Houston Style Magazine Vol 33 No 41

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NEWS | COMMENTARIES | SPORTS | HEALTH | ENTERTAINMENT Support Black Owned Businesses Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989 Complimentary Houston Sports Hall of FameGet Screened for Breast Cancer Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTXTwitter: @HoustonStyleTAG US: #TeamStyleMag Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine OCTOBER 6, 2022 - OCTOBER 12, 2022 Inaugural Hispanic and Latin Heritage Food Fest Fort Bend County Jesse Jackson Some Politicians Confuse Freedom with Irresponsibility Volume 33 | Number 41Houston Style Magazine 2nd Gun Buyback Program Mayor Turner Announces Important Details
Editor/ Photo
Toronto Film Fest TONI V. SMITH: 14 YEARS LATER AND STILL FIGHTING
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Brian Barefield brian_barefield@yahoo.com

Food Writer

Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Arts Writer Kathleen Coleman kathleen@stylemagazine.com

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COMMENTARY SOME POLITICIANS CONFUSE FREEDOM WITH IRRESPONSIBILITY

As extreme weather caused floods in Kentucky, collapse of the water system in Jackson Mississippi, and the savage destruction of central Florida - to say nothing of fires and drought and a growing water shortage in the Westwe ought to agree on two simple reali ties: America faces a growing challenge from both catastrophic climate change and a growing infrastructure deficit that is putting lives and communities at risk.

All should agree that we must act aggressively and at scale to address the climate challenge and rebuild our decrepit and aged infrastructure. We can invest now - or we will pay far more on the backside of calamity. Yet that's not how it works. Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis and his state's two senators, Mark Rubio and Rick Scott, all Repub licans, now call fervently for federal aid and resources to help clean up the exten sive damage caused by Hurricane Ian. With millions still without electricity or safe water, and many still endangered by floods, fallen bridges, downed electric lines and collapsed bridges, recovery will take years and cost tens of billions of dollars. The politicians are all in for getting federal dollars and resources to help in the wake of catastrophe. DeSan tis regularly scorns federal spending in general and Joe Biden in particular, but when asked after Ian hit if he'd meet with Biden, he said, sensibly, "We need all the help we can get."

Yet, Gov. DeSantis, who has presidential ambitions, goes out of his way to dismiss warnings about extreme weather from catastrophic climate change. He said during his gubernatorial campaign that he doesn't want to be la beled "a global warming person." When asked last December how he plans to ad dress climate change, DeSantis replied that "people when they start talking about things like global warming, they

typically use that as a pretext to do a bunch of left-wing things. We're not doing any left-wing stuff." Last year, he signed a bill that blocked Florida cities and towns from transitioning to 100 per cent clean energy. He also championed a resolution prohibiting Florida's pension fund from considering the impact of cli mate change in its investment decisions.

The Lever, a reader-supported investigative news outlet, reports that about three months before Florida was clobbered by Ian, eight of the state's Re publican lawmakers pressured federal regulators to halt a proposal requiring businesses to more thoroughly disclose the risks they face from climate change. Those lawmakers have raked in more than $1 million of campaign cash from oil and gas industry donors.

Similarly, all of Florida's pol iticians voted against the bipartisan infrastructure bill that Biden managed to pass through the Congress. DeSantis scorned the $19 billion that would go

to Florida. Now, in the wake of Ian, of course, he wants a lot of "left-wing stuff," like massive funds from the fed eral government to rebuild Florida. Politicians like DeSantis, Rubio and Scott confuse freedom with irresponsi bility. They tout the freedoms of Florida, where public health officials won't tell you to wear a mask, planners won't tell you where to build your house, politi cians won't tax your incomes. And if that leaves the state with vulnerable bridges and water systems, with homes exposed on flood plains, with impoverished com munities, so be it.

Pundits regularly expose the hypocrisy of politicians like DeSantis, Rubio and Scott seeking billions in aid to help Florida rebuild in the wake of Ian, while voting against aid for other disasters in other states. One of the first votes DeSantis took when he was sworn in as a congressman in 2013 was to op pose aid to the victims of Superstorm Sandy. But hypocrisy is a relatively

minor sin among politicians. A far big ger failing is to sacrifice the lives and the security of the people they claim to represent to embrace the corruption of fossil fuel campaign money and the blinders of ideological posturing.

A catastrophe like Ian or a shameful horror like the collapse of the water system in Mississippi's state capital should concentrate our minds. Accelerating the transition to renewable energy isn't "left-wing stuff," it is a mor al and existential imperative. Rebuild ing the resilience and efficiency of our dangerously decrepit infrastructure isn't a socialist plot, it is the foundation for safe communities and a robust economy.

In the wake of a natural disas ter, people come together to help their neighbors. Smart politicians put aside their partisan posturing to join in doing what can be done to save the endan gered and rebuild from the destruction. Now, we need to demand that the same common sense and responsibility be exercised to protect ourselves from the calamities to come, not just to rebuild after them.

You can write to the Rev. Jesse Jackson in care of this Newspaper or by email at: jjackson@rainbowpush.org

15 4 October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022 www.StyleMagazine.com
Members of Progressive Morningstar Baptist Church move cases of water after a Sunday morning service in Jackson, Mississippi

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COMMENTARY: BLACK WOMEN HOLDING TRUMP ACCOUNTABLE

Former President Donald Trump has spent a lifetime getting away with things. Rich and willing to use an army of lawyers to defend his abuses and bully people he has wronged into submission, Trump is a prime example of the inequities in our justice system.

But that could all be changing, thanks to two courageous Black women who are not intimidated by his insults and public bullying. One of them is New York Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James. She has been leading an inves tigation into a “staggering” amount of financial fraud she charges that Trump has committed over the years.

After trying everything he could to avoid it, Trump appeared in her office in August to answer questions. But the only question he answered was about his name. For every other question—more than 400 other times—he invoked his right under the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment to avoid incriminating him self. In September, after interviewing dozens of people and reviewing millions of pages of documents, James’s office filed a lawsuit against Trump and his three adult children who have been in business with him—Ivanka, Don Jr., and Eric.

The suit asks them to forfeit $250 million in ill-gotten gains and

seeks to prevent them from doing busi ness in New York for the immediate fu ture. She told a reporter that the lawsuit shows how Trump repeatedly lied about the value of his properties “to unjustly enrich himself and to cheat the system, thereby cheating all of us.”

Trump responded in his typical fashion. He called James a “racist.” He

called her investigation “the greatest witch hunt in the history of the coun try.”

Now, anyone who has fol lowed Trump’s interactions with Black women who call him on his…stuff… knows that this is part of a pattern with Black women who see through him and aren’t afraid to speak truth.

Trump’s disgusting record of insulting and smearing activists like Stacey Abrams, public officials like Vice President Kamala Harris, Rep. Maxine Waters and Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser—and journalists like April Ryan, Abby Phillips, and Yamiche Alcindor—was recently reviewed by Kaly Holloway for The Daily Beast, which said that James’s lawsuit “is bringing the ex-president’s racism and sexism back into the spotlight.”James is not the only fearless Black woman seeking to hold Trump accountable. In Georgia, Fulton County District Attor ney Fani Willis is conducting a criminal investigation of Team Trump’s efforts to overturn the results of the presidential election in Georgia.

Remember that phone call a few days before the attack on the Capitol? Trump was desperately trying to over turn his defeat by Joe Biden. Trump, his chief of staff Mark Meadows, and a bunch of Trump attorneys got on the phone with Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. Trump demanded that Raffensperger “find” him enough votes to flip the election to him.

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New York Attorney General Letitia James, left. Former president Donald Trump, right/ Getty Images
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Mayor Sylvester Turner joined city, county, and federal an nounced details of the next gun buyback as part of the One Safe Houston initiative today. The Mayor was joined by U.S. Rep. Al Green, U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Harris County Precinct One Commissioner Rodney Ellis, City Council Member Tiffany Thomas and METRO Chair Sanjay Ramabhadran.

Following an overwhelming turnout during the first gun buyback on July 30, the second event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 8 at the METRO Park & Ride, 11050 Harwin Drive, between 8 a.m.- noon. "Our goal is the same for the second event as it was for the first, and that is to get guns off the street," said Mayor Turn er. "The guns turned in will never be stolen or used in the commission of a crime, suicide, or an accidental shooting by a child."

During the first gun buy back, Houston Police collected 793 guns, including 281 long guns, and 512 pistols. HPD also gave priority vouchers to 150 additional people who were turned turned away be cause of the long lines and wait. In

anticipation of another outpouring of support and robust public in terest, Houston Police Chief Troy Finner announced that HPD would implement several changes to make the process more efficient on Oct. 8 including;

1. More lanes to accommodate vehicles

2. People given priority vouchers on July 30 will be moved to front of the line

3. No privately manufactured weapons or "ghost guns" accepted.

4. No questions asked. Remain in vehicles

The gun buyback is one tool in the One Safe Houston initiative, a comprehensive holistic approach to reducing violent crime. It has four components.

For more information, visit houstontx.gov/citizensnet/

Read More at Stylemagazine.com

Mayor Sylvester Turner

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LOCAL: Mayor Turner, City, County and Federal Leaders Announce Details of Second Gun Buyback By StyleMagazine.com Newswire
CITY OF HOUSTON Turn in your firearms to receive gift cards.* No questions asked! QUESTIONS? contact: (832) 393-6772 or coh_policing_reform@houstontx.gov https://www.houstontx.gov/onesafehouston SATURDAY OCTOBER 8, 2022 TIME 8:00am - noon LOCATION METRO WESTCHASE PARK AND RIDE 11050 HARWIN DRIVE HOUSTON, TX 77072 Transport your firearms unloaded and in the trunk of your vehicle. *Gift card quantities are limited and subject to availability. No privately manufactured guns accepted PRESENT Commissioner Rodney Ellis HARRIS COUNTY PCT 1 GUN BUYBACK $100 Shotgun Rifle, Hunting $50 Non-functioning firearm $150 Revolver Handgun, semi-auto $200 Rifle, semi-auto

Fort Bend County Judge KP George, today proudly celebrated the profound impact that Lat in-American people and culture have in Fort Bend County with two special community events held at the Historic Fort Bend County Courthouse.

To kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, Judge George’s inaugural county-wide Taste of Hispanic and Latin American Food Festival was held from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The event aimed to embrace the Lat in culture and highlight its diverse community through food and live music. Half a dozen Fort Bend Area restaurants participated in the food festival; Bob’s Tacos, Tacos Don Marte, Papusaria Agua Caliente, La Michocana, and Panaderia Victoria.

Following the Food Festival, Judge George continued the cele bration of Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing the contributions of community advocates, educators, and activists of Hispanic and Latin

heritage in Fort Bend County. Honorees included Dora Ol ivo, a former member of the Texas House of Representatives represent ing the 27th District, Brenda Ma cal, president of the Fort Bend Amer ican Federation of Teachers, Frances Luna, a long-time champion of vot ing rights in Fort Bend County who helped educate the Spanish-speaking people of Rosenberg about the elec

tion process, businesswoman Vanessa Luna, vice president of Fort Bend League of United Latin American Cit izens (LULAC), and Carmen Pina, the first bilingual elections judge in Fort Bend County. ABC 13 News Anchor Mayra Moreno served as Mistress of Ceremonies. Featured guests included J. Christian Becerra, 434th District Court Judge in Fort Bend County, Fort Bend County Attorney Bridgette

Smith-Lawson, Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan, Juli Mathew, presiding Judge of County Court at Law 3 in Fort Bend County, and Dr. Jennifer Cantu co-founder and board member of Fort Bend for All. “His panic Heritage Month is a time for us all to celebrate and acknowledge the accomplishments and contributions made by people of Hispanic and Lat in heritage,” said Fort Bend County Judge George. “Through our cele brations and recognitions, we learn so much about the richness of the cultures here in Fort Bend County.”

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D AV IS Sound legal judgment edication to community tion to truth and justice Making law and order justice! C I V I L J U D G E D E D R A Nearly 40 years of legal experience! EQUAL 2 7 0 t h D i s t r i c t C o u r t PA D POL TICAL AD BY DEDRA DAVIS FOR JUDGE CAMPA GN N COMPL ANCE W TH THE VOLUNTARY L M TS OF THE JUDIC AL CAMPAING FA RNESS ACT TO ANDERSON CPA TREASURER RE-ELECT PROVEN: ELECT POLITICALADVERTISINGPAIDFORBYTHETONIV.SMITHCAMPAIGN,MONICAL.AKOMPI,TREASURER SMITH TONI FORT BENDfor DEMOCRATICCANDIDATE www.tonivsmith.com ToniV.Smith itoni.v.smithf ELECTIONDAY EARLYVOTING OCT24-NOV4 NOV8 LOCAL:FORT BEND COUNTY HONORS HISPANIC COMMUNITY LEADERS, PRESENTS INAUGURAL HISPANIC AND LATIN HERITAGE FOOD FESTIVAL By StyleMagazine.com Newswire

FEATURE: TONI V. SMITH: 14 YEARS LATER AND STILL FIGHTING

Aboxer never steps into any ring ill-prepared. Muscles in their body must be trained for weeks to condition the body, build endurance, and enhance speed. The mind must be trained to focus. If a boxer believes they are stronger and faster than their oppo nent, they have already lost the fight. But how do you prepare for a fight when you know nothing about your opponent? There is no time to plan a strategy. It’s as if you are being sucker-punched from the get-go, leaving you confused – Is your on-the-defense mechanism to bob and weave or duck and jab? How does you prepare for the fight of your life?

In 2008, Toni V. Smith found herself in one of those kinds of fights. The 29th of May became a day that she would never forget. As she was getting dressed for work, she felt uneasysomething within her body did not feel right. Then, when she stretched out her left arm, she felt a sharp pain in her left breast. Investigating the root cause of the pain, she discovered a lump the size of two fingers.

Smith instantly thought “breast cancer” and was suddenly flooded with memories of her Aunt Lena, her moth er's sister. Her aunt died from breast can cer at the age of 27, so Smith knew there was a high probability that the lump she felt might be cancerous. The more she tried to remain positive and not dwell on it, the more the opposite occurred. Thoughts of fear and negativity took over her mind. Deciding to fight fear with faith, she called upon her doctornot her earthly doctor but her doctor in heaven who never met a problem that He couldn’t solve. Feeling that He was never presented with a situation that He couldn’t turn around, Smith prayed to HIM, releasing all of her worries to HIM.

The following day after discov ering the lump, Smith made an appoint ment for a mammogram. The test was hard for her since she was already in pain, and the exam made the pain even more unbearable. Almost as trouble some was thinking about how long she would have to wait for the results. The time wouldn’t be as long as she thought. Before she even left the office, she got a call from her primary care doctor that the Women's Hospital Breast Center had contacted her about her breast exam. Dr. Theresa Robinson told Smith to make an appointment for a biopsy of the lump as the results were concerning. It would be seven days before the news of the biopsy results would be known. June

9, 2008 became another date etched in her mind. Surrounded by her support system, she prepared for the news. But she never heard the words, “You have breast cancer” - instead, the look on both her mother’s and sister's faces told her. All she had to do was look at their lowered heads, quivering lips and tearstained cheeks to know the news was not good. With that news, it was time for Smith to put it in gear and take action. Things began to move quickly after being officially diagnosed. It was time for Smith to get into that ring – ready to fight. Before knowing the type of cancer or its current stage, Smith knew that the diagnosis would not run her life. She already knew that she would elect for a double mastectomy to remove both of her breasts.

Two weeks later, Smith learned that she had Stage III, Triple Negative Aggressive Grade 3, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, one of the most challeng ing breast cancers to treat. Hearing the news, Smith prayed and went into ultimate fight mode. "I had a choice to get busy living or die, and I chose to get busy living," said Smith. Throughout her six months of chemo, 20+ surgeries, and countless blood transfusions, Smith made many important decisions – to remain positive, to stand by her faith, to lean on her support team, and most importantly was to not give up.

Smith had to part ways with doing what she loved about life for the moment. No more being a hairstylist. No more pursuing the life of an entre preneur. No more investing in herself as a mortgage broker and real estate agent. Her life was flipped, twisted, and tossed upside down. She had to put all her energy and focus towards fighting and beating breast cancer. Lucky for her, she

didn’t have to do it alone. She had her mom, sisters, and a host of other family and friends along with an amazing team of doctors. Smith put on her virtual ar mor blessed by God and put her dukes up. She was ready to fight, and cancer was not going to win.

Six months of four-hour che motherapy treatments left Smith with no appetite, no fingernails or toenails, dry skin, and no hair. Her breast had been replaced with a prosthesis that she referred to as her slingshot. She had a wig that sometimes made it on her head and sometimes not. Her emotions were all over the place as the medicine and cancer took over her body. Throughout her battle with cancer, she never missed a day's work. She used humor as a cop ing mechanism on her low days and faithfully thanked God each and every day. Breast cancer is not a stranger to the Smith family and is hereditary. As previously mentioned, Smith's Aunt Lena died of breast cancer when Smith was eight. Her first cousin, Dr. Carla Lee, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, four years before Smith. Next was Smith’s mother who was diagnosed with Triple Negative breast cancer in March 2012. Now, with Smith becom ing the fourth woman diagnosed breast cancer, the remaining Smith sisters and her mother got genetically tested for the BRAC 1 gene. Smith had already been tested and knew she was negative for the BRAC 1 and BRAC 2 genes. However, that preventative care revealed one sister was negative for the cancer gene. Her mom, two of her sisters, and her first cousin all tested positive for the cancer gene. With that new news, her eldest sister, Carmen scheduled herself for a biopsy where tumors were seen but they were benign. Carmen didn’t waste any

time and opted to have a prophylactic double mastectomy on the same day their mother had her double mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Her younger sisters, Mary and Lena, also chose to have a prophylactic double mastectomy, breast reconstruction, and full hyster ectomy. The Smith women were taking control and their power back from can cer.

Breast cancer indeed changed Smith as a person. She was fierce and fired up because she took on her tough est opponent and won with faith, family, friends, and her medical dream team. The word “wait” is no longer in her vocabulary. First on the list was to earn her college degree. Smith received her Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Management with a concentration in Business Management as magna cum laude graduate in 2 ½ years. She followed that by getting her MBA, graduating with honors at the top of her class, and is now pursuing her doctorate in Organizational Leadership. And as if that wasn’t a great accomplishment enough, Smith is now running for the position of Fort Bend County Clerk.

Some might say that she is fol lowing in her big sister's footsteps, Fort Bend Tax Assessor Carmen P. Turner. Smith would say that fighting for people in need has always been ingrained in her and woven throughout her family's DNA. Volunteering and working in the community was something they always did throughout their adolescence; they were not always sure what they wear doing but knew they felt great helping people. Performing acts of community service taught her to always honor her ancestors, respect all people, and oper ate with excellence.

"I am running because public service is part of my DNA." Smith con tinued, "I am a survivor. I am a fighter who will fight for you in the county clerk's office. I will do that with the highest ethical standards, transparency, respect for our community's diversity, and a commitment to exceptional cus tomer service." As County Clerk, Smith says that she will bring her 38 years of experience as an entrepreneur to do the job with justice and integrity.

9www.StyleMagazine.com October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022
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HEALTH: HHSC ENCOURAGES SCREENINGS DURING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

October is Breast Cancer Aware ness Month and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission is encouraging women to get screened regularly for the disease. “Breast cancer screenings can save a woman’s life and mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat,” said Rob Ries, HHS deputy executive commissioner for Family Health Services. “As we bring awareness to this issue, we’re urging women to make time for their health and to get screened regularly.”

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women age 50 to 74 get a mammogram every other year. Women with extra risk factors could start annual screenings at age 40. The HHSC Breast and Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS) program helps fund clinics across the state to provide free breast can cer screening and diagnostic services

such as clinical breast examinations, mammograms and breast biopsies to eligible women. BCCS also provides funding for cervical cancer screen ings and treatment for precancerous cervical conditions. In addition, local clinics help eligible women ap ply for the Medicaid for Breast and Cervical Cancer program that helps women get treatment for breast and cervical cancer. Last year, the BCCS program helped more than 29,000 women. Of those women, more than 290 were diagnosed with breast can cer.

Uninsured and underinsured Texas women who have an income at or below 200 percent of the federal

poverty level are eligible to apply for BCCS. This month, some breast can cer awareness

observation dates include:

Metastatic Breast Cancer Aware ness Day – Oct. 13

Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day – Oct. 19

National Mammography Day – Oct. 21

To learn more about the women’s health programs and services that HHSC offers, visit the Healthy Texas Women website or dial 2-1-1.

National Breast Cancer Aware ness Month is observed in October to raise awareness about breast cancer

and provide education about pre vention, screening, and treatments.

According to the World Health Or ganization, breast cancer became the most common cancer globally as of 2021, accounting for 12% of all new annual cancer cases worldwide.

#BreastCancerAwareness

For information on the Texas Breast & Cervical Cancer Services, visit: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/pro viders/health-services-providers/ womens-health-services/breast-cer

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vical-cancer-services

H Harris County-Houston Sports Authority Hall of Fame Foundation & Houston Sports Hall of Fame

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H The Harris County Houston Sports Authority announced its 2023 Hall of Fame Class, inducting former Rockets legend Calvin Murphy, Oilers offensive lineman Bruce Matthews, and former Houston Cougar and Rockets star Elvin Hayes. #WeAreHoustonSports

LOCAL: HELP HOUSTON HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CONTINUE TO BUILD DREAMS OF HOMEOWNERSHIP

Making dreams of home owner ship come true for families is the business Houston Habitat for Humanity is in. Their only fundraiser to help construct is coming up. Houston Habitat for Humanity is proud to an nounce their annual Building a Dream Luncheon on October 18, 2022, at The Briar Club from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Gaynell Floyd Drexler will receive the Carl Umland Award and Natosha Reid Rice will be the keynote speaker. The event is one of the highlights of the year as the organization gets to tout their accomplishments. In addition, one of the families who has been fortunate to receive a home from the organization gets to speak about how their own dreams came true because of the work of those at Houston Habitat for Humanity. Honoree Drexler knows all the work that goes into granting dreams of home ownership as she has worked with Houston Habitat for

Humanity for a decade. Servicing twice as the co-chair of the luncheon, Drexler is a member of the Houston Habitat for Humanity Endowment board and served on the Houston Habitat for Humanity board of directors for a decade and as chair from 2015-2017. Her dedication to this organization is evident in her years of commitment.

Drexler has a been a staple in the Houston community for more than

30 years lending her time to other orga nizations. She currently serves on the Houston Public Library Foundation board and the Buffalo Bayou Partnership board of directors, where she is vice-president. Gaynell is an advisory board member of the University Museum at Texas Southern University and CoolxDad, a non-profit uplifting fathers in black and brown communities. Serving other is just in Drexler’s blood. The Natchez, Mississip

pi, professionally is an attorney earning a BA in political science from Spelman College and a Juris Doctorate from How ard University School of Law.

Read more at: Stylemagazine.com or Houstonhabitat.org

13www.StyleMagazine.com October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022

UP

TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Cast of On the Come Up

The 2022 Toronto International Film Festival roared back to its splendor with in-theater pre mieres and showings. Thousands upon thousands of international film lovers flocked to cinemas, viewed the latest wave of diverse voices and watched Black films that reflected Black life.

On the Come Up (***) Hard to name a lot of rap movies that can put a smile on your face, but this will. Actor turned director Sanaa Lathan (Love & Basketball), blends Boyz ’n the Hood drama with Straight Outta Compton bravura. This exhilarating filmmaking is based on a novel by for mer teen rapper turned novelist Angie Thomas (The Hate You Give). Thom as’ story, as interpreted by screenwriter Kay Oyegun, rings true. Teen rapper Briana, aka Lil Lawless (Jamila Gray), is the daughter of a famous deceased hip hop artist and she grapples with her mom (Lathan) who abandoned her as a tot. Bri “I lost my innocence the night she left.” Attending a predominately white high school further exasperates her anxiety. Life heads in the right di rection when her manager Auntie Poo (Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Dolemite is My Name) gets her gigs at rap battles. She stumbles, but then excels. Lathan connects to the culture and struggles of hip hop musicians. Tense rap battles play like heavy weight fights. Raw emotions between Bri and mom and the petite rapper and imposing male rivals burn. The niece’s ambition and her Auntie’s feeling of abandonment combusts. Poo: “You walking around like I didn’t change your diapers!” A very thoughtful sub plot involves a teenage gay friendship/ romance that feels normal as rain. Inyour-face cinematography (Eric Bano, The Forty-Year-Old Version), powerful music (Daniel Wohl) and

precise editing (Steven Rosenblum, The Birth of a Nation) help too. Gray is fiery, but Randolph’s hardcore Oscar® worthy take on Poo sears the screen. Bravo to Lathan for making On the Come Up shine bright like a diamond.

Sidney (***) A Sidney Poitier documentary sells itself. Just capture his regal sense of dignity, and anything else is a plus. Old and new interviews let the Bahamian-born actor recollect his life span: Born premature, third-grade education, alone in New York as a teen, a dishwasher yearning to be an actor and an Oscar® winner.

The usual formula of TV clips, photos and countless interviewees elaborate on how he stumbled into career-defining roles (Lilies of the Field), had an affair that cost him his marriage and transitioned from acting to directing. What’s on view seems a tad over-produced. Relatives, insiders and talking heads sit still under mov ie-star lighting, wearing fancy clothes or cool getups with fashionable hats. Their refined images are more suited for a Vanity Fair spread than a momentous doc.

Instead, if they’d been filmed walking or driving around places that were vital to Poitier’s life and career (e.g., the Brill building), that movement might have made the footage more in vigorating and less sedentary. When Op era Winfrey tears up, Harry Belafonte’s tells tales and Poitier’s driver during the civil rights movement shares harrowing stories an emotional core appears. This insightful doc has archived and shared Poitier’s spirit. But it could have been more. It could have been a gem.

October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022 www.StyleMagazine.com14 ENTERTAINMENT: BLACK LIFE LIGHTS
THE 2022
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Sidney Poitier in Sidney

Grilled Shrimp, a beautiful corn pu ree, and pickled blueberries were one of the lively dishes presented by New York native Chef Jeffrey Taylor for his "Celebration of Life" menu at Black Chef Table in August. The menu brought a fusion of his heritage and professional training and gave some history into his own life experiences. Being a chef was something he always knew he would do. That determination has kept his culinary journey evolving

and allowed him to stand out.

Taylor started his culinary ca reer at the Culinary Academy of Long Island, where he trained as a pastry chef. As he began his career in culinary, he started out as a pastry chef. He later found himself on the savory side of the kitchen where his hands were most needed, which landed him at Momosan Ramen and Sake. Momosan Ramen and Sake is Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto's ramen-focused restaurant in New York. Moving to Houston in 2019, his skills in Japanese cuisine ultimately landed him at one of Houston's most sought-after Japanese-inspired restaurants, Uchi. This has allowed him to use Japanese techniques on familiar foods he knows and loves.

Being a chef is not an easy gig and requires balance; Taylor finds that balance in fishing. Growing up, it was something that he did with his family, and it now keeps him connected to his roots. Taylor was never more than fifteen minutes from the water on Long Island. Now living in Houston, he pre fers deep sea fishing trips, especially during red snapper season. For his Black

Chef Table experience in April, "NuYeer Rican," he served some of his freshly caught fish on the menu.

Black Chef Table, an innovative dining concept that provides a national platform for talented Black chefs, has allowed Chef Taylor to showcase his skills. His "NuYeer Rican" menu in April and "Celebration of Life," a tribute to his late mother, in August, brought a biographical element to the plate. His Fried Chicken with Arroz and the Beef Tartar were two of the many crowd favorites that he has presented.

Passion is what drives Chef Taylor to keep going. In the future, Chef Taylor would like to be a Chef du Cuisine. This position will allow for even more of his creativity to flow onto the menu while continuing his path in leadership. From there, he would like to have his own venture to showcase even more of his skills.

"When it comes to this industry, always put out the best food," humbly said Chef Jeffrey Taylor. "It's about being a chef first," Chef Taylor is one of Houston's best-kept culinary secrets bringing discipline, talent, and excellent

food. He wants to continue bringing Puerto Rican, Soul Food, and Asian fusion dishes to the pallets of as many people as possible. His style is outside of the box and unexpected. He isn't your traditional chef regarding his culinary skills, but he never steers far from his roots. Check out his current menu item at Uchi, Pork Jowl with corn puree, pickled peach and tempura corn. Be on the lookout for what's next with Chef Jeffrey Taylor.

Chef Taylor on Instagram

15www.StyleMagazine.com October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022
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@the_real_cheffrey CULINARY: C HEF JEFFREY TAYLOR IS SERVING PUERTO RICAN AND SOUL FOOD FLAVORS WITH JAPANESE TECHNIQUE
KNOW the signs RECOGNIZE the patterns END the cycle of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Knowing the facts about domestic violence, recognizing the predictable patterns and talking about it can help end the cycle of domestic violence and abuse. If safe, call 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.hawc.org

SPORTS: TEXANS ROOKIE JALEN PITRE HAS COMING OUT PARTY AGAINST THE BEARS

to three points. Chicago quarterback Jordan Fields dropped back to pass and had a significant amount of time in the pocket to find his tight end Cole Kemet cutting across the middle of the field. The ball sailed over the head of Kemet and into the arms of Pitre as he secured his first NFL interception of his career.

“Big shout out to my coaches,” said Pitre when asked about his game plan preparations. “They do a great job throughout the week of putting me in great spots and helping me the things I am going to see when game time comes.”

“So, I give a big shout out to them and my teammates. We put in a lot of work on first down, second down and third down. Looking at everything we need to see and come into the game prepared. I give a big shout out to the older guys in the locker room and my coaches for helping me with that.”

With his two interceptions on the day, Pitre became one of only four rookies since 2020 to record multiple inter ceptions in a single game. He is just the second rookie in Texans history to record two interceptions in the same game since CB Dunta Robinson did it vs. the Oakland Raiders in 2004. The former two-time All-Big 12 First-Team selection also added eight total tackles and a sack which made him the fourth rookie in NFL history and first rookie in franchise history to record two inter ceptions and a sack in the same game.

“He was phenomenal,” said Texans defensive lineman Jerry Hughes about Pitre’s play on Sunday. “Young guy, he's making great plays for us. I know he wanted to get up and score, but two big picks to kind of keep our offense in scoring territory, that's what you want as a secondary.”

The Houston Texans head coach and defensive coordinator have been telling anyone who would listen that there was just something special about rookie safety Jalen Pitre. From the time he was drafted until he played in his first NFL regular season game, coach Smith has raved about the potential of the second-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Baylor University.

We got a glimpse of his ball awareness skills against the Indianap olis Colts where he almost had his first

interception. He was a very intricate part of stopping the run game of the Denver Broncos in Week 2, but on Sunday against the Chicago Bears, Pitre displayed his talents that made him the 2021 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and a Consensus First-Team All-American.

Pitre’s first interception came in the first quarter after the Texans had scored on a four-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Davis Mills to tight end Jordan Akins and cut the Bears lead

The 23-year-old rookie came up with another spectacular grab for his second interception of the game on third down early in the fourth quarter with the game tied to give his offense another possession.

“We were in Cover-2, and I understood the weak part of the defense in the middle part of the field,” Pitre said after the game to reporters. “Kirko (Christian Kirskey) did a great job of making him put some air on the ball and with that that allowed me to make a play.”

October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022 www.StyleMagazine.com16
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Jalen Pitre

ARTS: TUTS Introduces A Powerhouse Cast for Their Brand-New Musical

Theatre under the stars (TUTS) is excited to introduce the cast of the brand-new musical, The Secret of My Success.

The musical theatre company is partnering with Universal Theatrical Group, the production company behind the mega-hit like Wicked, on this pro duction."TUTS has a long history of introducing the world to fantastic new musicals," said Dan Knechtges, TUTS Artistic Director who is also directing and choreographing the production. "I think our audiences are going to fall in love with this cast, with this show, it's going to be great!"

Leading off the cast is Ben Fankhauser as “Brantley Foster” and Ashley Blanchett, as “Christy Lock hart.” Brian Mathis returns to TUTS in the role of “Piers Johnson” and Sally Wilfert who was last seen on the TUTS stage in the smash hit 2019 produc tion of Mamma Mia!, will play “Vera Prescott.” Houston favorite, Susan Koozin is playing “Joann Foster.” Mel rose Johnson who made her TUTS debut in Ain’t Misbehavin’ joins the cast as “Rose.” Gemini Quintos will play “Les

ter Mann” and Regina Hearne plays “Sylvia Popkin.” Making his TUTS debut in the role of “Ernie Lockhart” is A.J. Dada.

Rounding out the cast in the ensemble are: Anthony Boggess-Glov er, Austin Colburn, Jack Gereski, Miles Marmolejo, Trey Harrington, T.J.

Newton, Chelsea Ryan McCurdy, Sarah Sachi, Briana Steptoe, Yasmyn Sumiy oshi, Holland Vavra, and Teresa Zim mermann. The ensemble also includes these students from TUTS Humphreys School: Lydia Berckley, Mariah Coo per, Izzy Harris, Lauren Schweers, Ky ler Huyse and Rizal Patagoc. “We are all so excited to jump back into the world of this show with Dan and really getting to develop it more at TUTS.” said Gordon Greenberg, who along with Steve Rosen, wrote the book for the musical.

Joining Knechtges on the production is Music Director, Charlie Alterman; Scenic Designer, Jeffrey D. Kmiec; Costume Designer, Colleen Grady, Lighting Designer, Ryan O'Gara, Pro jection Designer, Mike Tutaj and Sound Designer, Andrew Harper; Hair & Make up Designer, Kelley Jordan; Associate Director, Ryan Scarlata and Associate Choreographer, Monica Josette. Casting for The Secret of My Success is provided by Calleri Jensen Davis Casting and by TUTS Associate Artistic Director, Mo nique Midgette.

Based on the Universal Pictures film starring Michael J. Fox, this hyster ically funny and brilliantly conceived production is a wild look at redefining what success means to you when the world around you changes, corporate culture, ambition and making your own way in life. With music and lyrics by Mi chael Mahler and Alan Schmuckler, The Secret of My Success is a magnificent gift for audiences.

For more information, visit www.tuts.com

17www.StyleMagazine.com October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022
Ben Fankhauser Ashley Blanchet
October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022 www.StyleMagazine.com18

LIGHTSCAPE RETURNS TO HOUSTON BOTANIC GARDEN

s’mores, in the Garden’s inviting Pine Grove and spacious Culinary Garden.

Lightscape is presented by the Houston Botanic Garden, Sony Music and Culture Creative. Both companies work together to create illuminated trails in various venues across the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries. Lightscape dates, location, and ticket information:

Houston Botanic Garden, One Botanic Lane, Houston, 77017

Nov. 18 – Jan. 1, 2023 on select nights

Those with Garden memberships re ceive a $2 discount off timed ticket prices. There are a limited number of off-peak nights during the run with reduced timed ticket rates. Flex passes –offering an extended entry window – are also available.

Visit www.hbg.org/lightscape for more information and to purchase tickets.

Read more at www.stylemagazine.com

Lightscape, the internationally ac claimed lights and music event, presented by Reliant, returns to the Houston Botanic Garden this winter. In its second year, the outdoor illuminated trail includes dazzling new immersive installations – in addition to well-loved favorites – set to seasonal tunes along a winding path through the Garden. Whether it’s a family outing, date night or “girls’ night out,” Lightscape is sure to entertain.

Favorites like the “Winter Ca thedral,” “Neon Tree” and “Fire Garden” will return, along with new creations by artists from across the globe. The artistry of the Lightscape installations is a per fect complement to the natural beauty of the Garden’s diverse plant collections.

More than 80 percent of this year’s trail will feature installations never before seen in Houston, including a stunning display titled “Bluebonnets,” which is unique to Texas.

The installation “Framed,” by Mandylights, features 20 geometric arches lined with brilliant color-chang ing, pixel-mapped LED fittings to cre ate a unique tunnel of light effect. The “Nautilus Forest,” also by Mandylights, draws from both nature and precise geometry to create an illuminated for est of 24 spiraling trees up to 15 feet tall.

In addition to taking in the immersive light installations on the trail, visitors can enjoy festive food and drinks, along with fire pits for roasting

Timed tickets – at 15-minute inter vals – are $28 for adults and $18 for children.

19www.StyleMagazine.com October 6, 2022 - October 12, 2022

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