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Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
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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
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Ben Jealous info@benjealous.com
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PHOTOGRAPHERS
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©2025 Houston Style Magazine, a Minority Print Media, L.L.C. Company. All Right Reserved. Reproduction in whole or within part without permission is prohibited. Houston Style Magazine has a 2021 Audit by Circulation Verification Council (CVC). Houston Style Magazine is a member of the Texas Publishers Association (TPA), Texas Community Newspaper Association (TCNA), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Independent Free Paper of America (IFPA), Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP). National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP, Inc.), Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Latin Women’s Initiative (LWI), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and Supporters of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)
WATTENTION IAH TRAVELERS: METRO
ROLLS OUT A HOLIDAY READY UPGRADE TO THE IAH 500 DOWNTOWN DIRECT
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
hat every Houston Style Magazine reader needs to know before heading to the airport this season Houston’s holiday travel rush is officially underway, and METRO is stepping in with a timely, traveler-friendly improvement designed to make your journey smoother, faster, and far less stressful. Beginning Sunday, December 7, 2025, METRO’s popular IAH 500 Downtown Direct route will now operate from Terminal E at George Bush Intercontinental Airport — a strategic move that enhances visibility, accessibility, and comfort for local commuters and visiting passengers alike.
This is one of those upgrades that seems small… until you’re hauling two suitcases, juggling a carry-on, and trying to remember what level you parked on.
Thankfully, Terminal E delivers exactly what travelers need during peak season: clarity, convenience, and covered walkways.
Why Terminal E Makes Your Trip Easier
Terminal E is now the new home base for METRO’s IAH 500, offering features engineered for effortless navigation:
• Direct access to baggage claim and arrival areas for both international and domestic travelers
• A covered driveway that protects riders from the elements
• A dedicated bus lane to reduce congestion
• Improved signage that guides riders without the guesswork
• Wider roadways and streamlined traffic flow — a major win during the holiday surge
In short, finding your ride just got a whole lot easier.
Everything Riders Already Love
About the IAH 500? Still the Same.
METRO kept all the essentials travelers rely on:
• Service every 30 minutes
• A wallet-friendly $4.50 one-way fare
• Clean, comfortable buses with Wi-Fi
and luggage storage
• A reliable, affordable connection between IAH and Downtown Houston
Whether you're heading into the city for business or returning home to the warm embrace of Houston hospitality, METRO’s IAH 500 Downtown Direct remains one of the city’s best-kept travel secrets — now with an even smoother experience.
Why This Matters
Right
Now Holiday travel can stir up enough chaos without adding airport confusion to the mix. By sharing this update, community partners — including Houston Style Magazine — play a role in ensuring travelers get where they need to go with clarity and confidence. Consider this your friendly nudge to travel smarter, not harder.
& Rider Info Before You Fly METRO has published an updated terminal map along with detailed rider information. Before you pack those bags, tap the link below to plan your route: �� Updated IAH 500 Route Details & Terminal Map https://www.ridemetro. org/riding-metro/transit-services/parkand-ride-bus/route-details/500-iahdowntown-direct.
Houston Style Magazine is proud to support METRO in helping travelers navigate the city with ease — especially during this spirited, high-energy holiday season.
Safe travels, Houston. And remember: the journey begins long before takeoff. www.StyleMagazine.com
COMMENTARY A POST-THANKSGIVING REFLECTION: REDISCOVERING HOPE, HEALING, AND AMERICA’S BETTER ANGELS
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
Thanksgiving always has a way of pulling us back to center. Even in a year when the digital world insists on dividing us—one comment section at a time—the holiday dinner table still reminds us of a simple truth: we love more deeply than we disagree. And that, more than any trending headline, is the pulse of the American spirit.
This Thanksgiving, as families across Houston and the nation gathered with full plates and even fuller hearts, a renewed sense of possibility emerged—one shaped not by political theatrics, but by the quiet, stubborn hope that America can still choose compassion over conflict and progress over partisanship.
Where Bipartisan Courage Still Lives
Long before our national conversations were squeezed into soundbites and social feeds, leaders existed who genuinely believed that fighting poverty, expanding opportunity, and advancing civil rights were not partisan projects—they were American obligations. One such figure was Republican Jack Kemp, whose legacy is unexpectedly resurging thanks to a historic Virginia estate with deep civil-rights roots and a woman determined to keep the flame lit.
Kay Coles James—conservative thinker, trailblazer, and daughter of Richmond’s public-housing neighborhoods—has restored Holly Knoll, the former strategy hub where Black leaders and white allies quietly shaped momentous civil-rights victories. Under its centuries-old oak tree, history teaches that America progresses when its idealists dare to collaborate.
At a time when Congress threatens government shutdowns, food assistance for families hangs in the balance, and political rhetoric grows sharper by the hour, Holly Knoll stands as a reminder that courage is still bipartisan—and that solutions require more than slogans.
A Legacy Rooted in Solutions, Not Sides
Kemp, once told by a reporter that he sounded like a “card-carrying NAACP member,” didn’t flinch. “I can’t help but care about the rights of people I used to shower with,” he quipped—locker-room honesty wrapped in unvarnished truth. To him, civil rights weren’t charity. They were an expression of the American promise.
James carries that same clarity. She champions what Kemp playfully called “bleeding-heart conservatism”—policy with purpose, free enterprise tethered to fairness, empowerment built from empathy.
Through the Gloucester Institute at Holly Knoll, she continues the work of fostering leaders who believe poverty can be solved and communities can thrive without sacrificing dignity or opportunity.
And this work matters. When spaces like Holly Knoll cultivate collaboration instead of combat, America wins—especially the families, workers, and communities too often caught in the crossfire of political gamesmanship.
The Spirit America Needs Right Now
Politics today can feel exhausting.
Social media amplifies every wedge. Headlines insist the sky is falling. But Thanksgiving reminds us of something Washington
often forgets: real change happens when real people meet in real time, with real stakes.
That’s why the example of Kemp and James resonates so powerfully now. Their partnership proves that leadership grounded in humility—and driven by solutions rather than spotlight—can still break through the noise.
It’s also why communities like Houston, known for resilience and generosity, continue to model what collaboration looks like in practice. Here, neighbors help neighbors. Faith leaders partner with civic leaders. Business leaders invest in the people who make this city move. It’s the Holly Knoll spirit, lived out Houston-style.
A Thanksgiving Lesson for the Nation
In a season dedicated to gratitude, we’re reminded to be thankful not just for what we have, but for what we can still become.
America works best when it invests in:
Ending poverty, not scoring political points
Expanding civil rights, not rewriting them
Strengthening families, not dividing them
Elevating solutions, not feeding grievances Those values transcend parties, ideologies, and election cycles. They are the blueprint
for a more just and generous nation.
As we move into the final stretch of the year—and toward the pivotal decisions awaiting us in 2026—the message from Holly Knoll echoes clearly across time: No surprises. Just courage, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of the common good.
A Final Word of Hope
This Thanksgiving, after the dishes were washed and the last slice of pie disappeared, many families across Houston felt something unexpected: renewed optimism. If a former NFL quarterback and a visionary leader from Richmond’s projects could find common purpose in the fight for opportunity, then surely America can, too.
We need another helping of that spirit—served warm, with understanding, accountability, and a generous side of grace. Because when we step away from our screens and come back to the table, we rediscover that we are still one American family, still striving, still dreaming, and still capable of doing remarkable things together. You can write to Ben Jealous incare of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
Houston is back at the polls, proving once again that democracy doesn’t take a holiday break. As Early Voting kicks off for the City Council At-Large Position 4 Runoff, voters across the city are braving chilly winds and busy calendars to choose between Alejandra Salinas and Dwight Boykins, the two top finishers from the November Special Election.
Early Voting Brings Out Houston’s Civic Energy
The first day of Early Voting drew 1,382 voters, a strong start for a December runoff. Polls are open at 30 locations daily through Tuesday, December 9 at 7 PM, ahead of Runoff Election Day on Saturday, December 13. A few sites led the charge:
• West Gray Multi-Service Center topped turnout with 244 voters,
• Freeman Branch Library followed with 188,
• SPJST Lodge in The Heights added 103,
• Moody Park, Bayland Park, and Kingwood Community Center rounded out the busiest locations.
From Acres Homes to Clear Lake, Hiram Clarke to Spring Branch, Houston’s neighborhoods once again showed that civic participation is alive and well.
Two Candidates, Two Clear Visions for Houston Alejandra Salinas brings legal expertise and a high-powered fundraising effort of more than $500,000, positioning herself as a
HOUSTON’S AT-LARGE 4 RUNOFF: DEMOCRACY ON THE MOVE AS VOTERS
DECIDE THE CITY’S NEXT LEADER
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
reform-minded attorney ready to introduce new approaches at City Hall.
Dwight Boykins, a former District D Council Member, enters the runoff with decades of community service and endorsements from respected figures including former Mayor Lee Brown, former Police Chief Clarence Bradford, and Mayor Pro-Tem Martha Castex-Tatum.
In the general election, they finished nearly tied—21% to 20%—setting up one of the
city’s most competitive runoffs of the season.
Leadership Shift at City Hall
After the runoff, Dr. Leticia Plummer will leave her At-Large 4 seat to focus on her next step: the Super Tuesday Democratic Primary for Harris County Judge, where she faces former Houston Mayor Annise Parker. With Lina Hidalgo not seeking re-election in 2026, the county’s political landscape is poised for major
transformation.
Why This Runoff Matters
At-large seats belong to the entire city, making every vote count. December runoffs often come down to razor-thin margins, giving engaged residents extraordinary influence over Houston’s direction on public safety, infrastructure, economic growth, and neighborhood equity.
And at a time when democracy nationwide faces real challenges, Houston continues to model what civic strength looks like: accessibility, participation, and leadership that reflects the people.
How to Vote ~ Early Voting:
�� Now through Tuesday, December 9 Runoff Election Day: �� Saturday, December 13 | �� 7:00 AM–7:00 PM Locations, wait times, and sample ballots: HarrisVotes.com
Houston’s Future Is on the Ballot
Whether voters choose experience or innovation, community legacy or legal expertise, one thing is certain: Houston leads when Houstonians vote. This runoff is an opportunity to shape the city’s next chapter—and the power sits fully with the people.
Show up. Be heard. Lead Houston forward.
Burt Levine, Dwight Boykins & Sandra Levine
HALL ABOARD THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT: UNION PACIFIC & UPVETS ROLL
THROUGH HOUSTON WITH A JOY-FILLED TOY DRIVE FINALE
ouston Style Magazine readers, get ready—because the rails are rumbling with holiday cheer.
This Saturday, December 6, Union Pacific Railroad will bring a season of generosity to a celebratory crescendo as Railroad Santa trades his sleigh for steel wheels and leads a festive train ride through Houston. The grand finale marks the end of a tremendously successful year for the UPVETS Houston/Gulf Coast Chapter, Union Pacific’s national employee resource group representing military veterans and reservists.
And if you spot a shining redwhite-and-blue locomotive rolling through downtown? That’s no ordinary engine. That’s Locomotive No. 1943 – The Spirit, Union Pacific’s powerful, patriotic tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces..
35,000 Toys. One Mission.
A Houston Tradition
This year, UPVETS volunteers collected an extraordinary 35,000 toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program, turning Houston’s offices, restaurants, stores, and neighborhoods into hubs of holiday giving.
For seven years, this local chapter has mobilized volunteers, recruited sponsors, and placed donation boxes across the
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
region—each year outdoing the last. Their commitment reflects the heart of Union Pacific, where nearly 18% of employees are U.S. military veterans or reservists, many still actively serving.
Their message is simple: Community service never stops—and neither does the railroad.
Ride Along with Railroad Santa & the Marines
The celebration ride will feature coach and observation cars from Union Pacific’s iconic Heritage Fleet, as Marines in full dress uniform join Railroad Santa for a rolling salute to community service,
volunteerism, and holiday joy.
Media—and a lucky few—may even hop aboard for the ride. Seats are extremely limited and first come, first served, adding a touch of exclusivity to one of Houston’s most heartwarming traditions.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Departure: 9:00 AM CST
Arrival: 10:00 AM CST (estimated)
Location: Amtrak Depot – Downtown Houston
Guests, spectators, and photographers are encouraged to arrive early to capture the moment the 1943 “Spirit”
locomotive powers up and rolls out with Santa waving from the rails.
A Salute to Service — and to Houston
Union Pacific’s support of veteran employees isn’t symbolic—it’s structural. With military veterans making up nearly one-fifth of its workforce, UP ensures leadership opportunities, skills development, and strong community partnerships. UPVETS exemplifies that commitment by pairing service to the nation with service to neighbors.
Through the Toys for Tots drive, these veteran employees continue their proud tradition of showing up where their community needs them most.
Holiday Magic, Houston-Style
This celebration isn’t just a toy drive finale—it’s a uniquely Houston moment. Heritage railcars, Marines, Santa in overalls, and a patriotic locomotive sweeping across the city? That’s the kind of story only Houston writes.
As the toy-filled train rolls into downtown, it carries more than gifts. It carries gratitude, unity, and the steady reminder that when Houston gives, Houston gives big.
Houston's cherished holiday traditions shine brightest when families gather, memories are made, and a little seasonal sparkle fills the air. This December, one of the city’s most beloved celebrations returns as The Annie Café & Bar once again opens its doors for its enchanting Brunch with Santa on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM.
A signature event rooted in joy, community, and culinary excellence, Brunch with Santa has become a must-experience holiday ritual for Houston families — and this year promises even more festive delight.
A Texas-Touched Holiday Tradition in the Heart of the Galleria
Presented by Berg Hospitality Group, The Annie Café & Bar blends the warmth of Texas-inspired American cuisine with a vibrant, sophisticated dining atmosphere. As one of Houston’s standout destinations on Post Oak Boulevard, The Annie has earned a loyal following through its elevated flavors, thoughtful service, and signature Houston charm.
During Brunch with Santa, that charm meets Christmas magic.
A Morning of Festive Feasting and Family Fun
Guests can look forward to a lavish brunch buffet spotlighting favorites from The Annie’s celebrated menu. Adults will be wel-
10.81" x 6.5".pdf 9 11/24/25 13:54
HOLIDAY MAGIC RETURNS: THE ANNIE CAFÉ & BAR
WELCOMES FAMILIES
FOR ITS ANNUAL “BRUNCH WITH SANTA” ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2025
By Francis Page, Jr. for
www.StyleMagazine.com
comed with a complimentary mimosa or bellini, while kids can indulge in a cheerful hot chocolate and apple cider bar guaranteed to make spirits bright.
But the holiday fun doesn’t stop at the table. Families will enjoy:
• Photos with Santa — perfect for capturing this year’s holiday card moment
• Cookie decorating stations
• Hands-on holiday crafts for creative little elves
• A festive magician spreading wonder and laughter throughout the morning It’s the perfect kickoff to Houston’s holiday season — stylish, spirited, and filled with family-friendly joy.
Pricing & Reservations
Adults: $89 • Children (Ages 5–12): $49 Due to the popularity of this annual event, early reservations are strongly encouraged. Reserve your table now through OpenTable: https://www.opentable.com/r/the-annie-cafeand-bar-houston
Event Details
Date: Sunday, December 7, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: The Annie Café & Bar 1800 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 6170 Houston, TX 77056
Phone: 713-804-1800
A Houston Holiday Experience Worth Savoring
Houston Style Magazine readers, as the holiday season unfolds, The Annie Café & Bar continues its tradition of creating meaningful, memory-filled moments for Houston families. With exceptional cuisine, magical entertainment, and Santa himself in attendance, this brunch is set to be one of the city’s most heartwarming seasonal highlights.
Houston Style Magazine is proud to spotlight community traditions that bring families together — and The Annie’s Brunch with Santa remains one of the most delightful ways to celebrate the spirit of the season.
ON THE GROUND, IN THE COMMUNITY: A TEN-YEAR JOURNEY WITH
METRO’S STREET TEAM
By Kaila Contreras-Aradillas, Media Specialist, Houston METRO
For ten years, the METRO Street Team has been one of the most trusted, consistent faces riders encounter across the Houston region. Long before the first morning buses rolled out or service updates hit inboxes, the Street Team was already in the field—meeting riders where they are, offering guidance, comfort, and clarity through some of METRO’s biggest moments.
What began as a small group of energetic summer interns has grown into a decade-strong program woven into the fabric of METRO’s customer service mission. And today, as the Street Team marks its 10-year anniversary, their story stands as a testament to dedication, resilience, and community connection.
A Team Built for Change
In 2015, METRO implemented one of the most significant service changes in its history: the New Bus Network. To help riders navigate the new system, the agency needed a real-time, face-to-face way to communicate changes.
Tanya McWashington, Chief Administration Officer, and one of the few who helped kick-start the Street Team, remembers the urgency to get this new program started.
“The magnitude of this service change required a more direct, attention-grabbing approach. We needed people to really pay attention,” McWashington said. “Their presence provided not only information but reassurance during a time of significant transition.”
From the start, the Street Team set the tone for what customer-first support
HOUSTON METRO’S H STREET TEAM H
looks like. In the heat of summer, team members arrived at 3 a.m. and 4 a.m., to hand out service-change materials directly to riders and stayed into the evening to support late-shift workers.
A Different Kind of Customer Engagement
Unlike traditional Public Engagement staff, who focus on relationship-building, the Street Team provides immediate, real-time support across the system—on buses, at shelters, at transit centers, and anywhere riders need them.
Kayona Bastian, Public Engagement Project Manager and Street Team Manager, said the Street Team’s presence is especially needed to provide that human connection.
“They offer that personal touch with our riders. They make riders feel seen and valued… ensuring METRO hears the community’s voice directly,” Bastian said. “Their presence shows that METRO isn’t just about buses and trains—it's about people, relationships, and shared journeys.”
Becoming Part of METRO’s Culture
Though part-time, Street Team members are fully embedded into METRO’s outreach efforts. Training, team building, and agency communication ensure they remain aligned and informed.
Former Street Team member—and now Public Engagement Manager—Wilfredo Santamaria still considers his Street Team experience foundational.
“At the time, I was looking for a job—even if it was temporary—so I didn’t
think I’d be at METRO longer than a few months. And here I am 10 years later,” Santamaria said.
Frontline Through Houston’s Big Moments
Over the past decade, the Street Team has represented METRO in some of Houston’s largest events:
• Super Bowl LI
• NCAA Men’s Final Four (2016 & 2023)
• Multiple World Series events and parades
• Major cultural celebrations and festivites
During emergencies, their role becomes especially critical. During the pandemic, members distributed service updates from inside personal vehicles at Park & Ride lots to ensure healthcare workers received accurate, up-to-date information.
“Whether it's service changes or weather emergencies, Street Team members provide immediate support that strengthens the community’s confidence in METRO,” Bastian said.
The People Behind the Program
The Street Team’s strength lies in its people—students, retirees, bilingual communicators, full-time professionals, and former operators. Their diversity enables them to connect authentically with Houston’s riders.
Current member Keonte Sowunmi, a finance student at Houston City College, has been with the Street Team for a year. He says the experience changed his understanding of METRO and of his community needs.
The Street Team became more than
just a part-time job for Sowunmi, it became a mentorship.
“I would likely be lost without the guidance provided by the team,” Sowunmi admitted. “Every conversation I’ve had has been filled with wisdom. I feel comfortable asking for advice and receiving support in return.”
And that support has shaped his future goals.
“I believe I’ve been given an opportunity,” Sowunmi said. “And it’s up to me to make the most of it. I’m grateful for this chance.”
A Decade of Service A Future of Possibility
Ten years in, the METRO Street Team is more than a group of part-time employees—it’s a symbol of METRO’s commitment to meeting riders where they are, listening to their needs, and helping them navigate a growing and evolving transit system.
The Street Team has helped Houston move forward for a decade. And their story is only just beginning.
“I hope the Street Team continues to be a source of insight for our riders and the community,” Santamaria said. “I hope to see it become a model for other entities looking for effective strategies to engage with the community.”
On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the West Club at NRG Stadium transformed into a hub of purpose, partnership, and protection as the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation (HCSCC) hosted its annual No Trafficking Zone (NTZ) Press Conference. What unfolded was not simply a press event—it was a declaration that Houston leadership is united, unwavering, and ready to push the nation’s anti-trafficking movement into an even stronger era.
Five years after NRG Park made history as the first sports and entertainment campus in America designated a No Trafficking Zone, stakeholders convened to mark not just an anniversary, but the growth of a movement now replicated across stadiums, arenas, and sports organizations nationwide.
NTZ’s pioneering Game Over Initiative has become the blueprint for community-protection models coast to coast, proving—once again—that Houston leads where others follow.
Leaders, Lawmakers, and Changemakers Stand Shoulder to Shoulder
The morning featured remarks from influential voices dedicated to ensuring that public venues remain safe spaces for families and young people.
Houston City Council Member Twila Carter (At-Large Position 3) represented
Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation Elevates the Fight Against Exploitation with Powerful “No Trafficking Zone” at NRG Stadium
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
the Mayor’s Office with a message of unity and civic responsibility, reinforcing that Houston will continue strengthening systems that protect its residents—especially its most vulnerable.
Texas State Representative Ron Reynolds (District 27) delivered one of the event’s most impassioned speeches, calling for bold, statewide action to make Texas a comprehensive No Trafficking Zone. With laser focus, he emphasized the urgent need for legislation like SB 1212, highlighting his collaboration with NTZ to elevate survivor protections, expand public awareness, and embed trafficking prevention into Texas’ public safety infrastructure.
“Every community, every county, and every venue must be part of the solution,” Reynolds urged, drawing nods across the room.
A
Vision Carried by Survivors, Champions, and National Partners
At the center of the movement stands Jacquelyn Aluotto, President of No Trafficking Zone, whose leadership continues to shape national anti-exploitation strategies. Aluotto outlined NTZ’s sustained mission to disrupt trafficking networks through education, visibility, partnerships, and community-driven prevention. She also proudly acknowledged NTZ’s recent honor:
the Jerry Kramer NFL Alumni Child ID Trailblazer Award, recognizing the organization’s groundbreaking child-safety initiatives. Aluotto then introduced the national and regional partners anchoring the NTZ Game Over Initiative:
• Mike McDaniels , Director, Houston HIDTA
Captain Mike Santos, Harris County Sheriff’s Office
• Kenny Hansmire , Executive Director, National Child ID Program
• Mike Singletary, NFL Hall of Famer and national advocate for youth protection
Singletary reminded attendees that athletes and NFL alumni hold enormous influence in shaping cultural awareness around child safety. “The locker room has power—but so does the community,” he said, emphasizing the importance of collective vigilance.
Survivor
Testimony: The Heart of the Movement
Perhaps the most moving moment came from Courtney Litvak, a nationally recognized survivor advocate whose courage has reshaped the way communities understand exploitation.
CHEF ANDREW ZIMMERN SHARES THE RECIPE FOR SUCCESS WITH HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE – CULINARY ARTS
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Houston City College (HCC) has long been the launchpad for Houston’s most determined dreamers—entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders who step into its classrooms ready to reshape their futures. That legacy continued in brilliant fashion when the world-traveled, Emmy and James Beard Award-winning Chef Andrew Zimmern, made a stop in the Houston area to serve something far richer than a signature dish: hard-earned wisdom for the next generation of culinary leaders.
Zimmern—beloved host of Bizarre Foods, The Zimmern List, and What’s Eating America—made the stop was in Houston to promote his latest project, The Blue Food Cookbook: Delicious Recipes for a Sustainable Future, co-written with chef and sustainability advocate Barton Seaver. At one point during the visit, the bestselling author and philanthropist shifted gears from global flavors to global advice.
The HCC Difference: Where Culinary Careers Are Built One Skill, One Class, One Opportunity at a Time
For decades, HCC has been a cornerstone of accessible, world-class workforce development in Houston. Its Culinary Arts Program—one of the region’s most respected—has trained talented culinarians who now thrive in restaurants, hotels, food trucks, catering companies, and hospitality ventures across Texas and beyond. The college’s hands-on learning model, industry-connected faculty, and affordability have made culinary education achievable for thousands of Houstonians.
HCC is a place where ambition meets guidance, where raw passion meets discipline, and where students receive not just training, but mentorship.
Zimmern’s Recipe for Success: “Your Career Is Built Step by Step—Not Overnight”
In today’s social-media-driven world, Zimmern emphasizes that culinary success doesn’t happen with a single viral video or the sudden unveiling of a cookbook.
“Mastery takes time, discipline, and humility,” he said.
“The question isn’t ‘When will I have a restaurant?’ The question is: ‘What do I need to do to reach that goal?’”
He says that every great chef begins with the same ingredients: patience, perseverance, and the willingness to learn. Some aspiring chefs will take the “riskiest route,” launching a business early and learning through trial and error. Others will choose to learn the industry from the inside— studying operations, leadership, systems, and management under seasoned professionals before
branching out.
Zimmern urges every student who aspires to be successful in the culinary world to visualize their dream now—whether it’s owning a food truck in Third Ward, running a boutique catering company in Pearland, or debuting a signature restaurant in Downtown Houston—and then chart the steps to get there.
“Anything is doable, and any dream a student has is 100% possible,” he encouraged. “But you have to do the work. Learn your voice. Learn how to communicate.”
Success Has No Age Limit And HCC Proves It Every Day
One of the most powerful moments came when Zimmern spoke to all starting a culinary career later in life.
“You are not too old. You can do anything at any age,” he said. “There are so many success stories of culinary professionals in their 50s and 60s—finally figuring out what they want to do.”
His message echoed HCC’s enduring belief: education isn’t bound by age, chapter, or background. From young creatives exploring food for the first time to mid-career professionals switching paths, HCC embraces every learner.
At Houston City College, passion never expires—and neither do opportunities.
A Sustainable Future: The Mission Behind The Blue Food Cookbook
Zimmern’s new cookbook—centered on sustainable blue foods like algae, seaweed, and aquatic plants—invites readers to rethink how food systems impact the planet’s future. His commitment to sustainability aligned seamlessly with HCC’s own mission: preparing students for a culinary world that values innovation, responsibility, and environmental awareness.
Ready to Start Your Culinary Journey? Houston City College Is Your First, Best Step Zimmern’s wise words symbolize something powerful: HCC isn’t just training chefs—it's shaping Houston’s culinary future. Step into an HCC kitchen, and you step onto a pathway filled with possibility, mentorship, creativity, and world-class instruction at a fraction of the cost of traditional culinary schools.
If you’re ready to build a dream that’s yours alone—whether you’re 18 or 58—HCC’s Culinary Arts Program is waiting for you.
Explore programs, career pathways, and enrollment options at: hccs.edu/culinaryarts
The first step to a BRIGHTER FUTURE!
Ready for a fresh start?
Apply now to earn your workforce certificate in any of HCC’s Construction Trades Continuing Education, available at our Central and South Campuses , empowering you with hands-on skills for a thriving career in construction. Complete your certificate in two semesters or less and enter Houston’s second fastest growing workforce sector.
*Scholarships & Finance Aid available for qualified applicants.
Programs include:
• AutoCAD Draftsman
• Air Conditioning Technician, OSA
• Construction Framers, OSA
• Stationary Engineering Exam Preparation
• Plumbing Technician
• Construction Project Administration
• Drywall Installation and Repair
• Residential Construction, OSA
• Electrical Technician
• Solar Installer
Andrew Zimmern, Todd Duplantis, & Barton Seaver
Texas City Half Marathon Returns Dec. 6
Volunteers Needed & Big Perks Await
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
The excitement is building for the Texas City Half Marathon, 10K, 5K & Family Mile, happening Saturday, December 6, 2025. Powered by RunSignup and supported by Houston Methodist, this Gulf Coast favorite invites runners of all levels to hit the pavement—and invites community volunteers to play a starring role.
Organizers are calling for 12 more Energy Station (water stop) volunteers, offering one of the most generous perks in Texas racing:
Volunteer in 2025 — Run FREE in 2026
Sign up as an Energy Station volunteer and earn:
• FREE entry to ANY distance—including the half marathon—in the 2026 Lone Star Race Series (Space City, Sugar Land, or Texas City).
• A race-day volunteer shirt, food, and drink.
• Transferable entries you may gift to a friend or family member.
Only the Energy Station crew receives the full half-marathon reward; other volunteer roles offer free 5K/10K entries or 50% off the 2026 half. Energy Station volunteers are the heartbeat of race
day—lifting spirits, handing out hydration, and helping runners push through their toughest miles. If you love high-energy events and giving back, this is your moment.
Register or Volunteer Today
Whether you're racing or cheering from the sidelines, there’s a place for everyone at this community-driven Gulf Coast tradition.
Race Registration: �� https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/ TexasCity/TexasCityHalfMarathon Volunteer Sign-Up (Energy Station & All Roles):
�� https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/ TexasCity/TexasCityHalfMarathon/volunteer
After completing your shift and checking in/out, instructions to redeem your 2026 race entry will be emailed directly. This exclusive offer is only available at the 2025 Houston Methodist Texas City Half Marathon and limited to the final 12 volunteers needed.
Houston Style Magazine Celebrates Community in Motion
At Houston Style Magazine, we know that events like the Texas City Half Marathon don’t just build strong runners—they build strong communities. They bring together families, students, corporate teams, civic groups, and everyday neighbors with one mission: to support one another and make Houston and the Gulf Coast healthier and more connected.
This December, whether you're running, cheering, volunteering, or celebrating from the sidelines, you’re part of something powerful.
Volunteers Make the Race. Will You Join Them?
Sign up today, grab a water jug, throw on your volunteer shirt, and help fuel runners toward the finish line.
Race day magic is made by people like you—and this year, the rewards are better than ever.
Ice Cube is proving—yet again—that legends don’t simply tour; they make moments. And on Monday, April 20, 2026, the global icon will bring his fire, force, and four decades of cultural dominance to the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre for 420 on the Rocks, presented by AEG. With Big Boi and Czarface joining the lineup, this is shaping up to be one of the most electrifying hip-hop events of 2026.
Hip-Hop Titan Returns April 20, 2026, With Big Boi & Czarface for a Monumental Night in the Rockies
This headlining return lands fresh off Cube’s critically celebrated national one-man tour, Truth to Power: 4 Decades of Attitude, where the West Coast architect delivered explosive, no-opening-act performances in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, and more. Critics weren’t just impressed—they were in awe.
Black Enterprise hailed Cube for delivering “far more than today’s typical concerts,” while the Cleveland Plain Dealer marveled that he “never sounded out of breath or out of command”—a rare feat in today’s era of backing tracks and shortcuts. Dallas Observer crowned his show “an absolute treat…not to be missed,” and Rolling Out captured the raw electricity of fans losing themselves the moment the opening
ICE CUBE SET TO IGNITE RED ROCKS WITH A 420 EXPERIENCE FOR THE AGES
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
beat of “F*** tha Police” cracked through the speakers “like a lightning strike.”
In short: Ice Cube did not come to play. He came to remind America that he’s still one of hip-hop’s most unshakeable pillars.
Red Rocks + 420 + Ice Cube = A Cultural Earthquake Waiting to Happen
Perched among towering sandstone monoliths and boasting some of the most revered acoustics on the planet, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is more than a ven-
ue—it’s a rite of passage for music greats. From soul icons to rock gods, the legendary Colorado stage has hosted artists who define generations.
On 420, one of the most spirited cultural days of the year, Ice Cube returns to carve his moment into the mountain.
Joining him is Big Boi, one half of the legendary OutKast and a Southern rap pioneer whose stage presence alone can turn any night into a festival.
Rounding out the powerhouse lineup is Czarface—the hip-hop supergroup featuring Inspectah Deck of the Wu-Tang Clan, 7L, and Esoteric—bringing gritty East Coast lyricism to balance this West Coast–meets–Dirty South–meets–Boom Bap collision.
Three regions. Three eras. One monumental night.
Why This Show Matters
Ice Cube performing at Red Rocks on 420 is more than an event—it’s a cultural alignment. The date, the venue, the lineup, and Cube’s unstoppable momentum form a perfect storm for fans craving authenticity, nostalgia, artistry, and pure unfiltered hiphop energy.
Following his most successful year of touring in over a decade, this Red Rocks performance is expected to be a highlight
not only of Cube’s 2026 schedule—but of the entire live music calendar.
With no gimmicks, no shortcuts, and no slowing down, Ice Cube continues to show exactly why he remains one of the most respected voices in music, film, sports, business, and culture.
Tickets & Event Details
Tickets are on sale now—Friday, November 21 at 10:00 AM MT—via RedRocksOnline.com and all official ticketing partners.
Fans who know the history of 420 at Red Rocks understand one thing: these tickets do not last.
ABOUT ICE CUBE: A LIVING BLUEPRINT OF AMERICAN CULTURE
From architecting gangsta rap with N.W.A. to becoming a multi-hyphenate mogul whose impact spans music, film, sports, and business, Ice Cube remains one of the most influential figures in modern entertainment.
Houston's performing arts scene is preparing for a vibrant jolt of creativity as the University of Houston Dance Program unveils its much-anticipated “Emerging Choreographers Showcase,” an annual celebration of fresh perspectives, daring storytelling, and the next wave of dance innovators shaping the city’s artistic future. This year promises a particularly electrifying lineup, amplified by the premiere of “Colors of a Woman,” choreographed by rising star Kylie Jefferson and performed by the magnetic duo Cecilia Garza-Luna and Myah Morales.
With each premiere work, UH’s senior choreographers invite audiences into personal worlds filled with triumph, reflection, cultural pride, and courageous vulnerability—reminding us why Houston continues to be a national hub for diverse creative talent.
A Showcase of Stories That Move the Soul
“The Heart’s Pursuit” – Choreography by Rachel Croom
Croom opens the evening with a contemporary tapestry of emotion, charting the exhilarating highs, aching lows, and tender in-betweens that define the human journey toward one’s dreams. It is a reminder that destiny rarely runs in a straight line— and that the detours often teach us the most.
A
DAZZLING NEW ERA OF MOVEMENT: UH’S “EMERGING CHOREOGRAPHERS SHOWCASE” RETURNS WITH BOLD VOICES, BRAVE VISIONS, AND THE MANY BRILLIANT ‘COLORS OF A WOMAN’
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
“Her Color Is Power” – Choreography by Asia Hawkins
Hawkins presents femininity in its many forms: soft yet fierce, vulnerable yet radiant. This dynamic heels piece boldly affirms that womanhood is a spectrum of light, shadow, and unstoppable power—and even the costumes carry secrets waiting to be revealed.
“Depths of Devotion” – Choreography by Caitlin Gamel
Inspired by the life-risking bravery of cave divers, Gamel asks a haunting question: What do we sacrifice for passion? With each movement echoing the tension between danger and devotion, this piece becomes a physical meditation on purpose
and mortality.
“Untitled” – Choreography by Melanie Garcia & Cecilia Gomez Garcia and Gomez infuse the stage with Latin American rhythm and heart while confronting immigration experiences often left unheard. “Our goal is to tell our story and the story of those who do not have the luxury to speak up,” says Gomez. The result is a stirring tribute to resilience, identity, and cultural pride.
New Work by Sydni Lee Lee places five dancers inside a structured musical framework, only to allow their voices—literally—to disrupt and reshape it. The dancers create their own soundscape, blending precision and improvisation to explore how human expression constantly bends the rules it’s given.
Solo by Talia Saulsberry Saulsberry confronts the overwhelming feeling of “drowning”—emotionally, creatively, or literally—through movement that pushes the limits of the body’s expressive potential. Her work illuminates the spaces between ideas, the gaps that artists struggle to fill, and the courage required to face them.
“Homage” – Choreography by Erin Paulina Sorola Sorola closes the showcase with a triumphant celebration of freedom, con-
fidence, and unapologetic self-expression. Drawing inspiration from house culture, Black and Latino dance traditions, and the LGBTQ+ community, “Homage” is a vibrant reminder that dance can be both sanctuary and liberation.
Featured Premiere: “Colors of a Woman” by Kylie Jefferson
The highlight of the weekend is Jefferson’s exquisite new work—an ode to the strength, softness, and kaleidoscopic experiences that shape womanhood. Performed by Cecilia Garza-Luna and Myah Morales, the piece blends elegance, fire, and emotional nuance in a way only Jefferson can deliver. Expect beauty. Expect boldness. Expect to be moved.
Event Details – Mark Your Calendar
Friday, December 5, 2025 – 12:00 PM & 7:30 PM CT
Saturday, December 6, 2025 – 7:30 PM CT
VENUE: Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre 3351 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204 Tickets: $10–$20 �� Purchase Tickets: https://kgmcaboxoffice.universitytickets. com/w/default.aspx?cid=180 �� More Information: (713) 409-2838
