Houston Style Magazine Vol 36 No 16

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Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com

Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com

Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com

Social Media Editor/Videographer

Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com

Graphic Design /Layout Editor Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com

Political Editor

Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com

Contributing Editor Amanda Edwards @AmandaKEdwards

Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com

Arts Editor Bianca Elam biancaelam777.be@gmail.com

Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Ben Jealous info@benjealous.com

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

AdVertising emAil advertising@stylemagazine.com

MINORITY PRINT MEDIA, LLC, D.B.A. Houston Style Magazine & www.StyleMagazine.com

Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035

©2025 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 2021 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)

Houston’s Own Megan Thee Stallion Slays Coachella—Even When the Mic Cuts Out

Coachella 2025 may have tried to mute the Hottie Queen, but Houston’s own Megan Thee Stallion proved once again why she’s not just a performer—she’s a cultural force.

Under the Indio desert sky, Megan Thee Stallion stormed the Coachella stage like the headliner she should’ve officially been. Though billed as a special guest, she lit up the main stage Sunday night with an unapologetic mix of hits, heat, and Houston pride. Fans came for the Hot Girl energy, and Megan delivered with fierce choreography, high-octane bars, and surprise appearances by legends Queen Latifah, Ciara, and the Grammy-winning Victoria Monét.

But just when the set hit peak brilliance with her high-powered track “Mamushi,” the unthinkable happened—her mic cut out.

"Somebody Better Fix My

Microphone!"

Mid-performance, technical gremlins turned a rising crescendo into radio silence. Megan, clearly frustrated, shouted, "Somebody better come out here and fix my motherf---ing microphone!"—a declaration that rang truer than ever as fans chanted her name louder than the Coachella speakers could ever blast.

Rather than storm off or break stride, the Houston native tossed her curls, kept dancing, and continued rapping into the void like the true performer she is. Her dancers followed suit in flawless formation as the crowd roared, “Megan! Megan! Megan!” in solidarity.

Don’t Do the Hotties Like That

While the mic remained silent, Megan’s message was crystal clear.

“Don’t do the Hotties like that,” she told organizers before leaving the stage. The moment was a masterclass in grace under pressure—and a mic drop without the mic.

Fans and critics alike took to

social media with #JusticeForMegan trending shortly after the performance. In a weekend full of pyrotechnics, billion-dollar headliners, and desert dust, it was Megan’s silent resilience that spoke the loudest.

Coachella, We Need to Talk...

For an event known for next-level production and million-dollar sound systems, Coachella’s flub wasn’t just a tech glitch—it was a disrespect to one of hip hop’s most powerful voices and a Grammy-winning Black woman artist who earned that stage.

Houston Style Magazine joins the chorus: Give Megan her headline slot and working mic next time. Period.

Up Next: Hot Girl Summerfest Megan’s next major stage? The iconic Summerfest 2025 in Milwaukee. �� June 28, 2025 �� American Family Insurance Amphitheater �� Tickets Available Now via Summerfest.com and Ticketmaster �� Festival dates: June 19-21, June 2628, July 3-5

Houston Style Magazine readers hether you’re riding with the Hotties in Houston or catching flights to Summerfest, one thing is clear—Megan Thee Stallion isn’t just an artist. She’s a movement. And not even a silent mic can stop her. www.StyleMagazine.com

COMMENTARY THE NEW “GREAT DYING” DESERVES

ATTENTION AND ACTION

My childhood growing up in Pacific Grove, California was blessed with the kind of exposure to and immersion in nature that all kids deserve. We played among towering redwood trees that seemed to reach all the way to heaven. We surfed at Asilomar Beach, and marveled at both how small we are in our place in nature yet how connected we all are. And, a privilege of living in Pacific Grove specifically, we got to witness the migration of western monarch butterflies.

Those monarch butterflies are just a fraction of the weight of a feather. Yet, they were so numerous when I was growing up that they would bend and bounce the tree branches as they landed on them by the tens of thousands.

According to Natalie Johnston of the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, “Accounts in Pacific Grove as late as the 1990s showed 45,000 monarchs, which we do not see today.”

To say those numbers have shrunk significantly since then would be an understatement. At the same we used to see tens of thousands of monarchs, this past season, Pacific Grove saw just 228. A site in Santa Barbara that saw more than 33,000 monarchs as recently as last winter this year saw just 198.

The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation says, along the California coast, 4.5 million monarchs overwintered in the 1980’s. That number was down to 1.2 million by the late 90s, 293,000 by 2015, 30,000 by 2019, and in 2020, it was less than 2,000.

And while factors including climate change-fueled droughts have likely led to the decline in migrating monarchs in coastal California, other human activity has led to similar declines in other parts of the country. For example, in the upper midwest, use of herbicides has led to the loss of milkweed, an essential host plant for monarch larvae. In Iowa, milkweed shrank in abundance by 58% between 1999 and 2010. As a result, monarch reproduction declined by 81% in the Midwest over that time period.

The numbers are startling. And

that is the kind of math – basic subtraction – everyone can understand.

In December, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed protecting monarch butterflies under the Endangered Species Act. FWS estimated that the eastern migratory population of monarchs declined by around 80% over the past four decades. As for the western population I grew up with, that has declined by more than 95% since the 80s. According to FWS, that means the western monarchs stand more than a 99% chance of extinction by 2080.

The nosedive in the populations of this iconic species and vital pollinator should be setting off alarm bells for all of us. This is the extinction crisis in action.

Because species typically go extinct over many years, and because many of the species going extinct are not the ones we see everyday, most people do not realize we are in an extinction crisis arguably worse than the one that killed the dinosaurs. A catastrophic meteor impact and other natural events caused that mass extinction. The mass extinction we are now in – the Earth’s

sixth mass extinction event – is being caused by us.

Under natural circumstances, species go extinct at a rate of about one to five species per year. Right now, we are at 1,000 to 10,000 times that rate. It is a wide range, to be sure. But even the low end of that range is terrifying.

The human-caused changes to our planet that are driving the crisis include pollution, habitat destruction like deforestation, industrial-scale agriculture land use, and, of course, wrapped up in all of it, climate change.

The two existential crises facing our planet and the human race – the extinction crisis and the climate crisis – are closely intertwined. Global warming caused by the burning of fossil fuels worsens all the threats contributing to our modern mass extinction event. High temperatures themselves can play a role in whether or not a species declines. And experts say falling short of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by enough could result in the extinction of between a third and half of all animal and plant species.

It is time to act. The solution to this crisis begins simply with us moving to embrace a more sustainable future. That means leaving the fuels that powered us last century in the past and completing our transition to the one that is already fueling much of America: clean energy. In doing so, we will reduce pollution and can conserve and restore as much land and as many ecosystems – both land and marine – as we can. Our kids and our grandkids deserve the clean water in which to swim and surf as we have enjoyed, and the pristine forests that touch our souls and awaken our splendor in our natural world. They deserve a world full of critters of all kinds; to witness an abundance of species, each playing their vital role in the ecosystems on which we all depend.

You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this

In an era where trust in democracy is too often under siege, Harris County just earned a standing ovation from its citizens. According to a new study by the Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research and Survey Center at Texas Southern University, two-thirds (65%) of Harris County voters rated their November 2024 voting experience as “excellent”, with another 30% saying it was “good.”

That’s not just a win — that’s a landslide of voter satisfaction.

“Under the current leadership of Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth, elections in Harris County have been very well run in the eyes of Harris County voters,” said Dr. Michael O. Adams, founding director of the Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research Center. “A substantial majority of Democrats and Republicans reported an excellent voting experience last fall.”

�� A Bipartisan Breakthrough

In today’s polarized climate, bipartisan agreement can feel as rare as a solar eclipse — but Harris County pulled it off.

66% of Repubs. and 64% of Dems. described their voting experience as excellent.

68% of Dems. and 58% of Repubs. believed the election was administered “very

Democracy Delivered: Harris County Voters Praise 2024 Election Experience, With Bipartisan Approval

well.”

That's more than civic satisfaction — it's a model for how elections should feel.

�� What’s Behind the Applause?

The findings, drawn from a statistically sound survey of 600 Harris County registered voters (conducted in both English and Spanish), provide insight into what went right and where challenges still linger:

✅ Top Positives:

65% said voting was excellent, 30% said it was good — 0% said poor. 62% said the process was very well run, and another 32% said it was at least "somewhat well"

Communication was on point — 88% of voters and 66% of non-voters received election-related messages, primarily via text.

�� Lingering Challenges:

45% of non-voters cited dislike of candidates as their reason for not voting.

42% believed their vote didn’t matter, while 33% feared their vote wouldn’t be counted.

5% of non-voters lacked required photo ID — and cited this as their primary barrier to voting.

These are pain points worth addressing, but in the grand scheme, Harris County showed up and showed out.

�� Beyoncé, Kamala Harris & The Voting Effect?

Despite the buzz surrounding the October 2024 Houston rally headlined by Beyoncé and Vice President Kamala Harris, 91% of both voters and non-voters said the event had no effect on their likelihood to vote. The finding? Glamour and glitz may inspire, but logistics and trust drive action.

�� Why It Matters

This report isn’t just a feather in the cap for Harris County’s election officials. It’s a blueprint for progress. Transparency matters. Trust is earned.

And voters are watching.

The high marks from both sides of the aisle speak volumes about the leadership of Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth and her team, who brought professionalism, clarity, and trust back to the process.

�� Learn More

Read the full report here: �� Power of Policy Research – April 2025 Report: �� Power of Policy Research –April 2025 Report

In a school district where diversity defines daily life and community roots run deep, Fort Bend ISD School Board Vice President Rick Garcia is not just running for re-election — he’s reaffirming a mission of service, equity, and visionary leadership for the 80,000+ students and 11,000 employees who call the district home.

Garcia’s commitment is personal. He and his wife Paulina are both former FBISD teachers. Their sons are students in the district. Their community involvement is not performative — it’s generational. “Fort Bend is where we planted our roots to grow our future,” Garcia shares. “We both began our journeys here, and our commitment to this district is lifelong.”

From the classroom to the boardroom, Garcia has been a constant presence in the district’s evolution. His early days teaching history at Macario Garcia Middle School—a school named after a World War II hero and Mexican American icon—offered him a powerful lens on the intersection of heritage, education, and opportunity.

“I believe FBISD needs to be the most competitive in the state when it comes to salary and benefits for our teachers and staff,” Garcia said. “Our team must reflect this incredibly American student body. Equity and excellence go hand in hand.”

FBISD’s student body — 28% Black, 28% Asian, 27% Latino, and 13%

Rooted in Service, Driven by Equity: Rick Garcia Champions Fort Bend ISD’s Future

White — represents the very definition of a 21st-century district. Garcia believes representation within staff and leadership is essential to serving this community effectively.

Having stepped away from teaching to become an IT entrepreneur, Garcia never stepped away from serving. Whether leading the PTO Dad’s Club, acting as Oakland Elementary PTO Vice President, or guiding governance through Fieldstone’s MUD and HOA boards, Garcia has lived his values of civic engagement.

In 2022, those values propelled him to victory against a 12-year incumbent. Today, as School Board Vice President, he continues to ask tough questions, push for fiscal accountability, and demand results that matter.

“We need to focus on college, career, and military readiness,” Garcia emphasized. “Since the bond passed in 2023, I’ve worked closely with community leadership to keep costs down, streamline internal processes, and secure the best return on investment for our parents and business

partners.”

Garcia’s tech-savvy background is also driving smarter approaches to efficiency. “This is the largest employer in Fort Bend County,” he explains. “We need modern tools and innovative strategies to maximize taxpayer dollars and to do what matters most: educate children.”

As Fort Bend ISD stretches across 170 square miles—from Sugar Land and Missouri City to Mission Bend and north of Richmond—Garcia’s campaign reflects not only a deep understanding of the community, but an unwavering belief in the public school system as the great equalizer.

“Public schools should bring people together,” Garcia said. “It’s about more than education. It’s about unity, opportunity, and our shared future.”

VOTER INFORMATION:

Early Voting: Begins Tuesday, April 22 (after the San Jacinto Day holiday) and continues through Tuesday, April 29 Election Day: Saturday, May 3

For more information on Rick Garcia’s campaign, visit Fort Bend ISD Elections Page �� Stay connected and make your voice count.our democracy.”

Burt & Sandra Levine with Rick Garcia
Did you know beer, wine and spirits all contain ethanol?
Every alcohol drink contains ethanol and that’s what affects you, rather than the type of drink you choose.

All alcohol drinks contain ethanol, but the amount can vary.

Whether you drink beer, wine or spirits, they all contain the same type of alcohol called ethanol. This is created when either fruits or grains are fermented to produce alcohol drinks. It’s the ethanol in these drinks that affects your mood and reactions – and ethanol affects you in the same way, regardless of what type of drink you choose. Of course, different drinks have different concentrations of alcohol. This is generally expressed as the percentage of alcohol by volume or ABV. You‘ve probably noticed that bottles and cans often include the strength of the drink as ABV on the label. It’s the ABV that can help you be aware of how much alcohol is in your drink.

• Spirits have the highest concentration of alcohol and most contain around 40% ABV. Strength can vary considerably, however. Some vodkas contain 30% ethanol, while some bourbons may be around 60% ABV.

• Liqueurs, which are also spirits-based, generally contain less alcohol and their ABV may be below 20%.

• Wine is less concentrated than spirits and generally contains between 12 and 15% ABV. However, some wines can be stronger, and fortified wines like port or sherry are usually around 20% ABV. The alcohol concentration in beer as a category is lowest, and most regular beer ranges between 4% and 10% ABV. Some craft beers may be comparable in strength to certain wines at around 12% ABV. How drinking affects you depends on how quickly and how much you drink, and on how much alcohol is in your drink.

Factors such as your body size and weight, biological sex, and age influence how you process alcohol and how drinking can therefore affect you. Most importantly, this also depends on how much you drink, which is determined by the concentration (ABV) of the drink you’ve chosen and how quickly you drink it. Whether this alcohol comes as beer, wine or spirits is less important. Knowing the ABV of your drink is very useful and can help you choose your beverage and anticipate its effect on you. Some governments use the terms ‘unit’ or standard drink’ to help measure drinking and provide health guidelines. A standard drink of any beverage – beer, wine or spirits – will always contain the same amount of ethanol in grams.

However, relating standard drinks to what you’re actually drinking can be complicated. For example, if someone tops your glass up before you’re finished, it may be hard to keep track of what you’ve consumed. Also, the size of your glass may not match up to the standard size for your drink. The best rule of thumb is to always be responsible, drink moderately, and avoid activities and situations in which drinking can put you at risk. There are tools available that can help you translate what you are drinking into standard drinks.

This information is brought to you by Diageo and the Multicultural Consortium for Responsible Drinking. Scan here to learn more

In a bold and history-making move to protect some of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens, AARP, in partnership with Amazon, Google, and Walmart, has unveiled the National Elder Fraud Coordination Center (NEFCC) – a powerful, first-ever alliance that unites the private and public sectors in an all-out war against elder fraud.

Launched in Washington, D.C., the NEFCC is a nonprofit force powered by deep collaboration between law enforcement, technology companies, retailers, advocacy groups, and academic researchers. The Center's mission? To hunt down and halt criminal enterprises that prey on older Americans – a group that, according to the Federal Trade Commission, lost a staggering $61.5 billion to fraud in 2023 alone.

�� AARP Takes the Lead in the Fight for Justice

“While fraud affects people of all ages, older adults often face the greatest financial losses, putting their retirement security and well-being at risk,” said Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at AARP Fraud Watch Network.

“Built on a proven model for delivering results, the National Elder Fraud Coordination Center will play a critical role to address the fraud crisis in our country.”

Through real-time data sharing, cyber intelligence, and nationwide collab-

AARP Champions National Fight Against Elder Fraud: Launches Groundbreaking

Fraud Coordination Center with Amazon, Google, and Walmart

oration, the NEFCC will help identify fraud patterns, link cases, and build complex investigations that federal and state agencies can use to dismantle fraud rings. In short: this is not just a hotline – it’s a strike force.

�� Meet the Man Leading the Charge

At the helm is Brady Finta, former FBI Supervisory Special Agent and founder of the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force. With a storied career taking on organized crime, Finta brings grit and vision to this new endeavor.

“Older Americans deserve our best efforts to protect them against the transnational organized crime rings defrauding them,” said Finta. “NEFCC is modeled on the success of the FBI San Diego Elder Justice Task Force, proving that coordination across sectors and applying an organized crime lens will lead to arrests, prosecutions, and convictions.

Importantly, NEFCC brings the private sector to this cause.”

�� Tech Titans Join the Fight

The power of this new center is amplified by the tech giants and retail leaders backing it:

Amazon’s Scott Knapp, VP of Worldwide Buyer Risk Prevention: “We’re proud to be a founding member of the NEFCC… working collaboratively across the public and private sector to hold scammers accountable.”

Google’s Halimah DeLaine Prado, General Counsel: “We’ve long believed in not only combating scams but using litigation to hold bad actors accountable.”

Walmart’s Claire Rushton, Senior Director of Investigations: “We will relentlessly work together to protect those most vulnerable.”

�� NEFCC: A Houston Call to Action

This initiative should especially resonate in Houston, where our vibrant 50+ community forms the foundation of many families. As the city’s premier voice for empowerment, Houston Style Magazine celebrates AARP’s efforts to ensure our elders are protected from predatory fraudsters.

The NEFCC is now operating out of the National Cyber Forensics and Training Alliance (NCFTA) and is poised to become the gold standard for anti-fraud efforts targeting seniors.

�� Learn more and join the movement to protect your family and community: www.fightelderfraud.org

About AARP:

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization committed to empowering people aged 50 and older to live with dignity and choice. From health security to fraud protection, AARP works every day to make life better for more than 100 million older Americans and their families. Learn more at www. aarp.org

Kathy Stokes Brady Finta

In a city where cultures converge and creativity blooms, the Houston Public Library has proudly named Reyes Ramirez as Houston’s 7th Poet Laureate. The announcement, timed perfectly with National Poetry Month and National Library Week, celebrates not only the power of the written word but the vibrant future of Houston’s literary voice.

With his roots embedded in Houston's richly layered communities, Ramirez steps into this prestigious role with both humility and ambition. His poetic voice is known for weaving together the diverse experiences of Houston’s people, neighborhoods, histories, and aspirations into a resonant, lyrical tapestry.

“Reyes Ramirez represents the future of Houston’s literary landscape, and

Houston Public Library Welcomes Reyes Ramirez Named Houston’s New Poet Laureate

Aris Kian Brown (Poet Laureate Emeritus)

Brooke Lewis (Co-founder of BIPOC Book Fest)

Amir Safi (Founder of Write About Now) Dr. Kavita Singh (University of Houston) Guiseppe Taurino (Writers in the Schools) Võ Đức Quang (Public Poetry)

Justin Bogert (Houston Public Library) Together, they selected Ramirez as a dynamic new voice to inspire, challenge, and uplift Houston’s vibrant and ever-evolving cultural narrative.

What’s Next

As Poet Laureate, Ramirez will host at least eight workshops designed to engage residents with the power of poetry. His community outreach project, to be

Honoring a Champion: Houston Celebrates the Life and Legacy of George Foreman with Heartfelt Memorial

In a moving tribute befitting a global icon, the City of Houston and Mayor John Whitmire joined the family, friends, and fans of the legendary George Edward Foreman to honor his extraordinary life as a two-time Heavyweight Champion, devoted father, and tireless philanthropist. Held at the elegant Wortham Theater Center, the invitation-only memorial service radiated with love, pride, and deep gratitude for a man who punched through every obstacle to become one of the most beloved figures in American history.

�� A Morning of Elegance, Spirit, and Soul

Under the soft lights of the Wortham stage, the program opened with a reverent performance of The Lord’s Prayer

by Angelo Ferrari, accompanied by a live pianist. As attendees took their seats—ranging from boxing greats to Houston’s civic leaders—it became clear this was not just a farewell, but a powerful celebration of a life that championed both people and purpose. Pastor George Foreman IV delivered an opening prayer steeped in warmth and generational strength, setting the tone for a service that wove faith, family, and Fortitude into every moment.

Mayor John Whitmire, speaking with heartfelt admiration, remarked:

"George Foreman was more than a boxing legend—he was a son of Houston who gave back tenfold. His legacy isn’t just in the ring, it’s in the lives he uplifted, the youth he mentored, and the community he cherished."

�� Music and Memories

An unnamed soloist brought tears to many with a soulful rendition of Going Home, reminding all present of the final journey George now embarks upon. A rousing performance by the University of Houston Choir followed, and the emotional highlight came as Dana Clark Green and Terence Fisher united their powerful voices on “Precious Lord,” moving the audience into a space of reflection and reverence. The Houston Symphony capped the musical tribute with a stunning orchestral piece that filled the theater with the same grace and grandeur that marked Foreman’s legacy.

�� Tributes from the Ring and Beyond

The memorial welcomed powerful reflections from dignitaries such as Dr. James Douglas, Dr. Adan Rios, and Craig Stripling, Esq., each offering insight into Foreman's life off the canvas— as a businessman, humanitarian, and man of enduring faith.

Former world champion Michael Moorer delivered a touching tribute, acknowledging their iconic rivalry and profound friendship. "In the ring, he was a warrior. Outside it, he was the most gracious man I’ve ever known," Moorer said.

A stirring video montage titled

Celebration of Life took attendees on a visual journey through Foreman’s childhood in Fifth Ward, his rise to heavyweight stardom, and his philanthropic impact through the George Foreman Charitable Foundation.

�� Giving Back in His Name

In lieu of flowers, the Foreman family encourages contributions to: Church of the Lord Jesus Christ

The George Foreman Charitable Foundation

P.O. Box 1405, Huffman, TX

�� How to Rewatch the Memorial

For those who were not able to attend, Houston Municipal Television (HTV) has provided a full stream of the event at: �� HTV Live Stream

Houston Style Magazine readers, the ceremony was also available via the HTV Houston Mobile App, Facebook, and HTV’s broadcast channels.

�� Final Bell, Eternal Legacy

Though the bell has rung for the last time, George Foreman’s fight for faith, family, and community will echo for generations. His story remains a shining beacon of what it means to overcome, to believe, and to give back. Houston Style Magazine proudly joins the world in saying, “Thank you, Champ.”

Mayor John Whitmire

METRO Launches New Community Connector in The Heights: A Bold Step Toward Equitable, Clean Transit

In resounding move to bridge transit gaps and elevate neighborhood connectivity, METRO, in proud partnership with the City of Houston and Evolve Houston, officially launched its Community Connector service in The Heights on Monday,

April 14, 2025. This launch isn’t just a ribbon-cutting — it’s a transformative moment in urban mobility, rooted in equity, clean energy innovation, and local empowerment.

The Community Connector is an on-demand, all-electric microtransit ser-

vice designed to help residents connect with METRO’s fixed-route buses and rail or reach essential places that traditional transit might miss — like the local clinic, grocery store, or even a community center tucked away on a quiet street.

“This service enables METRO to connect people to places they need to travel safely and efficiently,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. “My administration has prioritized safe streets and transportation. Collaboration works, and we are optimistic about the future of mobility through thoughtful planning and strong partnerships.”

Accessible via the Ride Circuit App, the new Heights Connector operates Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and delivers flexible rides to and from designated zones within the neighborhood. This marks another bold leap forward in METRO’s METRONow initiative — a sweeping mobility plan focused on ensuring all communities have access to safe, clean, reliable, and convenient transit.

“This new service is already transforming transit and people’s lives by providing direct access to buses and trains — and ultimately meets essential needs like attending wellness appointments or getting to the grocery store,” said METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock, a staunch advocate for people-first transit innovation.

The Heights Joins a Growing Network

The Heights becomes the latest community to enjoy this service, joining Downtown Houston, Second Ward, and Third Ward — neighborhoods where the Community Connector has already proven a game-changer in reducing transportation barriers.

To learn more about how to use the Community Connector or to schedule a ride, visit:

�� METRO Community Connector Official Page

Why This Matters to You, Houston

At Houston Style Magazine, we believe public transportation is more than a ride — it’s a right. METRO’s commitment to sustainable, accessible solutions like the Community Connector reflects Houston’s broader push toward inclusive infrastructure and economic mobility.

So whether you're a Heights resident looking for a greener commute, or a caregiver needing a reliable ride to health appointments — this service is for you. Let’s continue to support solutions that move all of Houston forward.

��Stay plugged into METRO's full transit evolution at METRONow

Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and dreamers-in-motion: mark your calendars! On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Houston Community College’s (HCC) Glenda & David Regenbaum Center for Entrepreneurship and SCORE present the next installment of their wildly popular Digital Marketing Clinic—this time with an exciting twist: “Google Secrets” revealed!

�� Ever wondered how some businesses seem to magically appear at the top of search results? This exclusive Zoom session—free and open to all—pulls back the digital curtain to teach you the algorithms, analytics, and authentic strategies to elevate your brand in an increasingly competitive online world.

Hosted by the celebrated Beth Guide, an expert in SEO and digital performance, and Sandra Louvier, entrepreneurship champion at HCC, the session will dive into:

Local Search Engine Optimization

Convertible Keywords that actually convert Social Media strategies that stick Web design for click-worthy first impressions

Video marketing must-dos Analytics + conversion techniques that drive revenue

Whether you're building your digital presence from scratch or looking to level-up, this clinic is your monthly shot of marketing adrenaline. For over four years, this series has been the

Unlock Google’s Secrets & Access Capital: HCC and SCORE Host Free

Marketing Clinic and SBA Lender Matchmaking Series

secret sauce behind hundreds of Houston-based entrepreneurs growing their online visibility.

�� Register now to claim your spot: �� https://hcc.idloom.events/DMCApr23/register

�� BONUS: SBA Lender Matchmaking Returns – Wednesday, May 21

Don’t stop there. On May 21, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, HCC invites small business owners to the SBA Lender Matchmaking Event at the HCC Alief Hayes Campus. Think speed-dating, but with lenders. Meet one-on-one with a range of SBA-approved lenders and gain direct access to the capital that could take your business to the next level. Bring your pitch. Bring your

questions. And bring your dream.

�� Location: HCC Alief Hayes Campus 2811 Hayes Road, Main Building, 3rd Floor, Room #319/320 Houston, TX 77082

�� Contact for both events: Sabiha Dholkawala – c4e@hccs.edu | (713) 718-6650

Why It Matters

Houston is fast becoming a top-tier entrepreneurial hub, and HCC’s community-driven clinics and events are laying the foundation. These events aren't just educational—they’re transformational.

�� Whether you're a new founder

or a veteran innovator, this is your moment to learn, connect, and grow with Houston’s most impactful business educators. #TeamStyleMag encourages our readers to register today, show up digitally (or in-person), and walk away with tools that can truly change your business game.

Published by Houston Style Magazine – Houston’s Voice for Empowerment, Entrepreneurship & Elevation. www.StyleMagazine.com

Campus Chronicles

The Mexican Consulate in Houston recently recognized five Aldine High School students for their dedication to civic education and community involvement. The honor was part of a partnership with Aldine ISD’s Aldine Votes initiative, which promotes student engagement in civic life. All five are members of the Mustangs Vote Club.

Organized by the Consulate’s Educational Guidance and Civic Education Office, the recognition aimed to celebrate the students' contributions to the district’s Mexican communities and their connection to their heritage. The students have shown leadership through advocacy and by building relationships with

In a dramatic overtime finish, Klein Cain High School etched its name into Texas sports history by claiming its first-ever team state championship with a 1-0 win over Alief Elsik in the UIL Class 6A Division I Boys Soccer title match. The victory not only secured the coveted state title but also marked a defining moment for the Hurricanes’ soccer program.

Junior forward Parker Glenn emerged as the hero of the night, scoring the game-winning goal late in the first overtime period. His decisive strike not only delivered the championship but also earned him the title of Most Valuable Player. The Hurricanes’ relentless drive and team unity were on full display throughout the match, culminating in a performance that showcased grit, resilience, and heart.

Pasadena ISD is proud to recognize a group of remarkable students from J. Frank Dobie High School as the 2025 Vanguard Award recip-

elected officials. They actively attend events and workshops to expand their knowledge and support their peers.

Pam Gallardo, civic engagement specialist, praised their efforts, noting the importance of empowering students to create change in their communities.

Following the ceremony, the students received certificates and toured the Consulate. Honorees included Liliana Moreno, Natalia Hernandez, Lilliana Rojas, Nataly Morales Gonzalez, and Marilyn Serrato. www.StyleMagazine.com

Led by first-year Head Coach Jerson Carrasco, Klein Cain completed a dream season with a remarkable 24-2-3 overall record. The Hurricanes closed out the year on a 22-match unbeaten streak, with their final triumph highlighting their defensive prowess. It was the team’s 18th shutout of the season, anchored by standout junior goalkeeper Donato Farina, whose clutch saves helped seal the win.

The title elevates Klein Cain into an elite group within Klein ISD, becoming only the third boys soccer team in the district to capture a state championship. They now join the ranks of Klein High’s storied teams from 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2005, as well as Klein Oak’s 1988 champions, continuing a proud legacy of athletic excellence.

This landmark victory not only celebrates the present but also inspires future generations of Klein Cain athletes. The Hurricanes' unforgettable championship journey sets a powerful example of perseverance, passion, and community pride—ushering in a new era of success for the program and its supporters.

ients. Honored for their outstanding dedication to community service, these students have consistently demonstrated leadership, compassion, and a drive to make a difference beyond the classroom.

The Vanguard Award celebrates students who go above and beyond in their efforts to uplift others and contribute to the greater good.

Whether through volunteer work, mentoring, or leading service initiatives, this year’s honorees have left a lasting impact on their school and local community.

Their recognition highlights not only their individual achievements but also the strong culture of service and leadership fostered at Dobie High School. As Pasadena ISD continues to support and encourage student excellence, these Vanguard Award recipients stand out as shining examples of what it means to lead with purpose and heart.

In a spirited celebration of horsepower, heart, and humanity, COHAP OUTREACH CORPORATION is shifting community impact into high gear with the highly anticipated “Home 4 Hope” Car Show & Music Event, set to take place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Little Woodrow’s Tomball (11241 Timbertech Ln, Tomball, TX 77375).

A powerful blend of adrenaline and altruism, this dynamic event—hosted in collaboration with Houston Cars & Cocktails and Houston Performance Driving—aims to raise vital funds to support housing initiatives for homeless veterans, aged-out foster care youth, and survivors of domestic violence.

More Than Motors—It’s a Mission

“This event is more than a car show—it’s a call to action,” said Natasha Wilson, Founder & CEO of COHAP OUTREACH CORPORATION. “We’re giving our heroes and underserved individuals a second chance because everyone deserves a place to call home.”

The funds raised will go toward purchasing and renovating two multi-unit housing developments and creating a centralized facility that offers safe, stable housing and holistic support services.

What to Expect: Community, Culture, and Chrome

Driving Change, Building Hope: COHAP Outreach’s “Home 4 Hope” Car

Show & Music Event to Benefit Homeless Veterans

Attendees can expect a jampacked afternoon full of excitement, appreciation, and unity. The event lineup includes:

��

Elite Car Show Exhibit showcasing exotic, custom, and vintage classics

�� Live DJ spinning community vibes

�� Local Vendor Market with Houston’s best small businesses

Special Military Ceremony honoring veterans, featuring appearances by city officials and VA representatives

�� Community Giveaways & Networking for families, car enthusiasts, and supporters

�� Over 1,000+ RSVPs and growing via the official Facebook Event Page

Media & Community Engagement Welcome

COHAP extends a heartfelt invitation to media outlets, social influencers, and civic leaders to participate in the event and help amplify the mission. Interviews with Natasha Wilson, honored veterans, and local officials will be available on-site.

Interested in sponsoring or showcasing your business at this impactful community event?

�� Vendor Registration

About COHAP OUTREACH CORPORATION

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of community-minded partners like:

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan

Texas Children's Pediatrics & Hospital

Episcopal Health Foundation

Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine

OST/South Union Health Improvement Partnership

National Urban League – All IN Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals

Special appreciation goes to UnitedHealthcare for its ongoing investment in building a healthier, stronger Houston — one neighbor at a time.

Headquartered in Houston, COHAP OUTREACH CORPORATION is a compassionate 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to uplifting lives through housing, rehabilitation, and community reintegration. With a strong focus on populations often overlooked—homeless veterans, aged-out foster youth, and survivors of domestic violence—COHAP transforms despair into opportunity, one life at a time.

“We’re not just building housing—we’re building hope.”

�� Houston Style Magazine readers, Mark your calendar, bring your family, show off your ride, or just come for the community spirit—because everyone deserves a second chance and a place to call home.

Photo credit: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department

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