Roberts Markland LLP Makes History: $100K Gift Fuels Groundbreaking June teenth Remuneration Study at Texas Southern University StyleMagazine.com
Ihelp reframe the conversation around slavery, reparations, and justice in America, Houston’s own powerhouse law firm Roberts Markland LLP has donated $100,000 to fund the Juneteenth Remuneration Study at Texas Southern University (TSU). The initiative—anchored at TSU’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law and Jesse H. Jones School of Business—aims to assess the legal and economic impact of the failure to emancipate enslaved Texans for more than two years following the Emancipation Proclamation.
"This gift aims to reposition Juneteenth as a model for how we reconcile the national conversation around slavery and its ongoing impact," said Sean Roberts, partner at Roberts Markland LLP. “These are all calculable questions, and the students at TSU are uniquely qualified to perform these calculations.”
Turning Commemoration Into Accountability
While Juneteenth has gained national recognition as a federal holiday, this new study goes beyond celebration. It seeks answers. How much was stolen from the enslaved people of Texas between January 1, 1863, and June 19, 1865? Who profited from it? And what would accountability look like today?
The dual-track study will combine legal analysis and economic modeling to determine:
• The number of people enslaved during the delayed emancipation period
• The value of their stolen labor across industries
• The profits reaped by businesses and plantation owners
• Legal frameworks to explore remuneration and redress
“This is not just about history,” said Hon. Vanessa D. Gilmore (USDJ Ret.), Of Counsel to Roberts Markland LLP. “It’s about how the past continues to shape economic realities today—especially for Black Texans who were never compensated for their ancestors' labor.”
A Study With Teeth—Not Just Talk
Unlike symbolic studies of the
and Symposium is grounded in measurable, actionable data. From cotton production to cooking, sex work to accounting, the range of unpaid labor contributed by enslaved people will be researched, documented, and assigned fair market value by TSU’s faculty and students.
“Texans deserve to know who benefited from this system and how much free labor was stolen,” added Judge Gilmore. “Only then can we begin to reconcile, repair, and move forward.”
The study will also tackle questions surrounding:
• Heirship laws affecting children born to enslaved women
• Statutes of limitations on financial claims
• Historical county-level population and labor mapping
• Texas’s cotton-based wealth surge in the late 19th century
A Legacy of Leadership at Texas Southern University
Texas Southern University, an HBCU rooted in the heart of Houston’s Third Ward, is uniquely equipped for this work. Its alumni include civil rights trailblazers like Congresswoman Barbara Jordan and Judge Kenneth Hoyt, and its business and law schools are national leaders in equity-focused education.
“We are pleased to accept this gift from Roberts Markland LLP,” said Dr. Carl B. Goodman, TSU Provost and Senior Vice
President for Academic Affairs. “This study will provide an exceptional opportunity for academic rigor, personal growth, and public impact.”
From Tulsa to Texas: A New Model for Reparations
Recent examples like the $105 million Tulsa reparations fund and Georgetown University’s $27 million commitment to descendants of the enslaved show a growing appetite for financial justice. But the Juneteenth Remuneration Study is the first of its kind in Texas—and one of the first in the nation to be led entirely by a historically Black university.
“This is not about division. It’s about data. It’s about facts. It’s about fairness,” said Clive Markland, name partner of the firm. “In a nation that cannot afford to leave its Black citizens behind, this study offers a chance to move forward with purpose, policy, and pride.”
Looking Ahead: Symposium, Publication, and Policy
The study will culminate in a public symposium at TSU where students and faculty will present their findings to lawmakers, scholars, and the general public. Following the event, a detailed report will be published and distributed nationwide to inform policy, advocacy, and future claims. Topics to be covered include:
• Historical labor value calculations
• Business profits generated by enslaved labor
• Legal feasibility of reparations in Texas
• Public policy recommendations for the state and beyond
About Roberts Markland LLP
With over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements, Roberts Markland LLP is one of Houston’s most impactful law firms, specializing in catastrophic injury, wrongful death, civil rights, and business litigation. But it’s their community-driven mission that truly sets them apart. From Third Ward to Fifth Circuit, Roberts Markland is writing a new chapter for justice—one that’s as bold as Texas itself.
Learn more: www.robertsmarkland.com
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
None of us should be silent about the recent use of federal agents by this administration to bully, arrest, and investigate political opponents. Just as none of us should accept as normal or okay its use of the military against Americans exercising their First Amendment rights.
Donald Trump’s gleeful embrace of fascist tactics is on display almost daily. As he tries to run roughshod over the courts and sics federal agents on members of Congress and other public officials, we need to sound every alarm we can about the threats to checks and balance and American democracy itself.
The violent treatment of US Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) earlier this month at a press conference being held in Los Angeles by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is just one recent example. Sen. Padilla spoke up, identified himself, and tried to ask a question. For that, he was physically forced out of the room, pushed to the ground, and handcuffed.
Noem and others in the Trump administration have said Sen. Padilla forced his way into the press conference, “charged” Noem at the podium, and failed to identify himself. Video and witness accounts of the event seem to expose that as a pack of lies. Attempting to provide cover for the administration, cries of “political theater!” from the Far Right predictably filled the airwaves and online feeds. But it couldn’t be clearer that Sen. Padilla did everything right. He was escorted by a National Guardsman and an FBI agent into the building and then into Sec. Noem’s press briefing. He had even asked permission first to make sure it was okay for him to go in. According to the senator:
“They opened the door for me, they walked in and were standing near me as I was listening for several minutes during the press conference. And then when I felt compelled to start asking questions, before I could get two or three words out, there were hands on me, and you saw what happened next. So this was not theatrics. This was not me crashing an event. You can’t get more secure than being in an FBI office in the
second-largest city in America.”
Last month, members of Congress joined the mayor of Newark, NJ to visit a controversial ICE detention facility in the city. US Representative LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) was arrested when an altercation arose between security and the delegation of elected officials.
It is worth noting that a cloud of lies from the administration surrounded that incident as it did for the incident with Sen. Padilla. The dishonesty of the administration’s story about what happened at the detention center is exposed in how it keeps shifting.
At first, the Trump administration said the officials “stormed the gate and broke into the detention facility." But an indictment against Rep. McIver issued this month states the lawmakers peacefully entered through an open security gate and then proceeded to an interior reception area.
Rep. McIver stated, “the facts of this case will prove I was simply doing my job," and called her arrest and subsequent indictment "a brazen attempt at political intimidation." She is right. And the condem-
nation of her treatment and the charges filed against her have been bipartisan – even if Trump’s enablers in this current Congress have not yet found the backbone to speak out as some former Republican members have.
It is well within the reasonable duties of a member of Congress to show up and ask questions at press conferences or sites of concern. Members of Congress serve as representatives of their constituents and are expected to advocate for their views and needs.
Congressional authority to investigate and exercise oversight is not limited to formal committee hearings. Attending press conferences and visiting sites like the New Jersey ICE facility allow members to gather information, speak on behalf of their constituents, and communicate with the public.
For years, Trump mischaracterized any attempts to hold him accountable for his egregious lawbreaking as the “weaponization” of law enforcement against him and his followers. Now we see it was all a precursor to his actual attempts to weapon-
ize law enforcement against those who he deems his political opponents.
Speak out. Spread the word and keep telling the truth. Show your elected officials who are standing up to the MAGA assault on democracy your support. And if your elected officials are echoing this administration’s lies or whitewashing its authoritarian lawlessness, let them hear your anger.
Democracy is worth fighting for. Our rights are worth fighting for. When we organize, when we stand together, We the People are more powerful than democracy’s foes. America can survive and the truth can still win. We just cannot shy away from the fight. And that fight is here.
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 stunning victory for patients, small business owners, and veterans across Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) — a highly controversial piece of legislation that would have effectively criminalized many legal cannabis products and crushed the state’s growing hemp industry.
The decision sent a wave of relief and celebration throughout Texas’s cannabis and wellness communities, especially among the coalition that fought tirelessly for this outcome: Project Champion, the Texas Hemp Coalition, and the Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas (HILT).
Their voices — amplified by industry leaders, health advocates, and football legend Ricky Williams — resonated with Abbott, who ultimately made a decisive move to preserve access to plantbased wellness, protect small businesses, and prioritize economic stability over fear-driven legislation.
“The people of Texas deserve access to safe, legal wellness options and a fair chance to grow innovative industries,” Governor Abbott stated following the veto. “I heard the voices of our veterans, small businesses, and advocates — and I chose a path of progress and personal freedom.”
�� A Governor Who Listened
From the start, SB 3 was framed as a potential blow to freedom of choice and economic vitality. It sought to ban THC products currently legal under federal law — a change
Governor Abbott Vetoes SB 3: A Bold Win for Common Sense, Compassion, and Texas Cannabis Leadership
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
that would have dismantled over 53,000 jobs, shut down family-run hemp farms, and revoked access to trusted wellness options for veterans and patients.
“We’re grateful Governor Abbott vetoed this bill,” said Ricky Williams, cofounder of Project Champion. “This plant helped me heal. It’s helping veterans manage PTSD and helping families manage pain. The governor made a bold decision, and I commend him for standing with the people.”
Williams’ viral video appeal — along with widespread support across the state — underscored the personal and economic stakes tied to SB 3. His message was clear: “Texas can’t fumble the cannabis conversation.”
�� A Victory for Small Business and
anxiety, epilepsy, and more.
�� From Prohibition to Progress
For years, cannabis advocates in Texas have fought against misinformation and fear-based policy. Abbott’s decision signals a possible shift toward modern, science-based cannabis reform — one that recognizes the economic, medical, and human potential of this powerful plant.
“This is the Texas I believe in — where we listen, evolve, and lead,” said Williams. “We don’t go backward. We go forward with compassion and courage.”
�� LEARN & ENGAGE
Veterans
“SB 3 would have wiped out hundreds of Texas companies — many of them family-owned and veteran-run,” said Nick Mortillaro, Founder of HILT. “Governor Abbott’s veto is a lifeline. He showed that he values freedom, health, and business innovation over political fear-mongering.”
“A THC ban would have devastated our operations from cultivation to retail,” added Eddie Velez, President of the Texas Hemp Coalition. “This veto preserves not just jobs, but the hope that Texas can be a national leader in smart cannabis regulation.”
The veto keeps intact a thriving hemp industry that supports thousands of Texas families and provides non-addictive relief to people living with chronic pain,
�� Visit www.ProjectChampion.org
�� Explore the Texas Hemp Coalition: www.texashempcoalition.com
�� Learn about HILT’s advocacy: www. hempindustryleaders.org
�� Media inquiries: ggailey@projectchampion.org
✊ Abbott’s Stand Is a Texas Sized Signal to the Nation
In choosing people over politics, and facts over fear, Governor Abbott has ignited new hope for bipartisan cannabis policy in Texas. And for the thousands of Texans who rely on hemp-derived products to manage their health and build their businesses, this moment is more than a political decision — it’s a powerful reaffirmation of their right to thrive.
In a trailblazing victory that blends history with hope, Carol McCutcheon has been sworn in as the first woman Mayor of Sugar Land, Texas – a shining milestone for Fort Bend County’s largest and most diverse city. With a background rooted in engineering, leadership, and civic service, McCutcheon brings a fearless, data-driven approach to governance—and a deep passion for the people she serves.
“I am honored and deeply grateful to Sugar Land’s citizens for placing their trust in me,” McCutcheon said, overlooking Sugar Land’s picturesque Town Square, home to fountains, granite promenades, and the iconic statue of Stephen F. Austin. “This is a humbling affirmation of our shared vision for the future.”
From Tennessee to Texas: A Woman of Firsts
Carol McCutcheon’s journey to the mayor’s seat is as inspiring as it is impressive. Born just outside Knoxville, Tennessee, she was the only woman in her class to earn a master’s in chemical engineering— blazing trails long before breaking ceilings at City Hall. After earning her degree from the University of Tennessee, she set her sights on Texas, eventually earning an MBA from the University of Houston and working in Houston’s high-stakes energy sector.
From oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico
CAROL MCCUTCHEON MAKES HISTORY AS SUGAR LAND’S FIRST WOMAN MAYOR: A BOLD NEW CHAPTER BEGINS
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
to the boardrooms of ARCO, McCutcheon proved time and again that leadership knows no gender. She proudly recalls donning steel-toe boots and a hard hat while navigating a male-dominated industry—skills she now transfers to governing a fast-growing city with both grit and grace.
Rooted in Service, Driven by Community McCutcheon is no stranger to civic engagement. Her resume includes a decades-long commitment to community development: 31 years as a neighborhood
representative, a graduate of Sugar Land’s Citizens Police, Fire, and Airport Academies, and a proud alumna of the Fort Bend Leadership Forum, Leadership Houston, and Leadership Texas. She was also named one of Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women, and a Fort Bend Woman of the Year— accolades that highlight her unwavering dedication to service.
“My responsibility to the voters is clear,” McCutcheon said. “I will prioritize public safety, invest in infrastructure, and preserve the vibrant racial and cultural
diversity that makes Sugar Land so exceptional.”
A Vision for the Future: Inclusive, Strategic, Bold
As Mayor, McCutcheon has promised to lead with transparency and action, with key priorities including:
• Enhancing Public Safety: Equipping police, fire, and EMS with top-tier training and resources.
• Revitalizing Infrastructure : Strategically upgrading roads, drainage systems, and public amenities.
• Inclusive Leadership: Championing Sugar Land’s status as one of America’s most diverse cities.
“I love this city, state, and country. Service is how I was raised—and it’s how I intend to lead.”
With her election, McCutcheon joins the ranks of modern-day pioneers who turn personal achievement into community impact. Her story echoes the great Texas legends—Sam Houston, Jim Bowie, and Davy Crockett—who also journeyed from Tennessee to transform Texas. But in 2025, it’s Mayor Carol McCutcheon who is carving out a legacy of her own.
Mayor of Sugar Land - Carol McCutcheon
Harmony Carolina Bula boarded a flight from Cartagena, Colombia to the United States in 2021, she carried more than a suitcase — she carried the invisible weight of sacrifice, courage, and ambition as a first-generation U.S. immigrant.”
Her journey began as an Au Pair, tasked with caring for children and immersing herself in a new culture. What she didn’t yet realize was that this first step would lead her to redefine not only her future, but the American Dream itself.
“Coming to the U.S. wasn’t a vacation — it was a vow to myself,” Bula says with heartfelt conviction. “I wasn’t chasing luck. I came to create my own future.”
The Au Pair program, designed to facilitate cultural exchange, gave her more than just a temporary job. It became a crucible of transformation. While Carolina polished her English and adjusted to a vastly different world, she discovered her resilience. She learned how to navigate life independently, far from family and familiarity. Each bedtime story she read to children, every grocery store transaction in a new language, and each quiet moment of homesickness built the foundation for a future she had yet to imagine.
After two years of emotional growth and cultural adaptation, Carolina’s path led her to love—and eventually, to legal U.S. residency. But citizenship wasn’t her destination — it
From Au Pair to Powerhouse: Carolina Bula’s American Dream Realized Through Citizenship From Au Pair to CEO: How U.S. Citizenship Empowered a Latina Entrepreneur to Transform Her
Life and Her Community
By Francis Page Jr., For www.StyleMagazine.com
was just the runway.
“I asked myself, what now? What do I do with everything I’ve learned here? How do I grow not just personally, but professionally in a country full of potential but heavy with responsibility?”
That reflection became action. Carolina trained as a professional tax preparer — an unlikely but strategic move that taught her the language of numbers, systems, and trust. From there, the floodgates of entrepreneurship opened.
Today, she is the founder and force behind two Houston-based businesses: �� IC Marketing Company – a
modern digital marketing agency helping small businesses, particularly minority-owned firms, grow their presence and brand awareness online. @ic.marketingco
�� Elevé Remodeling HTX – a boutique home renovation firm transforming Houston’s residential spaces with creative, high-quality craftsmanship. @eleveremodelinghtx
“It wasn’t magic,” Carolina says. “It was hard work, discipline, and an unshakable belief that immigrants don’t come to take away—we come to build.”
Each service she provides — be it tax filings, a successful marketing campaign, or a beautifully remodeled home—is infused with purpose. Her work isn’t just transactional; it’s transformational. It represents her commitment to her clients, to her community, and to the country she now proudly calls home.
Carolina’s story is deeply personal, but far from unique. She’s part of a growing wave of immigrants, particularly Latina entrepreneurs, reshaping the American landscape. According to the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative, Latina-led businesses are one of the fastest-growing segments in the U.S., creating jobs and contributing billions to the economy.
But numbers alone can’t tell the whole story.
Carolina is proof that immigration
isn’t just a policy debate — it’s a human story of effort, evolution, and enterprise. Her decision to pursue U.S. citizenship was more than paperwork; it was a declaration that she belonged — and would use her voice and talents to contribute.
Now a U.S. citizen, Carolina casts her ballot, mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, and proudly raises her businesses alongside the American flag. Her dual identity—Colombian by birth, American by choice — is a badge of honor she wears with humility and pride.
“To all the women, especially my Latina sisters, who dream of something bigger — I see you,” Carolina says. “It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. You don’t have to wait for someone to hand you the American Dream. Build it.”
Her advice is as clear as her path: stay rooted in purpose, stay hungry for progress, and remember that your background isn’t a barrier — it’s your superpower.
As Carolina continues to expand her businesses and empower her community, she reminds all of us that the American Dream isn’t fading—it’s evolving. And thanks to stories like hers, it's more inclusive, more vibrant, and more inspiring than ever.
Carolina Bula
H Dorian Cockrell – Chase Bank H Eric Pierre – Event Sponsor H Courtney Taylor – Veritex Bank H Wednesday, June 18, 2025 H
Photography By Linda Toyota
Phillip Yates - President & CEO
Kodi Bailey - Director & CFO
Eric Pierre - Pierre Accounting
Courtney Taylor - Veritex Bank
Chef Tara – Tara’s Cajun Cooking
Photography By Linda Toyota
Donald Sparks & Butch Herod
Laolu Davies-Yemitan & Dale Lockett
Eva Loredo & Brandon Jones
Len Cannon & Mia Gradney
In a powerful and symbolic win for inclusive innovation, Samir Saber, Dean of the Digital and Information Technology Center of Excellence at Houston City College (formerly Houston Community College Southwest), has been named “Ally for AI of the Year” by the global nonprofit Women in AI.
This international honor, bestowed earlier this month in Toronto at the Women in AI Summit and Awards for North America, celebrates Saber’s dynamic leadership and unwavering support for building inclusive pathways in the Artificial Intelligence sector—particularly for women and underserved populations.
“Samir is among the exceptional leaders, builders, and changemakers who are not only breaking barriers but also creating pathways for what’s next — including expanding roles for women in computer science,” said HCC Southwest College President Dr. Mike Webster. “We’re extremely proud of him and the outstanding team he leads in creating opportunities and pathways to success for students.”
Women in AI, a Paris-founded “do-tank” with more than 18,000 members across 150 countries, recognizes leaders whose work advances ethical, equitable tech innovation. The selection process for this year’s awards saw more than 250 nominations across 12 categories, reviewed by an international panel of industry experts,
CHAMPION OF CHANGE: HCC'S SAMIR SABER NAMED “ALLY FOR AI OF THE YEAR” BY WOMEN IN AI
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
academics, and thought leaders.
Saber’s recognition is not just a personal triumph—it’s a milestone for Houston. Under his leadership, HCC launched one of the nation’s first community college-level degrees in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, the Bachelor of Applied Technology in AI & Robotics. This forward-thinking program bridges the equity gap in tech education and positions HCC—and Houston—as a national leader in preparing tomorrow’s AI workforce. Saber’s educational journey speaks volumes:
• Advanced Computer Security Certificate, Stanford University
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & Management Information Systems, UT Dallas
• Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security, Capella University
• Holds both Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) credentials
These accomplishments are matched by a spirit of service and vision.
“At HCC, we are designing for tomorrow,” Saber has often said. “And tomorrow must include everyone.”
Since joining HCC nearly 14 years ago, Saber has stood as a vanguard for innovation, pushing boundaries and empowering new generations of technologists from all walks of life. His advocacy for women and marginalized groups in AI reflects a broader commitment to social justice through education.
This recognition arrives at a pivotal moment. As AI reshapes industries and economies, the need for ethical, inclusive leadership is paramount. Samir Saber is proving that Houston has what it takes to lead that charge.
ABOUT HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE (HCC)
With 14 Centers of Excellence and a mission deeply rooted in equity, HCC prepares over 68,000 students to thrive in a global, technology-driven world. As one of America’s largest open-admission colleges, HCC offers associate degrees, workforce certifications, and now, groundbreaking bachelor’s degrees in emerging industries.
Congratulations, Dean Saber!
Your voice and vision are helping build a future in which AI belongs to everyone.
Samir Saber
This a game-changing move that sent shockwaves through the NBA and electrified Houston fans, the Phoenix Suns have traded 15-time All-Star and twotime NBA Champion Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. This trade is more than just a roster shake-up—it’s a signal that the Rockets are officially in a win-now mindset.
�� Official Trade Details:
Houston receives: Kevin Durant (KD)
Phoenix receives: Jalen Green Dillon Brooks
2025 No. 10 Draft Pick Five 2nd-round picks
�� The Durant Era Begins in Houston Fresh off the Fanatics Fest stage in New York, Durant confirmed the blockbuster trade in real-time.
“Being a part of the Houston Rockets, I’m looking forward to it,” Durant told host Kay Adams. “They had a great season last year, love their leadership. I felt like I’d be a good addition.”
For a player who helped define an era of dominance in both Golden State and While he may not bring the same dogged perimeter energy as Brooks, Durant’s 7’5” wingspan, court vision, and timing make
The Durant Effect: Houston Rockets Soar Into Championship Contention with Blockbuster Trade
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
him a menace in help-defense situations. His ability to rotate from the weak side, contest at the rim, and switch effectively in the post will make him a valuable asset on both ends.
Let’s not forget the defensive core still intact:
• Amen Thompson (elite on-ball stopper)
• Tari Eason (versatile wing defender)
• Jabari Smith Jr. (emerging stretch-forward with length)
• Alperen Şengün (improved interior
anchor)
• Fred VanVleet (veteran leadership and offensive spark)
With Durant in the mix, the Rockets gain a cerebral defender who doesn’t need the ball to make an impact—and can close out tight games with confidence.
��Offensive Firepower & Locker Room Leadership
Beyond the stat sheets, Durant brings championship pedigree, playoff
poise, and an unshakable calm. His arrival gives Houston something they've lacked for years: a certified No. 1 scoring option who can finish games and mentor a locker room of rising stars.
His chemistry with Udoka, known for maximizing star talent without sacrificing team defense, is already drawing comparisons to Golden State’s seamless blend of elite offense and top-five defense.
“They wanted me to go. They got what they wanted, and I got what I wanted,” Durant said of his departure from Phoenix. “We can move on and good luck to them going forward. I’ll always remember my time there.”
�� Rockets’ New Starting Lineup 2025-2026 (Projected)
• PG: Fred VanVleet
• SG: Amen Thompson
• SF: Kevin Durant
• PF: Jabari Smith Jr.
• C: Alperen Şengün
With a blend of size, speed, scoring, and savvy, the Rockets have positioned themselves to compete against the West’s elite—including defending champs Denver and perennial threats like Golden State and the Clippers.
METRO is riding the wave of innovation straight into the heart of Houston’s Near Northside. On Monday, June 23, 2025, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County officially expanded its Community Connector microtransit service to this historic neighborhood—bringing equity, efficiency, and electric energy to residents who deserve dependable and flexible transportation.
“Expanding the Community Connector to Near Northside reflects our continued commitment to equitable transit,” said METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock, reaffirming METRO’s promise to deliver mobility solutions that do more than move people—they empower communities.
A Win for Working Houstonians
The Near Northside is now the latest community to plug into METRO’s fast-growing microtransit network. Already flourishing in Downtown, the Heights, Second Ward, and Third Ward, this on-demand service utilizes all-electric shuttles to bridge the crucial “first and last mile” gap—connecting riders to METRO’s fixedroute buses, METRORail, medical centers, grocery stores, and more.
Operating Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., the service is easy to access via the Ride Circuit app, download-
METRO ROLLS FORWARD WITH EQUITY: NEAR NORTHSIDE COMMUNITY
CONNECTOR LAUNCHES NEW MICROTRANSIT ERA
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
able on both iOS and Android platforms. It's Houston’s transit experience—reimagined, rerouted, and recharged.
A City-Backed Move Toward Progress
Houston Mayor John Whitmire applauded the launch, saying:
“This new Northside service is another example of how METRO continues to provide safe, clean, and reliable mobility options. Innovative microtransit like this helps strengthen neighborhoods by connecting people to opportunity.”
Whitmire's statement echoes the goals of the METRONow initiative—a bold plan to modernize and expand public transportation across Houston. The emphasis? Serving underserved communities with smarter, cleaner, and more convenient transit options.
What This Means for the Community
More than just a ride, the Community Connector is a lifeline for access—to jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services. In areas where catching a bus could mean walking a mile or more, METRO’s microtransit solution brings the station to your doorstep—quietly, sustainably, and affordably.
Whether you're headed to a local clinic, a classroom, or a grocery run, Near Northside riders can now count on zero-emission mobility that puts people—and neighborhoods—first.
One System, Many Solutions
From curb2curb services to commut-
er Park & Ride, from METROLift paratransit to HOV Express Lanes, METRO isn’t just a transportation agency—it’s a transformational force in Houston’s regional future. Learn more and plan your next trip at RideMETRO.org or download the RideMETRO app to plan, pay, and ride with ease.
�� Download the Ride Circuit App today and meet your next ride—right outside your door.
�� View the Near Northside service map and more: RideMETRO.org
�� Available on iOS and Android – keyword: Circuit Houston Style Magazine applauds METRO’s commitment to access, innovation, and environmental justice. With each new stop, Houston’s future gets closer—and a lot more connected.
If you’re a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and dreaming of trading scrubs for RN stripes, now’s the time to come get that money! Houston Community College’s Coleman College for Health Sciences is rolling out a career-elevating opportunity that doesn’t just talk the talk—it puts scholarship dollars where your dreams are.
�� What’s the Deal?
HCC is offering full scholarships for the first 40 students accepted into its brand-new LVN to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) transition program, launching Fall 2025— pending final approval from the Texas Board of Nursing. That’s right: tuition, fees, and related program costs all covered. It's a golden ticket for LVNs who are ready to boost their credentials, salaries, and community impact without going into debt.
“This is a valuable opportunity for LVNs seeking to elevate their career to the next level,” said Dr. Lutricia Harrison, President of HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences. “They will receive the education and training they need to become registered nurses—and a nursing scholarship to help get them there.”
�� Why It Matters
Texas is short on nurses. Period. With just 826 nurses per 100,000 people—
In a city where opportunity often matches ambition, the Houston Tennis Association (HTA) continues to ace its mission—on and off the court. This summer, HTA proudly awarded $30,000 in college scholarships to 18 exceptional Houston-area high school graduates, proving once again that tennis isn't just a sport—it’s a launchpad for life.
These young achievers, hailing from schools across Greater Houston, weren’t just selected for their prowess with a racket. They stood out for their academic excellence, community service, and commitment to tennis through high school varsity teams, USTA tournaments, and participation in the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) programs. With scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, these future leaders are headed to a prestigious lineup of institutions—from Princeton and Columbia to Texas A&M and the University of Houston.
A Grand Slam of Giving
This remarkable investment in youth is made possible by a diverse and generous lineup of supporters. Alongside HTA’s core funding, contributions poured in from the Steve Wolford Memorial Scholarship Fund, the Grasselli Foundation-Harry Fowler
COME GET THAT MONEY: HCC LAUNCHES
TO HELP LVN’S LEVEL UP — FAST!
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
well below the national average—there’s an urgent need for professionals who are ready to step up. That’s where you come in.
This accelerated, three-semester program is tailored to help LVNs fast-track their path to becoming Registered Nurses (RNs), with the first cohort graduating by August 2026. Not only will you gain the knowledge and skills to pass the licensure exam, but you’ll also enter a workforce desperate for your talents.
“This program makes it possible for hardworking nurses to advance their careers faster and with less financial bur-
den,” said HCC Dean of Nursing Dr. Nicole Townsend. “It’s about achieving goals and making a bigger impact.”
�� The Payoff
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an RN in Texas is $77,450—$17,300 more than the average LVN. That’s not just a raise—it’s a life upgrade.
“Not only will this program help fill critical RN shortages,” Dr. Townsend added, “it will help LVNs step into positions of greater leadership, responsibility, and
pay.”
�� A Community Mission
The demand for nurses in Texas and across the country is climbing fast, especially with aging populations and rising rates of chronic illness. HCC is stepping up as a pipeline for professional talent that keeps Houston’s world-renowned healthcare sector thriving.
“We’re committed to solving the nurse shortage while creating life-changing pathways for aspiring professionals,” said HCC Chancellor Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher.
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How to Apply
Applications are open now for Fall 2025!
Visit �� hccs.edu/LVN-ADN �� Questions? Call 713-718-7336 or 713718-6231.
�� About HCC Coleman College
Located in the Texas Medical Center, HCC Coleman College is Houston’s hub for health sciences education. It offers over 20 specialized certificate and associate programs, plus a bachelor’s degree pathway. Learn more at hccs.edu/Coleman www.StyleMagazine.com
HOUSTON TENNIS ASSOCIATION SERVES UP
By Francis Page, Jr. for
www.StyleMagazine.com
Scholarship Fund, the Harriett Hulbert Memorial, and the West Houston Ladies Tennis Association. Additional support came from the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship, the World Oil Tennis Tournament, and a host of memorial and honorary scholarships celebrating the legacy of Houston’s tennis champions past and present.
Among the recipients:
• Lukas Silbernagel, Stratford High School, headed to Princeton University
• Erin Baumeister, Incarnate Word Academy, bound for Rice University
• Audrey Huynh, Clements High School, attending Texas A&M
• Adrian Guzman, Eisenhower High School, starting at Lone Star College
From powerhouse public schools to private academies, the scholarship winners reflect the dynamic diversity of the Houston metroplex—proving that talent, drive, and opportunity know no zip code.
A Legacy of Impact
Since launching its scholarship program in 1992, HTA has awarded over
$476,000 to deserving student-athletes. That’s nearly half a million dollars fueling dreams, breaking financial barriers, and reinforcing HTA’s belief that tennis is a gateway not only to sport but to scholarship and success.
Recognized as the 2023 USTA Texas Community Tennis Association of the Year and the 2011 USTA National Community Tennis Association of the Year, HTA has been a beacon of excellence since its founding in 1951. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), it is committed to expanding the game’s reach to every corner of the community, with programming that uplifts youth, celebrates health, and strengthens education.
Game, Set, Match – For the Future
At a time when students face mounting costs and pressure to compete on global stages, HTA’s scholarship program is more than a financial boost—it’s a vote of confidence. It tells Houston’s youth that their efforts matter, that community has their back, and that the love of the game can lead to life-changing possibilities.
For more information about the Houston Tennis Association and how to support or participate in its programs, visit www. houstontennis.org or call 281-580-8313. www.StyleMagazine.com
History, historic River Oaks Theatre will soon glow with magic, nostalgia, and star power as it becomes the launching pad for a long-lost cinematic treasure starring one of the city’s most iconic daughters — Shelley Duvall.
On July 7, 2025, in honor of Duvall’s birthday, the world will finally get to experience Dreams in the Attic, a shelved yet spectacular television film from 2000 that never aired — until now. Presented by the Houston Cinema Arts Society, this long-hidden gem will take center stage during a red-carpet evening that promises heart, history, and Hollywood sparkle.
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A Dream, Rediscovered
Filmed on 16mm across Galveston and Houston, Dreams in the Attic was written by Carolyn Johnston and directed by Bob Willems. Intended for the Disney Channel, the movie was quietly shelved and faded into obscurity—despite its heartwarming narrative and enchanting performances.
Shelley Duvall stars as Aunt Nellie, a whimsical costume shop owner whose magical attic trunk brings dreams to life. Think: Mary Poppins meets Faerie Tale Theatre, dipped in Southern charm. Alongside Duvall are performances by Haylie Duff
Houston to Host World Premiere of Shelley Duvall’s Long-Lost Film: Dreams in the Attic Premiere Screening: July
7, 2025 | River Oaks
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
(Napoleon Dynamite), Mary McDonough (The Waltons), and Vanessa Lee Chester (Jurassic Park: The Lost World).
Despite never airing, the film maintained a cult following in lost-media circles. “This is a film that fans whispered about for decades—now it’s finally time to give it the stage it always deserved,” said Houston film advocate Sarah Lukowski, founder of the Shelley Duvall Archive, who will also appear at the event.
�� Shelley Duvall’s Star Still Shines
Born in Fort Worth but raised in Houston, Shelley Duvall’s quirky brilliance, unmistakable voice, and fearless roles in films like The Shining, Popeye, and Time Bandits made her a cinematic trailblazer.
Dreams in the Attic marks one of her final on-screen performances, bringing her career full circle back to her Texas roots.
“This isn’t just a film premiere — it’s a love letter to Shelley, to her fans, and to Houston,” said Bob Willems, the film’s director, who will participate in a post-screening conversation alongside cast and crew.
�� Rediscover Duvall Through July
In conjunction with the premiere, the River Oaks Theatre will host a Shelley
Theatre
Duvall retrospective, screening her most iconic films throughout July:
Time Bandits – Saturday, July 12 at 11 AM
Brewster McCloud (co-hosted by Preservation Houston) – Sunday, July 20 at 6 PM
Thieves Like Us – Monday, July 21 at 7:30 PM
Popeye – Friday, July 25 at 7 PM
Nashville – Monday, July 28 at 7:15 PM
�� Don’t Miss the Magic
Tickets are available now for the once-in-a-lifetime world premiere of Dreams in the Attic. Whether you’re a fan of lost media, a lover of Shelley’s whimsical legacy, or simply craving a night of movie magic — Houston’s got your ticket to dream.
