Rap veteran Bun B beamed with pride on Tuesday (30Aug11) as he was honoured with his own day in his native Texas.
The hip-hop star, real name Bernard Freeman, recently learned he was being recognised by Mayor Annise Parker for his contributions to the community in Houston and he met with the politician as she declared 30 August Bernard 'Bun B' Freeman Day.
He smiled for the cameras as he stood side-by-side with Mayor Parker for a celebratory photo and used the opportunity to reach out to the city's youth.
He said, "I do believe that regardless of your status, or tax bracket, or where you reside, we all have a civic duty to help our fellow citizens. I resign myself to that notion faithfully and I try to do my best to instill these principles into the next generation.
"I'd like to take this opportunity to tell the City Council that I am available 24-7/365 (days a year) when it comes to the children of Houston as well as the surrounding cities and communities. Whenever the city needs me, I am more than willing and able to answer the call.
"I ask everyone who is here present today, as well as those who may see this on TV or the internet later, to do their part as well."
Bun B, who formed iconic rap duo UGK with his late pal Pimp C, then honoured Mayor Parker by making her an honorary member of his Trill Entertainment crew, Team Trill.
In a post on his Twitter.com page after the ceremony, he wrote to Parker, "The honor was all mine. Definitely a defining moment in my life. The city of Houston is in good hands. Welcome to #TeamTrill."