We just fell back. The season of darkness is coming on. But this year, more than any I can remember, that darkness feels existential, not just seasonal.
As a professor, I’ve watched it settle over my students throughout 2025 like fog. They talk about despair as if it’s wrapping its fingers around their throat. They talk about how the news makes them want to pull the covers over their heads every day.
What do I say to them?
Read more history. Find the lesson and the mission: the 20s are always terrible, so keep your eye on the prize that will be the 2070s and get us there with democracy intact.
History—that patient teacher, that relentless witness—has something to say about tomorrows.
My family has been taking notes for four hundred years. American centuries follow hundred-year cycles. Within those cycles, every “20s” decade is a crucible of cruelty. Every “70s” brings bold rays of light breaking through.
The 1620s were the dawn of the African slave trade in Virginia, when many of my nameless African ancestors arrived alongside the European ones who enslaved them. The 1670s brought Bacon’s Rebellion—called by many a rehearsal for the American Revolution. My ancestor Giles Bland was killed taking up arms against Virginia’s Royal Governor William Berkeley.
The 1720s. Richard Bland was just a young boy when Virginia passed a law in 1723 making it nearly impossible to free enslaved people. Not long after, he would be old enough to understand that some of the people enslaved by families like his shared their bloodlines — even as the Church insisted they were inferior. But when the 1770s came, he helped write the words with his cousin Thomas Jefferson that founded our nation: all men are created equal.
In a slave state like Virginia, they had to know those words were catalytic—
WHAT 400 YEARS OF FAMILY HISTORY TEACHES ABOUT THIS AMERICAN MOMENT
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
that once spoken, they could not control how they would reshape the world. Jefferson himself trembled at what he had set in motion. Yet he—and Richard—spoke the words anyway.
A century later, Frederick Bland endured the 1820s and 1830s, and when his son Edward David was born in the 1840s, he began guiding and encouraging him so that, by the time both gained their freedom, Edward was ready to rise and help lead their neighbors in seizing the opportunities of the 1870s. From the same house where ancestors had been held in bondage came a father and son preparing a community for a new era of freedom and civic engagement. Another century turned. My grandmother, Mamie Bland, was born in 1916 in southern Virginia, not far from the Jordan’s Point plantation where Richard Bland lived. The 1920s slammed doors shut everywhere. Virginia’s Racial Integrity Act banned interracial marriage. The Immigration Act closed America’s doors. The Ku Klux Klan reached its peak—millions strong—motivated equally by their demonization of Catholic immigrants and Jews as by their hatred of Black Americans. America First meant America for white
Protestants only.
But Mamie survived to see the 1970s. All of her daughter and son-in-law’s activism of the 50s and 60s bore fruit. Desegregation went into high gear. The Vietnam war ended. And interracial couples like my parents enjoyed the first decade in which their marriages were legal in every state.
Now we are here. The 2020s. Another decade of cruelty. Nativism rises like flood water. Voting rights stripped away. Books banned. Antisemitism and Islamophobia poison our communities. Authoritarian voices grow shameless in their contempt for democracy.
I am raising two children in this darkness. They ask why they should believe anything will truly get better. And I tell them: The 20s are always dark. The 70s are always remembered for bold rays of light breaking through.
The victories of every “70s” are never completely permanent. We spring forward, then we fall back. The pattern is not a steady march toward justice—it is a rhythm, a tide, a seasonal turning between light and dark.
So why keep faith now? Because
as my family has learned across ten generations, the cruelty of every “20s” is followed by the breaking open of every “70s.” Not because of destiny, but because ordinary people refused to give up.
Giles Bland rose up in arms in the 1670s. Richard planted the seeds in the 1720s that blossomed in the 1770s. Frederick guided and encouraged his son Edward David so that, once freedom came, Edward was ready to rise and help lead their neighbors in the 1870s. Mamie absorbed these lessons and acted boldly, raising her daughter to continue the fight through the 1970s and beyond. My mother acted decisively so I could raise my children to see the 2070s in a nation more just than the one into which she was born. And now I’m raising my children to defend and expand democracy the way my grandmother helped raise all of us and the way Edward David Bland helped raise her.
Ten generations of my family have witnessed this pattern. We have only reached every “70s” because young people in every “20s” refused to give up. They organized, protested, voted, ran for office, and defended democracy when it seemed weakest.
The job of America’s young people today is to do the same. If present and future generations rise to these challenges the way our ancestors did, our democracy will not only survive—our nation will thrive again. Because here in America, the darkest hour has never been the last hour.
Keep your eye on the prize. Ben Jealous is a professor of the practice at the University of Pennsylvania, former president of the NAACP, and best-selling author.
You can write to Ben Jealous incare of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
In a resounding demonstration of civic engagement and the enduring power of democracy, Harris County voters turned out in force on Election Day to make their voices heard — propelling Christian Menefee and Dwight Boykins into key runoff races that promise to shape the next era of Houston leadership.
The results reflect a renewed energy among voters across Greater Houston, where diversity, progress, and community-centered leadership took center stage.
Christian Menefee Surges Forward in Congressional Race
Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee, already a two-term champion for justice and equality, made a strong showing with 28.89% of the vote in a crowded 16-person special election to succeed the late Congressman Sylvester Turner Menefee will advance to a runoff against Amanda Edwards, who garnered 25.55%
Menefee addressed a jubilant crowd Tuesday night:
“I’m fighting for an America where every full-time worker earns a living wage, where healthcare is universal, and where every family — from Acres Homes to Kashmere Gardens, from Homestead to Humble — can thrive. We’re not done yet. We’re just getting started.”
Other contenders included State Rep. Jolanda Jones with 19%, former Miss Venezuela Carmen Montiel at 6.71%, and Isaiah Martin, aide to Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, with 5.7%
The runoff date, delayed following
DEMOCRACY TRIUMPHS: Menefee and Boykins Advance To Milestone Runoffs As Voters Shape Houston's Future
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Turner’s passing, will be announced soon by Gov. Greg Abbott, marking one of the most closely watched races in the state.
Meanwhile, Congressman Al Green, representing District 9 for 22 years, is expected to announce his campaign for the newly redrawn Congressional District 18, which now overlaps much of his current constituency.
Dwight Boykins Advances in City Council Race
In another competitive contest, former Houston City Council Member Dwight Boykins captured 20.06% of the vote, narrowly trailing Alejandra Salinas, a Rio Grande Valley native and Sussman Godfrey attorney, who led with 21.21%
The two will head to a Saturday,
Boykins, a lifelong Third Ward
emphasized the importance of community trust and service:
“Houston is built on resilience, faith, and love for one another. This race isn’t about politics — it’s about people.”
Diversity Wins Across the Region Progressive momentum continued throughout the region as Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt secured re-election alongside Council Members Sonya Brown Marshall and Lynn Clouser Sharita Thompson will succeed Jeffrey Boney in District B, continuing Missouri City’s
record of inclusive local leadership.
In a landmark outcome, Cy-Fair ISD voters ushered in one of the district’s most diverse and forward-thinking school boards in years. Victories included Dr. Cleveland Lane of Prairie View A&M University, who unseated long-time conservative incumbents Scott Henry and Natalie Blasingame, joined by Lesley Guilmart and Kendra Carmena, who each triumphed over GOP-backed opponents.
At Houston Community College, Trustee Renee Jefferson Patterson earned 49.17% of the vote and advances to a runoff against Kathleen “Kathy” Lynch Gunter to fill the seat previously held by Charlene Johnson, now running for State Representative.
A Celebration of Voter Power
From Harris to Fort Bend County, voter participation surged as citizens embraced their role in shaping the future. Long lines and energized polling sites underscored the strength of Houston’s democracy in action — a reflection of communities determined to build a more inclusive, representative city and region.
As runoff elections and the March 2026 Super Tuesday Primaries approach, Houston Style Magazine applauds every voter who stood in line, every volunteer who helped register neighbors, and every candidate who continues to elevate public service over partisanship.
Democracy thrives when we all show up — and Houston did just that.
December 13, 2025, runoff to fill the seat vacated by Dr. Letitia Plummer, who is now running for Harris County Judge.
resident,
Photography By Linda Toyota
Tammi Wallace - President & CEO
Teneshia Hudspeth - Harris County Clerk
Tammi, JD Doyle & Roy Rivera
Tammi, Dalton DeHart & Roy Rivera
Slip into your best flapper dress or finest pinstripe suit — Juliet Steakhouse & Fine Dining is turning back the clock for a night drenched in Jazz Age decadence.
On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 7 p.m., Houston’s trend-setting Juliet Restaurant will host a dazzling Great Gatsby-themed Burlesque Dinner Show, blending exquisite cuisine, tequila-infused indulgence, and performances that would make even Jay Gatsby raise a glass.
A Spectacular Dinner with Vintage Flair
Guests will savor a four-course gourmet experience ($59.95 per person) inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Roaring ’20s. Each course pairs perfectly with an Agave-driven tequila selection, delivering a culinary performance as thrilling as the live burlesque unfolding before you.
With three dinner seatings available, guests can choose their perfect time to join the glamour — but don’t wait, reservations will sell out faster than Gatsby’s champagne.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Time: 7 PM (three seatings available)
Location: Juliet Restaurant, 5857 Westheimer Rd, Suite P, Houston, TX
Price: $59.95 per person
Reservations: www.juliethtx.com
The Menu: A Tequila-Kissed Symphony
ACT I: BLANCO Teremana v Trulusso Chopped Salad — arugula, romaine, onion, golden raisins, chickpeas, avocado & balsamic dressing.
ACT II: REPOSADO Tequila
Ocho v Don Fulano, Sol Dorado — seared prawn with bright mango salsa & golden saffron aioli.
v Casa Dragones, Azul Y Verde Prime
— Prime New York strip with blue corn tortillas, cilantro, lime, refried black beans & green salsa.
FINALE: CRISTALINO Don
Julio 70 v Volteo, Noche De Cristal — Cristalino-infused horchata cream with espresso-soaked sponge and cacao — a luminous twist on tiramisu.
Additional tequila pairings and Juliet’s signature cocktails will be available
A Night of Glamour and Grit
“This evening is about celebrating artistry, elegance, and the joy of fine dining,” said Travis Hackworth, General Manager of Juliet Steakhouse & Fine Dining. “Our Great Gatsby Burlesque Dinner Show invites Houstonians to step into the era of jazz, style, and sophistication — it’s the perfect blend of theater, flavor, and fantasy.”
About Juliet Steakhouse & Fine Dining
Located in Houston’s bustling Galleria district, Juliet Steakhouse is more than a restaurant — it’s a cinematic experience. With its Hollywood-inspired interiors, ambient lighting, and luxe cocktail vibe, Juliet transforms every meal into an unforgettable scene. The menu features prime steaks, fresh seafood, and artfully crafted cocktails that celebrate local flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Step back into the Jazz Age — where every bite, sip, and shimmy tells a story.
Secure your seat for The Great Gatsby Burlesque Dinner Show now at www.juliethtx.com
Nicholas Payton, trumpet
Mike Moreno, guitar
Ben Williams, bass
Corey Fonville, drums
Friday November 14
8:00 PM
CONCERT SPONSOR
Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center
METRO'S MACK TAYLOR:
35 Years of Service Driving Houston Forward – One Bus Ride, One Photo At A Time
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
For more than three decades, Houstonians have known Mack Taylor as the steady, smiling face behind the wheel of METRO’s buses. But what many don’t realize is that behind that calm demeanor sits a gifted artist whose lens has captured some of Houston’s most powerful moments—both within and beyond the METRO family.
A Journey Rooted in Service and Connection
Born in Jonesboro, Louisiana, and raised in Houston from the age of five, Mack’s life story is one of perseverance, purpose, and creativity. When his brother—already employed at METRO—encouraged him to apply, Mack took the leap. He began his career as a cleaner but quickly set his sights on the open
road, becoming a Bus Operator within a year.
“I’m a people person,” Mack says with an easy grin. “I love serving others. What keeps me going every day is knowing that my work connects people—to jobs, to family, to opportunities. And, of course, the windowpane on the envelope—because that’s where I see my paycheck!”
Over 35 years later, Mack remains one of METRO’s most respected employees, a living bridge between the agency’s operational excellence and its human heart.
A Passion That Focuses on People
Photography wasn’t part of the plan. It all began at his stepdaughter’s graduation when Mack picked up a small point-and-shoot
camera. That spark of curiosity soon grew into a lifelong passion—and eventually, a thriving photography business.
“When I got home, I started researching cameras,” he recalls. “Before I knew it, I was shooting events, portraits, and track meets. Then someone asked me how much I charged. That’s when I realized— this wasn’t just a hobby.”
Since then, Mack has photographed entertainment legends including Cedric the Entertainer, Robin Givens, Bell Biv DeVoe, and the late Frankie Beverly & Maze, with whom he worked for nearly a decade. His camera has captured moments of joy, power, and artistry across the city—each image framed with the same care he gives to his riders.
Through the Lens of Service It wasn’t long before METRO noticed his gift. Former Director of Transportation Robert Augustine invited him to photograph METRO’s Adopt-a-School program, and soon Mack’s work began appearing across the agency’s communications—from ribbon-cuttings and K-9 unit events to leadership portraits and social-media campaigns.
One of his most defining moments came during Hurricane Harvey, when he documented METRO’s readiness and resilience with hauntingly beautiful photos of buses lined up along U.S. 59. Those images, now part of METRO’s visual history, captured Houston’s unwavering spirit of service in crisis.
Retirement,
Return, and Renewal
After 33 years, Mack retired in 2018 to pursue photography full-time. He toured nationally, photographing concerts and cultural events—until the pandemic paused the entertainment world. “When everything shut down, I prayed for a new direction,” he says. “METRO welcomed me back. That was a blessing.”
Rejoining the agency during one of its most challenging times reaffirmed his sense of purpose. Today, he drives routes through Southwest Houston—Westheimer, Bellaire, Beechnut, and Richmond—while continuing to document METRO’s milestones through his lens.
A Legacy of Faith, Focus, and Forward Motion
Mack’s story is about more than longevity—it’s about legacy. The same organization that gave him his start also gave him the foundation to build what he calls his “ministry of service and creativity.” The career provided stability; the camera gave him voice.
“METRO has helped me do everything I love—support my family, serve the community, and grow my business,” he says. “It’s been a blessing.”
From the driver’s seat to the viewfinder, Mack Taylor continues to move Houston forward—with every mile driven and every moment captured, reminding us that the best stories are the ones we live—and share—with heart.
MACK TAYLOR – METRO's Smiling Bus Operator for 35-Years of Service
Houston's own Megan Thee Stallion proved once again that she reigns supreme when it comes to blending glam, good vibes, and hometown pride. At her annual Hottieween celebration, the Grammy-winning superstar raised a glass — or rather, a pouch — to the season’s most spook-tacular drink: Kool-Aid “Ghoul-Aid.”
H-Town Hottie Meets
Glow-in-the-Dark Greatness
This year, Megan turned up the Halloween heat while cooling off with the limited-edition Kool-Aid Ghoul-Aid Jammers, featuring an allnew Zom-berry flavor and the brand’s first-ever glow-in-the-dark packaging. Yes, you read that right — the legendary Kool-Aid Man is now lighting up the night!
“Kool-Aid Ghoul-Aid keeps the Halloween vibes flowing,” said the brand, which is celebrating spooky season with its most imaginative release yet. For the ultimate effect, just place the pouch under a light for five minutes and watch it glow — perfect for any costume party, haunted hangout, or H-Town bash.
Each case comes with 10 pouches of berry-blue deliciousness, offering just the right mix of nostalgia and novelty for fans young and old.
A Sweet Sip of Nostalgia Megan, who is never one to do things halfway, leaned into her Houston roots while
Megan Thee Stallion Brings the Flavor and the Glow to Houston with Kool-Aid Ghoul-Aid at Her Annual Hottieween Bash
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
keeping it playful with her party drink of choice. Photos captured her glowing — literally — as she posed with the limited-edition Kool-Aid GhoulAid, proving that style, celebration, and creativity are the ultimate Halloween trio.
The festive packaging also comes with a Berry-Kool matching game printed on the box — a fun nod to classic childhood play. Kids (and the young at heart) can cut out and flip the cards to reveal four matching pairs, keeping the spirit
The festive packaging also comes with a Berry-Kool matching game printed on the box — a fun nod to classic childhood play. Kids (and the young at heart) can cut out and flip the cards to reveal four matching pairs, keeping the spirit of Kool-Aid fun alive and interactive.
Where to Find the Glow
The glow-in-the-dark Kool-Aid GhoulAid Jammers are now haunting shelves at Walmart, Kroger, Meijer, and other major retailers nationwide — but only while supplies last. With their mix of flavor, fun, and a touch of fright-night flair, these collectible pouches are expected to fly off the shelves faster than you can say, “Oh yeah!”
The Hottie Effect
Kool-Aid fun alive and interactive.
A Sweet Sip of Nostalgia Megan, who is never one to do things halfway, leaned into her Houston roots while keeping it playful with her party drink of choice.
Photos captured her glowing — literally — as she posed with the limited-edition Kool-Aid GhoulAid, proving that style, celebration, and creativity are the ultimate Halloween trio.
From dominating global charts to championing education through her Pete & Thomas Foundation, Megan Thee Stallion continues to show that being a Hottie is about more than music — it’s about empowerment, creativity, and community. Her annual Hottieween celebration has become one of Houston’s most talked-about events, combining A-list energy with hometown love.
So whether you’re channeling your inner Hottie or just want a sip of something fun, Megan’s party pick proves that Halloween in Houston glows brighter — one Ghoul-Aid pouch at a time.
of
For Chef Felipe Riccio, food has never just been about nourishment — it’s been a love language, a bridge between cultures, and a lifelong celebration of family and community. From his early days watching his father and grandmother cook in Mexico to helming some of Houston’s most acclaimed restaurants, Riccio’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
From Missouri City to Michelin Stardom
When Riccio’s family moved from Mexico to Missouri City during his teens, he brought with him a curiosity for flavor and a respect for tradition. He enrolled in Elkins High School’s culinary arts program, where his talent quickly became evident. Upon graduation, he pursued formal training at Houston City College (HCC), earning an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts in 2011 — a foundation that would later support a meteoric rise in Houston’s dining scene.
“I went to school in the morning and worked at night,” Riccio recalls. “That rhythm taught me discipline, balance, and resilience — skills I still rely on every day.”
His early experiences at Aura Restaurant in Sugar Land and Reef in Midtown sharpened his instincts for excellence. It wasn’t long before Riccio’s ambition outpaced his expectations.
FELIPE RICCIO: From HCC Culinary Graduate to Michelin-Starred Restaurateur
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
The HCC Foundation: Mentorship, Mastery, and Momentum
Riccio credits his success to the mentorship he received at HCC, where legendary instructors like Chef Eddy Van Damme and Chef Christy Sykes inspired him to think beyond technique and into artistry.
“When I looked up Chef Eddy and realized a world-class pastry chef was teaching at HCC, I couldn’t believe it,” Riccio said. “Then I met Chef Christy Sykes — she’s still a dear friend. They truly care about their students.”
That sense of community and mentorship continues to define Riccio’s relationship with HCC. Today, he serves on the HCC Culinary Arts Advisory Board, helping shape the next generation of chefs and offering opportunities to HCC graduates in his own restaurants.
“It’s amazing to work alongside
people who’ve walked the same halls,” Riccio shared. “We all share that foundation — that belief that anything is possible with hard work.”
Leading Houston’s Culinary Renaissance
As a partner with Goodnight Hospitality, Riccio helped establish some of the city’s most admired dining destinations, including March, Rosie Cannonball, Montrose Cheese & Wine, and The Marigold Club. His Michelin recognition — a historic milestone for Houston — reflects not only his culinary genius but also his commitment to collaboration and community.
Riccio’s leadership is defined by humility and heart. “My greatest accomplishment is the team we’ve built,” he said. “They believe in what we’re doing, and when recognition comes, they feel proud — that’s the best part.”
Coming Full Circle
In a fitting tribute to his journey, the Greater Houston Chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association recently honored Riccio with the Chairman’s Award at its Golden Fork Awards Gala. The moment was especially meaningful — years earlier, Riccio had received a scholarship from the same organization to attend HCC.
Reflecting on his path, Riccio emphasizes one simple truth: “If you work hard, you’ll get somewhere. HCC taught me that. Every season in our restaurants is about research, growth, and discovery — and that mindset started at HCC.”
Where Future Chefs Are Born
For those inspired by Riccio’s journey, HCC’s Culinary Arts Program continues to train students for success in one of Houston’s fastest-growing industries. With a curriculum rooted in technical mastery, creativity, and real-world experience, it’s where the city’s next great chefs are finding their start.
Interested in learning what’s cooking at HCC?
Visit hccs.edu/culinary-arts
Houston Style Magazine readers, from classrooms to careers, Houston City College continues to turn passion into purpose — and dreams into Michelin stars.
Photography By Linda Toyota
Karen & Roland Garcia
In a world often divided, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Houston continues to unite. This year’s America’s Table Breakfast, happening Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 8:00 AM, celebrates the power of resilience, identity, and shared humanity through the stories of three inspiring Houstonians.
United by the Power of Story
At its heart, AJC’s Community of Conscience reminds us that America’s strength lies in its diversity and dignity. The annual America’s Table event brings together voices across faiths and backgrounds to reflect on the ties that connect us — reminding Houston that unity is not just a value, but a practice.
This year’s honorees — Officer G. Lual, Yona Starosta, and Dr. Dorina Papageorgiou — embody courage and compassion, turning adversity into purpose.
Officer G. Lual – From Refugee to HPD Officer
As one of the 4,000 Sudanese “Lost Boys” resettled in the U.S. in 2001, Officer G. Lual arrived in Houston at age 19 after years of displacement caused by civil war. With determination and community support, he rebuilt his
Celebrating Shared Humanity At AJC Houston's American Table
American
Jewish Committee (AJC) Celebrates Unity Through Storytelling, November 13, 2025
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
life — now serving proudly with the Houston Police Department as a husband, father, and citizen.
“My dream is to take my children to South Sudan to meet their grandmother,” he shared. “Houston gave me a home; now I want to give back.”
Yona Starosta – Standing Proud in Faith
Yona Starosta, a Jewish attorney and child of refugees from the former Soviet Union, understands the courage it takes to embrace one’s identity. Having lived in Israel and Jordan, she’s fluent in five languages and deeply committed to building bridges between cultures.
spoken passionately about the importance of standing proudly in faith. “To show up Jewish,” she says, “is to stand for resilience and remembrance.”
“Resilience connects us,” she says. “It’s the bridge between struggle and strength.”
Join the Table That Unites Houston
Hosted by journalist Khambrel Marshall, this year’s America’s Table is more than a breakfast — it’s a call to connection. Attendees stand with AJC in promoting understanding and unity across Houston’s diverse communities.
Tickets start at $75, with registration closing Monday, November 10, 2025. The event location will be shared upon verified registration.
Reserve your seat: https://donate. ajc.org/americastable
Since October 7, 2023, Starosta has
Dr. Dorina Papageorgiou Science and Strength America’s Table is more than a breakfasDr. Dorina Papageorgiou, a neuroscientist at Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University, draws inspiration from her Greek heritage and family’s survival through war. Her research focuses on restoring brain function after trauma — a reflection of her belief that healing and resilience are deeply intertwined.
GAN AFTERNOON OF VIRTUOSITY: Kelly Hall-Thompkins Bring "Blues to Bach" to
et ready, Houston—classical mastery meets soulful rhythm this fall as internationally acclaimed violinist Kelly Hall-Tompkins graces the stage for Blues to Bach: Kelly Hall-Tompkins in Concert on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 3:00–4:30 PM at Christ the King Lutheran Church (2353 Rice Blvd., Houston, TX 77005). Presented by Bach Society Houston, this captivating program promises an afternoon where the timeless elegance of Bach intertwines with the spirit and swing of the blues.
A World-Class Talent with a Mission Kelly Hall-Tompkins is not just a virtuoso—she’s a visionary redefining what it means to be a classical artist in today’s world. Her rich tone, expressive command, and stylistic range have earned her performances with leading orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Dallas Symphony , and Orchestre de Chambre de Paris, and appearances at such renowned venues as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center
But beyond the concert stage, Hall-Tompkins is celebrated for her social impact. As the founder of Music Kitchen –Food for the Soul, she has brought over 100 live chamber performances to more than 18,000 people experiencing homelessness,
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
reminding us all that music has the power to nourish hearts and bridge humanity.
The Program: From Bach’s Elegance to Modern Resonance
The evening’s repertoire will take audiences on a sweeping musical journey:
Part I
• Johann Sebastian Bach — Sonata No. 2 in A Major for Violin and Harpsichord
• Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson
— Louisiana Blues Strut (solo, unaccompanied)
• Johann Sebastian Bach — Sonata No. 1 in B Minor for Violin and Harpsichord
• Ellen Taaffe Zwilich — A Little Violin Music in Memory of Elijah McClain (solo, unaccompanied)
• Daniel Bernard Roumain — Filter (solo, unaccompanied)
[ Intermission ]
Part II
• Johann Sebastian Bach — Sonata No. 3 in C Major for Unaccompanied Violin
• Lili Boulanger — Nocturne and Cortège (Violin and Piano)
• Jerry Bock and Sheldon Har-
Houston
nick, arr. Oran Eldor — Fiddler Rhapsody (Violin and Piano)
From the precision of Bach’s sonatas to the emotional depth of contemporary tributes like Zwilich’s poignant homage to Elijah McClain, the program weaves a story of timeless artistry and human connection.
Experience the Music, Share the Moment
This concert isn’t just an opportunity to hear world-class music—it’s a chance to witness how art connects centuries, cultures, and souls. Blues to Bach celebrates innovation while paying homage to the past, embodying the same values of excellence, creativity, and inclusivity that Houston’s arts community proudly champions.
Tickets are Pay-What-You-Wish with a $35 suggested donation and $10 student rate, ensuring everyone can enjoy this rare experience.
Reserve Your Seats: www.bachsocietyhouston org/2025-2026season
Houston Style Magazine readers, join us for an unforgettable afternoon where the soul of the blues meets the genius of Bach — and where Kelly Hall-Tompkins proves that great music doesn’t just move audiences; it moves the world.
Houston Dynamo FC & Houston City College: A Dynamic Partnership Powering Houston’s Future
By Lisa Valadez for www.StyleMagazine.com
Houston just scored a game-changing goal off the pitch. In a move that blends the passion of sports with the promise of education, Houston Dynamo FC and Houston City College (HCC) have forged a historic partnership aimed at empowering the city’s next generation of leaders.
Under this new alliance, HCC joins the Dynamo family as the Club’s official education partner, ushering in a wave of collaborative initiatives designed to connect students with real-world experience in the sports and entertainment industry — from marketing and operations to leadership and community engagement.
A Partnership That Means More Than a Game
“This partnership is about opportunity,” said Jessica O’Neill, President of Business Operations for Houston Dynamo FC. “Our Club is deeply committed to creating programs that extend far beyond the pitch.Together with HCC, we’re helping students gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and the confidence to dream bigger.”
Echoing that sentiment, Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher, Chancellor of Houston City College, emphasized that education and athletics share a common goal — preparation for greatness.
“This partnership embodies what Houston City College represents — creating real opportunities that change lives,” she said. “Together with Houston Dynamo FC, we’re uniting education, sports, and community to empower the next generation of leaders.”
Scholarships & Hands-On Experience
At the heart of the partnership lies the Houston Dynamo FC–HCC Scholarship Fund, which will award two annual scholarships to HCC students pursuing degrees in business, marketing, sports, or community leadership. Scholarship recipients will be honored on-field at a Dynamo match and featured in the Club’s “Education Spotlight presented by HCC” series — shining a light on the city’s most inspiring student stories.
Students will also enjoy unprecedented access to internship and job shadowing programs within the Dynamo organization. From behind-the-scenes work at Shell Energy Stadium to learning the intricacies of team operations, communications, and community outreach, this partnership is a launchpad for Houston’s emerging talent.
Kicking Off Careers at Shell Energy Stadium
One of the marquee events born from this partnership will be the “Dynamo x HCC Career Kickoff” — a hybrid job fair, mentorship summit, and industry showcase at Shell Energy Stadium. This immersive event will connect students directly with professionals in Houston’s sports and entertainment sector, offering real insights into what it takes to thrive in these fast-paced industries.
Community Impact
Beyond the Classroom
The collaboration doesn’t stop at the stadium gates. Dynamo players and staff will bring the partnership to life across HCC campuses and local schools through STEM and sports-career workshops, community service projects, and youth soccer clinics. These outreach initiatives aim to blend education with inspiration, nurturing not just future professionals, but engaged citizens committed to their communities.
As part of the agreement, HCC will feature in-stadium signage and game-day visibility at Dynamo matches — a symbol of the shared mission to uplift Houston through education, sportsmanship, and civic pride.
Building a Legacy for Houston
With this partnership, the Houston Dynamo FC and Houston City College are creating something far greater than a sponsorship — they’re building a legacy. Together, they’re proving that when education and sports unite, the entire city wins.
In Houston, it’s more than a game. It’s a future — powered by passion, purpose, and partnership.
