ANA DE ARMAS:
By Francis Page, Jr.
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Graphic Design /Layout Editor Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com
Political Editor Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com
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TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com
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©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)
A Legacy Etched in Houston’s Heart: Remembering José Griñán, A Beloved Beacon of Broadcast Journalism
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
With heavy hearts but enduring gratitude, Houston Style Magazine joins the city in mourning the loss of a true broadcasting legend and community champion — José Griñán. The former FOX 26 morning anchor passed away at the age of 72, leaving behind a decades-long legacy filled with journalistic excellence, community impact, and heartfelt connection to the city he loved and served.
For over three decades, José’s voice greeted early risers across Houston with clarity, conviction, and compassion. His smooth baritone, magnetic presence, and impeccable delivery weren’t just the hallmark of a seasoned journalist — they were a comfort, a constant, and a cornerstone of morning routines in homes across the Bayou City.
From Combat Lens to Camera Lens: The Griñán Journey
Before becoming a household name in Houston, José’s journey began in service — capturing documentaries as a cinematographer for the U.S. Army. That passion for visual storytelling soon turned into a flourishing news career, beginning in El Paso in 1975. His talents carried him from Texas to Tampa, Miami, New York, and back to Texas again, anchoring for major networks including CNN and FOX 4 in Dallas.
But it was in 1993, when he joined KRIV-TV FOX 26 in Houston, that his heart found a home. As the station’s very first male morning show anchor, José helped redefine early morning news with a balance of gravitas and warmth — a rare blend that earned him the respect of his peers and the love of his audience.
Not Just a Newsman – A Houston Hero
Though José’s resume reads like a masterclass in journalism, it was his tireless
work beyond the studio that truly captured the spirit of a Houston icon. A steadfast volunteer, José donated his time and talent to the National Kidney Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Special Olympics, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and so many more.
His community impact didn’t stop there. As a board member of the Dive Pirate Foundation, the Houston Read Commission, and Keep Houston Beautiful, José made sure the same commitment he brought to the newsroom uplifted lives across neighborhoods and nonprofit missions alike.
A Mentor. A Friend. A Family Man.
Known lovingly for mentoring over 30 anchors and dozens of young journalists, José was a quiet force of inspiration behind many successful careers. To them, he wasn’t just a colleague — he was “Papi,” a guide with wisdom, humility, and humor.
At home, José was a proud father to two daughters and the beloved husband of Kathy Griffin Townsend Griñán, who gave him the retirement send-off of a lifetime with the unforgettable “Roast, Toast & Boast” celebration. Held at the Million Air Interlink Hangar, the event brought together hundreds of Houstonians, FOX 26 stars like Isiah Carey,
Nate Griffin, and Melissa Wilson, and friends from every corner of the city. That night felt like a family reunion — and José, as always, was the heart of it all.
Pride in His Roots, Power in His Legacy
Born on July 24, 1952, in Tampa, Florida, José wore his Cuban heritage with honor. He was a proud member of both the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists — bridging communities, breaking ceilings, and embodying representation in every role he held.
José’s final sign-off may have come, but the light he shone continues. His impact lives on in every journalist he mentored, every viewer he informed, and every community he uplifted.
Houston Style Magazine sends its deepest condolences to Kathy, his daughters, the entire FOX 26 family, and the multitude of friends and fans who are forever touched by his presence.
Rest well, José Griñán. Your story will forever be part of Houston’s story.
José Griñán - Rest In Peace
COMMENTARY WHEN DEMAGOGUES BLAME THE VULNERABLE, WE ALL LOSE
In hard times, people look for answers. The decimation of American manufacturing starting in the 1990s with trade agreements like NAFTA led to decades of downward economic mobility for working families. That creates ripe conditions for demagogues to come out of the woodwork offering an easy answer for people’s pain. And if history teaches us anything, that answer is usually someone else to blame.
Today’s anti-immigrant movement follows the same dangerous pattern: stoke fear, tell lies, and divide working people against each other. We should recognize the humanity of people fleeing poverty, violence, or climate chaos, who come here with little more than the hope they will find opportunity and be treated with dignity. Instead we get bombarded with claims that immigrants are taking jobs, draining welfare programs, and driving up crime.
Let’s be clear – the data says otherwise.
Immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than US-born citizens, according to studies from the Cato Institute and the American Immigration Council. They contribute more in taxes than they receive in public benefits. And far from taking jobs, immigrant labor fills critical shortages in healthcare, construction, farming, and more – keeping our economy going while supporting their families and ours.
The myths persist because the truth is harder to confront. Our economy has failed too many people for too long. Factory towns across the Midwest and elsewhere are hollowed out. Wages have stagnated. Housing costs have skyrocketed. College debt weighs down the next generation before they can even begin. When real solutions feel out of reach, fear finds a foothold. But the solution is not scapegoating. The solution is building.
Right now, the green economy is our best shot at economic revival. Spurred on by legislation like the Inflation Reduction
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are opening new factories for wind turbines, electric school buses, and solar panels. We are building a power grid for the next century. We are creating careers – not just jobs – that pay well, reduce pollution, and lower energy bills.
This transition is already underway. But the budget reconciliation bill just passed by the US House and heading to the Senate attempts to bring it to a grinding halt. Instead of investing in the jobs that will power the global economy, the bill guts clean energy funding. It slashes Medicaid and food assistance for working families to pay for billions in tax cuts for the top 1%.
The bill does not solve a single problem. It makes every one of them worse.
What is in that disaster of a bill has been well reported: Attacks on Americans who get their health care through Affordable Care Act exchanges ... deep cuts to Medicaid and food assistance ... all to pay
for tax cuts for billionaires and corporations and Trump's immigrant deportation (and detention) agenda.
The House-passed bill would also repeal most IRA clean energy tax credits and investments and undermine public health by inviting a flood of air and water pollution. The repeal of the clean energy tax credits alone would reportedly increase US household energy costs by $16 billion by 2030, and cost more than 830,000 jobs and $1 trillion in GDP over the next eight years.
The cruelty of it is the point. The pain inflicted on everyday Americans is across the board. It tells struggling Americans: You will not get affordable healthcare. You will not get relief from rising rent or energy prices. But we willshow you someone to blame – and punish them in public.
Scapegoating is about power. It’s about exploiting people’s anxieties and frustrations to gain that power. And it’s about making an example of a group to chill
dissent and create a climate of fear. We’re already seeing how this administration is trying to retaliate against those who are calling out and standing up to its dehumanizing immigration sweeps. That is also part of the playbook.
Meanwhile, the real drivers of hardship go unaddressed.
Climate change, for example, is already uprooting communities around the world. In El Salvador, climate-fueled droughts forced rural families into overcrowded cities where gangs preyed on their desperation. Many fled north to escape the violence. Some walked thousands of miles. Along the way, they risked kidnapping, assault, rape, and death. Many did not survive the journey.
Imagine how bad things must be to make that trip with your children in tow. It is also worth remembering that some of the people we just honored on Memorial Day were immigrants. Foreign-born Americans have always served and sacrificed for this country – from the Civil War to Afghanistan. It is but one example that shows creating paths to citizenship and legal status is not giving people a handout. It is giving them a chance to fully belong to the nation – a nation many of them have already helped defend.
We can choose to turn away from politics that prey on fear. And turn toward a future built on shared prosperity, shared responsibility, and shared humanity. That’s an America worth fighting for.
Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
In a nation shaped by visionaries who dared to fight for equity, opportunity, and dignity, few roared louder or stood taller than Congressman Charles B. Rangel — the indomitable “Lion of Lenox Avenue.”
On Monday, May 26, 2025, America bid farewell to one of its most fearless champions of justice, civil rights, and progressive leadership. He was 94.
A towering figure in American politics and Harlem royalty by every measure, Rangel’s name was synonymous with resilience, service, and an unwavering belief in the promise of democracy — particularly for the voiceless and marginalized.
From Battlefield to Capitol Hill
Born in Harlem on June 11, 1930, Charlie Rangel’s early life was marked by hardship. The child of a broken home who dropped out of high school, he went on to earn the Purple Heart and Bronze Star with Valor for heroism during the Korean War. A battlefield survivor turned GI Bill success story, Rangel used that second chance to earn a law degree and, ultimately, a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives — where he would serve with distinction for 46 years.
Founding Father of the Con-
THE LION OF LENOX LIVES ON: Honoring Congressman
CHARLES B. RANGEL , A Harlem Legend and American Trailblazer
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
gressional Black Caucus
When Rangel entered Congress in 1971, America was still wrestling with the aftermath of the Civil Rights Movement. A visionary and founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Rangel coalesced a new era of Black leadership determined to challenge systemic racism, legislate justice, and expand opportunity. And expand it he did — through transformative initiatives like the Federal Empowerment Zone, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
A Harlem Hero with a Nation-Sized Impact
“Congressman Rangel was a longtime friend of the National Urban League and a true champion for civil rights and equal opportunity,” said Marc Morial, National Urban League President and CEO. “He inspired a generation of activists and advocates, and his legacy lives on through them.”
Rangel didn’t just represent Harlem — he embodied it. As the last surviving member of Harlem’s famed “Gang of Four,” alongside David Dinkins, Percy Sutton, and Basil Paterson, Rangel was part of a political dynasty that empowered generations of Black leaders and fortified Harlem’s cultural and civic renaissance.
A Legacy with a Complicated Chapter
Even lions stumble. Rangel’s illustrious career was not without controversy.
A 2010 House censure related to ethics violations offered a complex footnote to a story otherwise defined by service. But in true Rangel fashion, he confronted the storm head-on, accepted responsibility, and never stopped fighting for his community.
Revered and Remembered
From Harlem to Houston, from Washington to Watts, Rangel’s impact echoes across city halls, community centers, and college campuses — including the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative at City College of New York, designed to train the next generation of workers rebuilding America.
A Torch Passed, A Legacy Lit
As Rev. Al Sharpton put it, “It is on us now to pick up the torch Charlie Rangel carried for decades — to fight for our communities, advance along the road of justice, and uplift ourselves.”
To the readers of Houston Style Magazine, may we honor Congressman Charles B. Rangel not with silence but with action. Let us tell his story, teach his legacy, and strive toward the future he spent a lifetime making possible.
May he forever rest in power.
Senator Chuck Schumer praised him as “a great man, a great friend, and someone who never stopped fighting for his constituents and the best of America.” Congressman Hakeem Jeffries called him “a phenomenal patriot, hero, and transformational force of nature.”
Each Memorial Day, Houston becomes more than just a city — it transforms into sacred ground. Beneath the soaring flags, solemn bugle calls, and quiet whispers of remembrance, our community unites to honor the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
This past Memorial Day, under the wide Texas sky and the soft rustling of American flags, thousands gathered at the Houston National Cemetery, one of the most hallowed resting places in the country, home to more than 111,000 veterans. It was not just a day off — it was a day on for honor, for reflection, for purpose.
“I Come Here by Myself, But I Know I’m Not Alone”
Veteran Nathan Harvey, drafted out of Houston in 1963, walked slowly among the gravestones — each one a story, a sacrifice, a legacy. “I was scared. I had never left Texas, and suddenly I was in the jungles of Vietnam,” he said. “But every year, I come back here. From my cavalry unit, we lost 79 men. I think about them. I thank them.”
Harvey, now in his 80s, is a reminder that service doesn’t end with deployment. It continues in remembrance, in community, and in telling the stories that must never fade.
HOUSTON SALUTES ITS HOMETOWN HEROES: A MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE
OF HONOR, REFLECTION, AND RESILIENCE
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
A Parade of Courage
Among those also gathered was Paul Washington, a Jack Yates High School alum who enlisted in 1969. “I left as a teenager, I came back a man,” said Washington, preparing for the veteran infantry parade. “I lost friends — including my friend James Washington — and I carry their memory every day.”
Now, Washington speaks to students and churches, sharing hard-earned wisdom about duty, unity, and sacrifice. “We endured sweat, pain, and survival. I tell our young people, so they understand what African Americans have endured in
service to this country — in every war, in every era.”
Leaders Who Remember
The tradition of service and remembrance in Houston is not limited to veterans. Civic leaders continue to show up, stand tall, and speak out for those who served.
Victor Ramirez, a Persian Gulf Combat Veteran and VFW leader, recalled with pride how Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee appeared at the cemetery last year, despite illness. “She’s been showing up for nearly 30 years — not just on Memorial Day but on Veterans Day, at City Hall, in Washington. Her presence shows us: our service matters.”
Ramirez also thanked former Mayor and Congressman Sylvester Turner, who was seen in previous year embracing veterans on the parade ground. “Houston never forgets,” Ramirez added. “We are a city of memory and mission.”
Houston’s
Legacy of Sacrifice
Memorial Day in Houston isn’t just about wreaths or rituals. It’s about legacy — of courage, community, and the continual effort to remind future generations what it means to serve and to lose, and to carry on in their honor.
Whether you walk the rows of headstones at the VA cemetery, wave flags at the parade, or simply pause in prayer, Houston Style Magazine invites every reader to take part in this sacred duty: remember them.
As Paul Washington puts it best: “We did not go to war alone — and we must not let our memories of them stand alone either.”
Get Involved: Honor Veterans YearRound
�� Visit: Houston National Cemetery
�� Volunteer with: VFW Houston District
�� Support local programs: SheServes, HeServesHer Team www.StyleMagazine.com
Burt Levine &Vietnam Veteran Nathan Harvey
Burt & Sandra Levine
In a powerful reminder that citizenship is not just a status, but a doorway to full civic life, Houston-area leaders have launched a renewed campaign to help over 360,000 lawful permanent residents take their final step toward becoming U.S. citizens.
Held on May 8 at the Southern News Group headquarters, the “Citizenship: The Time is Now” briefing spotlighted the resources, challenges, and urgency facing eligible residents who’ve called Houston home for decades—but remain without the full rights of citizenship.
“Eighty percent of those eligible have lived here over 10 years—forty percent for over 20,” said KaNeesha Allen, Community Collaboration Lead at Dalberg Design. “It’s time we close the gap between residence and belonging.”
Navigating a Complex Road with Support
The barriers are real: legal complexity, misinformation, high costs, and language gaps. But speakers emphasized that the support system in Houston has never been stronger.
UNLOCKING CITIZENSHIP: HOUSTON’S UNITED FRONT TO EMPOWER 360,000 RESIDENTS
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
“Citizenship is the trophy at the end of a very long and complicated journey,” said Austra Zapata, Harris County’s Naturalization Program Manager. “We’ve created wraparound services, at no cost, to help people get there.”
That program screened 2,000 people and provided 1,400 full legal representations—in just the first three months of 2025.
Trusted Navigators and Tailored Education
Alice Min of Woori Juntos shared how culturally sensitive classes are changing lives—especially for older immigrants or those with limited literacy.
“We make sure people feel safe and supported,” she said. “My own mother
became a citizen through this program and now votes proudly.”
Angie Dupree of the National Partnership for New Americans added that some may qualify for exemptions from the English exam—information often overlooked.
“Our community navigators are peers—they look like our community and have walked this path themselves,” she said.
The
High
Cost of a Life-Changing Step
Zenobia Lai, Executive Director of the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, didn’t mince words about the financial hurdle:
“The application fee is $760. That’s a major barrier for most families,”
she said, noting the availability of the Give Citizenship a Boost financial aid program.
Hope on the Horizon
From Dedre Smith of the Literacy Council to Jannette Diep of Boat People SOS Houston, the message was clear: with trusted guidance, no one needs to go it alone.
“I didn’t know I could get this help for free,” Diep said. “That changed everything.”
The event closed with a bold call to action:
“This is not the time to be a bystander,” said community leader Michael Treviño. “Be an upstander.”
Take Action Today
With the support of Houston’s vibrant network of nonprofits and civic leaders, citizenship is not only within reach—it’s a shared mission.
Visit www.NaturalizeNowHouston.org to begin the journey.
As Summer holiday approaches—a time when Houston families reunite, military heroes are honored, and vacation plans hit high gear—travelers flying out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) can now breathe a sigh of relief. METRO has your back with a game-changing solution to bypass traffic jams, parking chaos, and skyrocketing rideshare fares: the IAH 500 Airport Express Route from GRB Convention Center to IAH.
For just $4.50 one way, METRO’s IAH 500 service offers a smart, stress-free ride straight to the terminals. Running every 30 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., this express bus zips passengers between the George R. Brown Convention Center and IAH, providing the perfect alternative to driving and parking.
�� Why This Route Matters This Summer Holiday
With airport parking garages near capacity and traffic accidents rising during peak travel weekends, METRO’s direct-toIAH route isn’t just a convenience—it’s a timely solution. Whether you're traveling solo, heading out for a family reunion, or honoring loved ones this holiday, this express line ensures a smoother, safer ride to the airport.
"This affordable and reliable service is all about making travel easier
AVOID THE AIRPORT GRIDLOCK: METRO’S $4.50 EXPRESS
ROUTE TO IAH IS THE SUMMER TRAVEL HACK YOU NEED
By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor for
www.StyleMagazine.com
for Houstonians," said METRO CEO Tom Jasien. "Especially on high-volume weekends like Summer Holiday, the IAH 500 helps people save time, money, and unnecessary stress."
The IAH 500 Airport Express runs seven days a week—but its benefits shine even brighter during heavy-travel weekends like this one. So why circle for parking or panic in traffic when you can ride with ease?
��METRO’s Summer Holiday 2025 Service Schedule Monday, May 26: Local Bus, METRORail, and METRO curb2curb will operate on Sunday schedules.
Park & Ride service will not be provided,
except for the 500 IAH Downtown Direct (* Sunday schedule).
All HOV/HOT lanes will be closed. Customer Service Call Center will remain open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
RideStores and Lost & Found will be closed.
�� METROLift Reminder:
METROLift Reservations and Customer Service will be closed on Monday, May 26.
All Monday subscription trips are canceled.
Schedule your trip early! Call 713-225-6716
Trips can also be scheduled one day in advance by calling 713-739-4690 or using the MACS-WEB online trip planner (Client ID and password required).
�� Pro Tip: Stay updated on service changes, traffic alerts, and METRO news by following @METROHouston on Twitter and Facebook. You can also download the RideMETRO app for real-time updates and trip planning. www.StyleMagazine.com
In a world too often fractured by fear, division, and exclusion, one Jesuit priest brought a room full of Houstonians to a higher place—a space of kinship, grace, and transformative love. At Compassionate Houston’s recent annual luncheon, Father Gregory Boyle, S.J., internationally known founder of Homeboy Industries, delivered a heart-stirring message that transcended religion and politics, speaking directly to the soul of the city.
“We are all unshakably good—no exceptions,” Father Boyle declared, his voice calm but resolute. “We belong to each other— with no exceptions.” In a time when polarization dominates headlines, his words were a balm—radically inclusive, deeply Christian, and rooted in a profound theological truth: we are called to love one another, not from a distance, but up close in the messy, beautiful, realness of life.
Healing Through Kinship
For more than 30 years, Father Boyle has walked alongside those society often casts aside: gang-involved youth in the heart of Los Angeles. With Homeboy Industries, now the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and reentry program, he has proven that compassion—not condemnation—transforms lives.
“People on the margins are used to being watched,” he said, pausing to let the
KINSHIP OVER JUDGMENT: Jesuit Father Gregory Boyle’s
Message of Compassion Lights Up Houston
By Francis Page, Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
weight of his insight settle over the audience.
“But they’re not used to being seen.”
With the fierce gentleness of a shepherd and the conviction of a prophet, Father Boyle urged the luncheon’s attendees—faith leaders, social entrepreneurs, business executives, and everyday Houstonians—to embrace what he called “exclusive mutuality.” Service, he explained, is not about doing for others. It’s about standing with others. It’s not about fixing people—it’s about being changed by them.
Acatamiento: A Sacred Way of Seeing
Inviting the audience into a deeper spiritual practice, Father Boyle introduced the Spanish word acatamiento—to see with affectionate awe. This holy gaze, he explained, stands in opposition to tribalism and fear. It’s the vision that Christ demonstrated at every turn, whether breaking bread with outcasts or forgiving sinners from the cross.
“The traumatized are likely to cause
trauma,” he noted. “But the cherished are more likely to cherish.” This simple yet profound truth challenged listeners to shift from judgment to mercy, from distance to embrace.
A
City
That
Leads with Compassion Compassionate Houston President Pam Lewis called Father Boyle’s appearance “a divine alignment” for the city. “His lesson reflected compassion at its highest level,” she said. “Everyone in the room walked away with their hearts stirred and their spirits lifted.”
Founded in 2011 and inspired by the Charter for Compassion, Compassionate Houston has helped transform the Bayou City into a national model for kindness-driven civic engagement. In 2013, Houston became the first city in Texas officially recognized as a Compassionate City—a milestone born out of grassroots advocacy and prayerful persistence.
Through education, partnerships, and volunteerism, the organization continues to serve as a spiritual heartbeat for Houston’s moral and civic conscience.
For upcoming events and ways to get involved, visit www.compassionatehouston.org.
A
Christian Vision for the 21st Century
Father Boyle’s life reads like a Gospel parable: a man of faith who left the pulpit to walk the streets; who listened before preaching; who built bridges where society wanted walls. His accolades—from the California Peace Prize to the 2024 Presidential Medal of Freedom—are numerous, but it’s the transformation he inspires in others that defines his legacy.
In Father Boyle’s world, there are no throwaway people—only beloved children of God waiting to be seen, cherished, and welcomed home.
So, what can Houston learn from this spiritual giant?
That true compassion is not a soft sentiment—it’s a revolutionary act of faith. It’s what happens when the Gospel walks, talks, and sits down beside those we might otherwise avoid. It’s what happens when love refuses to categorize and instead dares to connect. It’s what happens when we believe—unapologetically, unwaveringly—that we all belong to each other.
And that, dear Houston, is the kind of city God can bless.
�� Follow Father Boyle’s mission at homeboyindustries.org
�� Stay connected with Compassionate Houston: www.compassionatehouston.org
It's not just a summit—it’s a movement.
The 4th Annual Marketing For The Culture Summit (MFTCS), hosted by the African American Marketing Association (AAMA), is set to make waves on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the United Way of Greater Houston. Themed “Let’s Get to the Money: Make it a Summer of Stacks,” this year’s summit is laser-focused on advancing economic empowerment, business sustainability, and generational wealth for Black marketing professionals and creative entrepreneurs.
From solopreneurs to small business owners and marketing execs navigating today’s fast-evolving economy, the summit offers something powerful: a space to connect, collaborate, and conquer.
A Platform for Growth: Learning and Leveling Up
Celebrated as the go-to gathering for Black marketing and creative professionals, MFTCS is more than an annual conference—it’s a launchpad. Each year, this high-energy summit curates a dynamic and diverse lineup of panels and workshops that are equal parts strategic, tactical, and inspirational.
This year’s panels include: Consumer, Creative, Capital: Navigating Pathways to Economic Equity
Empowers Black Creatives and Entrepreneurs to Thrive
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
The Insider’s Guide to Negotiating Your Compensation Package
The Future of the Creator Economy: Trends, Challenges & Opportunities
Intellectual Property & Licensing: Protecting & Monetizing Your Creative Work
Beyond The Hustle: Sustainable Business Models for Marketers & Creatives
Attendees will walk away armed with actionable strategies, insider knowledge, and the confidence to claim their seat at the economic table.
Michelle Ngome: The Visionary Behind the Mission
“At AAMA, we believe in turning culture into currency,” says Michelle Ngome, founder of AAMA. “This year’s theme – ‘Let’s Get to the Money’—is a declaration of our commitment to ensuring that Black marketers and creators aren’t just seen, but paid, protected, and positioned for long-term success.”
Ngome, a respected marketing strategist and inclusion advocate, continues to champion equity and representation through bold platforms like MFTCS, the Business of Marketing Bootcamp, and 50 Black Marketers to Watch.
A Two-Day Experience: Connection Meets Celebration
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 | 6–8
PM
Kick off the summit with a Networking Mixer at MOCA HTX. Mingle with fellow attendees, meet speakers, and sip your way into one of the most empowering business weekends in Houston.
Thursday, June 5, 2025 | 8:30
AM–4:30 PM
The main event—MFTCS 2025 at United Way of Greater Houston (50 Waugh Drive, Houston, TX)
—is an all-day immersion into tools, talks, and transformation.
�� Tickets start at $135 – Purchase HERE
Why This Matters—Now More Than Ever
In a time where algorithms dominate exposure and tech shifts disrupt industries overnight, events like MFTCS are essential. They center Black voices, Black ownership, and Black brilliance—providing the guidance and community needed to not only survive, but soar.
Whether you’re an up-and-coming content creator, a seasoned agency leader, or a brand builder with a dream, this summit says one thing loud and clear: Black marketing excellence is here, and it’s bankable.
For More Information
Visit the official MFTCS 2025 website to explore the full speaker lineup, panel schedule, and registration details.
�� Networking Mixer: June 4, 6:00–8:00 PM | MOCA HTX
�� MFTCS Summit: June 5, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM | United Way Houston Houston Style Magazine is proud to support events that uplift and empower our city’s dynamic communities. Let’s get to the money—together.
Texas Commission on environmenT
In a triumph of heart, intellect, and community values, twelve campuses in the Harmony Public Schools system have been named 2025 National Schools of Character—a coveted distinction awarded by Character.org that sets these schools apart as paragons of ethical education and academic excellence.
For Harmony, a Texas-born charter school network serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade, the announcement adds another shining star to an already stellar constellation. With this latest recognition, Harmony now boasts an impressive 32 National Schools of Character and 51 State Schools of Character, affirming the organization’s deep-rooted commitment to nurturing both minds and morals.
The Harmony Formula: STEM + Heart
"At Harmony, our mission is to empower every student with both intellectual strength and emotional integrity," said Fatih Ay, CEO of Harmony Public Schools. “It’s truly inspiring to witness how our scholars are integrating academic knowledge with Character Education to enhance our schools and make meaningful contributions to their communities.”
That mission isn’t just talk. These schools engage students in a holistic approach that blends STEM-focused academics with character education initiatives that emphasize
Harmony Public Schools Shine Bright: 12 Texas Campuses Earn Prestigious National School of Character Honors
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
values like respect, responsibility, empathy, and perseverance. The result? A classroom culture where kindness matters just as much as coding.
The Honorees: Houston and Beyond
The twelve newly awarded campuses span the breadth of Texas, including schools in Houston, El Paso, Sugar Land, Austin, Waco, and Dallas. Among the standout campuses are: Harmony School of Exploration – Houston Harmony School of Excellence – Sugar Land
Harmony Science Academy – Katy (Elementary)
Harmony Science Academy – Plano
Harmony School of Innovation – Austin
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:
General Plastics & Composites, L.P., has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment to and renewal of Air Quality Permit No. 111270, which would authorize modification to and continued operation of an Engineering Composite Oilfield Component Manufacturing Facility located at 6910 East Orem Drive, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77075. Additional information concerning these applications is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
Consolidated Notice of Receipt of Application and Permit and Notice of Application and Preliminary
campuses across Houston and the state. From the Harmony School of Achievement to the Harmony School of Fine Arts & Technology, the school network continues to build on its legacy of excellence and purpose-driven learning. Each of these schools has adopted a multi-year strategy to create student-centered environments where core ethical values are modeled, taught, and celebrated. That dedication shows not just in test scores, but in the way students speak, lead, and serve.
PERMIT NUMBER: 111270
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. General Plastics & Composites, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment Quality Permit Number 111270, which would authorize modification to and an Engineering Composite Oilfield Component Manufacturing Facility located Drive, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77075. This application was submitted 30, 2024. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermitapps. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.29919,29.629108&level=18 cility will emit the following air contaminants: exempt solvents, hazardous compounds and particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters and 2.5 microns or less.
Harmony Science Academy – Waco
These schools underwent an extensive evaluation process, proving their success in embedding character education into every corner of the student experience—from classroom discussions to community outreach.
“There is an ethic of care at these schools,” said Lori Soifer, spokesperson for Character. org. “Working together with students, parents, and community members, these schools are creating stronger communities focused on character.”
Now Enrolling Future Leaders
With over 60 campuses statewide, Harmony Public Schools are currently enrolling students and recruiting educators for the 2025–26 school year. Families and teachers looking to be part of a purpose-driven academic community can visit www.HarmonyTX.org to apply or learn more.
The executive director has completed the technical review of the application permit which, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility executive director has made a preliminary decision to issue the permit because regulations. The permit application, executive director’s preliminary decision, be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ and at the Mancuso Neighborhood Library, 6767 Bellfort Avenue, Houston, beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance available for public review at the TCEQ Houston Regional Office, 5425 Polk Street, Texas. The application, including any updates, is available electronically at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/airpermit-applications-notices
Whether you’re in Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, or along the Rio Grande Valley, Harmony’s message is clear: education is not just about what you know—it’s about who you become.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a plication and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments.
A Legacy of Impact
This year’s honorees join a distinguished list of previously awarded Harmony
Follow their inspiring journey on social media at @HarmonyEdu and facebook.com/ HarmonyTexas.
PUBLIC MEETING. You may request a public meeting to the Office of the dress below. The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity ask questions about the application. A public meeting about the application by an interested person and the executive director determines that there public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A public tested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your association, an official representative), mailing address, and daytime phone name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the request is made by a group or an association, one or more members who have hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments tion/permit which would satisfy your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 30 days after published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested extended to 30 days after the mailing of the response to comments.
If a hearing request is timely filed, following the close of all applicable comment the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for contested Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating rial air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address
MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain additional application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing sion on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s information about this permit application or the permitting process, please Program toll free at 18006874040. Si desea información en Español, puede 4040.
Further information may also be obtained from General Plastics & Composites, Drive, Houston, Texas 77075-5326 or by calling Mr. Dennis McCormick, Tower at (281) 615-6594.
Notice Issuance Date: May 23, 2025
Move over, Baba Yaga—there’s a new assassin gracing the underworld’s blood-soaked stage.
In a thrilling expansion of the legendary John Wick universe, Ballerina pirouettes into the spotlight with grace, grit, and gunfire. Led by the magnetic Ana de Armas, this action-packed spin-off opened to blazing fanfare at its world premiere in London’s Leicester Square, setting the global stage alight just ahead of its U.S. theatrical release on June 6, 2025.
The red carpet shimmered as Ballerina’s powerhouse cast stepped into the spotlight—Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves, Ian McShane, Norman Reedus, and more— joined by director Len Wiseman and producers Chad Stahelski, Basil Iwanyk, and Erica Lee. TikTok amped up the premiere night’s energy by livestreaming red carpet moments and offering fans exclusive access to ticket packages, including a collectible Continental Hotel coin and commemorative movie ticket.
Ana de Armas, luminous and lethal in the title role, wowed audiences as Eve, a vengeance-driven assassin avenging her father's death. Set between the timelines of John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, Ballerina carves a bold new chapter in the saga,
Ana de Armas Takes the Shot: "BALLERINA" Brings the Heat in Explosive John Wick Spin-Off
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
with de Armas declaring, “There wouldn’t be a Ballerina without John Wick.” The film even welcomes a shadowy but unforgettable appearance from Keanu Reeves himself.
Mayhem, Mastery, and Momentum
Early reactions from critics and fans are ablaze with enthusiasm. @ LuminousDagger raved about the film’s “ice-breaking, bone-crunching and gut-spilling action,” while @TheJonathanSim crowned it “the best movie of the year. Absolute mayhem from start to finish.” One thing is crystal clear—Ana de Armas is no longer a rising star; she’s
now a full-fledged action icon. With stylized combat, mind-bending choreography, and all the noir-tinged gravitas fans expect from the Wick world, Ballerina promises to scratch that familiar itch while leaving its own bloody footprints in the cinematic canon. The choreography, from gun-fu to blade ballet, is both brutal and beautiful—a dance of death with flair.
What to Expect in U.S. Theaters
As Ballerina pirouettes onto American screens this summer, Houston audiences should prepare for a rollercoaster of revenge, redemption, and raw elegance. The film
doesn’t reinvent the assassin wheel—it sharpens it, spins it faster, and lets Ana de Armas steer it straight through the chest of genre expectations.
While projections suggest it may not match the box office thunder of previous Wick installments, Ballerina isn’t trying to be a copy. It’s here to expand the world, deepen the lore, and remind audiences that the Wickverse has plenty of blood left to spill. And yes, John Wick 5 is already in the pipeline.
�� Mark Your Calendars: "Ballerina" opens exclusively in U.S. theaters on Friday, June 6, 2025.
�� Follow the mayhem at #BallerinaMovie and grab your tickets early— this dance with death is one you won’t want to miss.
Photography By Francis Page, Jr.
Thomas Jasien - President & CEO
Karen Hudson - Deputy Chief
Thomas, Francis & Otis
Linda Toyota & Judge Kathy Han
Francis Page, Jr & Shurronda Murray
Otis Johnson - Dirictor OEBO
Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy
Consolidated Notice of Receipt of Application and Intent to Obtain Permit and Notice of Application and Preliminary Decision
PERMIT NUMBER: 111270
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. General Plastics & Composites, L.P. has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment to and renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 111270, which would authorize modification to and continued operation of an Engineering Composite Oilfield Component Manufacturing Facility located at 6910 East Orem Drive, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77075. This application was submitted to the TCEQ on April 30, 2024. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermitapps. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https:// gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.29919,29.629108&level=18 The existing facility will emit the following air contaminants: exempt solvents, hazardous air pollutants, organic compounds and particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less.
The executive director has completed the technical review of the application and prepared a draft permit which, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The executive director has made a preliminary decision to issue the permit because it meets all rules and regulations. The permit application, executive director’s preliminary decision, and draft permit will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Houston regional office, and at the Mancuso Neighborhood Library, 6767 Bellfort Avenue, Houston, Harris County, Texas, beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review at the TCEQ Houston Regional Office, 5425 Polk Street, Suite H, Houston, Texas. The application, including any updates, is available electronically at the following webpage: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/airpermit-applications-notices
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments.
PUBLIC MEETING. You may request a public meeting to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or ask questions about the application. A public meeting about the application will be held if requested by an interested person and the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, and daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing”; (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or an association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 30 days after newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after the mailing of the response to comments.
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:
General Plastics & Composites, L.P., has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment to and renewal of Air Quality Permit No. 111270, which would authorize modification to and continued operation of an Engineering Composite Oilfield Component Manufacturing Facility located at 6910 East Orem Drive, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77075. Additional information concerning these applications is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
If a hearing request is timely filed, following the close of all applicable comment and request periods, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain additional information on this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 18006874040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-6874040.
Further information may also be obtained from General Plastics & Composites, L.P., 6910 E Orem Drive, Houston, Texas 77075-5326 or by calling Mr. Dennis McCormick, Tower Environmental, Inc. at (281) 615-6594.
Notice Issuance Date: May 23, 2025
KSRC MEDIA + SHINES AT THE 46TH ANNUAL TELLY AWARDS,
Bringing Houston Creativity to the Global Stage
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
In a dazzling demonstration of Houston's media talent and creative brilliance, KSRC Media + has earned four prestigious Bronze Telly Awards for its dynamic and compelling “HCTRA Keep It Moving” campaign—garnering accolades in Branding, Business-to-Consumer, Promotional, and Products & Services categories.
Selected from more than 13,000 global entries, this major win places KSRC Media + alongside media giants like Pixar Animation Studios, NASA, and ESPN, affirming that some of the most compelling content on screens today is being crafted right here in Houston.
“We’re honored to be recognized among the best in the industry,” shared
Kim Gagne, Co-Owner of KSRC Media +.
“These wins reflect the power of creative storytelling in public service—exactly what Kreative Solutions, Real Content is all about.”
KSRC’s winning streak is more than a professional milestone—it’s a celebration of teamwork, vision, and community impact. The “Keep It Moving” campaign, created in partnership with Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA), harnesses bold storytelling to emphasize mobility and progress for all Houstonians.
“And we have to give credit to the HCTRA Communications Department, who were the visionaries behind the spots,” added Cristina Kooker, fellow Co-Owner of
KSRC. “We simply helped bring the ideas to life with our incredible production team.”
Women-Owned and Houston Proud KSRC Media + stands as a beacon of innovation and empowerment. A women-owned media powerhouse, the company is backed by over 65 years of combined experience in television and digital storytelling. Its co-founders—Kim Gagne, Sabrina Miskelly, Rebecca Valentino, and Cristina Kooker—bring unmatched expertise and a shared passion for narrative that moves people.
Whether it's delivering promotional brilliance, inspiring brand campaigns, or meaningful public service messaging,
What's Next?
With #ONWARD as their rallying cry, the future looks bold and bright for this Houston-born agency.
For more about KSRC Media + and its award-winning portfolio, visit: www. ksrcmediaplus.com
For the full list of Telly Award winners, go to: www.tellyawards.com/winners
KSRC Media + continues to redefine excellence.
Kim Gagne
Cristina Kooker
Sabrina Miskelly
Rebecca Valentino
