Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 17

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

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COMMENTARY

Most people think of “tree hugger” as a casual insult for a certain kind of environmentalist. The term actually has a proud history. It is time to take it back.

In 1730, 363 members of Bishnois branch of Hinduism in India clung to – or “hugged” – the trees in their village to stop them from being cut down to build a palace. The protesters were killed for their cause. But the incident led to a royal decree that outlawed any more trees being cut down in Bishnoi villages. More than 200 years later, a group of peasant women inspired by the Bishnoi “hugged” trees to stop them from being cut down in Uttar Pradesh, India. That action led to the Chipko movement, which saved countless trees in the Himalayan region from reckless deforestation. Chipko means “to cling” and that evolved into “tree hugging.”

Dr. Daniela Shebitz, an ecologist and ethnobotanist at Kean University says, “you get a sense of connection with nature through that physical contact but it also helps emotional wellbeing … even just taking a few seconds, whether it’s smelling flowers or hugging trees. Just finding a moment to connect with nature as you go about your daily routine is so helpful, especially in places where you know that tree is connecting to other organisms like other trees, animals like birds and insects, or the moss and lichen that could be growing on it.”

The mental health benefits and the connections people can form with nature through just being around trees –and, yes, even hugging them – are very real. The act of literally hugging a tree has been shown to cause an increase in the hormone oxytocin, which reduces stress and improves one’s mood.

And why not hug a tree? Trees do so much for us.

“You can make so many observations and become a scientist just by looking at a tree outside your window,” says Dr. Shebitz.

“We can learn so much about

RECLAIMING “TREE HUGGER” MENTALITY FROM 1730

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

nature and environmental interaction just by seeing what comes to the tree to get nectar from the flowers, build nests, or collect nuts. And what it provides in food and habitat is just what we can see. We know that tree is also providing health benefits like making the air cleaner by pulling out carbon and particulate matter, and producing oxygen. That’s part of the reason that asthma rates go up in areas without trees.”

Trees also absorb and slow runoff to protect against flooding during storms. From 1970 to 2012, 38 percent of the natural disasters in the world were caused by floods. Among natural disasters, floods have generated the worst economic losses. And flood threats are increasing with climate change.

Trees even reduce crime. They are like superheroes. A review of 45 papers by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that the presence of green spaces, including parks and trees, reduces crime in urban areas. Some studies have shown a 10% increase in tree canopy can lead to a 12% decrease in crime. A 2001 study

of public housing projects in Chicago by researchers at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign compared buildings that had trees close by with those surrounded only by pavement. It found the buildings surrounded by trees and vegetation had 52 percent fewer total crimes and 56 percent fewer violent crimes. This phenomenon is due in part to more residents coming outside to enjoy the shade and cooler temperatures provided by the trees – adding more “eyes on the street.”

Dr. Shebitz says her students at New Jersey’s Kean University are mostly from underserved, urban communities and do not come to her classes with an existing connection to nature.

“Many of them don’t realize why New Jersey’s called the Garden State. So a big part of my work is reconnecting people to their natural environment, even if it’s just right outside of their house or apartment.”

That sense of connection can’t be overstated. In the civil rights movement –as in every movement for social change –it is no secret that building connections is the way to build movements. But it is not

just connections to other human beings that are important. We understand the importance of protecting our neighbors and communities by building connections with them and we understand the importance of protecting nature through connections as well.

Part of why trees provide such a good way to connect with nature is they have their own kind of “heartbeat,” as Dr. Shebitz points out. Their circulation system for the water, food, and nutrients pumping through their bodies mirrors our own in some ways.

With Arbor Day coming up, it is a good time to reclaim “tree hugger.” Trees deserve a hug. And you deserve the benefits you will get from that hug.

Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.”

You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com www.StyleMagazine.com

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POLITICAL: HARRIS COUNTY VOTERS LEAD THE CHARGE: EARLY VOTING KICKOFF FOR CRITICAL MAY 4TH ELECTIONS

By Burt Levine, Political Editor For www.StyleMagazine.com

Hcommenced,

Appraisal District Board elections. The special election for Senate District 15 was initiated to conclude the term started by Mayor John Whitmire, marking a pivotal moment as it was the first open race for the district in over four decades.

Additionally, the Harris County Central Appraisal District Board elections were of

utmost importance, affecting property valuations and consequently, the annual taxes residents are legally obligated to contribute to a variety of municipal needs.

In the midst of these elections, notable figures made their candidacies known, such as State Rep. Jarvis Johnson, who brings a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and

political experience to the table, and Molly Cook, whose background in nursing and activism represents a fresh perspective.

The early voting turnout showcased the citizens' enthusiasm and the strategic engagement of the community.

Locations like the West Gray Multi-Service Center witnessed considerable voter turnout, emphasizing the community's active participation in shaping the political landscape.

It's crucial for every eligible voter in Harris County to understand the weight of their vote, especially in such consequential local elections. These elections not only shape the immediate future of the county but also echo the collective voice of its residents in the broader state of Texas.

To stay updated with the most recent election outcomes and to delve into more in-depth analyses, readers of Houston Style Magazine can always refer to the Harris Votes website, which offers comprehensive live results and valuable information for voters (harrisvotes). For those interested in understanding the broader political strategies, especially in terms of recruitment and party strategies, additional commentary and insights can be explored through resources like: www.HarrisVotes.com

LOCAL : Beyoncé Leads the Charge in Country Music's Inclusive Renaissance

CALL ME COUNTRY: BEYONCÉ & NASHVILLE’S RENAISSANCE ON CNN FRIDAY

By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

Houston very own Beyoncé has etched her name into the annals of country music history, becoming the first Black woman to conquer Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. This milestone is more than a personal triumph; it's a catalyst for a much-needed dialogue about the essence of country music, a conversation that Houston Style Magazine is proud to amplify.

Beyoncé's trailblazing album

“Cowboy Carter,” released on March 29, rides the wave of a seismic shift in the country genre, an arena currently witnessing its own cultural reawaken-

ing. Within the strains of each song, there's a challenge to the status quo — a push against the traditional boundaries that have long defined country music as the stronghold of straight, white male narratives.

The documentary "CALL ME COUNTRY: BEYONCÉ & NASHVILLE’S RENAISSANCE ," set to stream this Friday, April 26, on Max, delves into this revolution from the heart of the country music capital. It's a timely piece by CNN FlashDocs that showcases the contributions and the ongoing struggles of Black artists in a genre that

is finally beginning to embrace a more diverse and inclusive future.

The documentary spotlights luminaries like Lil Nas X alongside Beyoncé , underscoring the impact high-profile artists have in challenging preconceived notions. It's not just about who country music is for, but who can define it. Interviews with Rhiannon Giddens, the Osborne brothers, and a host of other artists and experts provide a multi-faceted look at the genre’s evolution.

But even as we celebrate today's victories, we remember the pioneers like Linda Martell , whose story is poignantly recounted in the earlier "Call Me Country" documentary. Martell, a figure of resilience and talent, navigated the challenging waters of the country music scene in the 60s and 70s, facing both racism and sexism head-on. Her journey, highlighted by her historic performance at the Grand Ole Opry and her hit "Color Him Father," laid the groundwork for today's artists of color. Linda Martell’s legacy is not forgotten, and her courage continues to inspire a new generation that sees in Beyoncé's

success a reflection of their potential.

This feature is more than just a nod to the achievements of these remarkable women; it's a celebration of an ongoing transformation — one that Houston Style Magazine is excited to document and support.

As Beyoncé's “Cowboy Carter” resonates with fans and "CALL ME COUNTRY: BEYONCÉ & NASHVILLE’S RENAISSANCE " prepares to tell its story, we are reminded of the power of music to bridge divides and to serve as a beacon for change. It’s a tale of resilience, artistry, and the undying spirit of Houston’s homegrown talent, proving that in country music, there's room for every voice. www.StyleMagazine.com

Tyra Banks – Luncheon Speaker

Caroline Collins – Fox 26 - MC

Reggie Van Lee - Co-Presenter

LOCAL: UNVEILING FUTURES: HISD’S 12TH WHEN I GROW UP EXPO AND JOB FAIR BRIDGES DREAMS TO REALITY IN HOUSTON!

Houston Style Magazine presents a unique opportunity for the future architects of society at the 12th Annual When I Grow Up Expo. The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is once again igniting the spark of career curiosity among young minds. On Saturday, April 27, 2024, from the energetic morn-

ing hours of 10:00 a.m. until the eventful close at 2:00 p.m., the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center transforms into a hub of career exploration and inspiration.

Families and students from elementary to high school are invited to this cost-free event, a career odyssey showcasing over 100 exhibitors from the heartbeat of Houston's local industry. Discover the diverse career pathways that Houston's economy thrives on, from the traditional to the unconventional. Engage with hands-on demonstrations, educational workshops, and witness the synergy of student competitions. It's not just about the future – with

job fairs for those aged 16 to 21, it's also about the present.

HISD's Career Readiness department is dedicated to preparing students not only for the jobs of today but also for the unforeseen opportunities of tomorrow. Indulge in the variety of food trucks, enjoy student performances, and don't forget to experience the Career Ready Wagon, which rolls in packed with resources for the career adventurers.

Let your aspirations take flight at 4400 West 18th Street in the heart of Houston, where the future is not just a concept, but a hands-on experience. Whether you're a student poised for the workforce,

or a guardian nurturing a dream, the When I Grow Up Expo is where aspirations and reality converge. Prepare to be enthralled, educated, and empowered at this not-to-bemissed event. For more information, HISD opens its doors and its heart to a brighter future, and you're invited to be a part of this visionary journey.

Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center

LOCAL: CELEBRATING A MILESTONE: THE 50TH GALVESTON

HISTORIC HOMES TOUR MAKES ITS GRAND RETURN

By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

Step into the living tapestry of Galveston’s celebrated past as the Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) cordially invites you to the 50th Anniversary of the Galveston Historic Homes Tour. This hallmark event, flourishing

with a half-century of tradition, makes its grand return on the weekends of May 4, 5, 11, and 12, 2024, promising a rich exploration of the island's architectural splendors.

Graced by the winds of the Gulf, the GHF opens a unique window into the soul of the island by offering public tours of its most treasured privately owned homes. Whether grandiose estates or charming cottages, the 2024 edition of this tour provides a kaleidoscope of historical experiences for all visitors. In synergy with these home visits, attendees will be treated to an array of special events that weave together the narrative of the island’s storied locales.

Honoring local talent and creativity, GHF annually commissions an artist for the exclusive Homes Tour commemorative print. This year, the spotlight shines on Jessica Antonelli, a homegrown talent, art maestro, and a catalyst for community art initiatives. Her decade-plus dedication to artistic expression encapsulates the spirit of Galveston, making her a fitting emblem for the tour's milestone celebration.

As anticipation mounts, the GHF announces the availability of tour tickets, providing access to this splendid journey from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on each day of the event. Early birds benefit from a reduced ticket price of $45 until May 1, with a

general admission rate of $50 thereafter. Embracing the digital age, tickets can be acquired online or on location with credit/ debit card options. GHF members enjoy an exclusive rate of $40, a nod to their unwavering support. Remember, these homes are a once-seen, forever-cherished experience, as re-entry is not permitted.

Elevating the tour in 2024 is the introduction of step-on trolley packages, an added convenience for guests. These trolleys, accessible with a special ticket, enhance the tour experience by offering comfortable, air-conditioned rides with priority parking and accessible seating.

It’s important to note that tickets are non-refundable, and in the essence of preservation and respect, the tour maintains a strict no-smoking, no-photo, and no-pet policy

The GHF, established in 1871 and redefined in 1954, stands as a beacon of preservation and education within Galveston County. It champions the intricate dance between the environmental sciences and historic preservation, sharing an engaging continuum of the island's life from yesteryear to the present.

For the readers of Houston Style Magazine looking to step back in time and immerse themselves in the architec-

tural beauty and rich history of Galveston, the Historic Homes Tour awaits with its unique blend of education, celebration, and remembrance. Join us for this extraordinary event that not only celebrates the past but also cherishes the living history that these homes represent.

Jessica Antonelli

Number: 24-04-01

HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Houston Independent School District will receive Competitive Sealed Proposals from contractors for work on the Milby High School Athletic Field Lighting project. All required proposal information, except sub-contractor firm information and M/WBE required documents, are due no later than Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 2:00 PM CST at 4400 West 18th Street, Office of Board Services #1C, Houston, TX 77092. The proposals will be opened, and the amounts read aloud.

Milby High School is located at 16011/2 Broadway Street, Houston, TX 77012

The Request for Competitive Sealed Proposal (RFCSP), which includes plans and specifications, will be available beginning Saturday, April 20, 2024, and are on file at:

HISD Solicitation bid website: https://www.houstonisd.org/Page/179264.

There is NO charge to view or download documents. Any questions regarding documents are to be addressed to Michelle Chevalier, mchevali@houstonisd.org.

The Competitive Sealed Proposal process will be utilized as authorized in Senate Bill 1093, Legislative Session 83- 2013, Ch. 2269, Subchapter D, of Texas Government Code. The Competitive Sealed Proposal process enables HISD to select contractors on the basis of price and qualifications/methodology.

Sub-contractor firm information and M/WBE forms, schedules and statements, as required by Section AB of the RFCSP and in accordance with the Office of Business Assistance, will be received at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in the Board Services Office #1C, 4400 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77092. PROPOSALS SUBMITTED WITHOUT M/WBE FORMS PROPERLY COMPLETED WILL BE CONSIDERED NON-RESPONSIVE.

A pre-proposal conference will be held at Milby High School, 16011/2 Boardway Street, Houston, TX 77012 at 10:00 AM CST, Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

For additional information regarding this project, please contact Michelle Chevalier, mchevali@houstonisd.org. Drawings and Specifications for the RFCSP may be reviewed at the following Houston locations:

Associated General Contractors/ www.agchouston.org

HISD Construction Services Office (Bond), 3200 Center, Houston, TX 77007, (713) 556-9250 McGraw Hill Construction/Dodge /www.construction.com

Virtual Builders Exchange, 7035 West Tidwell, Suite #Jll2, Houston, TX. 77092

Houston Style Magazine connoisseurs, as you ready your evening tea and finest attire, prepare for the grand return of Netflix's crown jewel, 'Bridgerton.' The third installment of this lavish series has unfurled its tapestry of episodes, each a gem nestled in the grand narrative of Regency romance.

So, how many soirées shall 'Bridgerton' Season 3 grace us with? A total of eight enthralling episodes await your viewing pleasure. The series, structured in a two-part release, has unveiled titles that promise a journey from whispered rumors to declarations proclaimed in the light of day. The first four episodes, Part 1 will premiere on May 16, followed by the next four, Part 2 a month later June 13, according to Netflix.

Part 1 opens with “Out of the Shadows,” setting the stage for a season

bathed in revelations and heartfelt pursuits. As we waltz into “How Bright the Moon,” the series ensures a spectacle of emotional crescendos, followed by “Forces of Nature” where, perhaps, love and societal elements collide with the unstoppable force of our beloved characters' wills. The concluding episode of the first release, “Old Friends,” suggests a dance with the past, interlacing familiar faces with the evolving tapestry of our characters' lives.

Anticipation peaks as Part 2 promises to amplify the drama. “Tick Tock” resonates with the urgency of courtship's ticking clock, while “Romancing Mister Bridgerton” paints a clear portrait of the romantic focal point of this season.

Read More at:

HCULINARY: TIPSY TREATS TO GO: A TASTE OF HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS AND SOUTHERN COMFORT IN HOUSTON

By Jo-Carolyn Goode For www.StyleMagazine.com

ouston we have a revelation in revelry! Introducing Tipsy Treats to Go, Upper Kirby's latest haunt for eclectic libations and soulful cuisine. This lively establishment is the brainchild of Houston's own Sherrel Lemon, who, in just two short months, has turned her vision into the city’s newest buzz. It’s not just a bar, it’s a cultural experience, imbued with the vibrancy of Houston's spirit and a zest for memorable moments.

Creating an Experience

As you enter Tipsy Treats to Go, you're immediately embraced by its kaleidoscopic charm. Pink hues, gold accents, and an enchanting carousel horse set the stage for an experience that’s uniquely Houston. Sherrel’s dynamic personality is the heartbeat of this venue, fueling a place where every visit is an escape from the mundane.

A Menu of Delights

Atop a throne-like gold stool, you'll explore a menu that's a testament to Sherrel's Southern roots. Tipsy Treats to Go is revolutionizing the Houston cocktail scene with eco-friendly, take-home pouches of handcrafted drinks, perfect for those who desire sophistication on the go. Complement your choice with a selection of 'slow-cooked, fast-served' comfort dishes, from the hearty Red Beans and Rice to the beloved Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Rice and

Cornbread. And for the weekend warriors, the brunch lineup featuring Shrimp & Grits is not to be missed.

Sherrel's Philosophy of Giving

From a tenacious young mother to a maven of Houston's nightlife, Sherrel’s journey has been one of resilience and charm. Her secret? A blend of skillful mixology and her grandmother’s culinary legacies. Sherrel's philosophy is simple: life is better tipsy—joyful, forgiving, and celebratory.

The Spirited Heart of Houston

Find your way to 3839 Southwest Fwy, where the doors to this urban oasis swing wide from Tuesday to Sunday. Tipsy Treats to Go is not just a destination but a

centerpiece in Houston's diverse tapestry.

Join the Tipsy Lifestyle

Tipsy Treats to Go is more than a spot for a nightcap—it's where your Houston story gets a splash of magic. Plan your next outing or event with us and be assured of an unforgettable time.

Dive Into the Experience

Ready to take your senses on a Houston-style joyride? Visit Tipsy Treats to Go, where every cocktail tells a story, and every dish sings a ballad of the South. Your journey into the heart of Houston's nightlife starts here.

A Call to Houstonians

We're not just mixing drinks; we're mixing memories. So, Houston, are you

ready to get a little tipsy? Come down to Tipsy Treats to Go and share your stories with us. Let's toast to the city, to the nights that turn into mornings, and to the memories we’ll cherish forever.

Whether you’re planning an event or just craving a vibrant night out, Tipsy Treats promises an experience that’s both unforgettable and irresistibly joyful. Find them at 3839 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77027, open Tuesday through Sunday. Dive into the tipsy lifestyle and discover more at www.TipsyTreatstoGo.com

Sherrel Lemon

The Kendra Scott Foundation recently unveiled its Little Yellow Library at Alief Hearne Elementary School. Caroline Collins, a special guest reader, joined the students for a reading session and Q&A to celebrate the grand opening. In addition to the new library, Hearne was presented with a $2,500 grant from the Foundation. Every student was gifted a

HISD Crespo Elementary extends a big shout-out to their phenomenal Panther students for their exceptional performance of Shakespeare's "Macbeth" at the recent Shakespeare Fest. A heartfelt thank you goes to Mr. Murray for his dedication and guidance, which were instrumental in the success of this production.

Cadet Neftally Valencia, a standout member of the Guthrie Center NJROTC in Spring Branch ISD, was officially recognized as the recipi-

The Channelview ISD Child Nutrition Department is being lauded with big congratulations for their recent achievement of earning the prestigious Turn Up The Beet Award! Among 55 Summer Meal Programs across the nation, their dedication to providing delicious and nutritious meals to children during the

book

ent of the prestigious National NJROTC Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year, bringing with it a $200,000 scholarship award. Family, friends, and fellow service members celebrated Valencia’s achievement, marking it as one of the highest honors within the NJROTC program.

summer months stood out prominently. This recognition reflects their commitment to excellence and the well-being of young students. Well done on this outstanding achievement!

and a stuffed animal through a partnership with Slumberkins.

ARTS: HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON MARKS 1921 TULSA RACE MASSACRE ANNIVERSARY WITH FREE PROGRAM

By Lisa Valdez For www.StyleMagazine.com

Holoaust Museum Houston (HMH) will commemorate the 103rd Anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre with an enlightening lecture by historian Tim Madigan, author of "The Burning: Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921," on Wednesday, May 29 at 6:30 p.m. Following the lecture, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a book signing with the author.

The events of May 31 through June 1, 1921, marked a tragic chapter in American history when a mob of white supremacists ravaged the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma, also known as Black Wall Street. This prosperous African American neigh-

May 5

May 15

June 19

borhood was left in ruins, with hundreds of buildings destroyed, over 10,000 residents displaced, and up to 300 lives lost. "The Burning: Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921" offers a comprehensive examination of this harrowing event, shedding light on both the brutality of the perpetrators and America's history of racial violence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Attendance for this event is free, but RSVP is required via hmh. org/Tulsa.

This lecture aligns with HMH's current exhibition, "The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection," on display until June 23, 2024, in the Josef

Exhibition on view

12

23

Presented by:

hmh.org/Kinsey

SEE THE KINSEY COLLECTION FOR FREE

Daily Thursdays 1st Saturdays

Yom HaShoah/Walter Kase Free Admission Day

Stefi Altman Free Admission Day

Juneteenth Free Admission Day, courtesy of H-E-B

Free admission for ages 18 and under & college students w/valid college ID

Free admission for all from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Free admission for educators on the first Saturday of the month

Scan for Tickets

and Edith Mincberg Gallery. This exhibition, showcasing the achievements and contributions of Black Americans from 1595 to the present day, is considered one of the most extensive surveys of African American history and culture outside the Smithsonian Institution. It features a diverse array of artifacts collected by Shirley and Bernard Kinsey over five decades, providing invaluable insights into the African American experience and American history. Learn more at hmh.org/Kinsey.

Located in Houston's historic museum district at 5401 Caroline Street, HMH's Lester and Sue Smith Campus invites visitors to explore its exhibits from Tuesdays to Sundays, with special hours

on selected holidays. Admission rates vary, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and students. Parking is conveniently available at the museum's adjacent lot for a nominal fee. For more details and to purchase tickets, please visit hmh.org/visit.

Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to utilizing the lessons of the Holocaust to educate against hatred, prejudice, and apathy. As the nation's fourth-largest Holocaust museum and the first to offer bilingual exhibits in English and Spanish, HMH serves as a vital center for Holocaust education and advocacy for human rights and social justice.

www.StyleMagazine.com

Smoke billowing over Tulsa, Oklahoma during 1921 race riots

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Holocaust Museum Houston

Photo by Alvin C. Krupnick Co

Together we can conserve and protect Our Texas, Our Future

8 million families rely on us for food, and we rely on the richness of Texas land, water and air to supply that food.

That’s why we’re doing more to lessen our footprint on our shared natural resources.

Learn more about our commitment and join us on the journey.

OurTexasOurFuture.com

Photo credit: Texas Parks & Wildlife