Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 07

Houston Style Magazine FEBRUARY 15, 2024 – FEBRUARY 21, 2024

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 35 | Number 07

Complimentary

Ben Jealous

Big Polluters vs.

Our Kids & Families

ELIZABETH GONZALEZ BROCK: FIRST HISPANIC

Election 2024 Early Voting Starts Tuesday February 20th

WOMAN TO CHAIR

H-E-B Diversity Table Talks & Quest for Texas

METRO BOARD Words by: Francis Page, Jr

H HBCU CLASSIC H FRI, FEBRUARY 16th H MINUTE MAID PARK H TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

Twitter: @HoustonStyle

Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine

Tesla Model Y 2023 Tesla Model Y Takes the Worldwide Crown

HAUTE SHOTS: Vegas Super Bowl LVIII

AAMA: Galentine’s Day Luncheon

Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX

HAUTE SHOTS: 2024 Chinese New Year Celebration

N E W S | C O M M E N TA R I E S | S P O R T S | H E A LT H | E N T E R TA I N M E N T Support Minority Owned Businesses

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SEE MORE + ALL OVER HOUSTON, TEXAS www.StyleMagazine.com

H 2024 Chinese New Year Is The YEAR OF THE DRAGON H Chinese New Year is 16-Days H 2024 Chinese Zodiac - DRAGON H Culminates with Lantern Fest.

H www.ChineseNewYear.net H Saturday, February 10, 2024 H Harris County, Texas H

Dragons present themselves as magnificent yet benevolent rulers who are confident, generous, idealistic, and ambitious.

Gene Wu & Miya Shay

Photos By Miya Shay Photography

Miya Shay

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com Social Media Editor/Videographer Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com Graphic Design /Layout Editor Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com Political Editor Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian_barefield@yahoo.com Arts Editor editorial@stylemagazine.com Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com NATIONAL WRITERS Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org PHOTOGRAPHERS Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com ADVERTISING/SALES Advertising Email advertising@stylemagazine.com

MINORITY PRINT MEDIA, LLC, D.B.A.

Houston Style Magazine & www.StyleMagazine.com Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035 ©2023 Houston Style Magazine, a Minority Print Media, L.L.C. Company. All Right Reserved. Reproduction in whole or within part without permission is prohibited. Houston Style Magazine has a 2019 Audit

by Circulation Verification Council (CVC). Houston Style Magazine is a member of the Texas Publishers Association (TPA), Texas Community Newspaper Association (TCNA), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Independent Free Paper of America (IFPA), Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP).

National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP, Inc.), Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Latin Women’s Initiative (LWI), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and Supporters of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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COMMENTARY

BIG POLLUTERS VS. OUR KIDS

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

F

ar too often, big polluters feed us the lie that we have to choose between clean air or a healthy economy. Last week, the Biden-Harris administration made a big move that shows Americans do not have to choose. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) released updated protective air quality standards that will save both lives and money.

Simply put, if you work outdoors, have a child with asthma, or an elderly family member with a cardiopulmonary disease, this new standard will make it easier to breathe.

The new National Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter, or soot, are a big deal. Soot is one of the most dangerous and prevalent air pollutants. It enters the deepest parts of our lungs and bloodstream where it causes asthma, heart attacks, and premature death.

Moms Clean Air Force, a self-described “Mompartisan” group founded to protect children from air pollution and climate impacts, notes that “air pollution can lead to premature births, lower birth weight, and neurocognitive impacts as particulate matter can reach the developing fetal brain.”

Soot is created by coal plants, diesel vehicles, and factories. And this new rule is expected to clean up the air for the 91 million people who live in counties that experience unhealthy spikes in daily soot pollution.

The most impacted communities? You guessed it: communities of color and low-income communities.

It is the same old awful yet unsurprising story: redlining, racist zoning practices, and other factors have put Black and low-income neighborhoods near or downwind from the sources of air pollution. Fenceline communities near ports, highways, and power plants are disproportionately exposed to higher-than-average levels. Addressing soot pollution in our air has a unique urgency for these communities that bear the hardest brunt.

The new EPA standard will directly save an estimated 4,500 lives per

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year. It will prevent 5,700 new cases of asthma each year. As for the economic benefits, it will result in 290,000 fewer lost workdays per year and bring as much as $46 billion in net health benefits in 2032, when the standards are in full effect.

Reducing air pollution and protecting the air we breathe are moral obligations not just to our children but to future generations. EPA Administrator Michael Regan recognized as much when he told reporters the new standard would “shape the world our children will inherit tomorrow.”

Given the undeniable health and economic benefits of stronger soot standard, and the moral imperative of protecting our kids’ health and futures, you would expect passing the new standard to have been a slam dunk. But the updating of the soot standard faced fierce opposition. We must recognize that opposition for what it was: outrageously immoral.

February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

Big polluters and their allies fought tooth and nail against the improved soot standard. They relied on the same misinformation they have used for years, which has never once come true. They made up fake obstacles to complying with improved standards. For example, they tried to use wildfire smoke as a reason why certain jurisdictions would not be able to comply with the new standards. But the EPA has clearly stated that soot from wildfires can be discounted from regulatory decisions.

The fossil fuel industry and other polluters grasped at every straw they could. But we know that protecting clean air leads to stronger economies, better health outcomes, and is simply the right thing to do. More than 600,000 people submitted public comments to the EPA last year in support of stronger standards. The Biden-Harris administration deserves credit for heeding the call.

The opposition from big pollut-

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ers is a reminder that there will always be those who try to stop us when we reach for a better future. That even goes for something as basic as cleaner air and the longer life expectancies, economic opportunity, and healthier bodies that come with it.

It is also a reminder of our moral obligation to keep fighting to make sure the benefits of the new EPA standard reach the communities that need them most.

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

2024

SEE MORE + JUNIOR LEAGUE OF HOUSTON www.StyleMagazine.com

H AAMA’s Inaugural Galentine’s Day Luncheon Fundraiser H

Solidarity & Support For Latino Community’s Educational and Leadership Growth H www.AAMA.org H Monday, January 12, 2024 HJunior League - HoustonH

Dr. Adolfo Melara- President

Elena Marks - Rice Baker Inst.

O

n the bright Monday morning of February 12, 2024, the Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans (AAMA) marked a new tradition with its first ‘Te-AAMA’ Galentine’s Day Fundraiser Luncheon. Held at the prestigious Junior League of Houston, the event, which lasted from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., was not just a gathering but a vibrant celebration of empowerment, solidarity, and the community’s unwavering support for AAMA’s vital programs.

Dr. Adolfo Melara, the dynamic CEO of AAMA, along with Jessica Ramos from the esteemed Gonzalez Law Group, illuminated the luncheon with insights into the transformative power of community support. They highlighted the significant strides made by programs such as the George I. Sanchez Charter Schools, the Early Childhood Center, the Work and Learn Center, and more, which stand as testaments to AAMA’s commitment to educational excellence and community upliftment.

The event sparkled with the presence of distinguished guests and speakers, including the event’s Emcee, Ilsa Garcia, President of NHPO Houston and the owner

Photos By Lisa Valadez & AAMA Photography

Houston Celebrates Empowerment at AAMA’s Inaugural Galentine’s Day Fundraiser – Te AAMA

By Francis Page Jr for www.StyleMagazine.com

of Ilsa’s Glam Boutique, and the keynote speaker Elena Marks from Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.

Their speeches underscored the importance of pursuing potential and achieving success, resonating deeply with AAMA’s mission.

Gratitude was the sentiment of the day, with heartfelt thanks extended to Lisa Valadez from Houston Style Magazine for her role in promoting the event, and to the

various sponsors, including Legacy Community Health - East End, Community Health Choice, The Gonzalez Law Group, PLLC, The Sweet G Bakery, and Magic Touch Pix Photo Booth, who contributed to making the luncheon a spectacular success.

AAMA’s mission to inspire and empower Latinos to pursue their potential has never been more palpable than it was on this day. The event not only celebrated the past 50 years of AAMA’s remarkable

contributions to the Latino community’s educational and leadership development but also set a high note for the journey ahead.

As AAMA continues to help Latinos to be their best selves daily, the Galentine’s Day Fundraiser Luncheon has undoubtedly solidified its place as a pivotal event for Houston’s Latino community and for all those who support their unstoppable rise.

In unity, there’s strength, and AAMA’s inaugural Galentine’s event has effectively turned that adage into a thriving reality, fostering a community that’s stronger, wiser, and ever ready for the challenges ahead. Let’s continue to support and celebrate the remarkable work being done for a brighter, more inclusive future.

For more AAMA, please visit:

www.AAMA.org www.StyleMagazine.com

February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

5

POLITICS: HOUSTON STYLE MAGAZINE PRESENTS: SUPER TUESDAY – A CALL TO THE POLLS! HOUSTON, THE STAGE IS SET FOR EARLY VOTING ON SUPER TUESDAY

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

T

he heart of democracy beats stronger this Tuesday, February 20, as Early Voting commences in Texas and 14 other proud states across our nation. This pivotal moment in our presidential election process is not just about delegate counts; it's a vibrant showcase of local democracy in action, with numerous crucial nominations at stake.

Harris County voters, mark your calendars: 79 polling stations await your decision from 7 AM to 7 PM daily until March 1, save for February 25, when doors will open from noon. Remember, your voice matters, so find your nearest polling station at HarrisVotes.com and join the early birds in shaping our future.

In the race for the presidential nomination, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are anticipated to secure their party's confidence, yet the ballots will feature seven Democratic contenders. Watch Minnesota's own, Congressman Dean Phillips, challenge the incumbent, while former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley sets her sights on the former President's legacy.

Texas' own Senator Ted Cruz is campaigning for a third term, but U.S. Rep. Colin Allred of Dallas brings a fresh vigor

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to the race. A former NFL star and Civil Rights Attorney, Allred's campaign is gaining momentum, promising a fierce battle to Cruz's tenure and potentially marking a historic milestone as Texas' first black U.S. Senator. Amidst this, State Senator Roland Guttierez cites Uvalde's tragedy as his rally-

February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

ing cry, alongside formidable opponents like former Mayor Carl Sherman and ex-District Attorney Mark Gonzalez.

The political canvas of Texas' 7th District is vibrant with U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher facing Agwan Pervez, while U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee seeks a remarkable

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17th term, contending with former Houston City Council Member Amanda Edwards.

In a heartfelt quest to fill Mayor John Whitmire's venerable shoes, six dedicated candidates step forward, each bringing their unique vision for Texas' future.

State Rep. Shawn Thierry faces a defining moment against dynamic challengers like union organizer Lauren Ashely Simmons and activist Ashton Woods, as the echoes of the past meet the spirited debates of today.

The role of Harris County's top Prosecutor is on the line as Kim Ogg, a steadfast champion of law enforcement and rights advocacy, faces a strong challenge from her past colleagues.

Vivian King, a vital force in the District Attorney's office, aspires for the 486th District Judge seat, with Rodrick Rodgers and Gemayel G. Haynes hot on the campaign trail, while Lillian Alexander vies for judicial change against Julia Maldonado.

Houston, let's embrace our civic duty with enthusiasm! This Super Tuesday, let's vote early, vote informed, and vote with the style that only Houston can bring.

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Celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black Americans from 1595 to present day

Presented by:

ON VIEW THROUGH JUNE 23, 2024 Josef and Edith Mincberg Gallery

BLACK ART HOUSTON FREE DAY Feb 18

Free admission presented by Shell USA Noon – 5:00 p.m.

Khambrel Marshall in conversation with Houston Artist Ava Cosey 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Ancestor’s Torch, oil on canvas, Ava Cosey, courtesy of The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection

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hmh.org/Kinsey

February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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2024

SEE MORE + LAS VEGAS - ALLEGIANT STADIUM www.StyleMagazine.com

H 58th Annual ‘BIG GAME’ NFL Super Bowl LVIII H Kansas City Chiefs Defended Their Title Against the San Francisco 49ers H www.NFL.com/super-bowl H Sunday, February 11, 2024 HLas Vegas, NevadaH

Alicia Keys and USHER

Photos By Team Style Magazine Photography

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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2024

SEE MORE + LAS VEGAS - ALLEGIANT STADIUM www.StyleMagazine.com

H 58th Annual ‘BIG GAME’ NFL Super Bowl LVIII H Kansas City Chiefs Defended Their Title Against the San Francisco 49ers H www.NFL.com/super-bowl H Sunday, February 11, 2024 HLas Vegas, NevadaH

BUNB

Photos By Team Style Magazine Photography

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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LOCAL: KIM OGG CHAMPIONS VICTIMS' RIGHTS AT THE ACLU DISTRICT ATTORNEY CANDIDATE FORUM

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

H

ouston an empowering evening for justice and reform, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg stood firm on her record of innovative accomplishments at the ACLU District Attorney Candidate Forum. As she addressed a room of engaged citizens, Ogg highlighted her administration's

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success in spearheading diversion programs aimed at reducing recidivism and strengthening community safety.

While the forum served as a critical platform for evaluating the visions of potential candidates, it also shone a light on the stark differences in approach to criminal justice reform. Ogg

February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

pointed out that her opponent's pledge to implement "diversion" programs overlooked the fact that such initiatives are already in place, thanks to her proactive team.

However, it was her opponent, Sean Teare's startling proposition to abolish all "conditions" of probation

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that captured the audience's concern.

Such a move could potentially leave victims of domestic violence unprotected, Ogg argued, emphasizing the necessity of tailored probation conditions to safeguard the community's most vulnerable.

Ogg clarified that while the district attorney's office plays a vital role in advocating for victims' safety, it is ultimately the judiciary that enforces probation conditions. Her commitment to upholding measures that protect individuals from domestic violence and stalking remains unwavering.

As the leading law enforcement figure in Harris County, DA Kim Ogg's message was clear: the welfare of victims stands paramount. With a call to action, Ogg encouraged the community to spread awareness and support a vision of justice that places victims at the forefront.

For more information on DA Kim Ogg's initiatives and to stay updated on her campaign.

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LOCAL: HOUSTON'S LEADERSHIP ELITE: CELEBRATING FOUR VISIONARIES WHO ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

H

ouston Style Magazine readers are in for a treat as we spotlight the remarkable achievements of four outstanding community figures: Roland Garcia, Lesley Briones, Jacquie Baly, and Sanjay Ramabhadran. This influential quartet has distinguished themselves by completing a prestigious leadership trifecta, having graduated from not one but three eminent programs: Leadership Houston, Texas Lyceum, and the American Leadership Forum (ALF).

These leadership programs are more than a mark of distinction—they are crucibles for forging the skills vital

for visionary leadership. They offer a unique blend of professional development, networking, and a broad spectrum of viewpoints that are instrumental in shaping versatile leaders.

Our honorees have traversed these programs, garnering invaluable insights and honing their capabilities to steer with conviction and clarity.

They've nurtured robust networks that span the breadth of communities and industries, echoing the programs' ethos of connectivity and collaborative progress.

The training provided by Lead-

ership Houston, Texas Lyceum, and ALF is transformative, equipping leaders to tackle intricate challenges with innovative strategies. The experiences culminate in contributions that ripple through society, driving meaningful change and uplifting countless lives.

Let's celebrate these trailblazers who embody the spirit of leadership and community. They remind us that the journey of learning and leading is continuous and that the impacts of such journeys are immeasurable. We are inspired by their commitment and thankful for the paths they pave for future leaders. With leaders like Garcia, Briones, Baly, and Ramabhadran, Houston's future shines bright.

Join us in recognizing their milestones and contributions. Their legacies are a testament to the power of dedicated leadership and the potential for every individual to make a significant societal impact.

Roland Garcia – Partner at the law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP. Lesley Briones – Harris County Commissioner for Precinct 4.

Sanjay Ramabhadran – Chairman of the METRO. Jacquie Baly – President of BalyProjects, LLC. To engage with esteemed leadership organizations and enrich your experience with dynamic networking and personal growth opportunities, consider connecting with the following entities:

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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LOCAL: RIDING THE WAVE OF INNOVATION: 2023 TESLA MODEL Y TAKES THE CROWN

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

T

he year, 2023 marked a pivotal year for the automotive industry, with the Tesla Model Y establishing itself as the undisputed champion of global vehicle sales.

Houston Style Magazine takes a closer look at how Tesla's trailblazing electric vehicle eclipsed longstanding industry titans to reign supreme in the first three quarters of 2023.

From the outset, Tesla's ambitions were clear, with Elon Musk’s 2021 prediction that the Model Y would become the world's best-selling car of any kind. Fast forward to 2023, and that bold claim has materialized into a resounding reality. According

to the latest reports, the Tesla Model Y has not only topped electric vehicle (EV) sales charts but also outpaced all vehicle models worldwide, with a staggering 1.23 million units sold — a 64% surge from the previous year.

This seismic shift in the auto industry landscape is particularly noteworthy in Europe and China, where the EV revolution is charging ahead at full speed.

In China alone, Tesla pushed an impressive 456,000 units into the market, a 45% jump from 2022. Meanwhile, in Europe, the Model Y's sales surpassed stalwarts like the Dacia Sandero and the Volkswagen T-Roc, show-

casing Tesla's growing dominance.

While Tesla rides the crest of this wave, traditional automotive giants like Toyota are navigating the changing tides. The reliable RAV4 and Corolla remain strong contenders, yet their absence in the pure electric domain has created a gap that Tesla's Model Y has adeptly filled. Toyota's hybrid powertrains continue to perform well, but with the EV market expanding, the race is on to develop vehicles that can compete with Tesla's electric allure.

The Model Y's allure isn't just about innovation; it's also about accessibility. November 2023 saw Tesla implementing a competitive pricing strategy that significantly undercut the average EV cost in key markets like Germany and the United States.

By positioning the Model Y as a more affordable option, Tesla has not only captivated the market but also solidified its reputation for reliability and value.

Tesla's success story with the Model Y serves as a testament to the

brand's strategic foresight and commitment to sustainable transportation. As competitors like Toyota, Honda, and newcomers like Lucid gear up to introduce their own EV SUV contenders, the question remains: Can they match the pace set by Tesla's Model Y, or will Tesla continue to lead the charge in the EV revolution?

As the automotive industry shifts gears towards a more electric future, Houston Style Magazine remains at the forefront, bringing you the latest insights on how vehicles like the Tesla Model Y are driving change and innovation on the roads we travel.

More information visit: www.

Tesla.com

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LOCAL: EMPOWER YOUR BUSINESS: JOIN H-E-B'S PIONEERING SUPPLIER DIVERSITY TABLE TALKS & 2024 QUEST FOR TEXAS BEST

By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com

H

ouston Style Magazine presents an enriching opportunity for local entrepreneurs and diverse businesses to

gain insights from the leading moguls of the haircare industry. Join the esteemed H-E-B Supplier Diversity Table Talks on Wednes-

day, March 20th, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM CST, for a transformative virtual session that empowers businesses with strategies for growth and success.

Formerly known as the Supplier Diversity Lunch and Learn, this complimentary event has been meticulously designed for current and aspiring entrepreneurs from the local, small, woman, LGBTQ, Disabled, and Veteran-owned business communities. With a theme centered on "The Moguls of Haircare - Community, Impact, and Business Expansion," attendees will discover actionable tactics for overcoming common challenges in onboarding, marketing, sales, securing funding, and overall business development.

Gracing the panel are influential founders Julissa Prado of Rizos Curls, Tessy Anifowoshe of NZURI, Renee Morris of Uncle Funky's Daughter, and Psyche Terry of Urban Hydration, who will share their expertise and pathways to success. These sessions, delivered quarterly and as business needs arise, are an embodiment of H-E-B's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for minority-owned businesses.

In addition to the Table Talks, H-E-B continues to champion local talent through the "Quest for Texas Best" initiative, a decade-long tradition celebrating

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Texan ingenuity. This open call invites local producers of food, beverages, and general merchandise to compete for a chance to feature their products on H-E-B shelves and win $25,000.

The deadline for entries is fast approaching, with a cut-off date set to ensure all participants have the opportunity to prepare their best pitch. The H-E-B team has organized a series of informative sessions to guide potential entrants through the application process, providing valuable tips on what makes a product stand out and how to navigate the journey from local favorite to household name.

To secure your place in the competition, visit the official H-E-B Supplier Diversity Eventbrite page, where you can register for one of the upcoming info sessions: Session 1: March 6, 2024, 11 AM - 12:30 PM Session 2: March 13, 2024, 10 AM - 11:30 AM Session 3: March 21, 2024, 1 PM - 2:30 PM Session 4: March 27, 2024, 1 PM - 2:30 PM

Read More at: www.StyleMagazine.com

February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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Campus Chronicles I

n a tribute marking #BlackHistoryMonth, Alief Independent School District (ISD) is celebrating its distinguished Chief of Police, Dan Turner, for his remarkable 50 years of service. Recognized as a beacon of commitment and lead-

Pictured left to right: Ryan Bhandari, Jason Noby, Thane Escobedo, and Santiago Pacheco

F

our juniors from Fort Bend ISD's Elkins High School Aerospace Engineering Academy won the NASA TechRise Student Challenge, securing their experiment a spot on the Xodiac lander this

ership, his contributions to law enforcement have had a profound impact on the safety and well-being of the Alief community. Join us in honoring Chief Dan Turner for his invaluable dedication and service to our district. summer. Out of 450+ submissions nationwide, Elkins was one of only 60 teams chosen. Winners receive $1,500, a flight box, and technical support. The TechRise Student Challenge promotes student engagement in technology, science, and space exploration nationally.participants from various Fort Bend ISD schools. Congratulations to the students from Cornerstone Elementary and Colony Bend Elementary for clinching 1st and 2nd place, respectively.

tion centered around the theme of the 1920s as part of its traditional 100 Day festivities.

Situated within the Houston Independent School District, Betsy Ross Elementary continues its longstanding commitment to academic excellence and community engagement as it approaches its centennial milestone.

B

etsy Ross Elementary proudly commemorated its 99th year of serving and enriching the local community through education. To mark the occasion, the school geared up for a festive celebrader the supervision of their instructor, Mrs. Umanzor, alongside artist Jesse Si Fuentes.

The installation of this remarkable artwork was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Dobie's maintenance department, adding another layer of community pride to this creative endeavor.

P

asadena ISD's Dobie High School is thrilled to reveal its newest addition: a captivating mosaic mural, skillfully crafted by the talented art students un-

For inclusion SUBMIT Your Education Event To: editorial@stylemagazine.com

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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LOCAL: ELIZABETH GONZALEZ BROCK: A HISTORIC APPOINTMENT AS METRO CHAIR REFLECTS HOUSTON'S DIVERSITY AND DRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE

By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com

I

n a landmark move for diversity and expertise in public service, Mayor John Whitmire has nominated Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock to head the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, known as Houston METRO. Upon approval, Gonzalez Brock will be celebrated as the first Hispanic woman steering the helm of Texas's most expansive transit authority.

With a sweeping service domain of over 1,300 square miles and a robust budget of $1.6 billion, this appointment marks a significant milestone for the city's commitment to inclusive leadership.

"Elizabeth's appointment symbolizes Houston's progressiveness and dedication to a 'customer-centric' approach in our public transportation system," Mayor Whitmire asserts. "Her visionary leadership is aligned with our city's core values of safety, reliability, and fiscal accountability in our mobility solutions. Elizabeth's impressive track record promises a transformative era for METRO, making it a paragon of user-oriented service and financial stewardship."

As the Vice President at CenterPoint Energy, Gonzalez Brock's strategic input has been pivotal in capital planning and policy formulation. Her extensive experience spans across vital roles that shaped

Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock customer service, business growth, and local initiatives across six states. With a strong focus on energy efficiency, innovative technology, and resilient infrastructure, she has been at the forefront of driving change. An

alumna of the University of Houston, Gonzalez Brock's academic and professional journey is a testament to her commitment to public service and excellence.

Embracing this new challenge,

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Gonzalez Brock remarks, "It's an honor to be recognized as the first Hispanic woman to chair METRO's board. This decision by Mayor Whitmire is a powerful affirmation of his dedication to diverse and adept governance. I am eager to collaborate with the board and various government sectors to propel METRO into a future where transparency, accountability, and top-tier service are the norm."

Gonzalez Brock's portfolio of leadership is extensive, including impactful roles at Houston First Corporation, Evolve Houston, the Greater Houston Area Women's Chamber, and the Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas. Her expertise and vision for Houston's transit authority come at a pivotal time as she succeeds Sanjay Ramabhadran.

Mayor Whitmire extends gratitude to Ramabhadran for his tenure and contributions, as Houston METRO turns a new page with Gonzalez Brock's anticipated leadership. Her story is not just one of personal achievement but a beacon of Houston's ethos - where diversity, expertise, and commitment to public service pave the way for a thriving community.

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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H-E-B IS PROUD TO SUPPORT

BLACK-OWNED

s d n a Br

Wilford Leonard, Founder

Renee Rhoten Morris, Founder

LIPS SMACKER’S

UNCLE FUNKY’S DAUGHTER

Growing up in Tyler, the heart of East Texas, they ate Bar-B-Q year-round. Founder Wilford Leonard set out to replicate essence of East Texas Bar-B-Q, and in 1995 he was finally happy with his recipe that is now known

Uncle Funky’s Daughter products for kinky and curly textures was born when Tonya Goff was challenged with finding all-natural products that truly tamed frizz and provided long-lasting defined curls. Uncle Funky’s Daughter

as Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauces, Seasoned Salts and Marinades.

offers sustainable, chemical-free hair care products to a blossoming curly hair market.

Learn more about these products and other Black-owned brands at heb.com/bethechange ©2024 HEB, 24-1938

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February 15, 2024 - February 21, 2024

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