Houston Style Magazine Vol 32 No 23

June 3– June 9, 2021

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Volume 32 | Number 23

H BIDEN FIRST PRESIDENT TO VISIT TULSA AFTER 100 YEARS H

Complimentary

Jesse Jackson

No Matter the Issue, Republicans Always Say No

A Reason To Fight For The Right To Vote

Angelo Blackson

Kids Day of Play At Haverstock Hill Apartments

Words By Jo-Carolyn Goode PHOTO: AP

#GETVAX H STAYSAFE

CORONAVIRUS – US NUMBERS: Cases: 34,156,112 Deaths: 611,067 TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

Twitter: @HoustonStyle

Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine

New Month With New Real Estate Opportunities

President Visits Tulsa After 100 Years

STYLE HAUTE SHOTS

Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX

Retirement for Tom Koch After 38-Years

Falyn M. Davis

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 Black Owned Businesses

Week of May 10, 2021

1.

Houston Metro Fallbrook, 111 Fallbrook Dr., 77038| Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Daily: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via curative.com.

2.

Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, 6719 W. Montgomery Rd., 77091| Drive-thru or Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Tuesday, Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | No appointment required.

3.

Houston Community College – North Forest, 6010 Little York Rd, 77016 | Drive-thru | Nose self-swab | Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.—7 p.m. | Registration available onsite or online via doineedacovid19test.com.

4.

United Memorial Medical Center, 510 W Tidwell Rd., 77091 | Drive-thru | Healthcare nasal swab | Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. | No appointment required.

5.

Clark Community Center, 9718 Clark Rd, 77076 | Drive-thru or Walk-up | Nose self-swab | May 11-15: 10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | No appointment required.

6.

Kashmere Metro, 5700 Eastex Freeway, 77026 | Walk-up | Nose self-swab | Daily: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via curative.com.

7.

Metro Addicks Park & Ride, 14230 Katy Fwy, 77079 | Drive-thru | Nose self-swab | Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Tuesday, Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Call 832-393-4220 for access code.

8.

Memorial Park Conservancy, 1153 East Memorial Loop Dr., 77007 | Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Daily: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.| Appointment not required but available via curative.com.

9.

Houston Community College – Northeast Campus, 555 Community College Dr, 77013 | Drive-thru | Mouth self-swab | Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via docshealthtesting.com.

10. Minute Maid Park, Lot H, 1643 Memorial Dr, 77002 | Drive-thru or Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Mon.-Wed.: 8 a.m.–4 p.m. | Th: 12–8 p.m. | Fri.: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Sat.: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. | Appointment not required but available at curative.com.

11. University of St. Thomas, 3800 Montrose Blvd, 77006 | Walk-up |Shallow nose self-swab | Daily: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Appointment not required but available via curative.com.

12. Leroy Crump Stadium, 12321 Alief Clodine Rd, 77072 | Drive-thru | Healthcare nasal swab | Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via texas.spartancovidtesting.com.

13. Houston Metro West, 11555 Westpark Dr, 77082 | Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Monday-Saturday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via curative.com.

14. PlazAmericas, 7500 Bellaire Blvd, 77036 | Drive-thru | Healthcare nasal swab | Monday-Saturday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. | No appointment required.

15. Southwest Multi-Service Center, 6400 High Star Dr, 77074 | Drive-thru | Nose self-swab | Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m.—7 p.m. | Registration available onsite or online via doineedacovid19test.com.

16. Miller Outdoor Theater, 6000 Hermann Park Dr., 77030 | Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Daily: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via curative.com.

17. Magnolia Multi-Service Center, 7037 Capitol St., 77011 | Drive-thru or Walk-up | Mouth self-swab | Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Tuesday, Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | No appointment required.

18. Houston Community College – Southeast Campus, 6815 Rustic, St., 77087 | Drive-thru | Healthcare nasal swab | MondayFriday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. | No appointment required.

19. Edgewood Community Center, 5803 Bellfort Ave, 77033 | Drive-thru or Walk-up | Nose self-swab | May 11-15: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | No appointment required.

20. Houston Community College – South Campus, 1990 Airport Blvd, 77051 | Drive-thru | Healthcare nasal swab | MondaySaturday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Appointment not required but available via covidtest.tdem.texas.gov.

21. Cloverland Park Bessie Swindle Community Center, 11800 Scott St., 77047 | Drive-thru or Walk-up | Nose selfswab | May 11-15: 10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | No appointment required.

22. Hiram Clark Multi-service Center, 3810 Fuqua St, 77045 | Drive-thru or Walk-up | Mouth self-swab |Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Tuesday, Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | No appointment required.

Rev: 05/08/21 8:30 a.m.

COVID-19 Call Center: 832-393-4220

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

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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 Sports Editor Brian Barefield

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org Roland Martin www.rolandmartin.com Judge Greg Mathis www.askjudgemathis.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com William Ealy Williamealy1906@gmail.com Semetra Samuel semetra@artistikrebelcreative.com Mike Munoz artrepreneur91@gmail.com Robert Franklin editorial@stylemagazine.com

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President Joe Biden silently prays during a moment of silence. He then called on the US to be honest with its history, beginning with the acknowledgment of one of the country’s most grotesque acts of white supremacist terrorism that prompted the Tulsa race massacre 100 years ago.

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

©2021 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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June 3 - June 9, 2021

3

\

J

COMMENTARY

NO MATTER THE ISSUE, REPUBLICANS ALWAYS SAY NO

By Jesse Jackson, National Political Writer

ust say no. That seems to sum up the position of Republicans in the Congress these days.

For all the talk about bipartisan compromise or about the two parties working together, at the end of the day, the Republican position is simply to say no.

The scope of what they won’t do is breathtaking. They say no to expanding support for day care, vital in an economy where both parents must work. They say no to investing in renewable energy and electric cars. They say no to renovating America’s decrepit and outmoded infrastructure, including clean and safe drinking water. They say no to democracy reforms and ending secret money in politics.

They just say no.

It doesn’t matter how popular the issue is. Most Americans want sensible gun control laws.

According to the Pew Research Center, 70 percent of Republicans support background checks for all sales of guns, including those at gun shows. When it comes to passing the reforms, Republicans in both Houses just say no.

It doesn’t matter if it is simply about basic fairness. Fifty-five of America’s biggest corporations paid no federal income taxes last year and the wealth of just 650 billionaires rose by 50 percent, all while millions of working Americans suffered. Two-thirds of Americans support raising taxes on those making more than $400,000 a year, as Joe Biden has proposed.

Republicans in both Houses reject any tax increase on corporations or the wealthy, including the 82 percent benefit that went to the top 1 percent and 63 percent that went to the top one-tenth of 1 percent of Trump’s only major legislative accomplishment in 2017.

It doesn’t matter if the reform is about meeting a threat to our existence. Catastrophic climate change already takes lives and costs this country billions of dollars each year - and it gets worse annually.

Scientists give us about 10 years to make the transition to renewable energy. Joe Biden has proposed a modest investment in renewable energy, electric cars and retrofitting homes. His proposal is far less than scientists say is needed, far less even from what he promised during his campaign. He’s already compromised in the face of expected Republican opposition. But Republicans just say no.

It doesn’t matter if the re-

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Protesters storm the Capitol and halt a joint session of the 117th Congress form is essential to human life and to equal justice under the law. Most Americans support police reform, including a federal ban on chokeholds (71 percent), a prohibition of racial profiling (71 percent), and an end to “qualified immunity” for officers in legal cases (59 percent).

For decades and currently Congress hasn’t been able to pass an anti-lynching law. Efforts to pass reforms meet with - no surprise now - almost universal Republican opposition.

It doesn’t even matter if the measure is a bipartisan bill to have an independent bipartisan commission investigate sacking the Capitol and the attempt to stop certification of the 2020 presidential election on January 6. Even though their lives and limbs were at risk, Senate Republicans lined up in support of a filibuster to just say no.

Republicans use efforts to find common ground to stall progress before lining up to say no.

They make big gestures that turn out on inspection just to be jive. For example, the biggest “bipartisan” negotiations are over Joe Biden’s Americans Jobs Bill, which Republicans oppose. Biden called for $2.3 trillion over eight years to invest in rebuilding America, kickstarting the transition to sustainable energy, and ensuring quality affordable day care, essential if parents are to go back to work. In April, Republicans offered a laughable $568 billion over five years, stripping virtually everything but roads and bridges from their proposal (and most of that was already in the budget).

Biden compromised, cutting $552 billion out of his proposal.

Republicans got headlines for going up to $953 billion - only that was a feint. As the analysis of the invaluable Congressional Progressive Caucus Action Fund showed, the second Republican offer was spread out over eight years. And they proposed to pay for most of that by taking funds previously appropriated to deal with the pandemic and its victims over the next years.

In spending per year, the actual change in the second proposal over the first was just $2 billion a year.

That isn’t a good faith negotiation; that’s a joke.

Republicans don’t want corporations or the wealthy to pay more in taxes. They don’t want to raise the minimum wage. They oppose reforms that would make it easier for workers to organize and bargain collectively. In 20 states, Republican governors are cutting off federal unemployment insurance, hoping to force people to take low-paying jobs. They don’t want to revive the Voting Rights Act; they want to further suppress the vote. They don’t want to limit the role of big money in elections or end gerrymandering of districts to their benefit. This list can go on.

Republicans celebrate the economy of 2018 under Donald Trump before the pandemic. Yet that was an economy in which 40 percent of Americans had negative net incomes, and were forced to borrow to pay for basic household

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needs. That was an economy that subsidized fossil fuels and ignored the threat posed by climate change.

That was an economy that forced parents into debt to pay for day care, forced students into debt to pay for college, and forced Americans to pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs, even those that were created on the taxpayer’s dime.

Of course, when they run for re-election, Republicans will take credit for Biden’s American Rescue Plan that was passed without one Republican vote. No one should be fooled. At a time when America faces cascading crises, Republicans just say no. If we want even to begin to address the troubles we have, voters will have to say no to those who are standing in the way.

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

Share this story online at StyleMagazine.com.

Follow him at: Twitter @RevJJackson Share this story online at:

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S:12.5"

Amplify your summer.

On the patio, online or streaming on-the-go, Xfinity celebrates the season with the music that unites us all. Just say, “Black Experience,” into your Xfinity Voice Remote to enjoy a Black Music Month collection filled with your favorite groups, collabos, duets, TV shows, and more. Plus, with Xfinity Internet, your entertainment starts at FREE with a Flex 4K streaming box that puts all your apps in one place. Xfinity, the ultimate in Black storytelling and a way better way to watch.

Visit xfinity.com/blackexperience to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Access for Xfinity Internet customers via the Xfinity Stream app or Flex. Flex is not available in all areas or to current Xfinity Video customers. Requires post-paid subscription to Xfinity Internet, excluding Internet Essentials. Pricing subject to change. Taxes, fees and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change. Limited to 3 devices. 1 device included, additional devices $5/mo. per device. All devices must be returned when service ends. Separate subscriptions required for certain streaming services. Viewing uses your Internet service and will count against any Xfinity data plan. Streaming content limited to the U.S. ©2021 Comcast. All Rights Reserved.

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

5

LOCAL NEWS: Downtown Houston 4th Of July

Celebration Will Go Virtual Again In 2021 By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

L

ike last year, the show will be broadcast live on ABC 13, and available for streaming. But Mayor Sylvester Turner said the public will not be able to physically watch the live music acts.

“Fifty percent of Houstonians vaccinated is not enough,” Turner said. “We need more people to get vaccinated before we really kind of get back to business as normal. Fifty percent won’t do it. We need more and more.”

The in-person event was postponed in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, with a concert including several musical acts such as the Houston Symphony Orchestra streamed virtually in its place.

This year’s concert celebration will again be televised and streamed online on ABC 13. Sing-

er-songwriter Lee Brice will headline the show, which also includes Jimmie Allen, Brian Jack and the Zydeco Gamblers, Alanis Sophia Sanchez and others.

In March, President Joe Biden set a July 4 goal for the country to return to some form of normalcy, amid an increased push for vaccinations.

Nearly 55% of Harris County residents 12 and older have received at least one vaccine dose, according to state health data.

But despite the ease of COVID-19 protocols and fewer restrictions, the traditional festival format, which was normally held along Buffalo Bayou Park, will be postponed until at least next year. As the city of Houston continues to open back

up, Turner said he hoped to see the return of fully functional city events by this fall.

Turner did announce that spectators will be able to attend the firework show from several parks in the Houston area, including Eleanor Tinsley Park, which will be available to the public. The city typically brings in four stages and five entertainment zones for a projected crowd of 50,000 people.

“While I wish we could hold a huge Fourth of July celebration downtown, we’re not just yet there,” Turner said. “It takes time to move forward and we’re going to do so the best we can.”.

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What Can Adolescents Do After Their COVID-19 Shot By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

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here is no denying that adolescents and teens have sacrificed plenty in the last year due to COVID-19 – from switching to virtual classes to giving up after-school hobbies and hanging out with friends.

Now that the Pfizer COVID vaccine is authorized for individuals 12 years of age and older, they can look forward to slowly returning to their normal activities. An expert at Baylor College of Medicine said opening the vaccine to more age groups is an important step to slowing the spread of the virus.

“We know that teenagers can not only get COVID-19 but they can also transmit the virus,” said Dr. Jill Weatherhead , assistant professor of pediatrics - tropical medicine and infectious diseases at Baylor. “While teenagers are less likely to have severe disease and require hospitalization, they can still get sick, develop long COVID symptoms and can transmit the virus to other people who are higher risk.”

Like adults who have already had the chance to receive the vaccine a few months ago, adolescents and teens are probably wondering what they can and cannot do once they are fully immunized. Weatherhead offers advice for adolescents and parents on how to remain safe while returning to pre-pandemic activities.s worked six-days-a-week, staffed more than 10,000 distribution sites, distributed more than 44 million pounds of food and household supplies, and

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prepared and served more than 8.9 million meals — all while distancing should continue regardless of vaccination status. maintaining standard cafeteria services for face-to-face students.

She advises that both teens and adults continue to wear masks while in a healthcare setting, using public transportation, traveling on an airplane and in public spaces Return to Pre-COVID Activities or businesses that continue to require masking. Even if fully It is first important to remember that full immunity is vaccinated, teens and adults may choose to continue to wear reached two weeks after the second dose of the COVID vaccine. masks in public places as well.

Weatherhead explains that once teens are fully vac“Some people might choose to continue to wear cinated, it becomes safer for them to attend in-person school masks or continue to social distance until community transevents, play sports, be around friends and participate in other mission numbers come down,” Weatherhead said. “It is up extracurricular activities they were involved in before the to the discretion of the family and their risk.” pandemic, especially if they are around others who also are Weatherhead adds that it is important for teens to fully vaccinated. be aware and prepared that post- vaccination side effects are “The vaccine offers an opportunity for adolescents to common like they are in adults. Side effects after the COVID get back to a sense of normalcy in a safe way that keeps them vaccine include arm pain, muscle aches, fever and fatigue. from developing disease and transmitting it to other people,” “The approval for individuals 12 to15 years old to she said. “The CDC guidelines for what you can and cannot do once you are fully vaccinated are going to apply to adolescents receive the vaccine is certainly a message of hope, especially as well, which means they can more or less return to normal, for the teenagers who sacrificed so much during the course of this pandemic,” Weatherhead said. “It is a great scientific pre-COVID behaviors.”

According to CDC guidelines, those who are fully achievement that these vaccines are available, safe and vaccinated can resume normal activities without needing to efficacious for every age group that has been tested so far.” wear a mask. Weatherhead explains that the risk of catching and transmitting COVID-19 is reduced once fully vaccinated, but there are certain situations where wearing masks and social

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

7

A Reason to Fight For The Right To Vote

By Jo-Carolyn Goode www.StyleMagazine.com

State Rep. Ron Reynolds, D – Missouri City, speaks at a news conference at the Capitol on Sunday May 30, 2021, against Senate Bill 7, known as the Election Integrity Protection Act. New restrictions on voting in Texas are one step away from the governor’s desk. Republicans in the Texas Senate early Sunday muscled through a sweeping measure that would eliminate drive-thru voting and empower partisan poll watchers. PHOTO: AP

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e should not still be fighting for something that is granted to all Americans by the U. S. Constitution. Every person with breath in their body has a voice that deserves to be heard. They should not have to be on guard to protect this most precious right. America is a melting pot of different cultures, races, beliefs, and so many things that make each person unique. Why we can’t use that which makes us different and unique to work in unison and in harmony to make this country the best there is. Working together always results in a greater reward for the betterment of all. But still today 232 years after the first presidential election, people are still attacking the right to vote and others are standing strong protecting their right to vote.

This was not the America Joe Biden wanted to see when he came into office. Right after he was declared the winner, Biden started trying to smooth the tide between Democrats and Republicans.

In his first speech as President-Elect, Biden said, “I understand your disappointment tonight. I’ve lost a couple of elections myself.” He continued, “Let’s give each other a chance.”

Let’s give each other a chance to hear each other. Give both parties a chance to work together for the greater good. Give each other a chance to reach across the aisle and work in a bipartisan matter.

I guess that was but a dream. It seems the Republicans had a mindset to vote no on every leg-

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islative action the Democrats drummed up. One of their main focuses has been to change the way voting is done in Texas.

Voter suppression has been at the forefront of the agenda for lawmakers with Republicans wanting to make major changes in voter access in their GOP voting bill Senate Bill 7.

Houstonians will remember the campaign Harris County did to make sure every voter had access to vote from the 24-hour polling locations to the mailing of voter applications to all eligible voters.

There were more polling locations than ever before including a drive-thru locations. The SB7 would change that by changing the hours at voting locations from the usual 7 a.m.-7 p.m. to 6 a.m.-9 p.m. and it will be based on a population of 30,000 instead of 100,000.

Drive-thru polling locations would be banned as well as other temporary structures for polling places. And the most controversial is how this would bill would target the distribution of polling places in urban communities.

The bill had already passed in the Senate and was up for a vote in the House. However, it could not be voted on because there was no quorum after the Democrats did a dramatic walkout. An hour before the final approval of the bill the Democrats walked out after receiving a text message from Grand Prairie state Rep. Chris Turner telling them to “leave the

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chamber discreetly.”

Of course, Republicans were upset. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has said that this bill is in the best interest of all Texans. However, the Democrats think differently. Their argument in opposing the bill is because of how it threatened the right to vote for people of color thereby silencing their voice.

That fell on deaf ears as the Republicans were fired up more so than ever with their agenda.

In a tweet, Gov. Greg Abbott said, “Election Integrity & Bail Reform were emergency items for this legislative session. They STILL must pass. They will be added to the special session agenda.” He continued, “Legislators will be expected to have worked out the details when they arrive at the Capitol for the special session.”

Gov. Abbott further threatened to hold lawmakers’ pay if Democrats didn’t return to do their jobs. In a tweet, Gov. Abbott said he would take lawmakers’ pay away by vetoing the section of the state budget that funds their salaries for their hours.

Lawmakers get $600 a month and a per diem of $221 for every day they are in session.

Gov. Abbott has the power to veto lawmakers’ pay until June 20th.

Whenever there is someone trying to take away your right to vote that will always be a reason to fight to keep that right.

Mayor Turner and City Council Pass FY ‘22 Budget By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

Houston City Council voted to approve $5.1 billion FY 2022 operating budget

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he budget prioritizes city services, includes funding for police and fire cadet classes, a commitment to improving neighborhoods, addresses homelessness and encampments, and increases the response to illegal dumping.

“It is a balanced budget, and we are still meeting the priorities of this city,” Mayor Turner said. “We are increasing the number of police officers, addressing police reforms, and we are providing core services.”

The budget also includes an 18 percent pay raise over three years for Houston firefighters.

Like most states and local governments across the nation, the City of Houston faced a record revenue loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In FY 2020, FY 2021, and a portion of FY 2022 alone, the city estimated cumulative revenue losses of $178 million.

“Sales tax is one of our hardest-hit sources with an expected $113 million cumulative loss for those fiscal years. Additionally, we are projecting $65 million in revenue losses from other sources such as Charges for Services, Parking Revenues, Mixed Beverage Tax, and others,” said Mayor Turner at the time he rolled out the budget proposal.

Due to COVID-19 and the city’s existing property tax revenue cap, the loss of revenue created a $201 million budget shortfall in the General Fund – the largest deficit in recent city history.

“Thankfully, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11, 2021, will provide the City with much-needed relief,” said Mayor Turner.

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Catalytic Converter Thefts Skyrocketing Nationwide The pollution-control gadgets are full of precious metals By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

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ccording to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), catalytic converter thefts have seen a significant increase across the country since March of 2020, the start of the global pandemic..

“Vehicle thefts, carjackings, and break-ins are all crimes we’ve witnessed trending upward for several months, and now catalytic converter thefts are also on the rise,” said David Glawe, President and CEO of NICB. “We have seen a significant increase during the pandemic. It’s an opportunistic crime. As the value of the precious metals contained within the catalytic converters continues to increase, so do the number of thefts of these devices. There is a clear connection between times of crisis, limited resources, and disruption of the supply chain that drives investors towards these precious metals.”

A catalytic converter is a device that looks like a small muffler along with the exhaust system. It is designed to convert the environmentally hazardous exhaust emitted by an engine into less harmful gasses. To do this, manufacturers use platinum, palladium, or rhodium. In recent years, the values of these precious metals have increased significantly. As of December 2020, rhodium was valued at $14,500 per ounce, palladium at $2,336 per ounce, and platinum going for $1,061 per ounce. Typically, recyclers will pay $50 to $250 per catalytic converter.

According to NICB’s Operations, Intelligence and Analytics study of reported thefts, there were 108 catalytic converter thefts per month on average in 2018, 282 average monthly thefts in 2019, and 1,203 average thefts per month in 2020.

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During this time period, the top five states for catalytic converter thefts were California, Texas, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Illinois. In 2020, there was a continual climb in thefts. January had the fewest number of thefts at 652, but it continued to climb markedly throughout the year, with December having 2,347 thefts.

As of the end of February 2021, 18 states – Arkansas, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia – are evaluating potential legislative actions to curb the theft problem.

“Removing a catalytic converter takes only minutes using some basic, readily-available, battery-operated tools from a local hardware store,” added Glawe. “And for the vehicle owner, it’s costly due to the loss of work, finding and paying for alternate transportation and then paying anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 to get your vehicle fixed.”

Call local law enforcement and your insurer should you become the victim of a catalytic converter theft.

In some cases, this theft is covered by insurance. The optional comprehensive portion of your insurance policy, the portion that covers damage caused to your vehicle not caused by accident, covers this kind of loss. However, the owner will be responsible for paying the deductible. If your deductible is $1,000 and the cost to repair the damage costs $1,000 or maybe a few hundred dollars more, drivers may not opt to file a claim. The NICB advises drivers to contact their insurer to report the theft and determine the best course of action

The NICB recommends vehicle owners: Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device. These are available from various manufacturers and can provide a level of security from theft.

Park fleet vehicles in an enclosed and secured area that is well lit, locked, and alarmed.

Park personal vehicles in a garage. If not possible and vehicles must be parked in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor security lights.

While lights may not provide complete security, it may make some thieves think twice, making them leave the area and your vehicle untouched.

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Garcia Hamilton & Associates Plays A Part at the Tulsa 2021 Economic Empowerment Day

G

By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

ilbert Andrew Garcia of Garcia Hamilton & Associates was in Tulsa, Oklahoma to participate in the Tulsa 2021 Economic Empowerment Day. This event commemorated the 100-year anniversary of the race massacre in Tulsa which was so vividly portrayed by documentaries which premiered on several TV and Cable Channels. He served on a panel called the Black Wall Street Track: Seminar - Partners in Policy Strengthening Black Wall Street. The moderator was Monica Bertran with Bloomberg. The other panelists were James Andrus of CalPERS and Robert James of the National Bankers Association. The Black Wall Street Track seminar discussed the policy implications of diversity and inclusion at the local and federal levels. They also discussed current and proposed policy-driven programs.

The goal of the Economic Empowerment Day was to create a collective focal point for the national conversation on the Racial Wealth Gap and the Inequality in Access to Capital. With a focus on addressing the disparities for Black business owners, investors, and individuals, the confer-

ence was the premier event for Black Economic Empowerment, taking lessons from the past and accelerating the path forward towards economic equality and justice for all.

Mr. Gilbert Andrew Garcia had the opportunity to collaborate with Hill Harper, who served as the co-host of the Economic Empowerment Day. Mr. Harper is the Founder/CEO of TheBlackWallStreet.com, Award-winning Actor, Best-selling Author, and Philanthropist. Also, he discussed economic concerns with his friend Chris Paul Gardner, who during the early 1980’s, struggled with homelessness while raising a toddler son. He became a stockbroker and eventually founded his own brokerage firm Gardner Rich & Co in 1987. In 2006, Gardner sold his minority stake in the firm and published a memoir. The book was made into the motion picture The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith.

Gilbert Andrew Garcia is available to talk about what happened during the Economic Empowerment Day in Tulsa. Contact Foston International Communications for interviews, 832-595-2544 or jfoston@fostoninternational.com.

Gilbert Andrew Garcia and Hill Harper

Chris Paul Gardner and Gilbert Andrew Garcia

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

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W

elcome back to The Open House. It’s the beginning of a new month, meaning new opportunities to sell your home.

According to the Houston Association of Realtors, almost 3,000 homes sold last week. Meaning, Houston’s real estate market is super hot!

Sellers are garnering multiple offers for their homes, because homes are selling in just a few days and in some cases even selling above asking price. So, if you have been thinking of making the move and selling your home, now is definitely the time to do so.

Before selling your home, the first thing I would advise you to do is to learn as much as you can about the housing market and check out other homes that have recently sold in your area.

Because you might be considering selling your home “as is” or making a few repairs.

Selling the home “as is” might make more sense in some situations, such as the property needs too many repairs and the cost to fix it up will be too high. If the improvements do not garner a good return on the

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

The Open House: With Realtor Falyn Davis

New Month New Opportunities!

Falyn M. Davis

BUYING H SELLING H LEASING H APT. LOCATING Licensed Professional Realtor investment, then as an agent, I would advise you not to do it.

But, some improvements will give you great ROI such as in the kitchen and baths. Other minimum improvements that I would advise is to fix any holes in the walls, cracks in the ceilings and replace any broken

appliances and the HVAC system.

If you want to start this process, but don’t know where to begin call me and we can discuss step by step. I look forward to working with you as your trusted agent and helping you navigate this market by selling your home for top dollar!

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Cell Phone: 832-396-6276 Email: FalynMDavis@gmail.com Social Media: @FalynDavis

Kids Day of Play At Haverstock Hill Apartments The Angelo Blackson Foundation and Friends Provided Much Needed Fun!

O

By www.StyleMagazine.com – Newswire

ne Sunday, NFL player Angelo Blackson and his family and friends gathered to provide a full Day of Play for the kids at one of Houston’s most notorious apartment complexes: Haverstock Hill Apartments.

Kicking off the day, friends and family gathered to setup 8 bounce houses, activities and games. Everyone was welcomed, there was also music throughout the day with and a dance contest for the kiddos. And lots of food and snow cones for eveyone to enjoy. “I came from a place very similar to this,” said Angelo Blackson.

“It’s important to give back and I’m fortunate to be in a

position to do so.”

The Angelo Blackson Foundation partnered with several other nonprofit organizations including Bee Busy, Inc, and the Bee Busy Wellness Center. Bee Busy, Inc. provided STI testing to anyone wanting to know their status regardless of their ability to pay. Of course they brought along their mascot, Bumble to play with the kids along with backpacks full of toys, and games.

“This Kids Day of Play is a way for the Angelo Blackson Foundation to give back to the communities in which they live, work and play,” said Delila Newman, President at Angelo Blackson Foundation. “We believe

that play is vital for children’s development and learning, and we incorporate this philosophy into our organization’s mission, as well as our philanthropic efforts.”

Despite all the benefits of play, not all children in the Houston have equitable access to the benefits of play in their home environment. That’s why the Angelo Blackson Foundation and family have decided enough is enough! We need to make sure that potential of play is centered in our children’s everyday life.

Kids Day of Play is organized by the Angelo Blackson Foundation, which works to break down the barriers of play for hundreds of children in need each year.

A GULF COAST JUNETEENTH F E A T U R I N G

BOBBY RUSH JUNE 19, 8:30 PM

Our annual Juneteenth blues and creole festival features Grammy award-winning blues legend Bobby Rush! This story telling bluesman boasts gritty, sensuous vocals and impressive harmonica chops that wow audiences wherever he goes!

KEEPING THE MUSIC ALIVE IN CELEBRATION OF

AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH

THE ERNEST WALKER BAND JUNE 26, 8:30 PM With throwback performances and special tribute to Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, Whitney Houston, Barry White, Michael Jackson, Prince, Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac and more.

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

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2021

DON’T FORGET + JUNE 19TH IS JUNETEENTH www.StyleMagazine.com

H 1921 Tulsa, Oklahoma Race Massacre + #TulsaMassacre H

Olivia Hooker - Last Survivor

Tulsa Race Riot Destroyed 1,000 Black Owned Businesses Carl Davis #TulsaMassacre

Sheila Jackson-Lee – Paying Respect In Oklahoma #TulsaMassacre

VP Harris w/Olivia Hooker #TulsaMassacre

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June 3 - June 9, 2021

Vice President Kamala Harris With Lessie Randle

President Joe Biden #TulsaMassacre

Sheila Jackson-Lee – Paying Respect To A Survivor In Tulsa, Oklahoma #TulsaMassacre

1921 Tulsa, Oklahoma #TulsaMassacre

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2021

DON’T FORGET + JUNE 19TH IS JUNETEENTH www.StyleMagazine.com

H 2021 Social Media Haute Shots + Around Town H

Texans Donate $450K To Change Happens

Mayor Turner Supporting WPG Houston

Nick Anderson Going Pro #TWINS

Houston’s FIRST DAUGHTER Getting Married Senate Leaders Putting In Work

Byron Stevenson w/Rumas Wright #BrothersInChrist

Mayor Sylvester Turner Proclamation to Tom Koch for 38-Years and His Upcoming Retirement from ABC-TV-13

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Mayor Turner Congratulating County Clerk – Teneshia Hudspeth

June 3 - June 9, 2021

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