that these are (832) 791-1190.

Mama Nita’s sweet potato casserole, the results not just health changes but lifestyle changes that 8

Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

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STYLE EN ESPAÑOL

Arrestan en México al joven con “síndrome de niño rico” y a su madre

Affluenza Teen and His Mother Arrested in Mexico CNN/Stylemagazine.com Newswire

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Ethan Couch

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l alguacil del condado de Tarrant, Texas, Dee Anderson, dijo en una conferencia de prensa este martes en la mañana que el adolescente que padece “afluencia”, Ethan Couch, y su madre, permanecen bajo custodia de las autoridades mexicanas.

Se espera que la madre del joven, Tonya Couch, sea acusada de obstaculizar una aprehensión una vez que ambos sean llevados de vuelta a los Estados Unidos.

La abogada del Distrito Criminal del condado de Tarrant, Texas, Sharen Wilson dijo que su oficina pedirá que el caso del joven de la “afluencia”, Ethan Couch, sea transferido a una corte de adultos para que pueda ser sentenciado con el mayor grado posible.

Ambos fueron capturados este lunes en el popular complejo hotelero del Pacífico de Puerto Vallarta, en México.

Couch desapareció este mes, dos años después de protagonizar titulares de prensa en Estados Unidos cuando fue sentenciado a libertad condicional por causar un choque en 2013 que dejó cuatro muertos mientras estaba en estado de embriaguez.

Las autoridades estadounidenses lo habían buscado durante varias semanas.

El joven es requerido por autoridades en el condado Tarrant, Texas, por presuntamente violar las condiciones de su libertad condicional. Su madre fue registrada por las autoridades de Texas como una persona desaparecida después de la desaparición de su hijo, y dijeron que la mujer estaría ayudándolo.

Parte de la defensa de Couch hace dos años era que él era el producto de padres acaudalados y privilegiados que nunca le pusieron límites al chico. Un psicólogo dijo en la corte que Couch, quien tenía 16 años en ese momento, sufría “afluencia” (afluenza).

El término provocó la indignación generalizada.

La noche del 15 de junio de 2013, Couch y unos amigos robaron cerveza de un Walmart.

Hollie Boyles y su hija, Shelby, dejaron su casa para ayudar a Breanna Mitchell, cuya camioneta se había arruinado a la orilla de una carretera. Brian Jennings, un pastor de jóvenes, conducía por el lugar y también se detuvo a ayudar.

Couch se estrelló contra ellos y los mató a todos. El accidente lanzó a dos de los pasajeros que iban en la parte trasera de la camioneta de Couch y ambos quedaron con heridas graves.

Los padres de uno de los adolescentes, quien sufrió lesiones cerebrales debilitantes, demandaron a la familia de Couch por 2 millones de dólares.

Tres horas después del accidente, las pruebas mostraron que el nivel de alcohol en la sangre de Couch era de 0.24, tres veces el límite legal. El vehículo de Couch también chocó contra un auto estacionado, el cual se deslizó y chocó a otro vehículo que iba en la dirección opuesta.

Para más información visite www.cnn.com.

Follow Us #TeamStyleMag

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Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

arrant County Sheriff, Dee Anderson said at a news conference Tuesday morning that the “affluenza” adolescent Ethan Couch and his mother are in custody of Mexican authorities.

It is expected that the boy’s mother, Tonya Couch, will be charged with hindering apprehension once both are brought back to the United States.

Attorney for the Criminal District Tarrant County, Texas, said his office will request that the case of the “affluenza” teen Ethan Couch to be transferred to adult court to be sentenced to the maximum extent possible.

Both were captured on Monday in the popular Pacific resort of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Couch disappeared this month, two years after making headlines in the United States when he was sentenced to probation for causing a crash in 2013 that killed four people while intoxicated.

Young is being sought by authorities in Tarrant County (Texas) for allegedly violating the terms of his probation. His mother was recorded by the Texas authorities as a missing person after the disappearance of her son.

Part of Couch’s defense two years ago was that he was the product of wealthy and privileged parents that never set boundaries, guidelines for the boy. A psychologist told the court that Couch, who was 16 at the time, suffered “affluenza”.

The term provoked widespread uproar.

On the night of June 15, 2013, Couch and some friends stole beer from a Walmart.

Boyles Hollie and her daughter, Shelby, left their home to help Breanna Mitchell, whose truck was damaged by the side of a road. Brian Jennings, a youth pastor, was driving by and stopped to help also.

Couch hit them and killed them all. The accident threw two of the passengers in the rear of the truck. Couch was seriously injured.

The parents of one of the teenagers, who suffered debilitating brain injury, sued Couch for $2 million.

Three hours after the accident, tests showed that Couch’s blood alcohol level was 0.24, three times over the legal limit. Couch’s vehicle also hit a parked car, which slid and crashed into another vehicle going in the opposite direction.

For more information, visit www.cnn.com.

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BOOK REVIEW

Happy in Our Skin

ama says it’s chilly outside and you need to cover up.

You can’t let the cold nip your nose or your toes, so she bundles you up warm with boots and coat, maybe a scarf and mittens, too. As you’ll see in the book, “Happy in Our Skin” by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Lauren Tobia, Mama – and something else – will keep you toasty, inside and out.

Right after a baby is born, someone wraps it tight in a blanket or a sweater to keep it warm. But did you know a baby – every baby, even you – is already born with a warm suit? It’s their birthday suit, made of skin.

Skin comes in all kinds of colors: “cocoa brown, cinnamon, and honey gold… ginger-colored… peaches and cream…” as well as pale, freckled, dimpled, dappled, and skin that’s different shades. No matter what it looks like, it’s just skin. We all have it, and it does the same really cool thing: “It keeps the outsides out and your insides in.”

This is cool, too: as you get bigger, your skin gets bigger right along with you. You don’t even have to think about it or ask for help with it. It just does. And you know what happens when you hurt your skin? Yep, you get a “perfect seal” in the form of a scab that keeps blood in and germs out. Think about that the next time you skin your

knee or bump your elbow when you’re playing.

What else does skin do?

It makes you warm and snuggly when Mom or Dad hugs you. It makes you laugh when they tickle your belly.

Your skin feels good when someone scratches your back, holds your hand, or plays “This Little Piggy” on your toes.

Yes, you have clothes for your body, hands, and your feet, but your skin is your first protection.

And the best part of all? Nobody has skin exactly like yours! You are unique, and so is your skin.

For much of your toddler’s life, you’ve been playing Where’s Your Nose-Chin-Elbow so your child can learn the names of his body parts. Now, with “Happy in Our Skin,” you can add a new twist to an old game in a truly sweet way.

Starting with snuggly babies and using a simple rhyme, author Fran Manushkin tells the story of skin: what it does, why we have it, and why one person’s skin is one color and your child’s skin might be another. Manushkin doesn’t highlight differences; instead, she treats them quite matter-of-factly and like no big deal. That sentiment’s underscored with illustrations by Lauren Tobia: on page after page, your child will see drawings of kids of all races

M

By Terri

by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Lauren Tobia

Schichenmeyer, Literary Writer

playing together, and their mothers caring for them.

The audience for this book is narrow: babies are a little too young for it, and 5-year-olds may be too old.

The sweet spot, I think, is for 2-to-4year-olds who are just starting to notice differences. For them, “Happy in Our Skin” covers just what they need.

Share this story online at www. stylemagazine.com.

c.2015, Candlewick Press $15.99 / $19.00 Canada 32 pages

HOUSTON, TEXAS

Mayor-Elect Turner’s Thank You Reception Photography by Vicky Pink

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n December 28, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand as Houston Mayor-Elect Sylvester Turner hosted a Thank You Reception. Mayor-Elect Turner took time to thank the many volunteers and supporters that helped him have a successful campaign for the office of Houston Mayor. Mayor-Elect Turner posed for several pictures and gave even more hugs and smiles. Some in attendance were Ashley Turner, State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Dr. Jonita Reynolds, Judge Fredericka Phillips, Barry Ward, Stephen Brown, Helen George, Rhonda Skillern-Jones, Marty McVey, Brandon Dudley, State Rep. Dr. Alma Allen, Jolanda Jones, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, and Wanda Adams.

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Make Protein at Breakfast This Year’s Resolution Courtesy of Family Features

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ired of the same New Year’s resolution? The popular yet undefined goal to make healthy choices often fails after a few weeks as we get tired of pursuing such a lofty goal. This year, get specific with your goal and commit to making the most of each day by increasing your protein intake at breakfast.

Americans tend to eat most of their protein in the evening, but back-loading protein at dinner can affect how your body uses it. That’s why experts recommend spacing out your protein intake throughout the day to make the most of the important nutrition it provides. In fact, many nutrition experts now recommend getting 25-30 grams of protein at each meal for the best daily nutrition, yet Americans only get about 13 grams of protein at breakfast, on average.

Pairing a glass of milk (or chocolate milk) and its high-quality protein with your eggs or favorite overnight oats combination is an easy, delicious way to help get the 25-30 grams of protein recommended before noon. Plus, you’ll feel fuller longer so you can focus on the things you want to accomplish.

Savory Oatmeal with Soft-Cooked Egg and Bacon Servings: 1 Protein: 32 grams 1 cup lowfat milk 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats, uncooked 1 pinch sea salt 1 teaspoon cooking oil (or 1/2-second spray) 1 large egg 1 tablespoon cheddar cheese, shredded 1 slice cooked bacon, coarsely chopped 2 teaspoons green onion, sliced

salt and pepper (optional) Combine milk, oats and salt and cook according to package instructions. While oats cook, heat small, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly coat with cooking oil. Add egg and cook about 3-4 minutes for runny yolk.

Serve oatmeal topped with cheese, bacon, egg and green onion. If desired, season with salt and pepper.

Serve immediately with 8-ounce glass of milk.

Nutrition information per serving: 540 calories; 23 g fat; 8 g saturated fat; 225 mg cholesterol; 32 g protein; 52 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 800 mg sodium; 605 mg calcium (70% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using lowfat milk and including an 8-ounce glass of milk.

Almond Butter English Muffin with Peach-Topped Cottage Cheese paired with Chocolate Milk Servings: 1 Protein: 32 grams tablespoon almond butter English muffin, toasted and halved cup cottage cheese cup diced peaches

1 1 1/2 1/4

Spread almond butter on toasted English muffin.

Nutrition information per serving: 230 calories; 10 g fat; 1 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 9 g protein; 30 g carbohydrates; 6 g fiber; 280 mg sodium; 229 mg calcium (25% of daily value).

For morning snack: Top cottage cheese with peaches and serve with 8-ounce glass of chocolate milk.

Nutrition information per serving: 270 calories; 3.5 g fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 10 mg cholesterol; 22 g protein; 38 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 610 mg sodium; 361 mg calcium (35% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using lowfat chocolate milk and including an 8-ounce glass of chocolate milk.

For more information on how you can fill up your cup with milk to get closer to your morning protein goal, visit MilkLife.com.

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Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

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MATCH THEATER HOUSTON, TEXAS

Concussion Houston Private Screening Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Saturday, December 19, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at The Match Theater for a private screening of the movie Concussion. The film tells the story of forensic pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith) who discovers neurological deterioration that is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in American football players. He names the disorder chronic traumatic encephalopathy. After the screening of the film, a Q&A session was held with the real life Dr. Bennet Omalu and Adewale Akinnouye-Agbaje, who also stars in the film. Some in attendance were Matthew Knowles, Vernita Harris, Carl Davis, Miya Shay, State Rep. Gene Wu, and City Councilwoman-elect Amanda Edwards.

FORT BEND PROMISE HOUSTON, TEXAS

Angelique Bartholomew’s Toy Drive Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Thursday, December 24, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Fort Bend Promise as Angelique Bartholomew hosted a toy drive. Bartholomew, who is a candidate for state HD seat 26, shared her Christmas spirit with the children receiving services from Fort Bend Promise. With her family at her side, Bartholomew brightened the day of the less fortunate. Fort Bend Promise works with individual and families during hard times and helps them get back on their feet.

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WEST OREM YMCA SPRING, TEXAS

Blue Santa Visits West Orem YMCA Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Wednesday, December 16, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at the West Orem YMCA as Blue Santa visited all the children. Houston Police Department showered community children with Christmas gifts as they dished out some holiday cheer. Bright smiles and wide eyes could be seen from wall-to-wall as children excitedly took their treasurers.

LEONEL CASTILLO COMMUNITY CENTER HOUSTON, TEXAS

Capitol One Bank 7th Graduation Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Wednesday, December 16, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at the Leonel Castillo Community Center for Capital One Bank’s 7th annual graduation for small business owners who successfully completed the bank’s “Getting Down to Business” program. Created by Capital One Bank, Getting Down to Business is a free comprehensive, seven-month training program that provides qualified business owners with information and guidance designed to help them grow their business. The program includes a matched savings component of up to $2,000 that the business owners can use for operations, staffing or the purchase of supplies. Some in attendance were Carlecia Wright, and Marcus Davis, Nicole Montgomery.

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Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

www.StyleMagazine.com

WILLIE G’S HOUSTON, TEXAS

Coryat 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Saturday, December 26, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Willie G’s restaurant for the 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration of Ruben and Pearl Coryat. A grand celebration was held in honor of the couple’s milestone that was attended by their children, Marina, Joseph, Peter, Blossom and Ronald Coryat, along with their spouses, grandchildren, and long-time family friends. It was a time of inspiration, fun, music, good food and laughter. Some of the guests included Ann Thomas, Errol and Veno Coryat, Jacob and Don Hon, Lenox and Elvira Borris, Mattie Ford, Jerry and Hortense Murphy, Walter and Hilda Turner, Renette Brown, Otis Johnson, Ray Woo and his family along with a host of other close friends of the family.

CAFE 4212 HOUSTON, TEXAS

MWDBE Prime Contractor Holiday Reception Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Wednesday, December 16, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Café 4212 for the MWDBE Prime Contractor Holiday Reception. The event was part of festivities taking place during “MWDBE Transformation Week.” In partnership with the Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum (GHBPF), MWDBE Transformation Week was created to honor the collective talents and outstanding achievements of minority and small businesses transforming Houston economically, socially, and politically. Attendees enjoyed a networking reception and awards presentation. Some in attendance were Goodwillie Pierre, Helen Callier, State Rep. Borris Miles, Susan Repka, April Day, Linda Toyota, Keith Davis, and Cheryl Elliott Thornton.

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LUCKY STRIKE BOWL HOUSTON, TEXAS

2nd Mentorship between the Lanes Photography by Bobby Hall

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n Sunday, December 20, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Lucky Strike Bowl for Dwight D. and Sheryl H. Howard Foundation’s 2nd Annual “Mentorship Between the Lanes” event. Over 20 underserved males who achieved scholastic and athletic excellence ages 7-14 were able to bowl with their favorite celebrity, professional, athlete, or community leader. Students were chosen based on an essay and a letter of recommendation from their teacher, principal, or coach. Some in attendance were Jahaziel Howard, Rusty Hardin, Chief Charles A. Mc Clelland, Asst. Chief Troy Finner, Marvin Pierre, Dr. Wylene Martin, Stanley Barnes, Slim Thug, JMac, DJ JQue, DJ Dizzle, Robert “Bassman” Washington, KG Smooth, Shawn Maldonado, and Rodney Green.

TARGET SUPERSTORE HOUSTON, TEXAS

Shop With A Cop, Shop with A Jock Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Tuesday, December 15, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at Target Superstore as Houston Police Department South Patrol Command hosted “Shop with a Cop, Shop with a Jock” holiday extravaganza. The annual event allowed kids to “Live in the Moment” and enjoy the holiday celebration by having a 10-minute shopping spree and more sponsored by Target. The Houston Police Department was joined by special friends Target Superstores Regional Directors, Deputies from the Harris County Sherriff’s Department, Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol Division, Harris County Mounted Patrol, Professional Athletes (current and retired) and a host of other Celebrities and Entertainers to bring a “Smile to a Child’.

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Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

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GRB CONVENTION CENTER HOUSTON, TEXAS

Congresswoman Lee Toys for Kids Holiday Party Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Saturday, December 19, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at the George R. Brown Convention Center for the 2015 Toys for Kids Holiday Party hosted by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. It was a SJL kind of takeover at the GRB as hundreds of volunteers packed the building to bring Christmas joy to grateful Houstonians. Children were able to enjoy games and receive presents while families were able to eat, see a parade, and take advantage of a lot of health and human services. Some in attendance were Mayor-Elect Sylvester Turner, Houston Rockets mascot Clutch, Jack Yates High School band, Pancho Claus, Melinda Spaulding, NASA astronauts, Carl Davis, Erica Lee Carter, Roy Carter, Lalou Yemitan, Marty McVey, State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Dr. Jonita Reynolds, Mr. Top Teen, and Trae tha Truth.

HOUSTON, TEXAS

TSU and TAIO Pharmacy Alumni Annual Social Photography by Vicky Pink

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n Friday, December 18, 2015, Houston Style Magazine was on hand at the Texas Southern University Pharmacy Alumni Foundation and the Texas Association of Independent Pharmacy Owners held their annual holiday social. The event was a party with a purpose as funds were raised for the new pharmacy simulation lab at TSU as well as scholarships for the foundation and Founder of TAIPO, Dr. Harold Stafford, and the class of 1957. Sponsors of the event included Dr. Damita Wyatt, Arthur Billings, Health Fit Pharmacy, DNA Pharmacy, Clinical Care and Dr. Anjanette Wyatt. Dr. Edward Stemely, Dean of TSU College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, was in attendance.

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Dec 31 - Jan 6, 2016

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BUSINESS BRIEFS Local Businesses Say No to Open Carry

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ith the start of the New Year the new state law of open carry for licensed gun owners becomes effective.

However, many local businesses are saying that won’t happen on their property. H-E-B and the Galleria are among a group of privately own businesses that are not allowing guns in their establishments. The Houston Zoo is also continuing to ban guns, as they are an educational institution.

So beware where you carry in 2016. For more information, visit www.stylemagazine.com.

Toyota Places a Charitable Spin on the Traditional Selfie with New Campaign #Selfessie

For more information, visit www.hispanicizeevent. com.

New Streaming TV Network kweliTV Targets Black Audience

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weliTV will shake up the entertainment industry come 2016. Call it the Black Netflix, kweliTV is a streaming TV network from the brain DeShuna Spencer of DeShuna Spencer. According to tnj.com, kweliTV will show independent films, news, fashion, up-and-coming entertainers, Black history programming and documentaries all geared toward Black audiences. Spencer said she started the network because she wanted to find a platform that spoke directly to her. Find out more about kweliTV on www.tnj.com.

Whole Foods Settles Consumer Overcharge Case with Big Payout

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n investigation of Whole Foods Market Inc. revealed that consumers were being overcharged on prepackaged foods. Products were labeled with incorrect weights resulting in higher prices. In the wake of the investigation, Whole Foods has taken steps to ensure this won’t happen again. Whole Foods will pay $500K to settle the case of overcharge allegations and monitor products on a quarterly basis to ensure accuracy. For more information, visit www.stylemagazine.com.

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oyota’s #Selflessie initiative, which encourages Instagram users to ditch their typical selfie snapshots in favor of posting a “selfless selfie” continues through January 4th. Every photo hashtagged on Instagram with #Selflessie will trigger a $50 donation from Toyota to Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), up to $250,000. The #Selfie, a cultural phenomenon, ranks amongst the most popular hashtags on social media with over 1 million posts each day. Celebrities including Kelly Rowland, Debby Ryan and Paul Wesley are helping Toyota spread the positive message of selflessness this holiday season. For more information, visit www.toyota.com.

Hispanicize HX Makes Its Way to Houston

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ispanicize HX finally made its way to Houston this week. Hispanicize HX Houston was one the regional events for the national Hispanicize event to take place in Miami in April 2016. It was the first time Houston hosted the multi-industry power network gathering that brought H-Town’s top community of Latino and multicultural influencers in journalism, social media, marketing, entertainment and entrepreneurship together. Organizers want to make Houston a permanent part of the family of Hispanicize events.

Sprint and Samsung Partner for Latino Tech Movement

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ccording to Hispanic PR Blog, Sprint and Samsung Electronics America, Inc. have joined forces with SABEResPODER (Knowledge is Power) to increase technology adoption through educational tools. It is hoped that Latinos will increase their usage of technology to change their lives. Sprint and Samsung will be the providers of value-oriented cell phone plans and devices during the 17-week campaign that will also educate consumers on mobile devices. The campaign officially launches on Jan. 18, 2016, and is available through SEP’s digital platform and community locations in Phoenix, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, New York, and San Antonio. For more information, visit www. hispanicprblog.com.

Target Wants Your Unwanted Gift Cards

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arget is buying unwanted gift cards, albeit at a reduced price. Target (TGT) is partnering with gift card exchange website Cardpool and electronic trade-in company Nextworth for the program.

Cardpool provides the trade-in rate of consumers’ gift cards and then re-sells them. Target will exchange gift cards from more than 600 brands, including Old Navy (GPS), Cheesecake Factory (CAKE), Tiffany & Co (TIF), Staples (SPLS) and Pottery Barn (WSM).

The program is available in 1,562 Target stores in the electronics department. For more information, visit www.money.cnn.com.

It’s a Hoax: Zuckerberg Not Giving $4.5 Billion to Facebook Users

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ark Zuckerberg and his wife’s announcement to celebrate the birth of their daughter with a Mark Zuckerberg charitable donation has warped into a viral hoax of the couple giving way $4.5 billion to 1,000 random Facebook users. Although the couple is giving away a sizeable amount of money to selected charities, they are not giving away any money to random FB users.

This has been verified to be a hoax. If it is too good to be true, it probably is. For more information, visit www.stylemagazine.com.

Hoverboard Related Falls Spike for the Holidays

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overboard sales have been big business this holiday season but they have also caused major expenses.

Hundreds of people are spending more time in the ER due to injuries sustained while operating a Hoverboard. As of Monday afternoon, there were 70 reports of emergency room visits due to Hoverboards, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Plus the growing reputation of the board to spontaneous catch fire is causing great concern. The government is already investigating 22 associated reports. So did Hoverboard fail or sail this Christmas?

For more information, visit www.money.cnn.com.

Land O’Lakes Makes Hugh Donation to Houston Food Bank

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ig trucks rolled onto the property of the Houston Food Bank for a post Christmas gift drop off. Danny Farrell, Plant Manager, Purina Animal Nutrition LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Land O’Lakes, Inc. and his team delivered 40,000 lbs. of Land O’Lakes shredded American cheese and cream sauce base products for distribution to area food shelves. The welcome donation is part of Land O’Lakes’ commitment to develop and strengthen organizations dedicated to hunger relief, education and the community. For more information, visit www. houstonfoodbank.org.

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