Affordable Housing Roadshow Offers Resources, Guidance, and Hope to Aspiring Homeowners
By Francis Page Jr. For
www.StyleMagazine.com
The dream of homeownership is alive and well in Houston, and PNC Bank, in partnership with Freddie Mac, is making sure that dream is within reach for more families. On Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 11:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., the Houston Affordable Housing Roadshow will take place at the Fountain of Life Center, located at 14083 S. Main Street, Houston, TX 77035. Doors open at 10:30 A.M. for what promises to be an empowering event filled with invaluable resources and expert guidance on home buying.
A Roadshow Designed for Success
Homeownership is more than just acquiring property—it’s about building generational wealth, stability, and community. The Affordable Housing Roadshow is designed to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality, providing attendees with comprehensive tools to navigate the path to homeownership.
This free event will feature industry leaders and housing experts discussing critical topics such as:
✅ Pre-approvals and Soft Credit Pulls – Understanding your financial standing before stepping into the market.
✅ Freddie Mac Affordable Houston Solutions – Exploring exclusive programs tailored for Houston residents.
✅ City and County Housing Programs – Local incentives and assistance for first-time buyers.
✅ Down Payment Assistance and Grants – Learn how to minimize upfront costs.
✅ Options for All Income Levels – Breaking down mortgage accessibility for a diverse range of buyers.
✅ Resources for New and Existing Homeowners – Financial literacy, refinancing, and foreclosure prevention support.
A Power-Packed Panel of Housing Advocates
This year’s Roadshow will feature an all-star panel of professionals and advocates, each dedicated to making homeownership a reality for Houstonians: �� Monique Winston, J.D. – President, MWINS Consulting
�� Dr. Mia K. Wright – Co-Pastor, The Fountain of Praise
�� The Honorable Martha CastexTatum – Mayor Pro Tem, City of Houston �� Michele Byrd Robinson, Th. D. –Vice President, Community Development Officer, PNC Bank
�� Wil Hendrix-Griffin – SVP, Head of Affordable Lending, PNC Bank �� Cassandra Skidanov – Affordable Lending Senior Manager, Freddie Mac �� Roderick Hirsch – Vice President, Affordable Lending, PNC Bank
Each panelist brings a wealth of knowledge, insight, and passion to the table, ensuring attendees leave equipped with actionable strategies to achieve their homeownership goals.
A Mission-Driven Partnership
PNC Bank and Freddie Mac’s collaboration on this initiative is part of a larger mission to increase homeownership opportunities, particularly within underserved communities. PNC Bank has committed $88 billion to bolster economic opportunities and provide access to affordable lending solutions. “We want to ensure that every hardworking Houstonian has the opportunity to achieve the American dream of homeownership,” said Wil Hendrix-Griffin, SVP, Head of Affordable Lending at PNC Bank.
For Dr. Mia K. Wright, this initiative aligns perfectly with her vision for The Fountain of Praise: “Owning a home isn’t just about financial investment—it’s about creating a foundation for families to thrive.”
Meanwhile, Martha Castex-Tatum, Mayor Pro Tem of Houston, emphasized the transformative impact homeownership has on communities: “When families own
homes, they invest in their neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses. This event provides crucial resources to help them take that first step.”
How to Attend
Houston Style Magazine readers, if you’re considering buying a home or simply want to learn more about available resources, don’t miss this event! Registration is easy—secure your spot now by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/PNCFREDDIEROADSHOW2025.
Final Thoughts
Homeownership is a journey, and events like the Houston Affordable Housing Roadshow provide the roadmap needed to turn dreams into reality. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking for better mortgage options, this event offers the guidance, tools, and expert support necessary to navigate the housing market confidently. Join PNC Bank, Freddie Mac, and an extraordinary panel of experts on March 1, 2025, and take one step closer to unlocking the door to your future home!
Follow the Conversation
�� Join the discussion online and share your experience! Use the hashtags #houstonareaurbanleague #HAUL #housing #homeownership #community #PNCBank #FreddieMac to connect with others and spread the word.
Houston Style Magazine is proud to support initiatives that empower communities and uplift Houston residents. Stay tuned for more coverage on events that matter!
COMMENTARY
That's how BlueGreen Alliance president Jason Walsh described to CNN the state that Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant awardees were left in after having their funding frozen (then unfrozen, then frozen again) by the Trump administration.
“Contracts are going to get broken if this doesn’t stop, and workers are going to get laid off,” said Walsh. “I didn’t anticipate how fully brazen they’d be in ignoring the courts.”
It is brazen – for its lawlessness and cruelty, as well as its stupidity.
There’s a lot of lawbreaking going on, from usurping Congress’s constitutional “power of the purse” to defying court orders. But administration efforts to freeze funding appropriated by Congress and claw back money already obligated under contracts threatens our national credibility. And now, with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s attempts to pull back $20 billion in money that has already been awarded under the Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF), we are seeing how the administration’s tactics could potentially cost taxpayers more in lawsuit damages than the money they are trying to freeze and claw back!
And, of course, in that scenario, Americans would lose out on the purpose of the appropriated funds: to lower energy costs, revitalize local economies, and address the climate crisis. The targeted $20 billion in GGRF money is specifically meant to mobilize financing and private capital into clean energy projects to create jobs. And this comes on the heels of Zeldin’s EPA already having illegally frozen funds under contract through the EPA’s Solar for All program.
Federal judges are saying the money needs to keep flowing. One in Rhode Island last week reaffirmed his temporary restraining order to block Trump’s funding freeze and noted the administration was in violation of the order.
As a former congressman and litigator, Administrator Zeldin should have at least a basic understanding of the law. And anyone with common sense should realize attempting to claw back already-disbursed funds to help us avoid the very worst of the
TRUMP’S FUNDING FREEZES AND CLAWBACKS: ILLEGAL, STUPID, DANGEROUS
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
climate crisis is as illogical as it is illegal. These investments are lowering costs for families, providing more reliable and resilient energy options in communities across the country, and helping create good jobs.
If you were to do a quick scan of this administration’s actions and statements over its first four weeks in office, you would see a clear list of national priorities it is willing to sacrifice for tax cuts for billionaires: public health, national parks, cancer research, food for starving people (both at home and abroad), the security of our nuclear arsenal, and good jobs for working families – just to name a few.
What would also stand out are the lengths to which this administration is willing to go – and the straws at which they are willing to grasp – in their efforts to skirt the law and inflict harm on American
communities.
One of the administration's favorite talking points a few weeks ago was that the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had, according to President Trump, “identified and stopped $50 million being sent to Gaza to buy condoms for Hamas.” The claim was meant to justify DOGE’s government-wide slash-and-burn campaign that had just gotten started with USAID, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and Environmental Justice programs.
DOGE head and Trump’s co-president Elon Musk fed the claim into the Far Right’s manufactured outrage machine on his X platform, where it snowballed (reminiscent of the racist lie during the presidential campaign that members of the Haitian immigrant community in Spring-
field, Ohio were eating local pets). Trump himself repeated the claim multiple times and even inflated – baselessly – the cost of the supposed condom shipments to $100 million.
Of course, there was not a shred of truth to those claims. A former Biden administration official who worked on Gaza aid called the claim “imaginary” and said, “It’s a lie, they are making s*** up.” It turns out the Gaza mentioned in the records found by DOGE was probably in reference to HIV and Tuberculosis aid to Gaza Province in Mozambique, and there were no massive condom deliveries to there nor anywhere in the Middle East.
Now, in trying to defend his reckless and ideological war on clean energy funding, EPA Administrator Zeldin and others in the Trump administration are playing the same game. Zeldin and the administration have suggested the contracts with EPA grantees and the process by which funds are administered by Citibank through the GGRF were rushed, not properly vetted, and done in some novel and inappropriate way.
But Zealan Hoover, who directed IRA program implementation at the EPA under President Biden, attests the process and institutions involved were thoroughly vetted and pointed out the government has been using similar arrangements with private banks since the 1800s. And Zeldin’s ‘evidence?’ A supposed sting video by the group Project Veritas, infamous for dishonest smear attacks using highly edited recordings of its targets. Zeldin cited a recording by the group in a bizarre rant he posted to X last week.
Donald Trump and Lee Zeldin should quit skirting the law and defending their actions with outrageous lies. And we should all recognize their actions as the latest evidence they are willing to sink to any low to do the bidding of their fossil fuels cronies.
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
As election season heats up in Sugar Land, democracy is thriving like never before. With 23 candidates vying for key positions in the May 3 municipal elections and seven contenders stepping up for the Fort Bend ISD School Board, the ballot is brimming with fresh faces, seasoned leaders, and trailblazing aspirations.
A Mayoral Race for the History Books
Sugar Land’s mayoral contest isn’t just about policies—it’s about breaking barriers. Three sitting City Council members— William Ferguson, Naushad Kermally, and Carol McCutcheon—are leading the charge in the race to replace outgoing Mayor Joe Zimmerman.
William Ferguson, a 32-year police officer and businessman, brings both law enforcement expertise and entrepreneurial savvy to the table. Having won his re-election bid three years ago with a commanding 82.6% of the vote, he’s a formidable contender.
Naushad Kermally, elected to City Council in 2019, could make history as Sugar Land’s first Muslim-American mayor if elected. His leadership in District 2 has already shaped policies, and his mayoral ambitions seek to expand his influence
LOCAL: SUGAR LAND’S MAY 3RD BALLOT:
A HISTORIC SHOWDOWN
OF LEADERSHIP & LEGACY
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Carol McCutcheon, first elected in 2016, is eyeing the historic milestone of becoming Sugar Land’s first female mayor. With a track record of experience and community engagement, her campaign is rooted in progressive governance and representation. Joining them on the ballot are Michelle Mikeska, Sarwar Khan, and Alex Sowell, with Sowell, the owner of Double Dave’s Pizza in Missouri City, making a surprise last-minute filing.
City Council: Who’s in the Running?
At-Large Position 2
Incumbent Jennifer Lane is stepping down, paving the way for a three-way race:
Ameer Malik, a local businessman
Robert Boetcher, who previously ran in two Republican primaries for State Representative
Outgoing Mayor Joe Zimmerman, looking to transition into a Council role
District 2 & District 4 Shake-Up
With Kermally and McCutcheon pursuing mayoral bids, their seats need successors:
At-Large Position 1
Sugar Land’s City Council seats are also up for grabs, with a dynamic line-
up of candidates aiming to shape the city's future.
With Ferguson vacating his seat to run for mayor, five candidates are vying for the position:
Dr. George Kakanatt, a U.S. Air Force veteran and businessman Muzafarr Vohar, who previously ran for City Council
Aqeel Virk, who contested a Constable race last year
James Vonderhaar and Maggie Horgan, rounding out the diverse field citywide.
District 2: Nasir Hussain, Sanjay Singhal, Bradley Tilton, Frank Nunez, and Gladys Nunez
District 4: Dr. Zenat Mitha, Planning & Zoning Commissioner Sapana Patel, and former State Rep. Rick Miller
• Miller brings a unique mix of military and sports experience as a Vietnam War Navy fighter pilot and a 1968 U.S. Olympic baseball team member. His son, Beau Miller, serves as a Harris County judge. Read More at:
Monica Riley, Sandra Levine, William Ferguson, & Burt Levine
Photos By Linda Toyota & TeamStyleMag
Annise Parker & Gordon Quan
Linda Toyota & Gordon Quan
Leadership Houston – HAUTE Shot
Francis Page, Jr & Judge Eckels
Leadership Houston – HAUTE Shot
LOCAL: HOUSTON FUELS CREATIVITY WITH $100,000 IN GRANT TO ARTISTS AND CULTURAL INNOVATORS
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
Houston is making a bold statement in its commitment to artistic excellence and cultural innovation. The City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) has awarded a total of$100,000 in grantsto40 visionary individuals and nonprofit organizationswhose work continues to push the boundaries of creativity and enrich the city’s vibrant arts landscape
Empowering Houston’s Creative Visionaries
“Houston’s creative community is a vital part of what makes our city dynamic and innovative,” said MOCA Director Necole S. Irvin. “By awarding these grants, we’re empowering local artists and organizations to continue shaping a cultural landscape that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of our city.”These grants, distributed through theLet Creativity Happen!program,
provide a unique platform for artists to take risks, experiment with new concepts, and create work that challenges and inspires.
This initiative—administered by theHouston Arts Alliance (HAA)and funded by the city’sHotel Occupancy Tax (HOT)— is a testament to the city’s dedication to the arts.Unlike traditional funding opportunities,Let Creativity Happen!embraces artistic exploration,supporting projects thatredefine artistic boundaries, elevate conversations around art, and create unique experiencesfor audiences. The program runs three times annually, ensuring that Houston remains a hub of innovation for artists of all disciplines.
Meet the Grant Recipients:
Houston’s Rising Stars
This year’s recipients represent a broad spectrum of artistic fields, from visual arts and music to literature, dance, and com-
munity engagement projects. Their work embodies the cultural heartbeat of Houston, reflecting the city’s diversity, resilience, and creative ambition.Some of the notable grantees of the 2024 final round include:
Adam Castaneda – Choreographer known for his bold and expressive storytelling through dance.
CMC of Houston – A nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting African American musical traditions.
Outspoken Bean – A celebrated poet and spoken-word artist pushing the boundaries of performance art.
Indo-American Association of Houston – Promoting South Asian arts and culture through innovative programming.
Michele Brangwen Dance Ensemble – A dynamic fusion of contemporary dance and live music performances.For the full list of recipients, visit www.houstonartsalliance.com.
What’s Next for Houston’s Artists?
The 2025 Let Creativity Happen! grant cycle is set to open on March 24, 2025, with applications closing on April 22, 2025. Artists, creatives, and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to think big, take risks, and submit their most groundbreaking ideas for consideration.To stay updated on grant opportunities and upcoming cultural
events, sign up for the Houston Arts Alliance Newsletter and follow them on social media:�� Facebook: /houstonartsalliance�� Instagram: @HoustonArtsAlliance
About MOCA & Houston Arts Alliance
The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) leads Houston’s efforts in expanding access to arts and cultural programs, attracting visitors, and leveraging private investments to support the city’s creative ecosystem. Learn more at www.houstontx.gov/culturalaffairs.
The Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) plays a crucial role in supporting local artists and cultural organizations by administering grants, fostering public art projects, and ensuring that Houston remains a thriving artistic hub.Houston Style Magazine readers, this investment in the arts underscores Houston’s status as a cultural powerhouse, where creativity is celebrated and innovation knows no bounds.
Suzan Deison –
Harleaux – Board Chair
Cylenthia Hoyrd – Director H
February 17, 2025 H
Photos By Linda Toyota & TeamStyleMag
Cylenthia Hoyrd & Mayor Whitmire
Suzan Deison - Event Chair
United Airlines – Corporate Award
Mayberry Homes – Prime Contractor
Brandi Harleaux & Mayor Whitmire
Gerald and Sabrina Barnett Named Honorary Chairpersons of the 2025 Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
In an exciting announcement, The Women’s Guild of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church proudly names Gerald and Sabrina Barnett as the Honorary Chairpersons for the 2025 Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show. This highly anticipated event, set for Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton Americas in downtown Houston, is a grand celebration of excellence, service, and community leadership.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
With a long-standing dedication to Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and the broader Houston community, Gerald and Sabrina Barnett embody the very essence of service and commitment. Their leadership has continuously uplifted individuals, families, and community initiatives, making them the ideal honorees for this year’s prestigious event.
“We are thrilled to have Gerald and Sabrina Barnett serve as Honorary Chairpersons for this year’s event,” said Dr. Pamela Cormier, President of The Women’s
Guild. “Their devoted leadership within the church and community makes them the perfect choice for this honor. We are excited to celebrate their contributions as we gather for this important fundraiser benefiting Together for Good Ministries, Inc., and supporting the impactful work they do.”
A Celebration of Excellence and Community Impact
The Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show is more than just an event; it is a testament to the power of community, faith, and philanthropy. Year after year, it recognizes individuals who embody service, leadership, and the spirit of giving.
As this year’s Honorary Chairpersons, the Barnetts will help lead the event in celebrating remarkable individuals who have dedicated themselves to creating meaningful change.
Supporting a Greater
Cause
Proceeds from the luncheon and
fashion show will directly benefit Together for Good Ministries, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to education, transitional housing, and community outreach. Through initiatives like scholarships, mentorship programs, and essential support services, this event plays a pivotal role in uplifting underserved communities in Houston.
Be Part of This Unforgettable Event
Limited tickets are available for this exclusive 2025 Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show. Attendees will enjoy a spectacular luncheon, an elegant fashion show, and a program honoring some of Houston’s most outstanding individuals.
For tickets and additional information, visit the event page on Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church's website or contact wgimpactawards@gmail.com.
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2025
LUNCHEON 11:45AM - 1:30PM
BUSINESS EXPO 10:00AM - 3:00PM
MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOUSTON 1777 WALKER STREET
HOUSTON, TX 77010 2025 ANNUAL AWARDS GALA
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2025
6:00PM - 11:00PM
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HOUSTON, TX 77019
Sponsorship opportunities available (713) 644-7070 | info@houstonhispanicchamber.com www.houstonhispanicchamber.com
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Leader of Houston’s New Majority®
Campus Chronicles
Kendrick Middle School sixth grader Rogelio Lopez emerged as the top speller in the Region IV Spanish Spelling Bee on February 5, 2025, securing first place in the middle school division. With his victory, Lopez has earned a spot in the statewide competition set for June.
Lopez’s success is the result of months of dedication and preparation. He
Four Fort Bend ISD elementary schools—Holley, Jordan, Hunters Glen, and Mission West—have been recognized with a Gold Ribbon distinction by the nonprofit Children at Risk for the 2023-24 academic year. The designation is awarded to schools that earn an A or B rating and serve a student population that is more than 75% economically disadvantaged.
Children at Risk evaluates schools in the Greater Houston Area based on student achievement, performance, and growth, with high schools also assessed for college readiness.
Klein Oak and Klein Cain High School students in Klein ISD’s Accounting & Financial Services Pathway are once again offering free tax preparation services through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Trained and certified as tax preparers, these Career and Technical Education (CTE) students provide assistance to individuals earn-
Naomi Alade, a standout athlete from Carnegie High School, claimed the gold medal in the senior female +73kg category at the 2025 Canada Open in Montréal. Representing Houston Independent School District, Alade triumphed over top competitors from Puerto Rico, Canada, and Spain to secure her victory. Her dominant performance in the international competition further solidifies her status as a rising star in the sport. Currently ranked No. 10 in the world and No. 8 in Olympic rankings, Alade continues to make significant strides toward the global stage.
and his mother practiced daily, using a rigorous study routine. “She had me write down all the words on a piece of paper, like a spelling test,” Lopez said. “If I got one wrong, I’d redo it three times each.”
Grateful for the support of his parents, classmates, and teacher, Mrs. Garcia, Lopez acknowledges the role they played in his journey. With six months until the state competition, he plans to intensify his training.
Lopez, who has previously competed in English spelling bees, was eager to participate in a contest that celebrated his first language. “My first language is Spanish, so if there was ever a Spanish one, I wanted to compete in it,” he said. For fellow students interested in competing, Lopez offers simple but powerful advice: “Believe you can do it, and you can.”
In addition, several FBISD schools received top ratings, with Clements High School and 10 elementary campuses earning an A grade. To view the full rankings, visit the 2023-24 Children at Risk annual school report.
ing $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and Limited English-speaking taxpayers.
Tax services are available by appointment at two locations: Klein Oak High School (22603 Northcrest Drive) and Klein Cain High School (10201 Spring Cypress Road). Eligible individuals can schedule an appointment by emailing kleinoakvita@ kleinisd.net or kleincainvita@kleinisd.net.
Clients must bring necessary documents, including a government-issued photo ID, Social Security or ITIN cards, W-2s, and documentation of income and expenses.
With this latest achievement, she adds another milestone to her growing career, showcasing not only her skill but also her determination on the road to even more success!
Rogelio Lopez
Naomi Alade
Houston favorite springtime jazz series, Jazzy Sundays in the Parks, is back, bringing rhythm, soul, and a whole lot of groove to the city’s most iconic green spaces. With a spectacular lineup of worldclass musicians, this annual series promises to captivate audiences, celebrate Houston’s jazz heritage, and create unforgettable Sunday evenings filled with music, community, and culture.
This free, family-friendly concert series—generously supported by the Kinder Foundation—is produced by Discovery Green Conservancy in collaboration with Buffalo Bayou Partnership and Emancipation Park Conservancy. It honors the deep roots of jazz in Houston while giving space for the next generation of jazz artists to shine.
A Harmonious Spring: Where & When to Catch the Vibes
Music lovers can enjoy Jazzy Sundays in the Parks at three spectacular venues across Houston:
�� Emancipation Park (3018 Emancipation Ave.)
�� March 2, 9, 16 & 23
�� Discovery Green (1500 McKinney St.)
�� April 6, 13, 20 & 27
�� The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park (105 Sabine St.)
�� May 11, 18, 25 & June 1
Jazzy Sundays in the Parks 2025: A Celebration of Houston’s Vibrant Jazz Legacy
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
All concerts run from 5 PM – 7
PM. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs, kick back, and enjoy the music under the open sky. Food trucks will be available, offering delicious bites, so arriving early ensures a prime spot and plenty of time to grab some eats!
Star-Studded Lineup: Who’s Taking the Stage?
�� Emancipation Park (March 2025)
March 02: Robert Glasper with Vince Greer
March 09: J Paul Jr & The Zydeco Nubreedz with S DOTT
March 16: Jones Family Singers with Charmin Greene & Jermaine Williams
March 23: Chris Dave & The Drumhedz with Tex Allen
�� Discovery Green (April 2025)
April 6: Lady Blackbird with Jazz Houston Youth Orchestra
April 13: Kendrick Scott with Monterey Jazz at TSU
April 20: Houston Ensemble and The Adam DeWalt Experience
April 27: Diunna Greenleaf and Laura Walls
�� The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park (May–June 2025)
May 11: MonoNeon and APBOYz
May 18: Bobby Lyle and Patric Johnston
May 25: Lao Tizer Band with Tareon Gully and Houston Groove Society
June 1: Charly Siaba and Los Souldees
For full details on the concert lineup, visit:
�� Emancipation Park
�� Discovery Green
�� Buffalo Bayou Park
More Than Just Music: Supporting Houston’s Green Spaces
Jazzy Sundays is about more than just live music—it’s a testament to Houston’s thriving parks and public spaces. Emancipation Park Conservancy works tirelessly to restore, manage, and enhance Emancipation Park, ensuring that it remains a place of culture, history, and community engagement.
Want to help keep Houston’s parks vibrant? Make an impact! Donations—whether one-time or monthly—help maintain these green spaces for future generations to enjoy. Visit Emanci-
pation Park Conservancy to learn how you can support this incredible initiative.
Read More at:
Houston a city known for its boundless creativity, is once again ready to transform its vibrant downtown into a breathtaking canvas of artistic expression. As one of the nation’s top ten outdoor art festivals, the Bayou City Art Festival Downtown is set to return on March 29-30, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Sam Houston Park and along Allen Parkway.
At Houston Style Magazine, we take pride in being the city’s premier voice in culture, arts, and community engagement. For over three decades, we have been at the forefront, amplifying the voices of local and national artists, showcasing the beauty of diverse cultures, and championing the creative spirit that makes Houston a powerhouse of artistic ingenuity.
A Celebration of Art, Culture, and Community
This year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience, blending artistic mastery with dynamic entertainment and mouthwatering culinary delights. Guests can immerse themselves in a world of creativity, featuring:
�� Live entertainment stages showcasing Houston’s rich musical talent.
�� A Chef’s Culinary Arts Stage, where top chefs will perform live cooking demonstrations.
LOCAL: Houston Style Magazine Invites You to Experience the Magic of the Bayou City Art Festival Downtown
– March 29 & 30, 2025!
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
�� Craft beer and wine gardens, offering refreshing beverages to complement the festival ambiance.
�� An Active Imagination Zone designed to inspire and engage young, budding artists.
�� The Collegiate Art Collective and Middle School Art Competition, highlighting the next generation of creatives.
✨ An exclusive VIP Hospitality Lounge, for a premium festival experience.
This year’s featured artist is the incredibly talented watercolorist Gwendolyn Redfern, whose evocative works capture emotion and movement in stunning, fluid strokes.
The Legacy of Art Colony Association, Inc.
The Art Colony Association, Inc., the 501(c)(3) nonprofit that produces the Bayou City Art Festival, has been enriching Houston’s cultural scene for over 50 years.
Formerly the Westheimer Colony Art Festival, this historic event has evolved into a world-class celebration of art that has raised over $3.7 million to support local nonprofit organizations.
Through grants, corporate sponsorships, and community support, the festival continues to make art accessible to Houstonians while fostering creative excellence. Houston Style Magazine: Proudly Supporting Art & Culture
As Houston’s largest and mostread weekly publication, Houston Style
Magazine has long been a champion of the arts, culture, and community enrichment. Our unwavering commitment to promoting local events and creative excellence aligns seamlessly with the mission of the Bayou City Art Festival.
We recognize the power of art to inspire, uplift, and unite communities, and we are honored to stand alongside Art Colony Association, Inc. in celebrating the artistic heartbeat of Houston.
Houston Style Magazine readers, join us in supporting the artists, engaging with the community, and making lasting memories at this extraordinary weekend celebration!
For more details, visit www.bayoucityartfestival.com.
www.StyleMagazine.com
HHouston’s Libraries Unite: A Digital Love Story for Readers Harris County and Houston Public Libraries Expand Access to eBooks and Audiobooks
ouston, get ready to swipe right on your next great read! In a groundbreaking collaboration just in time for Valentine’s Day, Harris County Public Library (HCPL) and Houston Public Library (HPL) are teaming up to create a literary love affair that will make book lovers swoon. With a combined service population exceeding 4.5 million people, these two powerhouse library systems are linking their OverDrive digital collections, allowing patrons to borrow eBooks and audiobooks with ease—no extra steps, no extra cards, just pure book bliss.
This game-changing partnership means that Houstonians with an HCPL or HPL library card can seamlessly access over 600,000 digital titles through the Libby app, the modern bookworm’s best friend. It’s an expansion of literary possibilities, ensuring that no reader is left behind in the digital age.
A One-Stop Shop for Book Lovers
While the OverDrive collections will remain distinct, the experience for readers will become effortless. Instead of juggling multiple library apps or navigating separate systems, library patrons will have a one-stop shop for their digital reading needs.
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
"HPL and HCPL share many of the same customers, so sharing OverDrive will make it easier for everyone to access a wider variety of digital content. Simplifying the process of finding and checking out books is a win for the community," says Patrick Atkins, Deputy Assistant Director of Library Materials Services & Training at HPL. This partnership underscores a forward-thinking approach to public libraries—adapting to modern reading habits and ensuring accessibility for all.
The Digital
Reading Boom: Why
This Matters
Digital lending is soaring across the country, and Houston’s libraries are at the forefront of this revolution. OverDrive, the leading provider of digital content for libraries, serves over 92,000 institutions worldwide in more than 115 countries. And in an era where 96% of Americans own a smartphone, the demand for digital books is skyrocketing.
HCPL, a pioneer in digital lending, made history as the first Texas library to circulate more than 1 million eBooks in
2016. Last year, HCPL and HPL shattered expectations, circulating a combined total of 12 million digital materials—proof that Houston is a city of avid readers embracing the future of libraries.
A Bold Step Toward the Future of Public Libraries
This agreement between HCPL and HPL is more than just a shared bookshelf—it’s a commitment to literary access, innovation, and equity.
