Allies In Hope: Houston Unifies To end HIV At The 2025 Hope For Houston Ball
By Francis Page, Jr. for
Houston’s philanthropic spirit takes center stage this fall at the 2025 Hope for Houston Ball, hosted by Allies in HOPE, a coalition of local and national partners dedicated to ending the HIV epidemic. On Friday, November 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM CST, the city’s top leaders, community advocates, and corporate champions will gather at The Revaire, 7122 Old Katy Rd, Houston, TX 77024, for an evening that celebrates progress, unity, and the enduring power of hope.
A Visionary Night of Impact and Inspiration
This year’s Shelby Hodge Visionary Award will be presented to U.S. Business Action to End HIV, a groundbreaking Health Action Alliance Initiative that brings together businesses across America to help eradicate the HIV epidemic. With active chapters in Atlanta, Houston, and Los Angeles, this coalition demonstrates the power of corporate leadership to drive public health change through compassion, education, and community engagement.
“Allies in HOPE is proud to partner with U.S. Business Action to End HIV,” said a Houston Chapter advisory board member. “Our shared vision is simple but powerful— mobilize businesses to become champions for health equity, prevention, and inclusion.”
To learn more or join the movement, visit usbusinessaction.org.
Honoring Houston’s Humanitarian Trailblazers
This year’s Ada Edwards Humanitarian Awards spotlight two exceptional Houston changemakers whose visionary work continues to shape public health and equity across the region.
be honored for his innovative launch of Hip Hop for HIV, an HIV testing and awareness initiative that began in 2007. Partnering with AIDS Foundation Houston and the City of Houston Health Department, the program offered free concert tickets to young adults who completed HIV testing—resulting in more than 50,000 people tested over a decade. The concept became a national model for community health outreach, proving that creativity and culture can save lives.
The Greater Houston LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, led by co-founder and CEO Tammi Wallace, will also receive the Ada Edwards Humanitarian Award. The Chamber’s ongoing work with U.S. Business Action to End HIV has amplified awareness, inclusion, and corporate responsibility in the fight to end HIV. Their leadership has built bridges between the business community and advocacy networks, ensuring that Houston remains a city of compassion and progress.
VIP Highlights: The City’s Brightest Join Forces for Hope
The 2025 Hope for Houston Ball promises to be a glittering evening filled with elegance, generosity, and purpose. Guests will include Houston’s most influential civic, business, and philanthropic leaders, alongside advocates and public health champions who share one goal — ending the HIV epidemic in our lifetime.
Among the VIPs expected to attend are:
• Senator Borris Miles , honoree and public health advocate
• Tammi Wallace, CEO of the Greater Houston LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce
• Shelby Hodge , social columnist and namesake of the Visionary Award
• Members of the U.S. Business Action to End HIV National Leadership Council
Guests will enjoy a black-tie dinner, live entertainment, a VIP champagne reception, and a special tribute performance honoring the legacy of those lost to HIV/ AIDS and the resilience of survivors whose courage continues to inspire change.
Sponsor Recognition: Partners in Progress
The 2025 Hope for Houston Ball would not be possible without the generosity of its presenting and supporting sponsors who embody the heart of Houston’s giving spirit.
H-Town Hero Sponsor:
• Frost Foundation
Hope Champion:
• Gilead Sciences
Prevention Promoter:
• King & Spaulding
• Oceaneering
Community Ally:
• Husch Blackwell
• Joseph C. Gathe, Jr.,MD
• Lori Whitaker
• Kyle Pierce
• LaRence Snowden, PhD
• Chris Lewis Architecture
• HEB
• Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church
A Night to Remember, A Cause to Believe In
Beyond its black-tie glamour and heartfelt tributes, the Hope for Houston Ball is a call to action — reminding us that Houston leads best when it leads together. With business leaders, advocates, and community organizations aligning for one purpose, the future is filled with the promise of health, equality, and hope.
Event Details & Tickets
Event: 2025 Hope for Houston Ball Allies in HOPE Celebration
Date & Time: Friday, November 14, 2025 – 7:00 PM CST
Location: The Revaire, 7122 Old Katy Rd, Houston, TX 77024
&
State Senator Borris Miles will
COMMENTARY
The old blues singer had it right: “When a lady gets the blues, she hangs her head and cries. When a man gets the blues, he grabs the train and rides.” The relationship between poverty and family breakdown has always been undeniable.
For decades, conservatives have rightly sounded the alarm about family breakdown — declining marriage rates, rising single parenthood, children without stable households. Strong families are the foundation of strong communities. But here’s what we need to be honest about: You cannot build strong families on poverty wages.
The past year has made this undeniable. Grocery prices remain high. Rent keeps climbing. Childcare costs are crushing families. MIT’s Living Wage Calculator shows even the cheapest county in America now requires $33.82 per hour for a modest two-parent household to cover basics. Against a $7.25 federal minimum wage, families are drowning.
Here’s what America literally cannot afford to forget: This year, videos went viral across MAGA social media claiming Donald Trump would raise the minimum wage to $25 an hour. The videos were false — Trump never made that promise. But their popularity revealed something crucial: even Trump’s base knows the current wage system is broken. When working-class Americans across the political spectrum are that hungry for higher wages, it’s time we stopped treating this as partisan and started treating it as a family crisis.
So, let’s imagine the President of the United States was actually willing to establish a family-sustaining wage. What would happen?
Marriages would increase. Geoffrey McAdam in Indiana works full-time earning just under $47,000 a year and can’t afford independent housing, much less support a family. Research shows when male wages decline, marriage rates plummet — not because values changed, but
WHEN THE BLUES HIT HOME: WHY FAMILY VALUES REQUIRE FAMILY WAGES
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
because men like Geoffrey don’t feel they can fulfill the provider role. Financial stress is the number one cause of divorce. With family-sustaining wages, couples could weather emergencies instead of one car repair destroying their marriage.
Fathers could be present. Men working multiple jobs miss Little League games, homework help, dinner conversations. Men like Geoffrey who can’t afford housing delay fatherhood altogether. When fathers earn family-sustaining wages, they can work one job and actually be there.
Children would thrive. When parents aren’t working 60-80 hours just to survive, they’re home. Research shows minimum wage increases improve children’s health outcomes, educational achievement, and emotional wellbeing. Child neglect reports drop — not because parents suddenly improve, but because they have resources and capacity to care properly.
Mothers could actually mother. Anneliese Jackson works in an Elgin restaurant earning $9 an hour after eight years, alongside single mothers who miss their children’s childhoods working exhausting shifts. With $30 an hour in Chicago, those mothers could work one job, be home for dinner, help with homework. The impos-
sible childcare math — $10,000-$15,000 per year per child versus $15,080 annual earnings at $7.25/hour — would finally work.
Communities would strengthen. When workers have money in their pockets, they spend it locally. Church attendance increases when parents have Sundays off. Volunteer rates rise. Little League teams get coaches.
Taxpayers would save $65 billion annually. Right now we subsidize corporate payrolls through food stamps, Medicaid, housing assistance. That’s corporate welfare. A $25 federal minimum wage, phased in gradually, would reduce government dependency dramatically.
Workers would regain dignity.
Luisa Powell worked Kentucky restaurants nearly a decade at $2.13 an hour, often not even reaching minimum wage with tips. She didn’t know her employer was required to make up the difference.
Math Is Simple
If the minimum wage had kept pace with both inflation and increases in corporate productivity since 1968, it would be $25 today. Workers haven’t gotten less productive — corporations have gotten
vastly more profitable while wages stagnated. And with AI poised to drive corporate productivity dramatically higher over the next five years, that gap will only widen unless we act now.
The minimum wage used to be a family wage. One earner could support a household, buy a modest home, raise children. That was America working as designed.
The Path Forward
Polling shows 55% of voters in swing congressional districts support $25 minimum wage. In Chicago, 70% support $30. This crosses party lines because the struggle crosses party lines.
The Living Wage for All coalition is proposing a family-sustaining wage phased in over several years to give businesses time to adjust — with large corporations reaching $25-$30 faster and additional time for small businesses. The proposal includes training, technical assistance, and grants, loans, and tax credits to help small businesses make the transition. End all subminimum wages, including the subminimum wage for tipped workers, still just $2.13.
Those viral MAGA videos weren’t really about Trump. They were about working families desperate for wages that actually support family life. Geoffrey McAdam put it bluntly: while “corrupt elected officials, lobbyists, and corporate suits get to line their pockets, those not in high positions of power continue to suffer.” He’s right that both Democrat and Republican leaders have failed working families on this issue.
But what’s clear is that voters in both parties are eager for their leaders to do better. The question is whether we’ll finally listen.
You can write to Ben Jealous incare of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
As ghosts, goblins, and superheroes flood Houston’s streets for Halloween, another kind of spirited participation is lighting up the city — early voting. With a turnout topping 100,000 voters across Harris and Fort Bend Counties, the fusion of democracy and festivity has created a uniquely Houstonian celebration of civic pride and participation.
Early Voting: Where Democracy Meets October Energy
Since opening on Monday, October 20, early voting has transformed polling places into community gathering hubs — and this year’s excitement extends right through Friday, October 31, 7:00 PM. At 70 polling sites across Harris County and 28 across Fort Bend, voters are deciding pivotal races and 17 proposed Texas constitutional amendments.
Among the most-watched contests are:
● Who will complete former Mayor Sylvester Turner’s unexpired congressional term through 2026
● Who will fill Letitia Plummer’s Houston City Council At-Large Position 4 seat through 2027
● Local elections for Cy-Fair ISD, Klein ISD, and city leadership in Bellaire and Missouri City
EARLY VOTING ELECTRIFIES HARRIS COUNTY: Civic Spirit Meets Halloween Festivities
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Spotlight on the Texas Congressional Showdown
Leading the crowded field of 16 contenders for Turner’s congressional seat is Christian Menefee, who has energized Houston’s Democratic base with endorsements from Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Menefee’s “Souls to the Polls” barbecue event in Acres Homes drew hundreds of early voters — a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and civic engagement.
With more than $1.5 million
raised, Menefee’s campaign has dominated the airwaves with television ads and community outreach. His closest challenger, Amanda Edwards, has reported $1.2 million in contributions — proving this race is a political heavyweight bout of ideas and influence.
Meanwhile, State Representative Jolanda Jones, known for her unapologetic advocacy and community leadership, continues to make headlines nationally. With
With 13 additional candidates, including Isiah Martin, a former aide to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, it’s unlikely any single candidate will reach 50% of the vote on Tuesday, November 4. A January runoff looms, setting the stage for another round of voter enthusiasm.
Council Race: Experience Meets Fresh Energy
In the crowded contest to succeed Letitia Plummer, former District D Council Member Dwight Boykins has emerged as a front-runner. Armed with endorsements from former Mayor Lee Brown, Council Members Willie Davis and Edward Pollard, and community leaders across Houston, Boykins’ campaign blends name recognition with a call for stability and progress.
Facing Boykins are a dynamic slate of challengers, including attorney Alejandra Salinas, a fundraising powerhouse, and Jordan Thomas, former Chief of Staff to both Edwards and Plummer. With 15 total candidates, this race also appears destined for a December 13 runoff — giving Houstonians another chance to shape their city’s direction.
By Lisa Valadez for
This week at Houston City Hall, Houston Style Magazine attended a ceremony where the City of Houston, alongside AARP Houston, reaffirmed its commitment to being an “Age-Friendly” city. Councilmember Twila Carter (representing Mayor John Whitmire), Councilmember Joaquin Martinez, Mario Castillo, and Julian Ramirez joined the event, underscoring the city’s efforts to create communities where residents of all ages can thrive. The proclamation recognized Houston’s leadership in designing safe neighborhoods, improving mobility,
and fostering inclusion for older adults. AARP Houston also celebrated local recipients of the AARP Community Challenge Grants, which fund quick-action projects that deliver immediate community benefits and support long-term livability goals. The event showcased Houston’s dedication to accessibility and inclusivity, highlighting how collaboration between civic leaders and organizations can create a city where everyone—regardless of age—can live, move, and stay connected.
www.AARP.org
San Jacinto College, in collaboration with Pfluger Architects, has opened the Center for Biotechnology at the North Houston Generation Park campus, establishing a state-of-the-art facility to prepare students for careers in the rapidly expanding biotech industry. The 10,000-square-foot center provides experiential learning opportunities and access to advanced resources and immersive training environments, equipping students for specialized, high-demand careers.
As the exclusive provider of the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) in the southern United States, San Jacinto College offers the region’s first and only associate’s degree in biomanufacturing technology. This two-year technical program, along with certificates and short-term credentials for post-graduates, addresses workforce needs in biomanufacturing and related fields.
The building’s rapid design and construction involved coordination between Page, responsible for the building envelope and site design, general contractor Tellepsen Builders, and Pfluger Architects, who designed the interiors including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Pfluger Architects created adaptable lab modules with flexible layouts that support current curriculum needs and future program
SAN JACINTO COLLEGE OPENS ADVANCED CENTER FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY AT NORTH HOUSTON CAMPUS
By Lisa Valadez – www.StyleMagazine.com
growth. The facility includes an entry lobby with lockers, breakroom, and workroom for students and staff, as well as specialized training labs for Upstream and Cell Processing, Downstream, Fill and Finish, and Clean Room Qualifications. Students enter the laboratory suite through a control gowning room, simulating real-world cleanroom environments to prepare for certification and careers in the biotech industry.
San Jacinto College’s partnership with NIBRT in Dublin, Ireland, makes
the program one of only two in the U.S., addressing the global shortage of skilled biopharma professionals. The program is a critical part of Houston’s life sciences ecosystem, which attracts global companies advancing biotechnologies in proximity to the Texas Medical Center.
The center positions San Jacinto College as a leader in biomanufacturing education, combining specialized instrumentation, equipment training, and immersive labs to ensure students gain hands-on
experience that meets industry standards. The facility was designed for adaptability, allowing the college to expand academic and research functions as the program grows, supporting the long-term development of the region’s biotech workforce.
Pfluger Architects, a premier Texas-based architecture firm, led the design of the interiors and lab spaces. With extensive experience in educational facility planning and construction administration, Pfluger Architects focuses on creating engaging, functional, and environmentally sensitive learning environments. Named one of Building Design + Construction’s Top 50 Architecture Firms in 2024, Pfluger Architects partners with communities and institutions to deliver innovative spaces that inspire and support meaningful human experiences. More information is available at https://pflugerarchitects.com/.
Photography By Quy Tran
U.S. REP. Al Green & Chair - Fan Chen
Omair Tariq - Entrepreneur of the Year
Yusi Cheng and Sam Chang
Barbara Joe, Fan Chen, Washington Ho
Ruth N. Lopez Turley, Kinder/Rice Rima Adil, HCC
Every year, Houston’s skyline lights up with a different kind of brilliance — one born from remembrance, tradition, and community spirit. On Saturday, November 1, 2025, downtown Houston transforms once again as the 5th Annual Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival presented by Reliant returns to Sam Houston Park, turning the city’s heart into a living canvas of color, culture, and celebration.
This free, family-friendly event runs from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with the parade stepping off at 7:00 PM, inviting Houstonians of all ages to honor the lives of loved ones through art, music, and shared cultural pride.
“The heart of this year’s celebration is remembrance,” organizers shared. “It’s about honoring those we love while celebrating the vibrancy of Houston’s diverse cultural soul.”
A Festival of Art, Remembrance, and Rhythm
Expect a dazzling display of creativity — from elaborately crafted community ofrendas (altars of remembrance) and Catrina costumes to captivating live music, dance performances, and cultural showcases that blend ancient tradition with Houston flair.
Festivalgoers can savor local cuisine, enjoy art and craft vendors, and witness the stirring La Llorona performance alongside a breathtaking visual memorial wall featuring images submitted by Houston families. The evening
Houston’s 5th Annual Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival
FREE Cultural Celebration Returns to Downtown Houston This Saturday, November 1, 202 5
By Francis Page, Jr. for
www.StyleMagazine.com
will culminate in a high-energy musical finale designed to get everyone in the park dancing beneath the stars.
Plan Your Visit
All festival activities are free and open to the public, though some areas may reach capacity. Visitors are encouraged to review details about the parade route, street closures, performance schedule, and parking information at www. ddlmusa.com. Families can also learn how to submit photos of loved ones for inclusion in the community memorial wall, ensuring every story finds its place among the city’s shared memories.
Community Partners and Sponsors
Houston’s Día de los Muertos celebration thrives thanks to strong community partner-
ships and dedicated sponsors who keep the city’s cultural traditions alive. This year’s presenting sponsor, Reliant, leads a powerful lineup of supporters, including ARCA Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Ford, El Rancho Super Mercado, Hola Houston, Silver Eagle, Comerica Bank, Telemundo Houston, ABC13, Mega 101, Houston Style Magazine and the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, among others.
“Reliant makes power personal — and that means shining a light on the people and traditions that make our communities strong,” said a Reliant representative. “We’re proud to celebrate Houston’s diverse heritage and the stories that unite us all.”
As part of NRG Energy, Inc., Reliant continues to expand its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement
— from EV and solar solutions to supporting cultural events that power connection. Learn more at Reliant.com or follow @ReliantEnergy on social media.
Preserving a Beloved Tradition
Founded by Hispanic community leaders and entrepreneurs, Día de Los Muertos LLC was created to preserve and honor this deeply meaningful celebration with cultural integrity while promoting inclusion, education, and unity.
Through this annual event, Houston’s Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival has evolved into more than a tribute — it’s a living legacy that bridges generations and brings the city together in remembrance, reflection, and joy.
“In Houston, we don’t just remember our loved ones — we celebrate their light,” one organizer reflected. “And that’s what Día de los Muertos is all about: turning memories into music, and grief into gratitude.”
Event Details
Location: Sam Houston Park 1000 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
(Parade begins at 7:00 PM)
Info & Schedule: www.ddlmusa.com
Admission: Free and open to the public
When words fall short, stories step forward. This November, Houston is invited to pause, reflect, and heal as the Starworks Foundation presents Journeys of Goodbye: Stories of Grief, Love, and End of Life Reflections—a moving event and companion book experience honoring National Grief Awareness Month and National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. This isn’t just another book launch—it’s a heart-centered gathering for anyone who’s ever loved deeply and lost profoundly. It’s a space where grief and grace share the same breath.
The Power of Goodbye
Every goodbye tells a story. Some are whispered through hospital corridors; others are felt in the stillness after a final phone call. Journeys of Goodbye captures those moments with profound tenderness— stories of love, caregiving, and courage written by spiritual leaders, healthcare professionals, and everyday people who found meaning in the moments between life and loss.
Journeys of Goodbye: A Houston Forum of Healing, Hope, and Humanity
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
The collection—curated with care by visionary and co-author Satavia Hazley Austin—shines a light on the emotional, spiritual, and human sides of farewell. Each story reminds us that in the ache of loss, love never truly leaves—it simply changes form.
• “Even in goodbye, there is the promise of something more,” the authors remind us.
Event Details: Beyond the Goodbye – A Forum on Grief, Planning, and Healing
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Location: The Fountain of Praise Church, 13950 Hillcroft Street, Houston, TX 77085
Registration & Book Pickup: 1:30 PM Forum Discussion: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Join The Healing Pen Collective for a heartfelt forum where stories transform into shared strength and tears find company in understanding. This free community event offers both reflection and restoration—an opportunity to connect, learn, and honor the universal journey of loss and renewal.
About the Book: Journeys of Goodbye
At its core, Journeys of Goodbye is an offering of hope—a beautifully woven collection of stories for those navigating the uncharted terrain of grief. Whether you’re a caregiver, a clinician, or someone still learning to live with an empty chair at the table, these pages offer solace and strength.
• Order your copy or learn more: www.JourneysofGoodbye.com
Why Houston Should Show Up
Houston is a city of heart—where community means showing up for one another, especially when life hurts the most. This event reflects that spirit. By sharing stories of goodbye, we remind each other that love, empathy, and storytelling remain our greatest healers.
Houston Style Magazine proudly supports Journeys of Goodbye and the vital work of the Starworks Foundation in fostering emotional resilience and compassionate dialogue.
Join the conversation. Bring a friend. Bring your heart. Because healing begins when we walk beyond the goodbye.
• Register and learn more at JourneysofGoodbye.com
• Saturday, November 1, 2025 | 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM | The Fountain of Praise Church
Learn more: www.StyleMagazine.com
When Houston’s most vulnerable seniors faced a chilling reality — the possible loss of daily nutrition and care visits — H-E-B once again stepped in with its signature generosity and Texas-sized heart.
Just one week after IM Houston (formerly Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston) announced funding cuts that jeopardized services for more than 300 homebound seniors, an incredible outpouring of community compassion raised $372,000, propelling the nonprofit to 75% of its $500,000 goal.
H-E-B: Always There When Texas Needs a Hero
At the forefront of this lifesaving response was H-E-B, the beloved grocer that continues to prove its motto, “Here Everything’s Better,” means more than fresh produce and friendly service — it’s about community. H-E-B pledged $100,000 to ensure seniors across Harris and Galveston counties keep receiving the nutrition, wellness checks, and personal connections that Meals on Wheels provides daily.
This contribution is part of H-E-B’s $1 million statewide commitment to Meals on Wheels programs across Texas — a testament to the brand’s enduring leadership in strengthening communities when they need it most.
The Moody Foundation Joins the Mission
The Moody Foundation also made a powerful statement of solidarity, awarding a
H-E-B Rallies to Keep Meals on Wheels Rolling for Houston’s Homebound Seniors
By Lisa Valadez – www.StyleMagazine.com
$125,000 emergency grant to sustain Meals on Wheels services for Galveston County seniors. This act underscores the foundation’s unwavering dedication to the coastal community and provides critical momentum as IM Houston pushes toward closing the final funding gap.
Houston’s Heart on Full Display
“We are deeply grateful to H-E-B,
the Moody Foundation, and all of our donors for stepping forward so quickly,” said Sheroo Mukhtiar, CEO of IM Houston. “This immediate response shows how much our community values its seniors and recognizes the importance of keeping them nourished, connected, and safe.”
With approximately $128,000 still needed to close the remaining gap, IM Houston continues to call on Houstonians to lend a
helping hand. Every dollar raised helps preserve seniors’ independence, dignity, and peace of mind, ensuring that no senior in our city faces hunger or isolation.
About IM Houston
A proud United Way partner, IM Houston brings people of diverse faith traditions together to serve a shared purpose. The organization’s initiatives include:
Meals on Wheels & Animeals, delivering meals to homebound seniors — and food to their pets.
Volunteer Houston, connecting volunteers to nonprofits across the region.
Interfaith Relations & Community Engagement, promoting unity and understanding across cultures and beliefs.
To learn more or contribute to the Meals on Wheels Emergency Fund, visit imhouston.org.
Houston Style Magazine celebrates H-E-B — a true hometown hero whose compassion keeps Houston’s seniors strong, nourished, and connected. From holiday parades to emergency relief, H-E-B reminds us that community care never goes out of season.
www.StyleMagazine.com
In another bold stride toward accessible, high-demand workforce training, Houston City College (HCC) has announced the expansion of its Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate Program to the HCC–North Forest campus beginning Spring 2026. The move extends a legacy of healthcare excellence pioneered by HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences, the only HCC campus dedicated exclusively to health professions within the world-renowned Texas Medical Center.
Empowering Houston's Future Health Workforce
HCC’s one-semester Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate offers an accelerated route into the healthcare industry, providing students with the skills needed to succeed in Houston’s ever-growing medical marketplace. Designed for anyone with a high school diploma or GED, the program offers a quick and affordable entry point into a field that continues to expand as the city’s population—and its need for healthcare professionals—grows.
“It’s an attractive option for anyone looking to start a healthcare career,” said Janet Peña, HCC Pharmacy Technician Program Director. “The demand for pharmacy technicians continues to grow, especially as the population ages. It’s also a great option for those who want to work in
Houston City College Expands Pathways to Pharmacy Careers with New North Forest Campus Program
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
A Smart Investment in a Stable Career
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level pharmacy technicians can earn a minimum starting salary of $33,000 annually, with higher wages in the Houston region. Peña emphasized that because the program is offered through HCC, students enjoy an affordable tuition model and access to financial aid—making the certificate an investment that quickly pays off.
Expanding Access Across Houston
The expansion to HCC–North Forest follows the program’s successful debut at HCC Eastside in Spring 2025, which served students south of Interstate 610. Now, residents of northeast Houston will enjoy the
same opportunity to train for a healthcare career close to home.
“People of all ages want a credential that offers immediate employment and a livable wage,” said Dr. Jeff Gricar, Dean of Health Sciences at HCC Coleman College. “But they also need programs that fit their lives—close to work, close to home, and flexible. That’s exactly why we’re opening the North Forest site.”
A Pathway to Lifelong Learning
The Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate is more than just a job credential—it’s the start of a career ladder in healthcare. Many graduates go on to earn Level II certifications, associate degrees, and even bachelor’s degrees in healthcare fields, building on their initial success.
“Once they start working, most of our students return to continue their education,” Gricar added. “This program creates a foundation that grows with their ambitions.”
Join Houston’s Healthcare Revolution
For Houstonians eager to join one of the fastest-growing sectors in the city, this program offers a golden opportunity to begin a career in healthcare without the burden of years-long schooling.
�� Learn more or apply today: WEB: hccs.edu/PharmacyTech •
Located in the Texas Medical Center, HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences offers more than 20 health-focused certificate and degree programs, including a Bachelor of Applied Technology. Since 1999, the college has set the gold standard for allied health education in Houston. hccs.edu/Coleman
About Houston City College
HCC is one of the largest singly accredited, open-admission community colleges in the nation, with 14 Centers of Excellence and numerous satellite locations serving Greater Houston. Through workforce training, associate and bachelor’s degrees, and continuing education, HCC prepares individuals to thrive in an increasingly global and technological society. hccs.edu
healthcare without providing direct patient care.”
Monday, October 13, 2025, at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugar Land, Texas, Legacy Community Health hosted the 15th Annual Frank Billingsley Golf Classic—a day that blended sunshine, camaraderie, and community impact into one unforgettable event. The sold-out tournament, led by beloved Houston meteorologist and longtime Legacy supporter Frank Billingsley, celebrated fifteen years of generosity and purpose by raising a record-breaking $500,000 to support student health care programs across the Houston area.
The cool autumn weather provided the perfect backdrop as golfers gathered early for breakfast tacos, kolaches, and backpack coolers filled with Legacy-branded swag before heading out to play the pristine Pecan and Cypress courses. Sponsor tents dotted the fairways, offering giveaways, refreshments, and friendly encouragement, adding to the event’s lively and philanthropic spirit.
Presented by Equitable, Hawkins Laakso, and Pinnacle Environmental Services, the tournament was more than a competition—it was a mission in motion. Each swing, drive, and putt helped support Legacy’s School-Based Health Care Program, which provides primary
Legacy Community Health’s Frank Billingsley Golf Classic
Marks 15th Anniversary with Record-Breaking $500,000 Raised for Student Health Programs
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
students at 39 KIPP, YES Prep, and Galena Park ISD campuses. This essential initiative ensures children can access quality health care without ever leaving their schools, helping them stay healthy, focused, and ready to learn.
After the final scores were tallied, golfers and guests gathered for a lively luncheon filled with laughter, camaraderie, and celebration. Emcee Johnny Bravo kept the
energy high as the live auction and raffle brought spirited bidding wars that pushed the fundraising total to an unprecedented half-million dollars—the highest in the event’s fifteen-year history. The top foursomes were recognized for their standout performances, while every participant shared in the satisfaction of supporting Houston’s youth.
Fifteen years in, the Frank Billingsley
Golf Classic continues to embody the best of Houston’s community spirit—uniting generosity, goodwill, and fun for a cause that matters. Though the only celebrity on the greens was the ever-charming Billingsley himself, the true stars were the sponsors, volunteers, and golfers whose efforts will help expand Legacy’s reach across even more campuses next year.
For more than four decades, Legacy Community Health has been a cornerstone of care in the Texas Gulf Coast region, operating 64 locations that provide comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral, and specialty services. As the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Texas and a United Way-affiliated agency since 1990, Legacy continues to innovate and deliver compassionate, judgment-free care to all—regardless of ability to pay.
Learn more or support Legacy’s mission at www.legacycommunityhealth.org
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
HARRIS HEALTH SHINES LIGHT ON HOPE: BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 2025
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
When Ava H. discovered a benign (noncancerous) tumor nearly a decade ago, she never imagined that years later she would face the words no woman wants to hear: “You have breast cancer.” With no family history and no symptoms beyond that routine check, her diagnosis in December 2012 revealed both stage 0 and stage 2b cancer in her left breast.
Determined to fight back, Ava underwent a left breast mastectomy and began chemotherapy at Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital in May 2013. Her journey was long, but her spirit never faltered. Today, Ava stands not only as a survivor but as an advocate—traveling more, living fully, and inspiring others to prioritize early detection and regular screenings.
“You don’t think it can happen to
you—until it does,” Ava shared. “That’s why I speak up now. Early detection truly saves lives.”
Harris Health’s Lifesaving Mission
This October, Harris Health System proudly observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025 with a community-driven campaign focused on education, empowerment, and early detection. Through a robust lineup of free screenings, educational outreach, and survivor stories, Harris Health continues to be a beacon of hope for countless women and families across Harris County.
Their monthlong awareness initiative combined clinical access with community action, ensuring that every woman—regardless of zip code or income—has the chance to take
control of her health.
Harris Health’s Community Impact Free Screenings:
In partnership with Harris County Public Health (HCPH), Harris Health offered free breast cancer screenings at multiple clinics, including Humble, Southeast, Antoine, East, and Northeast Harris County Precinct 2 Access2Health Smart Pods™, as well as through a mobile health unit.
Education & Awareness:
Harris Health launched educational campaigns with interactive quizzes, breast health resources, and workshops to empower women with knowledge about the importance of early detection.
Community Events:
The health system hosted community health fairs, fitness challenges, and the annual 5K Run/Walk for Awareness, uniting survivors, families, and healthcare heroes in the spirit of solidarity.
Inspiring Stories:
Across social media, Harris Health amplified real survivor stories—like Ava’s—to remind women everywhere that breast cancer doesn’t define you but fighting it can inspire others to act.
Collaborative Partnerships:
By working with local health departments, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations,
Harris Health extended its reach to Houston’s most underserved communities, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to receive timely, compassionate care.
Key Message: Early Detection Saves Lives
The campaign underscored a powerful truth: early detection is the key to survival. Women over 40 are encouraged to schedule their annual mammograms and talk to their healthcare providers about screening options. Breast Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about pink ribbons—it’s about prevention, access, and community care. It’s about celebrating survivors like Ava, supporting those still in treatment, and remembering those we’ve lost.
Join the Movement
Harris Health invites Houstonians to continue spreading awareness year-round— because breast health is not just a month-long conversation, it’s a lifelong commitment. Let’s stand together, Houston. Get screened. Stay informed. Be an advocate for someone you love.
yes prep’s Leading Houston Forward Luncheon Shines Spotlight ON ALUMNI, EXCELLENCE,
AND THE POWER OF EDUCATION
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Inspiration is in full bloom this fall as YES Prep Public Schools gears up for its Ninth Annual Leading Houston Forward Luncheon, set for Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Wortham Theater Center. Each year, this signature event gathers nearly 400 of Houston’s top business and community leaders to celebrate one of the city’s greatest success stories: the transformative power of a high-quality, public-school education.
This year’s celebration will spotlight two dynamic young leaders—Kelly Truong and Jair Sanchez, both proud members of the YES Prep Class of 2023—who will return to the stage as alumni keynote speakers, embodying the mission and heart of YES Prep.
Inspiring Alumni, Limitless Futures
Kelly Truong, the valedictorian of YES Prep Southeast Secondary, represents the next generation of Houston’s STEM innovators. As founder of her campus’ first
STEM club, captain of the varsity volleyball team, and recipient of the Athlete of the Year award, Truong has long exemplified academic and athletic excellence. Now pursuing computer science at Columbia University as a QuestBridge, Gates, and Dell Scholar, she continues to mentor Houston high school students navigating the college admissions process—a full-circle moment of giving back.
Meanwhile, Jair Sanchez, salutatorian of YES Prep North Central Secondary, continues his leadership journey from Houston to the Ivy League. As former Student Council President and leader of the Latinx Club, Sanchez inspired his peers to serve their communities with vision and purpose. Now a full-ride Yale University architecture student, his story underscores the strong foundation YES Prep provides to students from all backgrounds.
Honoring Those Who Lead and Inspire
The luncheon will also recognize
influential community and alumni leaders whose work mirrors YES Prep’s mission to uplift, educate, and empower.
Chris Barbic Legacy Award: Drew Masterson and Masterson Advisors
YES Prep Alumni Legacy Award: Yuliana Arredondo (’05), Director of College Counseling at YES Prep Southeast Secondary
Co-chairs Sarah & Bryant Lee and Tricia & Jim Zucker bring their signature energy, leadership, and dedication to this year’s luncheon, ensuring another impactful and inspiring event for the community.
A Legacy of Leadership
Past speakers have included Dr. John B. King Jr., former U.S. Secretary of Education, and Sonia Manzano, beloved actress and author best known as Maria from Sesame Street. Previous recipients of the Chris Barbic Legacy Award—including H-E-B, Enbridge, Vitol, and Deb and Mark Gregg—have all shared YES Prep’s commitment to ensuring Houston’s students are prepared to lead in the classroom and beyond.
The Power of YES
“All of our honorees and alumni speakers exemplify what YES Prep stands for—academic excellence, community engagement, and the relentless pursuit of
opportunity,” said Mark DiBella, CEO of YES Prep Public Schools. “Kelly and Jair’s stories are powerful reminders of what’s possible when students have access to the education they deserve.”
Proceeds from the luncheon will benefit The Power of YES, the organization’s $80 million campaign designed to drive Expansion, Excellence, and Edge—three pillars that ensure Houston’s students have every opportunity to thrive.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more details about the Ninth Annual Leading Houston Forward Luncheon, visit yesprep.org/luncheon.
About YES Prep Public Schools
For over 25 years, YES Prep Public Schools has redefined public education in Houston. As a tuition-free charter school system serving more than 20,000 students across 26 campuses, YES Prep continues to close opportunity gaps and set new standards for academic achievement and college readiness. From elementary through high school, YES Prep empowers every student to lead, learn, and lift others—because when Houston’s youth succeed, we all move forward together.
