To the POINT DN
Message from the Reporter
Support for furloughed workers still needed
Even though the government shutdown ended over a week ago, furloughed workers and others are still hurting, playing catch-up, and in need of support. Two recent events show how Houstonians are steppinguptohelpthoseinneed YESPrep recentlyhostedaCommunityRecoveryFair at the Alief Neighborhood Center to support families affected by the government shutdown and SNAP benefit delays. YES PrepstaffmemberCynthiaRubiosaidtheeventtheysponsored provided 275-300 bags of food and various supplies Rubio said, according to parents and caregivers, the biggest needs have been hygiene products and shelf-stable items. RichardAndrews,founderoftheFoundationofBlackHeritageandCultureandtheOneMobileFoodPantry,saidmany workersarestilldiggingoutfromweeksofmissedpaychecks. “Postalemployees,weevengotacallfromsomebodywiththe IRS.Everybodyisaffectedbytheshutdown,”saidAndrews. Luckily, Andrews has a regular army of volunteers from his organization,thecommunityatlarge,andtheShrineCultural and Events Center They recently added an additional food and resource giveaway to their already established weekly food giveaway that takes place every Saturday It’s encouraging to see Houstonians showing up and showing out for their neighbors in need
Is UH silencing student voices?
by the administration for failing to produce a restructured SGA constitution as demandedbytheadministration Without anSGA,bystatelaw,thosestudentswhoare tobeappointedtothatimportantcommitteemustbechosenthroughacampuswide student vote UH didn’t do that Students and alumni are charging foul via a deliberate move to silence all-important student voices and remove students from having agency over funding that directly impacts them.UHstudentswhohaveprotestedthe administration’smove,andsympatheticfaculty,saythisisan issuemuchbiggerthanjustonecampus It’saboutdemocratic ideals and how easily they can be taken away if not fought for. Stay tuned for more on this story as it develops.
Thanksgiving to Gratitude
Student Government Associations (SGA) at public universitiesacrossthestateandcountryarenotjustforstudents who want to “play politics.” These bodies, and the young people who hold elected positions in them, provide a multitude of serious and impactful functions. Case in point, at the University of Houston, the SGA is responsible for appointingstudentstoauniversitycommitteethatoversees theallocationofover$25millioninstudentfeesforvarious activities,includingathletics,counseling,andpsychological services, among others Last year, UH’s SGA was dissolved
Certainly, we know that Thanksgiving, the act of giving thanks, extends far beyond just a holiday But even that can beextended See,beingthankfulisafeeling.Butgratitudeisa practice.Thefeelingofbeingthankfulcancomeandgo.But gratitude,bydefinition,meansdoingthingsdailytoidentify, name, share, and proclaim those things for which you are grateful The effects of practicing gratitude are profound Gratitude improves mental well-being, reduces stress and depression,lowersbloodpressure,improvessleep,strengthens social connections, boosts feelings of positivity, fosters emotionalresilience,andmore AndFYI,gratitudeprovides thefuelneededtopowerthroughchallengingtimes.So,start writing down daily things for which you are grateful and access those life-changing benefits.
On the web
• Hip-Hop’s fall from the Top 40 isn’t the problem; it’s a symptom.
• North Forest’s La’Shun Gray returns from injury but comes up short in final game
• Love in every culture: 12 wedding traditions that cross borders.
YES Prep staffers provide snacks for youth during their recent Community Recovery Fair Credit: Vannessa Wade.
Aswad Walker
News DN Congressman Al Green Talksabout his futurewith Dist. 18/9
By ReShondaTate
U.S. Rep. Al Greensayshe’swaiting on theU.S.SupremeCourtbeforelockinginhis 2026 reelection plans, buthe’sclear on one thing: he’llbeonthe ballot, running “from theplace wheremyhomeis,”whether that endsupbeingTexas’ 9thor18thCongressionalDistrict.
Athree-judge federal panelinElPaso recentlyruledthatTexas’newTrump-backed congressionalmap is an unconstitutional racial gerrymander andordered thestate to useits 2021 mapfor the2026 midterms. Gov.GregAbbottandAttorneyGeneralKen PaxtonhavealreadyappealedtotheSupreme Court.ByDefenderpresstime,SCOTUShad notmadearuling.
Green,aHoustonDemocratwhohasrepresentedthe9thCongressionalDistrictsince 2005, filed earlier this monthtorun in the newlydrawn18thDistrictafterRepublicans dismantled hiscurrent seat andpushedthe “9”labeltoanewdistrictbasedinconservativeLibertyCounty.Undertheblockedmap, mostofthepeoplehecurrentlyrepresents andhis home —weredrawn into thenew 18th.
“I’mnotmoving,I’venevermoved,”Green said in an interview. “I’m stayingwhere I’ve beenfordecades.”
‘The lineshavemoved, not me’ Greensaysthe mapisdeliberatelyconfusing.Inthe2025plan,lawmakersstripped outBrazoriaCountyandotherareasfromhis current9thDistrictandthenredrewthe18th to come down into hissouthwest Houston base.Roughly two-thirds of thenew 18th’s populationcamefromtheold9th,whileless thanone-thirdcamefromthehistoric18th.
“They labeledit18. When they labeledit 18,myhousedidn’tmove.SoIdidn’tmoveto 18 —18moved to me andabout 500,000 of thepeopleIrepresent,”Greensaid.
At thesametime, thenumber“9” was shippedeasttoaLiberty County–anchored district that shares almost none of itsvoters with thecurrent 9th. Less than 3% of the voters in thenew 9thoverlappedwiththe oldone,ashiftGreenpointstoasprooflawmakers were moving lines, notpeople, and targetingcommunitiesofcolor.
“That’sgonnagiveyousomesenseofhow they canmovethe lines, butnot thepeople,” he said.“Andthe people that were in the9th arenowinthe18th.”
ForGreen, that wasevidence that race nottraditionaldistrictingprinciples—drove themap
“Whattheydidwasracist.Itwasracialdiscrimination. That’swhy Iwon thelawsuit,” hesaid,notingthatheislistedas“Alexander Greenetal.”asa plaintiff-intervener in the case.“If it wasapower grab,itwas aracist
powergrab. If it waspolitics, it wasracist politics.”
Longtime
defender of the 9th and 18th
Greenstressedthathis decision to filein thenew18thwasaboutstayingwiththecommunitieshe’srepresentedforyearswhilecontinuinga legalfighthe’sbeenwaginginside andoutsideofcourt.
“I’vebeenfightingtoprotectthe18thand 9thcongressionaldistricts since I’ve been in Congress,”hesaid.“Sheila[JacksonLee]and Ididittogether.Aftersheleftus,Icontinued thatfight.”
Hesaidhehas“spenttensofthousandsof dollars” over theyears on redistrictinglawsuitsandviewsthelatestrulingasav dic tion —not just forhim, butfor Blac inHoustonwhosepoliticalpowerwa ofbeingdiluted
“Thereisnobodyelseinthe city ton,inthe18thcongressionaldistric beenassociatedwiththislongertha Greensaid. “I’m very knowledgea what’sbeenhappeningandwhatisha nowbecauseI’mapartytothelaw
He also urgedDemocrats andc advocatestostopsoft-pedalingthe aroundrace
“We’redealingwithracism,andt of us areafraidtosay theword,”G “Donot letcomfort be confused wi dom.Our failuretostand up foro iswhat’sgoing to causethe clockt rolledbackonus.”
Special election now, primary fight later
TheElPasorulinghasrippleeffec across HarrisCounty. If it stands wouldpreservethe four Democr ic-heldHouse seatsanchoredint countyinsteadofcuttingthemdow to three, amajor winfor Hous ton-areaDemocrats.
It also reshapes thestakesinthe race to replacethe late U.S. Rep. SylvesterTurnerinthe curren 18thDistrict. Harris County AttorneyChristian Menefeeand former HoustonCityCouncil member Amanda Edwardsare headed to aJan.31runoff to fillout the remainderofTurner’sterm, whichendsJan.3,2027.
That specialelectionisseparatefromthe March3,2026 primary, whichwilldecide whoservesthe next full twoyeartermunderwhichevermap ultimately governsthe 2026 elections.
Greensaidhehas been
carefulnot to step on theongoing special election
“WhatI’m trying to do is respectwhat’s happeningwiththe people whohavebeen runningtofulfilltheunexpiredtermofCongressman SylvesterTurner,”hesaid. “This runoffisabout that race.That raceisseparate andapart from what will happen after January.”
Waitingonthe SupremeCourt— and ready either way
Undercurrent law, candidates have until Dec.8tofilefortheMarchprimaries.Green hasalreadyfiledforthenew18thDistrict.If theSupreme Courtletsthe lowercourt rulingstand andorders Te th
willsimplyrefileintherestored9thDistrict, whichagain wouldcontain hishomeand longtimebase
“IftheSupremeCourtupholdsthedecision issuedyesterday…I’mgoingtoremainwhere Iamand I’mgoing to runinthe 18thcongressionaldistrict,”hesaid.“Ifthecourtsays the18thisnot good [and revertstothe old lines],I’minthe9thdistrict.ThenI’mgoing torunfromthe9thcongressionaldistrict.All Ihavetodoisrefile.”
Greennoted that if theSupreme Court rules after thecurrent Dec. 8deadline, the lowercourt couldextendthe filingwindow toallowcandidatestoadjust—somethinghe saidhashappenedinpastredistrictingfights.
“I’vebeendownthisroadbefore,”hesaid. “E he illb he ballo Ih
Al Green
Mickey Leland legacy
Where
does it stand in 2025?
ByAswadWalker
Because legendary Congressman George Thomas “Mickey” Leland’s birthday is Nov. 27, the Defender thought it fitting to look at thelifeandlegacyoftheiconicCongressman whoproudlyrepresentedTexas’shistoric18th Congressional District until the unfortunate plane crash over Ethiopia in 1989 that took hislife.
Leland, born Nov. 27, 1944, in Lubbock andraisedinHouston’s Fifth Ward, emerged as a trailblazer whose work transcended politics.
A grassroots organizer at his core, Leland was reluctant to run forofficeuntilpersuadedthathisimpactcould stretch further from the halls of government HeultimatelyservedasaStateRepresentative inTexasfrom1973to1979 Hethenwentonto serveintheU.S.Congressastherepresentative for the historic District 18, a position he held from1979untilhisdeathin1989.
Oncehesteppedintopubliclife,hebecame a global force for good, battling hunger, poverty, and racial injustice across the U.S. and theworld.
Yet in 2025, his standing is complicated. Many Houstonians, especially Millennials and Gen Z, know little to nothing about one ofthemostinfluentialleadersthecityhasever produced WhileLelanddiedtragicallyin1989 duringahumanitarianmissiontoEthiopia,the potential loss of his legacy today could be a tragedyofitsown.
So, where does the Leland legacy stand? It dependsonwhomyouask.
Remembered and appreciated
For many Houstonians, Leland is still a giant.
LELAND’SPOLITICAL HIGHLIGHTS
Served in the Texas House of Representatives from 1973–1979, building a reputation as a committed advocate for the underserved.
Elected to the U.S. House in 1978 to represent Texas’s 18th District, succeeding Barbara Jordan and serving until his death in 1989.
Re-elected five times, recognized early as Freshman Majority Whip and laterAt-Large Majority Whip
AlisonLeland,Mickey’swidowandaUniversity of Houston law and politics professor, notes that the love for her late husband continues to surface in unexpected places. Sherecallsherbrothervisitingabarbershop onAlmedawherephotosofherfamilyhang beside images of Dr. King.
“ThereisenormousloveinHouston,and Ifeelit forme,formyfamily,forMickey,” she shared
She adds that the monuments matter thefederalbuilding,theairportterminal,the statue in Hermann Park—but what brings her the greatest pride are her and Mickey’s three sons, along with “the students who bear his name as Leland interns.”
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis agrees.
“The fact that Mickey Leland died in 1989… for him to still reverberate with people is really pretty amazing.”
Unknown to some
But familiarity is not universal
Rev. Darla Bolden knows Leland as a fighter for Black people and a member of Congress who died during a mission. BarryCoe,whomovedtoHoustonin2017, admits,“Ihavenotheardthatnamebefore.” Millennial Houstonian Maurice Blandon echoed the same: “Nothing. I never heard the name before today.”
Others have fragments. Psychologist Karen Hickman, a Houston transplant
from Chicago, remembers him vaguely as “a fighter who was taken way too soon.”
These mixed levels of awareness highlightatruth:legacydoesnotpreserveitself It must be taught, cultivated, and renewed.
Change agent at heart
Leland’s path was never meant to be contained within politics. As chronicled by historianBenjaminTaltoninhisbookInthe LandofPlenty:MickeyLelandandAfricain American Politics, Leland initially rejected the call to run for office, believing real change grew from grassroots organizing Eventually, he was convinced to bring his passionforhealthcare,socialjustice(which extended from the U.S. to fighting against South African apartheid), and human dignity to the political arena.
Alison Leland reflects on how her husband helped bridge divides on Capitol Hill and wonders where he would stand amid today’s polarized debates. Still, she believes “his voice is not silent,” because his name continuestocirculateamongcolleaguesand interns who carry his story forward.
What can be done to strengthen the legacy?
Founded and chaired the House Select Committee on Hunger, driving national and global action on hunger, homelessness, and infant mortality. Led bipartisan famine-relief efforts in Africa, inspiring major humanitarian legislation and international cooperation.
Chaired the Congressional Black Caucus.
Chaired key committees, championing health, children, the elderly, and marginalized communities.
Dr Calvin Johnson, dean of TSU’s Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs (BJ-ML SOPA), believes BJ-ML SOPAcanexpandawarenessbypartnering with HISD to create K–12 essay contests centeredonLeland’sactivism.Judgescould includeleadersandelectedofficials,providing“secondaryexposure”tothoseunaware of their contributions.
Boldensuggestscommunity-ledFreedom Schools to teach Leland’s history since “it’s not going to be taught in school.”
Aggison
Mickey Leland, shown here in 1984 with a group of Ethiopian children, fought for food, economic, and social justice locally and globally Credit: Jeff Clark, The Mickey Leland Papers and Collection Addendum.
More about the challenges with the Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs (TSU)
Mickey Leland
InFocus DN
ByAswadWalker
Whenitcomestofightingagainst food desertsandseekingfood justice,Houston-area Blackfarmers areliterallyonthe frontlines.
Fooddesertsareurbanareaswhereaffordable,good-qualityfreshfoodishardtofind
In Houston, more than 500,000 residents live in food deserts, many in predominantly BlackneighborhoodslikeAcresHomesand Third Ward
AccordingtoaKinder Institutestudy over half (53%) of BlackhouseholdsinHarrisCountyexperience food insecurity,and oneinfiveBlack residentslackeasyaccess to freshfood
Some advocatesrejectthe term food desert, preferring food apartheid—a phrase coined by activist KarenWashington to describetheraciallyandeconomicallydriven systems that determinewho gets accessto healthyfood andwho doesn’t.Whether one says“desert”or“apartheid,”Blackpeopleare catchingthe short endofthe stickwhenit comestofoodaccessand theillnesses that result
Though only 1.3% of Americans grow food forthe rest,Black farmersare disproportionatelyfew.Theymakeupjust3%ofal Texasfarmers,yetTexasleadsthenationwith 11,741Blackproducers—nearlyaquarterof all Blackfarmers in theU.S.
TheDefenderspokewithsomelocalBlack farmerstohearwhatfoodjustice meansto them,andhowthey’reworkingtoachieveit
FoodJusticedefined
“For me,foodjustice is aboutpeople knowingwheretheirfoodcomesfrom,being able to seeafarmerwho lookslikethem, andhavingequitable accesstofresh food,” saidDeShaunTaylor,alicensedmidwifewho co-ownsTaylorMade Farmswithher husband,Jazzyyy.“We shouldn’t have to drive from AcresHomes to TheWoodlandsfor a tomato.That’sinjustice.”
Houston Black farmers
Lead fight for food justice
Taylor’s understandingoffoodjustice is deeplytiedtoherprofessionandscholarship.
In hermaster’sprogram thesis on thetopic she listed severalexamples,includingthe impact of Blackmalemalnourishment.
“Whena manismalnourishedbecause he’s in afooddesert, that affectsour children—obesity,cancer,learningdisabilities it becomesacycle.”
Herhusband addedthataccesstoclean healthy food isn’tjustabout survival,it’s aboutbreakingintergenerational patterns
“We’re growingand keepingthings as organicaspossible,andconnectingwithother farmersaroundthecitytogetourfoodtoloca farmers’ markets,”saidJazzyyy.“We’reworkingtobecomeaCSA—community-supported agriculturefarm.”
ForDella Holden, founder of TheSocialitesRidingNetworkandSocialitesAgriVersity, food justicemeans self-reliance.
“We’re taking back theresponsibilityof growingour ownfoodfor ourown people,” shesaid. “You don’thavetowaitfor grocery stores to produce it.That’swhere thejustice comesin; beingabletosurvive andstayalive in theseeconomies.”
Holden’s AgriVersity, locatedonlandher family hasowned fordecades in Sunnyside/ SouthPark, serves as both acommunity garden andatrainingspace
“Wehavedifferentorganizationswepartner with.Theyget hands-ontrainingonsowing theirownseeds.Withinthatgrowingseason, they’reresponsiblefortheirbox,”shesaid.“We educatethemonhow to live offthe land and grow their ownfood.”
ShakaVon Thomas,who headsthe HoustonBoard of Food Security andThe Happy Camper Houston, offers anotherlayer to the definition
“Foodjusticeisknowingthehistoryofyour food,” said Thomas.“When food is sprayed with chemical compounds, youdon’t truly knowwhatyou’reeating—orhowit’saffecting youovertime.”
TaylorMadeFarms: Healingfromthegroundup
TheTaylors,bothmilitaryveterans,purchased 4.24 acres in Conroe in March. By May,theyhadmovedinandbegungrowing.
ForDeShaun,the callingbeganduringher firstpregnancy
“Ijustwantedthebestformybaby,”shesaid.
Now,theTaylorsnotonlycultivateproduce butalsohostyouthfieldtripsandcollaborate withotherBlackfarmers.Theyrecentlyadded amobilehomeonthepropertytoserveasan Airbnbandclassroomfordoulatrainingsand youthfarmingworkshops.
“Wewanttoteach kids that farmingisnot just aboutfood—it’sabout freedom,” said DeShaun.
SocialitesAgriVersity: Returningtoroots
Holden describesherself as a“countryturned-city girl returningtoher roots.”Her reentryintoagriculture beganwhenher elderlyrelatives,whoownedthefamily’sSunnyside property,fellill
“God putitonmyheart to help them,”she said
Holdennowraiseshorses,chickens,andpigs, whileoverseeingacommunity garden,and invitesthecommunitytolearnalongsideher.
“Justschedulea time with me,” she said “Wehaveeventswherethecommunitycomes outtosee what we do.”
Holden’scollaborationswithotherfarmers
to
BYTHENUMBERS
NumberofBlackFarmers (approx.) byCounty
andgroupslikethe HoustonToolBankand ShakaVon Thomas’s BoardofFoodSecurity arepartofhermissiontomakefarmingcommunal, notcompetitive
Source:USDA
HoustonBoardofFoodSecurity: Dataforthepeople
Thomas andthe Boardare workingto merge technology andagriculture to better meet community food needs.
“We’repartneringwithcommunitygardens tofacilitateconsumer-supportedagriculture,” Thomassaid.“We’llhandoutQRcodespeople canscantotelluswhattheyneedplanted
That data helpsusknowwhattogrowfor families whocan pay, andthose whoneed donations.”
Hesaystheprojectwilleventuallymapthe city’s food needsinrealtime.
“Aswebuildthatdata,wecanstarttosupply themarketwithmoreand more farm-fresh foods.”
FreshHouwseGrocery: HubforBlackfoodpower
Perhapsthe most visiblefaceofHouston’s BlackfoodmovementisFresh Houwse Grocery, co-founded by Jeremy Peachesand Ivy Walls.
Locatedat9441CullenBlvd.,thestoreisone of Houston’sfew Black-ownedgroceries, and ahubforBlackfarmersandproductmakers.
“There’s awhole collective of youngBlack farmershereinHouston,”saidPeaches.“From gardeningand food processingtocreating products—it’sagreatecosystem.”
ForPeaches,foodjusticeismulti-layered “It’sthehands-onwork—startingagarden, no matter howsmall—but also theadvocacy. That’s themostimportant part becauseit involvespolitics,”sharedPeaches. Heemphasizestheeconomicsidetoo. “Onepercentofpeoplecontrol99%offood production,” he stated.“We’vebeengrowing forthousands of years, butnow that we have theproduct,whatare we goingtodowithit? That’sthelingeringquestion.” Peachesseesa positive cultural shift happening.
“Peopleare beingproduct makers,putting outfreshfood,andcreatingaculturewehaven’t seen much in Houston—agricultureon frontstreet,”headded.
Learnabout thesupport needed andthe messagetoyouth aboutfarming.
First-generation farmersDeShaun and Jazzyyy Taylor hit the ground running with Taylor Made Farms Courtesythe Taylors.
ShakaVon ThomashelpsareaBlack farmers, urban gardenersand others connect and collaborate through his work at the HoustonBoard of Food Security. Credit: AswadWalker.
Jeremy Peachesand Ivy Walls head FreshHouwse Grocery, ahub forBlack food growersinthe Houstonarea. Courtesy FreshHouwse Grocery
FreshHouwse Grocery. Credit:Aswad Walker.
Regardingfood injustices Houston, we have asolution. Black farmers likeDella Holden (pictured here) arecollaborating
fightfor food justice. Credit: AswadWalker
REPORT
Married couples keeping finances separate
ByLauraOnyeneho
AccordingtonewdatafromtheU.S.Census Bureau, a growing number of married couples are saying “I do” to keeping their financesseparate.
In2023,23%ofmarriedcouplesreported having no joint bank account, a significant jump from 15% in 1996. Experts say the shiftreflectsbroaderculturalandeconomic changes and reshapes how couples think aboutmoneyandmarriage
Couples cite various reasons for keeping theirfinancesapart.Somewanttoavoidconflictcausedbydifferingmoneystyles.Others entermarriagewithsignificantdebtsuchas student loans or credit cards and prefer not totiethoseliabilitiestotheirpartner.
People are getting married later, often when they already have careers, savings and financial habits. They’re less inclined to merge everything and more focused on protecting their independence
Dr Stephanie Zepeda, a Houston marriage and family therapistwhospecializes in financial conflict, said some of her clientsturntoseparate accounts after strugglingwith“financialinfidelity”hidingdebt, secretcreditcards,orgamblinglosses.
“Texas is a community property state, so even if one person racks up debt, it can legallybecomebothpartners’debt,”Zepeda explained “For some couples, the solution is keeping finances separate and signing a prenup that clearly delineates what belongs towhom.”
She added that blended families often benefit from separation “In second marriages where children are involved, it keeps thingsclear.Ifyou’repayingtuitionorchild support,separateaccountspreventonepartnerfromfeelinglikethey’recarryingtheother’sresponsibilities.”
Hybridapproaches
Rather than an all-or-nothing choice,
Fewer couples are combining their bank accounts. But that trend may not promote partners’ overall financial health, experts say. Credit: Getty
couples are increasingly experimenting withhybridsystems.Thatmightmeaneach partnerkeepstheirownaccountforpersonal spendingwhilemaintainingajointaccount for household bills, groceries, or long-term goalslikesavingforahome
Zepeda said many of her clients use proportional contributions splitting expenses based on income rather than 50/50. “If one person earns double the other might cover 75%oftherentwhiletheotherpays25%.It feelsfairerandavoidsresentment.”
She recommends couples set aside “fun money” each month in separate debit accounts.“Whenit’sgone,it’sgone Itkeeps discretionary spending under control and prevents arguments over things like Amazonpurchasesorbrunches.”
Thecommunicationfactor
Financial experts stress that the method itselfmatterslessthantheconversationscoupleshavearoundmoney.Transparencyand regular check-ins can help prevent misunderstandingsandresentment
DaveRamsey,radiopersonalityandfinancial guru is popularly known for his tough strategies around debt and money management. In one of his episodes he strongly advises that married couples combine all finances into joint accounts to foster unity, teamwork and shared goals, rather than keeping separate finances which he equates tobeing“roommateswithweddingrings”
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
FOR PROPOSED SERVICE CHANGES
Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO)
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO), will hold a public hearing on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. to receive public comment on the proposed February 2026 changes to METRO service. The public is invited to attend the hearing and provide comments in person.
The public may also join the hearing and provide comments virtually on Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85898588368 or by dialing: 346-248-7799 or 888-475-4499 (toll-free), meeting ID: 858 9858 8368 Additionally, if you do not want to provide comments during the public hearing, visit RideMETRO.org/LiveStream to view a livestream of the event. A video recording of the hearing will also be archived on the same page.
The proposed service changes may include: Route changes to bus route 500; schedule changes to bus routes 6, 9, 28, 56, 82, 99, 153, 217, 221, 222, 228, 265, and 270; and elimination of bus routes 64, 402, and Z-Trip.
Copies of proposed route maps and available timetables will be available beginning on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, for public review both online and in the lobby of the METRO RideStore located in the Lee P. Brown METRO Administration Building at 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002, weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The public hearing on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. will be held in the 2nd floor boardroom at 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas (served by bus routes 6, 11, 35, 44, 51, 52, 54, 82, 85, 102, 137, 161, 162, and METRORail).
HOW TO COMMENT ABOUT THE SERVICE CHANGES
If you would like to make public comments in person or virtually, please register as a public speaker with the METRO Board Office at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing. Call 713-739-4834 or send an email to BoardOffice@RideMETRO.org and provide your name, address and telephone number As explained above, you may attend the public hearing in person or virtually on Thursday, December 4, 2025, to provide comments. If you pre-register, your comments will be heard first at the public hearing. Your name will be called at the appropriate time to make your comments.
You may also provide comments by:
•Writing to us at METRO, ATTN: February 2026 Service Changes, 1900 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
•Faxing comments with a subject line referencing "February 2026 Service Changes" to 713-652-7956
•Calling or texting METRO Customer Contact Center at 713-635-4000
•Submitting comments on the METRO website at RideMETRO.org
All comments should be submitted to METRO by 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
For individuals with disabilities, assistive services or copies of public documents in an alternate format can be provided. Individuals with impairments may call 713-750-4271 a minimum of five (5) working days prior to the public hearing.
LANGUAGE ASSISTANCE
Upon request, METRO provides free language assistance to help patrons who have a limited ability to read, write, speak or understand English, in accordance with its language assistance plan. Please call 713-739-4018 or email METROPublicAffairs@RideMETRO.org to request language assistance or other accommodations at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing.
OTHER
1. This public hearing conforms to requirements described in the Federal Transit Administration's Circular 9030.1E, published January 16, 2014, page VI-7.
2. METRO does not discriminate based on disability in the admission or access to, or in treatment or employment in, its services, programs, and activities.
3. METRO is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, its transit services based on race, color, or national origin, as protected by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Dr Stephanie Zepeda
Dr. Stephanie Zepeda’s Top Money & Marriage Tips
1866 Coffee
Redefines Black entrepreneurship for Fifth Ward youth
ByLauraOnyeneho
Houston’snextgenerationofcoffeeindustryleadersaren’twaitingforanopportunity; they’rebrewingit
The Color of Coffee Collective, a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to bringing equity and representation to the specialty coffee industry launched 1866 Coffee, a student-createdcoffeebranddevelopedthrough theorganization’sCoffeeCampprogram.
The new roast made its debut on Nov. 5, showcasingthecreativity,talentandentrepreneurialspiritofHouston’snextgenerationof coffeeleaders.
Behind the project is Keith Hawkins, founderandCEOoftheColorofCoffeeCollective.Heisa28-yearveteranofthespecialty coffeeindustry Thenewstudent-ledbrandis namedfortheyearformerlyenslavedTexans beganbuildinglives,businesses,andlegacies intheaftermathofemancipation.
Ideabrewedfromagap Hawkinsbeganhiscareerasaroutedriver before elevating to a Starbucks manager and entrepreneur Alongtheway,hesawfirsthand howrarelypeoplewholookedlikehimwere representedatthedecision-makinglevel.
“I’ve had a great career in coffee,” he says, “butIdidn’tseethroughoutthisjourneypeople who looked like me in rooms that made a difference. By 2020, it was clear that while everyone was talking about diversity, there wasstillverylittleaction.”
According to the National Coffee Association, the total U.S. coffee industry contributes an estimated $343 billion in economic output and supports over 2.2 million jobs Around3%ofcoffeeshopownersareBlackand approximately 10% of baristas are Black American, according to analyses of US
Census data. Most coffee industry career pipelines, from roasting apprenticeships to green coffee importing, remain dominated bywhiteprofessionals
Atthesametime,theyouthunemployment rateforages16-24was10.8%inJuly2025,up from9.8%theprevioussummer Theratefor Black youth was 14.3%, significantly higher than the overall youth rate, according to the U.S.BureauofLaborStatistics.
ProgramslikeCoffeeCampareclosingthat gapbyprovidingaccesstoreal-world,transferableskillsinagrowingindustry
“It’s the second largest traded commodity intheworld,onlybehindoilandgas.Therevenuestreamisabsolutelyincredible,”Hawkins says.“It’sjustamatterofbeingableto thatrevenue.Andthat’swhatmygo
CoffeeCamp:Whereskills purpose
Out of that mission came Coffee hands-onprogramteachingstudents to19everythingfrombrewingtechniq businessmanagement
“Coffeeisthevehicle,”Hawkinssa realgoalisworkforcedevelopment.”
Whenstudentscometoclass,they’r ing more than how to steam milk espresso They’re learning how to sh communicate,andseethemselvesas ofleadership.
“They come in, we greet each ot brewcoffeeandwetalk,”Hawkinssays. we get into the week’s topic. This we customer service Because servin isn’t just about a drink; it’s about crea experience.”
Thatapproachhashelpedstudent PaulLewis-Snell,16,seenewpossibil “Iwantedtocometotheclassnot
to make coffee, but to learn more about it. Whereit’sfrom,howitworksandhowit’spart ofbusiness,”Lewis-Snellsays.“Wevisitcoffee shopsandseewhattodoandwhatnottodo Youcanlearnfromyourmistakes.”
1866:ThespiritofFifthWard
Anchoring1866CoffeeinHouston’sFifth Ward is deeply personal for Hawkins. He grew up nearby on Lyons Avenue, watching hisparentsworkandservetheircommunity.
“Fifth Ward has always been part of my life,” he says. “When the opportunity came tobringspecialtycoffeehere,itwasclearthis wasaGod-designedmoment.”
The name 1866 pays trib
“It makes me so proud to learn about our historythisway,”hesays.“We’remakingthis coffeetorepresentthatandbringpeopleout tolearnaboutit.”
Henry’s favorite part of the program is learning how to serve the community. “It makes me feel good because I get to talk to peopleandgivethemagoodfirstimpression,” hesays.“Youcanshowyourkindness,andit worksthesamewayintherealworld.”
Beyond coffee-making, Hawkins wants students to understand the full ecosystem of theindustry,fromaccountingandlogisticsto importingandexporting
“Just because you don’t see yourself in a space today doesn’t mean you can’t get
The
Sports DN
Mike Evans, a product of Galveston Ball and Texas A&M, has been spectacular for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when he has been healthy.
Credit: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay wide receiver
Mike Evans, a product of Galveston Ball and Texas A&M, is putting together a Hall of Fame-worthy career with the Buccaneers.Credit: Tampa BayBuccaneers
GALVESTON NATIVE & TAMPA BAYWIDE RECEIVER
Mike Evans
Puts together a Hall of Fame career
ByJodie B.Jiles
With over a hundred personal guests in NRG Stadium for a recent Monday Night Football showdown, Galveston’s future Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans balled out of control for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Evans led receivers in the game with 56 yards off five tough catches in the Buccaneers’ 20-19 victory over the Houston Texans
In 2024, Evans broke the NFL’s record forthemostconsecutive1,000-yardreceiving seasons with 11 straight Evans has currently held nearly every record a wide receivercanholdwiththeBuccaneerssince beingdraftedbythefranchiseasaseventh overall pick in 2014.
Mike Evans and Texans All-Pro cornerbackDerekStingleyJr wentbackandforth all night and spoke about their primetime matchup
When Stingley Jr was asked about the
MIKEEVANS ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Ranked 24th in NFL Receiving Yards - 12,791 Career yards
• Ranked 9th in NFL Receiving Touchdowns - 105 Career Touchdowns
• 1st Player to Have 11 Consecutive 1,000-yard Receiving Seasons
• 2x Associated Press (AP) All-Pro Selection (2016 and 2023)
• 6x Pro Bowl Selection
matchup,StingleyJr stated,“Itwasfun.We were going at it today with a lot of opportunities, and it was a fun game.”
Stingley Jr later described Evans when Stingley Jr said, “He’s a vet. And like most vetsthathaveplayedalongtime,theyknow how to do certain things that knock you off just a little bit……He’s a great, and one day when he is done playing, he will get some awards.”
When Evans was asked about his oneon-one contest with Stingley Jr., Evans responded, “He’s a great player One of the bestcornersintheleague,whowaspressing mostofthenight,anditwasagoodbattle.”
The Defender spoke with Mike Evans, who has since been sidelined with injuries this season, about his approach to catching passes, his legacy, advice to the next generation,andmore
PlayinginFrontof HometownCrowd
“Itmeansalot.Thisismostlikelymylast time playing in Houston ever, and I am an hourdowntheroad;Ihadalotoffamilyand
friends come to see this electrifying win. It was loud for the Texans, but I felt the love inthestands.”
GameWinningDrivevs.Texans
“Everybody was calm, and obviously we diditlastweek(vs.AtlantaFalcons)inalittle bit of a different scenario, but we practice two-minute religiously, and it was great for ourpreparationtocomefullcircletonight.”
Pass-CatchingProcess
“Just keep going. That’s all you can do Worryaboutwhatyoucancontrolandwork hard.”
MikeEvansLegacyinNFL
“A guy that played hard, made plays, and isawinner.”
AdviceforNextGeneration
“Becoachable,beagoodteammate,work yourassoff,andanythingispossible.”
Credit: Jimmie Aggison/Defender
THIRDYEAR STRAIGHT
YWCPADISTRICTCHAMPS
By Jimmie Aggison
Injustsixshortyears,theYoungWomen’s CollegePreparatoryAcademyvolleyballprogram has grown from a newly formed team into a dominant force in 4A Region III District 20.
UndertheleadershipofCoachTala’Shandria Allen, now in her fifth year as head coach,YWCPAhasnotonlymadetheplayoffs for four consecutive seasons but also securedthedistrictchampionshipthreeyears in a row, a notable achievement for such a young program.
When Allen started her role as head volleyballcoachatYWCPA,sheaimedtocreate aprogramthatwouldbebothsuccessfuland competitive.
“IdreamedaboutitandIknewwithhard work and dedication that the dream could become a reality,” said Allen Herplayersquicklyboughtintohervision for success.
“Ireallydidn’tfaceanychallengesbecause the girls were ready to work hard, which is something they do daily in the classroom,” said Allen. “They were ready to learn the game, develop their skills and build a winning program. ”
While the program’s record speaks volumes, the people behind the success reveal thededicationandgritthatdriveeachvictory.
Allen motivates her players to perform at ahighleveleachseasonbyemphasizingskill development and analyzing game situations through detailed practice drills
Unlikeotherschoolsinthe4ARegionIII District20,YWCPAisanall-girlscollegepreparatorymagnetschoolservinggrades6–12. Havingbothmiddleandhighschoolstudents underoneroofallowsAllentodirectlywork with younger athletes while developing the high school program.
“Isharemyformercollegiateplayingexperiences with them,” said Allen. “Performing at this level is now an expectation that has become an integral part of our campus We striveforexcellenceintheclassroomandon the court.”
Buteventhestrongestleadershipwouldn’t matterwithoutathleteswillingtoacceptthe challenge and put in the effort.
JuniorsetterSydneeHamptonunderstands whatit’sliketobepartofateamthathaswon three straight district championships.
“Itfeelsamazing,”saidHampton.“There’sa lotofprideinknowingtheworkwe’veputin has paid off, but it also motivates us to keep pushing.Everyyearisanewchallenge,soit’s notjustaboutthewins,it’saboutthegrowth we experience as a team.”
Sophomore right-side hitter Citlali Casique,whobeganonvarsityasafreshman, alsounderstandswhatitmeanstobepartof a championship legacy.
“From the beginning, I looked up to the older players and was inspired by their dedication and teamwork,” said Casique “Over time,thebondI’vebuiltwithmyteammates has become like no other. We’ve grown together both on and off the court, pushed
eachothertoimproveandcreatedmemories that will last far beyond the season
“The pride I feel in representing my team and school continues to motivate me every time I step on the court.”
Playerssaythatimprovementcomesfrom holdingeachotheraccountableandcompeting hard during practice
“We hold each other accountable,” said Hampton.“Ifsomeoneslacksordoesn’tgive fulleffort,therestofusaren’tafraidtospeak up Atthesametime,wecheeroneachother’s successes and share tips. It’s competitive but supportive at the same time.”
Teamworkcontinuestobethekeytotheir success.
“A volleyball team without teamwork isn’t a team at all,” said Casique. “Teamworkisthefoundationofthegame It’swhat keeps everything running smoothly Every pointdependsoncommunication,trustand support among teammates. No matter how talented individual players are, success only comeswheneveryoneworkstogethertoward the same goal.”
While talent and teamwork drive wins, the journey to district dominance hasn’t been without challenges. Last season, the 2024YWCPAvolleyballteamgraduatedfive seniorswhowerethree-andfour-yearvarsity letter winners, leaving the 2025 squad with mostlyyoungerplayers.Coupledwithsome injuriesandunexpectedlosses,thenewteam had to quickly adapt and find its rhythm.
Though Allen never doubted her team’s
ability to repeat as champions, some players admitted to moments of uncertainty
“Every season comes with its own obstacles and sometimes it felt like the odds were againstus,”saidHampton.“Remindingourselves of our work ethic and trust in each other is what kept us going.”
Those trials only enhanced the program’s reputationandlaidthefoundationforalasting legacy at YWCPA.
After finishing the 2025 season, the YWCPA volleyball team faced a tough Livingston squad in the first round of the playoffs,losinginthreestraightsets Whilesome might see the loss as a setback, Allen views it differently.
“Next season, the goal is to continue the winning tradition and win a bi-district match,”saidAllen.“Iencouragethemtoplay outsideofschool,gotoopengymsandwork outduringthesummer Championsarebuilt during the offseason.”
With a solid foundation, inspired leadership and a culture built on hard work, YWCPA volleyball isn’t just a team at the top; it’s a program setting the standard for years to come
For younger athletes aiming to join a successful program, dedication and mental resilience are essential.
“Workhardeveryday,evenwhennoone’s watching,” said Hampton. “Be coachable, communicate and respect your teammates. Talenthelps,butattitudeandconsistencyare what make a program truly successful.”
2025 Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy volleyball from left to right - Naila Coleman (11), Loren Smith (4), Pearce Aycox (1), Nyra Gnagbe (7), Kenndi Fowler (5), Citlali Casique (10), MIA Pol (6), Sydnee Hampton (3), Aniya Pendleton (9), Summer Spiller (8), Isis Rhone (2) and Fadwa Hassan (12).
