Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 06

FEBRUARY 8, 2024 – FEBRUARY 14, 2024

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 35 | Number 06

Complimentary

Ben Jealous

Setting the Record Straight on an Important Piece of Black History

BLUE IVY CARTER:

USHERS IN

Mayor John Whitmire Announces Plans for 2024 Tour de Houston

NEW ERA OF MUSIC

VP Harris Historic Marijuana Pardons

Words By Francis Page, Jr.

H SUPER BOWL LVIII H SUN, FEBRUARY 11th H KHOU 11 - CBS H TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

Twitter: @HoustonStyle

Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine

A Celebration of Unity and Progress in Missouri City

Harris Health: Mobile Clinics For The Homeless

HSPVA: Harlem Nights Gala

Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX

HAUTE SHOTS: 37th Annual DELTAS' Joint Founders' Day

Monica Riley

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

2024

SEE MORE + 713 MUSIC HALL - DOWNTOWN www.StyleMagazine.com

H 2024 HOUSTON SPORTS AWARDS Presented By TDECU H Harris County - Houston Sports Authority • J Kent Friedman - Chairman • Janis • Burke - CEO H www.HoustonSports.org H Saturday, January 30, 2024 H 713 Music Hall – 401 FranklinH

Laura Murillo & Janis Burke - CEO

Photos By Team StyleMagazine.com Photography

Bun B & JJ Moses

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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 Kathleen Coleman kathleen@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

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©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).

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250 National & International Artists 19 Disciplines of Art Live Music & Entertainment Active Imagination Zone Frost Bank VIP Hospitality Lounge Art Installations & Exhibits Food Truck Park Craft Beer Garden Culinary Arts Stage

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

3

COMMENTARY

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON AN IMPORTANT PIECE OF BLACK HISTORY

W again.

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator ith the start of Black History Month, I brace myself for the mis-telling of Black History yet

In schoolhouses and everywhere the stories are told, a persistent myth shows its ugly head: the ridiculous notion that great Black leaders are not just exceptional but exceptions.

It is an idea rooted in the ahistorical and unnatural misperception that the most notable Black Americans were superhumans that sprung forth from collective misery. It discounts the many, many Black leaders who were – and are – the children and grandchildren of courageous leaders in their own right.

Paul Robeson was a phenomenal actor, orator, singer, athlete, and activist.

The family that produced him might be even more impressive. His father escaped enslavement to earn two college degrees and become a prominent minister. His mother was part of the Bustill family, who were famous abolitionists and included Grace Bustill Douglass, the crusading abolitionist and feminist.

Kamala Harris’s path to the vice presidency began as a transformative district attorney. She refused to pursue the death penalty, and shifted her department’s punitive focus away from sex workers and squarely onto sex buyers and traffickers. She both provided a model for the movement to elect more Black and progressive district attorneys and spawned the national training institute for female candidates known as Emerge America. Vice President Harris would readily admit there is no explaining her uncommon courage without accounting for her civil rights activist parents and her education at the very university that produced Thurgood Marshall.

Martin Luther King is perhaps Black America’s best-known leader.

His grandfather was himself a crusading Black Baptist preacher and the first president of the Atlanta branch of the NAACP.

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Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King and others on March 25, 1965 Whitney Houston became an iconic star of radio and the silver screen.

Her first cousin was Dionne Warwick.

Through Warwick, Houston had close, life-shaping relationships with other celebrated female singers and actors like her “honorary aunt” Aretha Franklin, godmother Darlene Love, and close friend Cicely Tyson.

Malcolm X is America’s most famous Black nationalist. Before him, his father Earl Little was a Black nationalist Baptist preacher who organized for Marcus Garvey. Harassment by the Ku Klux Klan forced the Littles to relocate from Omaha, Nebraska to Lansing, Michigan, where Earl was murdered by a Klan-like white supremacist group.

Stacey Abrams rose to become the first woman leader of a party in Georgia’s legislature and the most impactful voting rights activist of the 21st century.

Her parents were courageous civil rights activists and her father was among the youngest leaders of the Hattiesburg boycott in Mississippi.

Middle Tennessee claims a famous political father-son pair in former Congressman and Senator Albert Gore,

February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

Sr. and former Senator and Vice President Al Gore. But western Tennessee saw its own confrontational and crusading former Congressman Harold Ford, Sr. followed by the diplomatic, incisive, and consensus-building former Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. From the time he started preaching at the age of four, Reverend Al Sharpton’s early years were shaped by the mentorship of Black leaders like Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., James Brown, and the incomparable Jesse Jackson. But it was his mother Ada Sharpton’s work that inspired her son’s founding of the National Action Network. Mrs. Sharpton rose from poverty to power as a prominent civil rights activist in New York City’s outer boroughs and became president of Mothers in Action.

Fifteen years ago, I was named the youngest national president in the history of the NAACP. My grandmother Mamie Bland Todd trained future US Senator Barbara Mikulski as a social worker early in her career. In researching my latest book, I followed my own ancestry back to my grandmother’s grandfather. In the late 1800s, Edward

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David Bland led Black Republicans into coalition with former white Confederate soldiers to form a third party that took over the Virginia state government.

Known as the Readjusters, the bipartisan political movement won all statewide elected offices and controlled the Commonwealth of Virginia from 1881-85.

In that time, they abolished the poll tax and the whipping post; radically expanded Virginia Tech and created Virginia State University; and readjusted the terms of the Civil War debt to save the free public schools and take the state from a financial deficit into a surplus.

Parentage and family connection are not and never should be a prerequisite for leadership in our country. But we can still recognize that one of the greatest traditions in Black leadership is Black leaders who raise Black leaders.

Some of those leaders inspire with their art; others with their activism; many with both. The historical arc they help form – which sometimes wavers but ultimately bends towards justice – would not be possible without that tradition.

So, if it occurs to you that you do not know enough about how your ancestors might have led, get curious and do some research. You might just find an interesting and inspiring piece of family history.

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” and “Reach: 40 Black Men Speak on Living, Leading, and Succeeding.”

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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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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POLITICS: MONICA RILEY'S RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN LAUNCH: A CELEBRATION OF UNITY AND PROGRESS IN MISSOURI CITY

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

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n a vibrant evening of February 3rd, Missouri City Council Member Monica Riley embarked on her journey towards re-election, surrounded by an eclectic mix of over 400 supporters spanning a wide age range and representing a rich tapestry of ethnicities and political affiliations. This diverse crowd, mirroring the unique composition of City Council District A, gathered to celebrate Riley's significant contributions and to rally behind her continued leadership.

Monica Riley, a devoted wife, mother of seven, and a steadfast community advocate, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from her family, friends, and a broad spectrum of community members, including local officials, entrepreneurs, educators, and law enforcement representatives. Reflecting on her tenure, Riley reiterated her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Missouri City residents through her 'Move Mountains' initiative.

Riley's efforts in office have been marked by tangible achievements, including tax reductions, increased property tax exemptions for senior citizens, and the introduction of the city's first homestead exemption. These measures, aimed at fostering home ownership and providing financial relief to families and seniors, underscore her

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Burt & Sandra Levine with Missouri City Council Member - Monica Riley dedication to economic empowerment and community well-being.

The recent Census data highlighting Missouri City's diverse demographic composition further energizes Riley's mission to create an inclusive and prosperous community. Her proactive approach to attracting international businesses and promoting local entrepreneurship underscores

February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

her vision for a dynamic and thriving local economy, bolstered by a strong commitment to public safety and community service.

As Monica Riley stands at the forefront of Missouri City's future, her re-election campaign is not just a testament to her past achievements but a beacon of hope for continued progress, unity, and prosperity. Her leadership exemplifies the

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power of community collaboration and the enduring spirit of Missouri City's residents.

Join Monica Riley in her journey towards a brighter future for Missouri City, where every voice is heard, and every dream is within reach.

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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 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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2024

SEE MORE + GEORGE R. BROWN – DOWNTOWN www.StyleMagazine.com

H 37th Annual DELTAS' Joint FOUNDERS' DAY Celebration H 111 Years of Scholarships, Sisterhood & Service • Keynote - Collette V. Smith

H www.DeltaSigmaTheta.org H Saturday, February 3, 2024 H GRB - DowntownH

Collette V. Smith - KEYNOTE

Photos By Team Style Magazine Photography

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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FEATURE: BLUE IVY CARTER: A DAZZLING YOUNG ICON USHERS IN A NEW ERA OF MUSIC

ROYALTY AT GRAMMYS 2024 WITH VIVIENNE WESTWOOD AND JEFFREY LEVINSON ELEGANCE

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

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t the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, hosted at the illustrious Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 4,2024, Blue Ivy Carter, progeny of the legendary Beyoncé and Jay-Z, captured the limelight with her remarkable presence. Foregoing the traditional red-carpet fanfare, the Carter family made a discreet yet impactful entrance directly to the event, where Blue Ivy's fashion ensemble quickly became the talk of the town.

Already celebrated as one of the youngest Grammy recipients, Blue Ivy's attendance alongside her father, as he was bestowed with the esteemed Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, was a testament to her burgeoning status within the echelons of music royalty. Her ensemble for the evening was a testament to elegance and sophistication, comprising a bespoke gown

by Vivienne Westwood, masterfully curated by the renowned stylist Stephanie Andrea.

Complementing her attire was a Jeffrey Levinson Finley clutch, a piece renowned for its sleek design and innovative use of materials, mirroring Levinson's penchant for blending automotive ingenuity with haute couture. This distinctive accessory underscored Blue Ivy's ensemble,

delivering a statement of refined grace.

Further accentuating her ensemble were boots from Laurrodé, harmonizing with her gown and reflecting a blend of youthful exuberance and chic style. Her minimalist approach to jewelry, featuring merely a subtle silver ring, along with a natural and understated makeup look, served to highlight her inherent beauty and youth.

The makeup palette consisted of a delicate halo effect eyeshadow paired with a dark pink blush and lip gloss, complementing the overall color scheme of her attire. Her hairstyle, featuring middle-parted braids cascading down to her waist, along with a novel French manicure adorned with a tiny red heart on each nail tip, added whimsical and personalized elements to her look.

The Grammy evening for the Carter family transcended mere fashion statements; it was a celebration of artistic achievements and enduring legacies.

Jay-Z's acknowledgment with the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award not only celebrated his vast contributions to the music domain but also symbolized the legacy being passed down to the next generation, epitomized by Blue Ivy's side. Her previous Grammy victory for her role in Beyoncé's "Brown Skin Girl" video was affectionately mentioned by her father, spotlighting her ascending trajectory in the music industry.

For readers of Houston Style Magazine, who are at the forefront of fashion, culture, and entertainment, Blue Ivy Carter's appearance at the 2024 Grammys epitomizes the emergence of a young icon within the realms of music and fashion.

Backed by the artistic prowess of her family and the creative genius of individuals like Stephanie Andrea and Jeffrey Levinson, Blue Ivy continues to enchant and inspire, heralding a promising future in both music and style.

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Credits: Styling by Stephanie Andrea, Instagram: @stephanieandreaa__ Purse by Jeffrey Levinson Website: www.jeffreylevinson.com , Instagram: @jeffreylevinson Gown by: Vivienne Westwood Website: www.viviennewestwood.com , Instagram: @viviennewestwood Boots by: Marina Larroudé Website: www.larroude.com , Instagram: @larroude Photo Credits: Getty Images @gettyimages, Valerie Macon @valeriemacon

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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LOCAL: MAYOR WHITMIRE ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR 2024 TOUR DE HOUSTON

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

Mayor John Whitmire

Apache CEO John Christmann IV

ayor John Whitmire today announced that the Tour de Houston will take place in 2024. The Mayor is pleased to confirm long-time partner Apache Corporation will once again serve as the title sponsor for the 2024 ride.

This year will be Apache's 12th as title sponsor for an event that raises funds benefitting the City's REPlant Houston program, which is dedicated to reforesting Houston parks and greenspaces managed by the Houston Parks and Recreation Department.

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

Apache also sponsors the HPARD Annual Arbor Day celebration.

"Apache Corporation has agreed to remain this year's title sponsor. The company has a track record of investing in the City of Houston through meaningful events and partnerships. Tour de Houston is a great program that brings Houstonians together and allows cyclists to ride through some of Houston's unique, historic, and diverse neighborhoods.

What we can accomplish when everyone works together is incredible," Mayor Whitmire said.

"Apache is honored to partner with Mayor Whitmire and the City of Houston to support this annual tradition," said Apache CEO John J. Christmann IV. "We share his vision for the city and are pleased to sign on as the title sponsor for the Tour de Houston for another year. The tour is a great event, and we expect 2024 to be the best one yet. We look forward to seeing our fellow Houstonians and Apache team members participating in it as cyclists or volunteers."

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Earlier this week, the Mayor's Office of Special Events (MOSE) cited a lack of funding for canceling the 2024 Tour de Houston without consulting Mayor Whitmire. Once he became aware of the announcement, the mayor was disappointed but determined to find a new path forward, and he immediately began exploring options.

Tour de Houston consists of 20, 40, and 60-mile bike routes with participants cycling for fitness and fun.

"I invite the community to join us on this incredible journey through many of our neighborhoods. Let's make the 2024 Tour de Houston the best and biggest in the event's history," said Mayor Whitmire.

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ARTS: STEP BACK IN TIME TO UPLIFT FUTURE TALENT: HARLEM NIGHTS GALA FUNDS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HSPVA BLACK STUDENTS

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

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oin the Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA) Black Alumni Network (BAN) for a night of retro glamour and philanthropy at the Harlem Nights After Midnight Gala. Scheduled for Sunday, February 18, 2024, at the historic Eldorado Ballroom in Houston, this 1920s-themed soirée not only celebrates Black History Month but also fortifies the future of young Black artists through vital scholarship funds.

As HSPVA students gear up to perform "After Midnight," a riveting Broadway revue set in the jazz-infused era of 1920s Harlem, the gala will echo the same vibrant energy with an evening packed with live entertainment, silent auctions, and sumptuous cuisine. It's an opportunity for Houston's community to come together in support of Black student scholarships, nurturing the next wave of artistic and community leaders.

This year, the BAN proudly honors Stephanie York Blue, an HSPVA alumna and acclaimed musician, with the Alumni Legacy Award, and Mignonne Anderson-Goode, a dedicat-

Mignonne Anderson-Goode

Stephanie Blue Stephanie

ed arts and education advocate, with the Community Impact Award. Their exceptional contributions to the arts and the community at large have left an indelible mark, inspiring both current students and alumni.

Denise Ward, the BAN President, encapsulates the essence of the event: "Our unwavering commitment to our students' future is at the heart of the Harlem Nights After Midnight Scholar-

ship Gala. It's more than a fundraiser; it's a catalyst for dreams, empowering our students to explore, create, and inspire."

The proceeds from the gala directly support the BAN Scholarship Fund, offering financial assistance to deserving Black students at HSPVA for college and summer arts-intensive programs, ensuring a brighter future paved with opportunity and creativity.

For an evening of nostalgia and purpose, mark your calendars: Harlem Nights After Midnight: A 1920s Soiree and Scholarship Gala Date: Sunday, February 18, 2024 Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Eldorado Ballroom, 2310 Elgin St, Houston, TX Tickets: $150 general admission Attire: Cocktail or 1920's-themed To learn more or to secure your ticket to this significant event, visit www.givebutter.com/banharlemnights or reach out to: hspvablackalumninetwork@gmail.com. Join us in supporting the next generation of artistic excellence at HSPVA.

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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HEALTH: HARRIS HEALTH'S GROUNDBREAKING MOBILE CLINICS SET TO TRANSFORM HOMELESS HEALTHCARE IN HOUSTON

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

Harris Health's Groundbreaking Mobile Clinics Set to Transform Homeless Healthcare in Houston Houston, Texas - On the threshold of a healthcare revolution, Harris Health System, renowned for its unwavering dedication to community service, proudly dedicated three stateof-the-art mobile units to its acclaimed Health Care for the Homeless Program.

This initiative promises to reshape the landscape of healthcare accessibility in Harris County.

A Momentous Unveiling Date: Thursday, January 25, 2024.

Venue: Nestled in the heart of Bellaire, the Harris Health Administration Building, located at 4800 Fournace Place.

These mobile health units, each extending an impressive 35 feet and offering 300 square feet of medical care space, are set to deliver comprehensive health services to homeless individuals throughout Harris County.

From child and adult immunizations to crucial screenings for HIV, Hepatitis C, and diabetes, these clinics on wheels are a testament to Harris Health's com-

mitment to proactive and preventative care. Additionally, mental health counseling and prenatal maternal care are among the robust services offered, all within a $1.2 million framework jointly funded by Harris Health and the HRSA. Harris Health System's Approach: Care Without Boundaries Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Esmaeil Porsa, President and CEO, and Jennifer Small, AuD, MBA, CCC-A, the newly appointed Executive Vice President and Administrator of Ambulatory Care Services, Harris Health is expanding its reach. The Health Care for the Homeless Program is Harris Health's strategic response to

the critical need for accessible healthcare. The program effectively reduces barriers to service, enables early detection and treatment, and provides a spectrum of support services, ensuring that healthcare is not a luxury but a right for all, including the homeless.

The dedication ceremony was enriched by the presence and support of Houston's civic and business leaders, including State Senator Mayes Middleton, State Representative Terri Leo, County Commissioners Leslie Briones and Adrian Garcia, and City Council members Edward Pollard, Sallie Alcorn, Tiffany Thomas, and Joaquin Martinez, alongside Houston business icons Garnett Coleman and Francis Page Jr.

A Legacy of Excellence and Community Trust As a public healthcare safety-net provider since 1966, Harris Health System represents a beacon of hope for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured residents of Harris County. With two major trauma centers and a network of 37 clinics, Harris Health embodies the gold standard in patient-centered care, boasting prestigious recognitions like the Magnet® nursing excellence designation and the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

Contact Points for Compassionate Care: Harris Health ensures that care is just a call away for those in need: Harmony House: 702 Girard St, Houston, TX - 713-929-4701 Lord of the Streets: 3401 Fannin St, Houston, TX - 713-566-9920 Navigation Center: 2903 Jensen Dr, Houston, TX - 713-497-0967 Open Door Mission: 5803 Harrisburg Blvd, Houston, TX - 713-4970961

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JOSE ALTUVE, THE HEARTBEAT OF HOUSTON, ASTROS THROUGH 2029 SECURES HIS FUTURE WITH

By Brian Barefield, Sports Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com

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n a move that cements his legacy as one of Houston's most beloved sports figures, Jose Altuve has inked a fiveyear contract extension with the Astros, ensuring his electrifying presence on the

field will continue to dazzle fans through the 2029 season. This pivotal announcement, made by Astros General Manager Dana Brown, marks a significant milestone in Altuve's illustrious career, already adorned with accolades that place him in the pantheon of Houston sports legends alongside icons like Hakeem Olajuwon and J.J. Watt.

Entering the 2024 season, his 13th with the Astros, Altuve was on the brink of concluding a seven-year tenure under his previous contract. This new extension is not just a testament to his invaluable contribution to the team but also a reflection of his unwavering commitment to the city of Houston and its passionate baseball community.

Altuve's journey with the Astros has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the course of his first 12 seasons, he has not only emerged as a beacon of excellence on the field but also carved his name among the franchise's all-time greats, sharing this esteemed status with legends like Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio. His pivotal role in steering the Astros through their golden era — highlighted by eight postseason appearances, seven consecutive ALCS berths, four American League Pennants, and two World Series victories — underscores his profound impact on the team's success.

Achieving the 2,000-hit milestone in the previous season, Altuve has solidified

his legacy as an Astros icon. However, it's in the postseason where his star shines brightest. Ranking second all-time in postseason home runs (27) and runs (89), and tied for third in hits (117), Altuve's playoff performances have been nothing short of legendary. Among second basemen, he dominates the postseason record books, further accentuating his prowess in clutch moments, including unforgettable go-ahead homers in critical ALCS matchups and a record-equalling three-home run game in the 2017 ALDS. On the Astros' all-time leaderboards, Altuve's name is a recurring feature: first in career batting average (.307), third in hits (2,047), doubles (400), runs (1,062), and stolen bases (293), fourth in OPS (.834), and fifth in home runs (209). His continued presence in the Astros lineup promises not only to entertain and inspire but also to fortify Houston's quest for future championships.

As Jose Altuve embarks on this next chapter with the Astros, his journey represents more than just personal accolades; it's a testament to his enduring bond with the city of Houston and its undying support for their beloved Astros. With Altuve at the helm, the Astros' future looks brighter than ever, as they continue to chase glory in the great American pastime.

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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Campus Chronicles L

et's give a round of applause to Melinda Winston for shattering the Alief ISD Hastings High School Lady Bears Rebound record, amassing an impressive 983 career rebounds! Kudos on this remarkable achievement!

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ver the weekend, the National Honor Society at Dulles High School in Fort Bend ISD hosted a math and science competition for elementary and middle school students, featuring

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.

C

nalist in the teacher category for the HEB Excellence in Education award will receive a $1,000 check for themselves and a $1,000 check for their school.

ongratulations to Dr. Maqsuda Afroz from César E. Chavez High School in the Houston Independent School District (HISD) as a finalist for the Houston Region Teacher award. Each fi-

A

Memorial High School sophomore, Vilius Bagdzevicius, is one of only 28 students nationwide selected to attend the Commander Naval Air Force (CNAF) Flight Academy this summer.

This prestigious opportunity, funded by

the U.S. Navy for Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) Cadets, provides private pilot training at select host universities. Valued at $26,000, Vilius's acceptance underscores his exceptional achievement and ambition.

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

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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NATIONAL: VICE PRESIDENT HARRIS CHAMPIONS HISTORIC MARIJUANA PARDONS, AIMING TO TRANSFORM JUSTICE AND EQUITY IN AMERICA

By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com

I

n a significant stride towards reform, Vice President Kamala Harris has highlighted the administration's initiative to grant pardons for federal marijuana possession offenses. This move is seen as a tangible deliverable from the administration, particularly resonating with young and Black voters, pivotal demographics for President Joe Biden's upcoming reelection campaign.

The administration's focus on cannabis clemency underscores its commitment to advancing racial justice and equity, ensuring that the American promise is accessible to all communities.

During a conversation with Gray DC in South Carolina, preceding the state's primary election, Harris emphasized the critical role of the Black youth vote for the Biden-Harris ticket. She pointed out that the cannabis clemency initiative is especially relevant, aligning with the administration's the administration's dedication to issues that matter to young and Black voters. efforts to engage this key demographic.

Despite Harris's reference to "The act of pardoning tens of thousands for simple marijuana possession "tens of thousands" of pardons, the Justice under federal law is a clear statement that no Department's data suggests that approximately 13,000 individuals have benefited individual should face jail time for smoking 01/25/2024 • PO#24-01-02 weed," Harris remarked. This initiative, from President Biden's clemency actions alongside measures to enhance high-speed in October 2022 and December 2023. It's internet access and support historically important to note that these pardons, repreBlack colleges and universities, showcases senting formal forgiveness, did not involve

Houston Style Magazine – HISD AD PROOF –

the release of individuals from federal prison for simple possession, nor did they expunge criminal records.

The administration continues to face calls from advocates to extend its marijuana reform efforts, including fulfilling Biden's campaign promise to decriminalize marijuana. The White House has been proactive in highlighting its marijuana pardons and the ongoing review of cannabis sched-

uling, as part of broader efforts to enhance equity and opportunity for Black Americans and communities nationwide.

A notable aspect of this initiative is the Justice Department's endeavor to streamline the process for issuing marijuana pardon certificates, making relief automatic for eligible individuals while also providing an option for formal documentation.

The Biden administration's cannabis reform actions, including the proposed reclassification of marijuana under federal law, reflect a broader recognition of the political and social momentum behind marijuana reform.

Recent polling indicates a positive shift in voter perception towards the president, particularly among young voters, following the administration's marijuana reform initiatives.

This comprehensive approach to cannabis clemency and reform not only addresses past injustices but also aligns with the administration's broader goals of fostering equity, justice, and opportunity for all Americans.

www.MarijuanaMoment.net www.StyleMagazine.com

Houston Independent Schoool District Competitive Sealed Proposal Notice for North Forest High School Agricultural Barn Project Number: 24-01-02 Houston Independent School District

The Houston Independent School District will receive Competitive Sealed Proposals from contractors for work on the North Forest High School Agricultural Barn Project. The work includes, but is not limited to, the construction of new Agricultural Barn and associated electrical and structural components. All required proposal information, except sub-contractor firm information and M/ WBE required documents, are due no later than Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at 4400 West 18th Street, Office of Board Services #1C, Houston, TX 77092. The proposals will be opened, and the amounts read aloud.

North Forest High School Agricultural Barn.

The Request for Competitive Sealed Proposal (CSP), which includes plans and specifications, will be available beginning January 26, 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: Heather March, heather.march@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, February 28, 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 10:00 AM CST, Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at North Forest High School located at 10726 Mesa Drive, Houston, TX 77078.

Drawings and Specifications for the CSP 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 #J112, Houston, TX. 77092

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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H-E-B IS PROUD TO SUPPORT

BLACK-OWNED

s d n a Br

Percy Creuzot Jr., Founder

Tamala Austin, Founder

FRENCHY’S SAUSAGE CO.

J.I.V.E. JUICE

Percy Creuzot, Jr. founded Frenchy’s Sausage Co. with a unique product known as Chaurice, a delicious Creole hot sausage. As the demand for Chaurice grew beyond his restaurant’s needs in 1977, Frenchy and his family grew it into a full food service distributor that currently services over 200 businesses.

J.I.V.E. Juice provides fresh cold-pressed fruit/vegetable juices and smoothies to support a healthy lifestyle. Austin turned to juicing, nutrition, meditation, and exercise following a diagnosis of high blood pressure, eventually launching a growing juice delivery service throughout the Houston metro.

Learn more about these products and other Black-owned brands at heb.com/bethechange ©2024 HEB, 24-1936

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February 8, 2024 - February 14, 2024

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