Houston Style Magazine
GARCIA:
Dr. Cleveland Lane Jr. Launches Historic Cy-Fair Campaign
Burt Levine
Mendi Tackett
Chevy Bolt is Back
Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com
Managing Editor
Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com
Social Media Editor/Videographer
Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com
Graphic Design /Layout Editor
Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com
Political Editor
Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com
Contributing Editor Amanda Edwards @AmandaKEdwards
Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com
Arts Editor Bianca Elam biancaelam777.be@gmail.com
Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com
TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com
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BOOTLICKING FOR TRUMP:
TEXANS TORCH REDISTRICTING POWER GRAB IN FIERY COMMITTEE TESTIMONY
By Francis Page, Jr.
The Texas House Committee on Redistricting convened in Arlington expecting routine testimony. What they got instead was a mic-dropping, soul-shaking reality check from Mendi Tackett, a fierce Texas citizen who stepped up and let the truth fly like wildfire.
“Texans don’t want this redistricting. Trump does. And the GOP bootlickers are lining up to make it happen.”
That single line encapsulated the firestorm Mendi unleashed. Her words didn’t just resonate—they roared through the room like a siren warning of a democratic derailment in progress. With precision, passion, and unapologetic clarity, Mendi exposed the latest GOP-backed redistricting scheme for what it is: a racial-
Hly motivated, voter-suppressing strategy aimed at keeping white Christian nationalists in power.
“Redistricting mid-decade is nothing more than a racist ploy to squash Black and Brown voices. You’re scared of losing power, and now you’re gerrymandering Texas into silence.”
With a steady voice and unwavering conviction, she delivered the truth to the lawmakers seated before her and the thousands watching across Texas. She likened the state-level redistricting push to the backroom maneuvers happening in Tarrant County—where fear, not fairness, drives political maps. Mendi pulled back the curtain, naming the actors: Trump, national Republicans, and their allies in Aus-
HISD STUDENTS RIDE METRO FREE
By Francis Page, Jr.
ouston is on the move—literally and figuratively—as two powerhouse institutions team up to put thousands of high school students on the fast track to success. In a transformative new partnership, the Houston Independent School District (HISD) and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) are rolling out free METRO rides for all HISD high school students for the entire 2025–2026 school year.
That’s right—FREE rides, unlimited possibilities. With the swipe of a METRO Q® Card, Houston’s next generation can now glide across the city on local buses, METRORail, and curb2curb services—at zero cost to their families. This initiative isn’t just a transportation perk—it’s a bold investment
in equity, access, and opportunity
“Reliable transportation is a gateway to opportunity,” said METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock. “This partnership opens doors for education, employment, and engagement, and we’re proud to support the success of Houston’s students.”
Mobility That Matters
Every Q® Card issued through the student’s school comes preloaded for unlimited rides, integrated seamlessly with the RideMET-
tin, all desperately clinging to control by rewriting the rules.
“We see you. We know who you are. And we know what you’re doing— shameless, power-hungry bootlickers for Trump.”
Her takedown wasn’t just powerful—it was historic. It sparked an immediate reaction on social media, with hashtags like #SeeItNameItFightIt, #TXLege, and #Redistricting trending across platforms.
Why It Matters:
This mid-decade redistricting effort is a direct assault on the Voting Rights Act and the very concept of representative democracy. It threatens to suppress the growing influence of communities of color and disenfranchise millions—all to appease a political base and a former president still grasping at relevance.
The Department of Justice, too, remains conspicuously silent. As state-level Republican operatives push maps that intentionally dilute minority voting power, the federal government’s inaction feels like complicity. Where is the oversight? Where is the protection for the very communities the VRA was created to defend?
The
People Will Not Be Silenced
Mendi’s voice joined a chorus of Texans demanding transparency, fairness, and justice. From Houston to Fort Worth, Black and Brown communities are rising up to declare that their votes—and their voices—will not be redrawn into irrelevance.
This fight isn’t just about lines on a map. It’s about the soul of democracy in the Lone Star State.
Houston Style Magazine stands with Mendi—and every fearless Texan speaking truth to power.
Let’s amplify their voices. Let’s protect our vote. Let’s end this bootlicking circus.
RO app, which lets students:
• Plan routes
• Track buses and trains in real time
• Receive service alerts
• Navigate the city with ease
And for parents who worry: all METRO vehicles are ADA-accessible, climate-controlled, Wi-Fi-enabled, and monitored with security cameras—because safety always rides shotgun
A Gateway to More Than Just Classrooms
Whether it’s getting to school, a part-time job, a robotics club meeting, or volunteering across town, METRO is fueling the independence that teens crave and families appreciate. It’s more than just a ride—it’s a roadmap to future achievement.
LEARN MORE:
Student transit info: www.HoustonISD.org/transportation Routes & schedules: www.RideMETRO.org
COMMENTARY
60 YEARS STRONG: WHY THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT OF 1965 STILL MATTERS—AND WHY IT’S UNDER FIRE IN TEXAS
By Francis Page, Jr., Publisher
In we approach the 60th anniversary of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965—a cornerstone of American democracy birthed in struggle, sacrifice, and soulful resistance—we’re once again reminded that progress is a fight, not a finish line.
Signed into law by Texas native and U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson on August 6, 1965, the Voting Rights Act (VRA) tore down the legal walls designed to block Black and Brown citizens from the ballot box. It was more than legislation—it was a lifeline for democracy in the Deep South and across the nation.
But here we are—one week away from that historic milestone—and Texas Republicans have chosen to stain this moment by dropping a redistricting map that reeks of racial bias and reeks louder than a political backroom deal gone sour.
"They’re Still Trying to Steal Our Voice"
Progress Texas Executive Director Kathleen Thompson didn’t mince words: “60 years later, white guys are still calling each other to say how Brown and Black citizens can vote.”
And let’s be honest: She’s right. Instead of investing energy in urgent issues like flood mitigation, public health, or economic equity, GOP leaders are laser-focused on manipulating voting districts. The goal? Diluting the power of historically marginalized voters to maintain their own.
It's a throwback to Jim Crow dressed in a modern-day blazer. And it spits in the face of the giants who marched, bled, and died so we could cast a ballot without fear or failure.
What Did the VRA Do—and Why Should We Still Care?
The Voting Rights Act is one of the most transformative pieces of legislation in American history. Here's why:
• It outlawed literacy tests and poll taxes used to silence Black and Brown voices.
• It introduced federal oversight (the now-gutted “preclearance” system) in areas with histories of voter suppression.
• It empowered bilingual and language-access voting, a nod to our nation’s growing diversity.
• It stood as a legal shield against gerrymandering and voter dilution, especially under Section 2.
And yet, in 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court's Shelby County v. Holder decision cracked open the door for states like Texas to creep back into voter suppression mode—unchecked and unashamed.
A Modern-Day Quorum Break?
With the release of this discriminatory map, some Democrats are again floating
the idea of a quorum break, echoing a legacy move from the Texas playbook of resistance. It’s not about obstruction—it’s about obligation. When the rules are rigged, walking out may be the only honest way to stand up.
“It’s time to lean on moral, legal, and even Biblical grounds,” Thompson said, “in line with a legacy of strong leaders who cemented the rights being threatened today.”
The Next Generation Must Know
As Texas children head back to school, what will they learn? That their vote matters—or that it’s constantly under siege?
Houston Style Magazine says this: Let’s teach them both—and then teach them how to fight back with ballots, voices, and civic fire.
Let’s support voting rights not just in memory of 1965, but in defense of 2025—and beyond.
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:
Insteel Wire Products Company has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit No. 131859, which would authorize continued operation of a pre-stressed concrete strand and wire manufacturing facility located at 11020 Tanner Road, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77041. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
Missouri a school district as vast, vibrant, and evolving as Cypress-Fairbanks ISD—Texas’ third-largest public school district with over 119,000 students—representation that reflects the heartbeat of the community isn’t just important, it’s essential. And that’s exactly what Dr. Cleveland Lane, Jr. is bringing to the ballot box this fall.
With deep roots in education, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement, Dr. Lane is running for Cy-Fair ISD Trustee Position 1 in the upcoming Tuesday, November 4, 2025, General Election, aiming to become the only elected Black trustee on the seven-member school board. His candidacy couldn’t be more timely —or more needed—as the district transitions into a new era of majority-minority enrollment and unprecedented growth.
A Leader Raised by Legacy—and Love
“My journey began in the Piney Woods of Deep East Texas,” Lane shared with Houston Style Magazine. “My grandparents and great-grandparents were public school educators. My parents were business owners. I’ve lived the balance of both worlds—education and enterprise.”
A proud graduate of La Marque High School, Lane’s educational journey
"ROOTED
IN THE COMMUNITY, RISING FOR OUR CHILDREN”: DR. CLEVELAND LANE, JR. LAUNCHES HISTORIC CAMPAIGN FOR CY-FAIR ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES"
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
took him from Prairie View A&M University (earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees) to Texas A&M University-College Station, where he earned a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. Today, he serves as an Assistant Professor and Department Head, embodying his lifelong passion for academic excellence.
Alongside his wife, Perla, a professional in construction management, the Lane family has thrived in Cy-Fair for over 22 years—raising three children, all of whom attended or graduated from Cy-Fair ISD schools. Their oldest daughter, like her parents, proudly graduated from Prairie View A&M.
Service Beyond the Classroom
Dr. Lane isn’t new to leadership—he’s proven himself across a range of organizations that directly impact families and youth. From Cy-Fair Ravens Football and Cheer to YMCA youth initiatives and Legacy College Prep, Lane has consistently stepped up where his community needs him most. His faith-based work as a Youth Sunday School teacher at First Metropolitan Church, and his fraternal commitment to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., further underscore his dedication to servant leadership.
A Platform Built on Representation, Equity & Fiscal Focus
Cy-Fair ISD spans a massive 186 square miles across northwest Harris County—home to booming neighborhoods, young families, and a dynamic demographic mix: 46% Hispanic, 21% Black, 18% white, and over 14% Asian and multi-ethnic. Dr. Lane’s campaign is centered on ensuring all voices are heard and reflected at the decision-making table.
“We’ve seen this district grow into one of the most diverse and sought-after areas in Texas. But with growth comes responsibility,” Lane said. “We must ensure
our schools remain competitive, our teachers feel supported, and our tax rates stay affordable for working families.
Election Essentials
�� Early Voting runs from Monday, October 20 through Friday, October 31, 2025
�� Last Day to File for candidacy: Monday, August 18, 2025
�� Voter Registration Deadline: Monday, October 6, 2025
�� Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Election Essentials
Dr. Lane’s candidacy is more than just a campaign—it’s a movement toward equitable representation, transparent governance, and a brighter future for every child in Cy-Fair. Houston Style Magazine readers, as our communities grow more diverse, so too must our leadership. With his background, integrity, and commitment, Dr. Cleveland Lane, Jr. represents a new chapter for Cy-Fair ISD—one that’s deeply rooted in tradition and boldly focused on the future.
Stay informed. Get engaged. And this November, let’s make history together.
Dr. Cleveland Lane, Jr.
In really drawing your new congressional district? If you guessed a Texan with roots in your community, values in your neighborhood, and boots on your street—you’d be wrong.
The redistricting wizard behind the Texas map manipulation curtain is none other than Adam Kincaid, a partisan cartographer hailing not from Houston, not from Dallas, but from Virginia. Yes, the Lone Star State's political destiny is being sketched from the East Coast—by a longtime GOP operative with ties to Trump-aligned legal groups and a career built on one objective: power by design.
Let that sink in. And now let’s draw the real map for our readers.
Kincaid, Courts, and the Commission: Redrawing Texas, Silencing Texans
In a 3-2 party-line vote that left local leaders and voters fuming, Tarrant County’s Republican commissioners handed $250,000 of taxpayer dollars to the Public Interest Legal Foundation (PILF)—a right-wing D.C. law firm with a reputation for undermining voting rights—to defend a redistricting map many call a blatant act of racial and political suppression.
Who did PILF tap to shape this new political reality? Adam Kincaid, executive director of the National Republican Redistricting Trust and former GOP mapmaker-in-chief. Under his pencil, districts have shifted, merged, and been carved up in ways that shrink the
Behind the Curtain: How a Virginia Operative, Trump's DOJ Allies, and Texas Republicans Are Redrawing Your Rights
By Francis Page Jr., For www.StyleMagazine.com
voices of Black and Latino communities while expanding Republican strongholds.
As Democratic Commissioner Alisa Simmons powerfully said, “This is essentially hiring the arsonist to put out the fire.”
The Map’s Message: Suppress, Collapse, Control
Congressman Greg Casar, whose Austin-San Antonio-based district is now on the chopping block, didn’t mince words: “This is illegal voter suppression.” The map, which
would collapse his seat and merge it with fellow Democrat Lloyd Doggett’s, is a textbook example of political gerrymandering with a discriminatory twist.
It’s not just Casar. Two seats in the Rio Grande Valley—historic homes to Democratic voters—are being redrawn to lean more Republican. In the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, blue districts are being drained of their influence. And in Harris County, voters are suing under the Voting Rights Act, alleging violations of the 14th and 15th Amendments.
And all this while Kincaid claims the map “benefits” minority communities? Texans aren’t buying the spin.
Trump’s Fingerprints Are Everywhere
Let’s not pretend this is just local maneuvering. Former President Donald Trump, in his ongoing effort to stack the House, has been lobbying hard behind the scenes for redistricting changes in Texas—because if the GOP can’t win on policy, they’ll win by rigging the map.
And while Trump's DOJ has faced intense scrutiny for politicization and voter suppression tactics, its silence on this map speaks volumes. Texans are being outmaneuvered not just by local powerbrokers, but by national puppeteers.
A National Problem.
A Texas-Sized Resistance
While states like California and New York grapple with their own redistricting
efforts—some still playing politics, others attempting reforms—Texas’ mid-decade redraw is a warning sign for democracy across the nation.
But here’s the good news: Texans are rising up. From courthouse lawsuits to community coalitions, citizens are demanding transparency, representation, and justice. And at the heart of this movement is the Texas Citizens and Voter Rights Act—a bold response to systemic disenfranchisement.
This Act, designed to safeguard voter power and protect historically marginalized communities, has never been more vital. It’s a beacon for Texans who refuse to be redrawn into silence.
Houston Style Magazine’s Call to Action
Houston Style Magazine stands firm: Democracy is not a drawing board for out-ofstate operatives or partisan manipulation.
If you live in Texas, your vote should count—your district should reflect your community, not a Virginia Republican’s spreadsheet.
Share this article. Speak out at hearings. Demand accountability. And most importantly, support the Texas Citizens and Voter Rights Act.
Because your power? It’s not in a map. It’s in your voice.
Adam Kincade
LEADERSHIP IN MOTION:
Israel Garcia’s Steadfast Journey Powering METRO Forward
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
In a city that pulses with momentum, few keep Houston moving quite like Israel Garcia. With over 30 years of steadfast dedication to the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO), Garcia isn’t just guiding the buses—he’s steering the culture of excellence behind the scenes.
As Interim Vice President of Bus Operations, Garcia oversees one of the nation’s most expansive and essential bus networks. His leadership is rooted in a deep respect for METRO’s operators and a crystal-clear mission: to keep Houston moving safely, reliably, and responsively — come rain, shine, or hurricane-force winds.
A Career Driven by Commitment
Israel Garcia’s story begins not be-
hind a desk, but in the dispatch room, where he once served as a police dispatcher and Assistant Superintendent of Bus Control. With grit, grace, and a commitment to public service, he climbed the ranks, absorbing every facet of operations—from crisis response to cross-agency coordination with the City of Houston and the Harris County Office of Emergency Management. His early leadership chops were sharpened at Hernandez Funeral Home, where he managed teams and learned how to lead with compassion and order. This blend of structure, empathy, and operational discipline now informs every decision he makes at METRO.
Crisis-Ready, Community-Focused
“I’ve been involved in emergency
serve its riders. “What makes this work meaningful is how responsive we must be,” he noted. “Our ridership has changed a lot over the last few years—remote work, new commute patterns—so we must stay flexible. If people’s needs shift, our service must shift with them.”
Data-driven decisions, community feedback, and real-time operator insights all converge under Garcia’s watch to ensure service reflects Houston’s evolving rhythms.
Operators at the Heart of METRO
Garcia’s greatest admiration is reserved for METRO’s unsung heroes—its operators.
“I can’t say this enough, our operators are the heart of METRO. Everyone else supports them,” Garcia said. “They show up day in and day out, often in tough weather or through challenging conditions, and they don’t flinch. They do their jobs with professionalism and heart.”
To Garcia, operators aren’t just driving buses—they’re carrying the weight of Houston’s connectivity, hope, and resilience.
Building the Future, One Bus at a Time
With the METRONow Moving Forward Plan rolling out new buses, greener technology, and service innovations, Garcia sees an exciting horizon. “With the right tools, ongoing training, and support from our mechanics and planning teams, we’re setting up our operators—and our riders— for long-term success.”
operations for years, from Hurricane Harvey to major evacuations,” Garcia recalled. “One example I’m proud of was our recent work transporting thousands of CenterPoint linemen. It was something METRO had never done before.”
When disaster strikes, Garcia is the calm voice in the storm, guiding METRO’s response plans and ensuring frontline teams are equipped to serve. His adaptability—honed by years of hands-on experience—has turned METRO into a model of flexibility and rapid mobilization in times of crisis.
Listening, Leading, and Learning
Beyond emergencies, Garcia plays a pivotal role in the biannual service adjustments METRO implements to better
Behind the scenes, Garcia’s teams are constantly working to ensure every bus is safe, fueled, inspected, and ready to go. “Without that support, the system doesn’t move,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of that work, and even prouder of the people who do it every day.”
Why Israel Garcia Matters to Houston
Garcia’s story is a tribute to what’s possible when public service is met with purpose, experience, and heart. In a city known for its hustle, his leadership ensures that METRO never misses a beat. Whether it’s a daily commute or a citywide evacuation, Houston knows it can count on Israel Garcia to keep us moving—one bus, one route, and one community at a time.
ISRAEL GARCIA – METRO's Interim Vice President of Bus Operations
In a city where seconds can mean the difference between life and death, Houston Community College (HCC) is making every heartbeat count. The college’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program has officially claimed the top spot as the No. 1 EMS training program in Texas, according to the 2024 National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians and the Texas Department of State Health Services. And if you’re thinking about a career that saves lives while securing a future, this is your flashing redand-blue signal to go for it.
�� Why HCC’s EMS Program Is a Lifesaver—Literally and Professionally
HCC’s EMS program isn’t just setting the pace statewide—it’s racing past it. With a jaw-dropping 99% first-time pass rate on the National Registry exam, HCC grads are walking into hospitals, fire departments, and private emergency care companies as top-tier professionals. Out of 62 EMS training programs across Texas, HCC ranked highest in test scores, student retention, job placement, and national education compliance.
“We hear it again and again from our healthcare affiliates—they love our students,” said Vicki May, HCC EMS Program Director. “They’re not only well-prepared; they’re highly employable. Our faculty
FIRST ON THE SCENE, FIRST IN THE STATE:
HCC’S EMS PROGRAM LEADS TEXAS INTO A SAFER TOMORROW
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
makes sure of it.”
A Career with Purpose—and Paychecks
The EMS field isn’t just in demand—it’s critical. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics serve as frontline heroes in emergencies ranging from car accidents and cardiac arrests to natural disasters and citywide crises. With growing job demand nationwide, EMS careers offer stable salaries, swift entry into the workforce, and opportunities to grow into leadership, advanced trauma, or even emergency room roles.
��Brains, Boots, and Heart
What Makes HCC #1
The HCC EMS program, rooted in 42 years of instructional excellence, operates under the Public Safety Center
of Excellence at Northeast College, with additional training at the Missouri City and Spring Branch campuses. The curriculum doesn’t just teach textbook knowledge—it instills quick thinking, calm under pressure, and compassionate care.
“Our students aren’t just passing exams,” said Interim Northeast College President Dr. Betty Fortune. “They’re becoming Houston’s next generation of health protectors.”
�� Location Matters—And
HCC Brings It Close to Home
Serving Greater Houston's diverse communities through 14 Centers of Excellence, HCC ensures EMS training is accessible, inclusive, and deeply rooted in local needs.
The program embodies HCC’s mission to prepare students for a technological and global society while responding directly to community safety.
Whether you’re fresh out of high school, changing careers, or looking for a meaningful role that matters every day, HCC’s EMS program offers an accelerated path to impact—without the decades of debt.
��Ready to Answer the Call?
Houston needs heroes. HCC has the training. And you? You’ve got the heart. Visit hccs.edu/ems to learn how to start your journey.
Let Houston Style Magazine be the first to say: the next life you save might just be your own.
ach a move that feels ripped from the pages of a dystopian political thriller, Texas Republicans have once again flexed their gerrymandering muscle—this time under the shadow of Donald Trump’s alleged influence and with alarming speed.
This past week, the Texas House Redistricting Committee, operating with the stealth of a backroom poker game, passed a new congressional map on a strict party-line vote. The map, according to Democrats, is a direct assault on the voting power of Texas’s growing Black and Latino populations.
“This vote is a profound act of contempt for the people of Texas,” said Rep. Gene Wu (D-Houston), Chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus. “It’s the final confirmation that to hold power, Republicans will gladly silence the voices of Black and Latino Texans who have fought for generations to be heard.”
��Gerrymandering in 2025:
A New Era of Voter Suppression?
If passed, the redistricting plan would dilute minority voting power in key districts—some of which have experienced explosive population growth among people of color. Instead of ensuring fair representation, the proposed map appears to surgically dismantle communities of interest, fracturing neighborhoods with deep historical and
"THE PEOPLE SPOKE. THE GOP ERASED.” – TEXAS DEMOCRATS FIGHT BACK AGAINST DISCRIMINATORY REDISTRICTING
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
cultural ties.
Vice Chair Jon Rosenthal did not mince words:
“This body has been complicit in complying with the order of the president to deliver five new seats... This is a racist attack on Black and Brown communities, and I won't stand for it. We will continue to fight this with everything we have.”
�� Echoes of Injustice — Then and Now
BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL
Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody offered a chilling historical comparison that left many in stunned silence:
“At the dawn of America, a Black person was counted as three-fifths of a person. The effect of these maps is that now, a Black person's vote is worth only one-fifth. We are doing worse in Austin today than in 1787 Philadelphia.”
That’s not just a metaphor. It's a rallying cry—one that underscores the regressive implications of these maps.
✊Community Outcry, Courageous Resistance
Rep. Chris Turner, whose voice trembled with equal parts rage and resolve, highlighted the grassroots outpouring of testimony that Republicans dismissed:
“To the thousands of Texans who drove for hours, stood in the heat, tried to register to testify despite the obstacles: I want to express my deep gratitude and admiration. Please note: This fight is far from over.”
Rep. Christian Manuel, speaking from a place of lived experience, brought the emotional cost of this gerrymander to the table:
“It hurts knowing what could happen to [these communities] because I know what happened to me... I get winning, but at
what cost is it okay to harm people?”
�� Transparency Traded for Tyranny
The process, according to Chair Gene Wu, was deliberately opaque and orchestrated to keep both lawmakers and the public in the dark.
“In my 13 years here, I have not seen a process like this—hiding the ball not only from the public but from members themselves. This action does not move us forward. It takes us very far back.”
�� Why It Matters
Especially for Houston
Houston, one of the most diverse metropolitan regions in America, stands to lose significant political ground under this proposed redistricting. For readers of Houston Style Magazine, this isn’t just politics—it’s personal. Representation means funding for schools, healthcare access, criminal justice reform, infrastructure, and more. Undermining our votes means silencing our needs.
�� What’s Next?
The full House is expected to vote on the map in the coming days. Legal challenges are all but guaranteed. Civil rights organizations are already assembling to fight back. In the meantime, the Texas House Democratic Caucus vows to carry the torch of democracy and representation into every chamber and courtroom.
"RISING BY
REACHING BACK: TRUSTEE RENEE
JEFFERSON PATTERSON CHAMPIONS HCC'S VAST EXPANSION IN NORTHEAST HOUSTON"
By Francis Page Jr. For
In the ever-evolving story of Houston's educational champions, few names shine as brightly as Renee Jefferson Patterson — a woman whose personal trials transformed into triumphs and whose professional journey is now shaping futures across the Bayou City.
As Trustee of Houston Community College District II, Patterson’s journey is both deeply personal and profoundly inspiring. From the heartbreak of losing her naturally conceived triplets to climbing the ranks of HCC leadership, she has never let pain dim her purpose. Instead, she’s turned her experiences into power — and she’s using that power to pave new paths for underserved communities.
Now, with a bold vision and unwavering commitment, Trustee Patterson is bringing the HCC VAST (Vocational Advancement and Skills Training) program to the heart of Northeast Houston, unlocking doors for young adults with intellectual disabilities in neighborhoods like City Gas, Pleasantville, Fifth Ward, Trinity Gardens, Kashmere Gardens, and Acres Homes.
“Everyone knows someone who could benefit from this,” Patterson told Houston Style Magazine. “This isn’t just about policy — it’s personal. Every child deserves the right to learn, grow, and feel like they belong.”
The VAST program is a transformative initiative that supports students with autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and other intellectual differences. While many such students often face isolation or academic failure in traditional settings, VAST offers a nurturing, skills-driven environment that fosters independence, employment readiness, and dignity.
opportunities.
“Houston Community College belongs to the people,” she affirmed. “Our job is to remove barriers, not build them. The path forward demands that we walk it together.”
Her leadership style is a blend of heart and hustle. Patterson has already made waves by helping families avoid foreclosure, assisting foster youth in transition, and advocating for seniors trying to protect generational wealth. Her legacy is being built not in boardrooms, but in living rooms, classrooms, and community centers.
This latest expansion is more than a program; it’s a movement. One rooted in equity, access, and a profound belief that no learner should be left behind — regardless of diagnosis or zip code.
From Interior Design Icon to Education Trailblazer
Outside the classroom, Renee Jefferson Patterson is also a nationally acclaimed interior designer and founder of SaraDonna Designs, a brand trusted by presidential cabinet members, mega churches, and luxury real estate developers alike. Her flair for elegant, elevated spaces is matched only by her passion for transforming lives — and that duality makes her one of Houston’s most dynamic forces for good.
Why It Matters
The expansion of the VAST program is a game-changer. It delivers vocational training, life skills education, and inclusive empowerment directly to the doorsteps of communities long underrepresented in higher education. It’s also perfectly aligned with Houston Style Magazine’s mission to uplift, inform, and advocate for the city’s richly diverse readership.
As we look toward a more inclusive and equitable Houston, let Trustee Patterson's vision remind us: progress isn't just about programs — it's about people.
Want to Learn More or Get Involved?
�� Office of Trustee Renee Jefferson Patterson Houston Community College – District II
�� Email: renee.patterson@hccs. edu
�� Learn more about HCC's VAST Program: hccs.edu/vast
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:
Let’s celebrate a woman who embodies style, strength, and service — and support the expansion of a program that is changing the lives of students and families, one neighborhood at a time.
Texas Commission on environmenTal
NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT (NORI) RENEWAL
PERMIT NUMBER 131859
APPLICATION. Insteel Wire Products Company has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 131859, which would authorize continued operation of a pre-stressed concrete strand and wire manufacturing facility located at 11020 Tanner Road, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77041. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. 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=-95.618456,30.101152&level=13 The existing facility is authorized to emit the following air contaminants: carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, nitrogen oxides, organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on June 24, 2025. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Houston regional office, and the Fairbanks Branch Library, 7122 Gessner Road, 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 in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ. The application, including any updates, is available electronically at the following webpage: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/airpermit-applications-notices
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. Information in the application indicates that this permit renewal would not result in an increase in allowable emissions and would not result in the emission of an air contaminant not previously emitted. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.
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. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
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, 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 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 15 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 mailing of the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted comments or is on the mailing list for this application. 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. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any) mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.
But Patterson isn’t stopping at just bringing the program to new zip codes. She’s calling on the entire Houston community — parents, pastors, nonprofits, educators, and influencers — to rally behind this mission and amplify the reach of these
Insteel Wire Products Company has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit No. 131859, which would authorize continued operation of a pre-stressed concrete strand and wire manufacturing facility located at 11020 Tanner Road, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77041. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. All 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 the permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program, Toll Free, at 1-800687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040. You can also view our website for public participation opportunities at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/participation
Further information may also be obtained from Insteel Wire Products Company, 11020 Tanner Road, Houston, Texas 77041-7002 or by calling Mr. Raymundo Solano, Director of Safety Environmental and Risk Management at (336) 786-2141.
Notice Issuance Date: July 8, 2025
Renee Jefferson Patterson
Electric dreams don’t fade—they evolve. And in 2027, Chevrolet is revving up that evolution by reigniting the spark of one of America’s most beloved electric vehicles. That’s right—the Chevrolet Bolt is back, and it’s bigger, better, and bolder than ever.
After its farewell tour in 2023, fans across the country weren’t ready to unplug from the Bolt just yet. Now, thanks to General Motors’ commitment to affordability, innovation, and electrification, the Bolt is zooming back into the spotlight. From the Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas straight to the roads of Houston and beyond, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt is recharged, refreshed, and ready for a new generation of EV adventurers.
�� Familiar Favorite, Fresh Face
The Bolt’s 2027 redesign embraces its roots while stepping confidently into the future. At first glance, the updated front fascia turns heads with a streamlined new bumper and sleeker grille openings—think less “quirky hatchback,” more “urban-electric swagger.” And the back? Say goodbye to bulky taillights. Say hello to slim LEDs wrapped in a striking black stripe. It’s the same Bolt heart, dressed in a Tesla-rivaling suit.
Inside, whispers of dual digital
The Bolt Is Back: Chevrolet’s Affordable EV Icon
Returns with
a
Recharged 2027 Rebirth
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
at a futuristic cockpit. A new steering wheel and elevated user interface will help drivers feel like they’re piloting the future—without breaking the bank.
⚡ NACS Plug-In Power
Here’s the game-changer, Houston: the 2027 Bolt will feature the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port—yes, that’s the Tesla plug. That means Bolt drivers will soon tap into Tesla’s Supercharger network without any clunky adapters. In an electrified world where speed and accessibility are everything, this puts Chevy’s Bolt in pole position.
And while Chevy is keeping official specs under wraps, insiders suggest that charging speed could finally rise to 100–150 kW. Combine that with a target
an even stronger commuter contender and road-trip-ready ride.
�� The Affordable EV That’s Actually... Affordable Price still matters—and Chevrolet knows it. The upcoming Bolt is expected to land at an entry-level price of $30,000, keeping the “electric for everyone” promise alive. In a market flooded with overpriced SUVs and luxury EVs, the Bolt’s return is a welcome jolt of economic common sense.
Under the hood (or rather, beneath the floor), expect GM’s proven BEV2 platform with rumored upgrades to battery and motor technology. A possible all-wheel-drive option could even be in the works—giving the Bolt a grip in both performance and popularity.
�� Houston—Get Ready to Plug In At Houston Style Magazine, we know our readers value forward-thinking transportation, environmental responsibility, and—let’s be honest—a little automotive flair. The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt delivers on all three. Whether you're gliding through Montrose, charging up in Midtown, or cruising down I-10, this next-gen Bolt is poised to become Houston’s new electric hero.
So, get ready H-Town. Chevrolet’s most electrifying comeback is almost here. The Bolt isn't just making a return—it's making a statement.
More information, go to: www. chevrolet.com
In a city a city bursting with culture, diversity, and artistic innovation, one organization has consistently led the charge in transforming how Houstonians experience music. Enter DaCamera, Houston’s boldest chamber music and jazz presenter, whose 2025–2026 season launches with an interstellar theme — "Other Worlds" — celebrating music’s unique ability to transport us beyond time, space, and limitation.
Celebrated as “reliably adventurous” by The Washington Post and praised for its “perennially thoughtful” programming by The New Yorker, DaCamera is more than just a performing arts institution — it’s a movement. Under the masterful vision of Artistic Director Sarah Rothenberg, now in her 30th year at the helm, the organization continues to raise the artistic bar while keeping the community deeply rooted in the mission: to inspire individuals and enrich communities through diverse and inventive musical experiences.
�� Season Prelude: Bold Notes in the Park
The 2025–2026 journey begins on Friday, September 5, with an open-air concert by the Isaiah J. Thompson Quartet at the historic Miller Outdoor Theatre. This free concert will bring jazz lovers together under the stars as Thompson — an NPR-acclaimed prodigy whose star continues to rise — showcases a modern jazz spirit that
DACAMERA’S 2025–2026 SEASON LIFTS OFF WITH “OTHER WORLDS”: A JOURNEY THROUGH SOUND,
By Francis Page, Jr. for
SPIRIT, AND STORYTELLING
www.StyleMagazine.com
bridges generations.
��Season Theme: "Other Worlds" –Where Music Transcends
From Rachmaninoff to Piazzolla, from Schubert to Sorey, this season is a genre-defying sonic expedition. It kicks off with a celestial ensemble on Opening Night, Friday, October 3, in the Cullen Theater at Wortham Center. Featuring piano virtuoso Inon Barnatan, violinist Tessa Lark, and an elite cast of classical stars, the program includes Schubert’s “Trout” Piano Quintet — a whimsical, deeply human piece that reminds us that art can connect earthly experience with otherworldly emotion. Other not-to-miss highlights this fall include:
�� Walter Smith III Quartet – A homegrown Houston jazz celebration (Oct. 17)
�� Matthias Goerne and Daniil Trifonov – A soul-stirring all-Schubert recital (Oct. 29)
�� Rafaël Feuillâtre’s two-night guitar
magic at The Menil (Nov. 3–4)
�� Nicholas Payton Quartet and Ekep Nkwelle’s vocal brilliance (Nov. 14, Dec. 6)
Educating the Future, Empowering the Now DaCamera’s Young Artist Program is one of the most progressive musical outreach initiatives in the country. By embedding music in STEM and humanities education across Houston, this program doesn’t just teach music — it teaches meaning.
DaCamera’s A Little Day Music series returns October 1st with a vibrant Hispanic Heritage Month tribute, proving once again that music belongs to everyone — at lunchtime, in schools, in galleries, and in neighborhoods.
�� Sarah Rothenberg: Houston’s Sonic Architect
Few artists embody artistic vision like Sarah Rothenberg. A “trailblazer” and “prolific thinker” (WSJ), Rothenberg has carved out a unique niche that blends literature, visual art, and music into immersive productions. Her global influence — from Lincoln Center to Brussels to Paris — feeds back into Houston, where every DaCamera season feels like an international festival grounded in local roots.
GREAT EDUCAT RS THE HEART OF LEARNING STARTS WITH
Nominate a deserving teacher, counselor, principal, early childhood learning center, school board or school district.
Created in 2002, the H‑E‑B Excellence in Education Awards was designed to honor and thank outstanding public school professionals. Through this program, H‑E‑B awards over $780,000 annually to deserving educators who go the extra mile to serve their students and communities.
To submit a nomination or application, go to HEBLovesTeachers.com
Deadline for nomations September 30