Issuu

Houston Style Magazine December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

Volume 37 | Number 50

Houston’s Premiere Weekly Publication, Since 1989

Complimentary

Ben Jealous When Big Tech’s Thirst Threatens Our Health

HAUL GALA - A SMASHING SUCCESS

H RAISING OVER $1.4 MILLION H Judson Robinson, III - President & CEO

Words By Francis Page Jr.

H RAIDERS -vs-TEXANS H NRG Stadium H 3:25 PM H Sunday, Dec. 21st H TAG US: #TeamStyleMag

Judge Surendran Pattel A Life of Service Shaping Fort Bend County’s Future

Twitter: @HoustonStyle

Facebook: @HoustonStyleMagazine

WALIPP Breaks Ground A Living Legacy in the Third Ward

Texas Women’s Hall of Fame Gala 2025

HCC and Google

Instagram: @StyleMagazineHTX

FIFA: Featuring Rocket League Kicks Off

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December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

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A CITY REIMAGINED, A COLLEGE RENEWED: HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE’S TRANSFORMATIONAL YEAR By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com

Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com Managing Editor Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com Social Media Editor/Videographer Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com Graphic Design /Layout Editor Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com Political Editor Burt Levine texascampaigns@gmail.com Contributing Editor Amanda Edwards @AmandaKEdwards Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian_barefield@yahoo.com Arts Editor Bianca Elam biancaelam777.be@gmail.com Food Writer Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com NATIONAL WRITERS Ben Jealous info@benjealous.com Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org PHOTOGRAPHERS Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com ADVERTISING/SALES Advertising Email advertising@stylemagazine.com

MINORITY PRINT MEDIA, LLC, D.B.A. Houston Style Magazine & www.StyleMagazine.com Phone: (713) 748-6300 • Fax: (713) 748-6320 Mail: P.O. Box 14035, Houston, TX 77221-4035 ©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)

f 2025 had a headline at Houston City College, it would read: Transformation with Purpose. After nearly 55 years as Houston Community College, the institution boldly stepped into a new era—reintroducing itself to the city it serves as Houston City College (HCC). The new name is more than a rebrand; it is a declaration. A declaration that Houston’s hometown college is evolving, innovating, and preparing students not just for jobs—but for brighter futures. Houston City College’s new identity reflects what has already been happening across its campuses: expanded bachelor’s degrees, deeper industry partnerships, and a laser focus on workforce readiness in high-growth fields like artificial intelligence, health care, cybersecurity, and advanced trades. In a city defined by reinvention, HCC has once again proven it knows how to lead. A Year Defined by Momentum The transition to Houston City College symbolized a renewed commitment to more programs, more partnerships, and more pathways—and 2025 delivered on every promise. One of the year’s most visible partnerships came through a powerful collaboration with Houston Dynamo FC. Together, HCC and the Dynamo expanded career pathways in sports, entertainment, and business—connecting students to internships, scholarships, and hands-on ex-

periences that translate classroom learning into real-world opportunity. It’s workforce development with hometown pride. At the national level, Houston City College continued to make history. HCC became the first community college in the United States to offer both an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence—cementing its reputation as a national leader in innovation. Its forward-thinking programs in AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and virtual and augmented reality drew the attention of global tech leaders including Intel, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, Apple, and Google. That attention culminated in a major milestone when Google awarded HCC a $2 million grant to expand AI faculty, strengthen curriculum, and create additional pathways into high-demand technology careers. Houston City College was the only community college in Texas selected for this investment—an achievement that reflects both vision and persistence. Behind the scenes, Kristina Perez of HCC’s Development Department served as the team lead on cultivating the Google partnership, a process that spanned 1.5 years and more than 72 meetings and communications, underscoring the strategic dedication required to bring transformative opportunities to students. Putting Students First—Always Transformation at HCC has always been rooted in student success. In 2025, the college launched two major initiatives designed to meet students where they are and help them move forward. Houston Reconnect invites former students back to complete unfinished credentials, while Connect2Workforce provides fast, targeted skill-building for individuals ready to enter high-demand industries quickly. Together, these programs reflect HCC’s belief that opportunity should never be out of reach. That same philosophy drives HCC’s groundbreaking workforce partnerships. Through the VICEROY cybersecurity program, developed with Texas A&M University and the U.S. Department of Defense, students are preparing for careers with agencies such as the NSA, CIA, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Space

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Force—protecting national security while building life-changing careers. In construction, HCC partnered with Lennar and the Lennar Foundation to train the workforce of tomorrow. Courses are offered both on campus and inside the Harris County Jail system, creating access, second chances, and direct connections to employment through Lennar Homes and Talent Builders Foundation. Health care also saw major advancement with the launch of a new LVNto-ADN nursing pathway at Coleman College for Health Sciences. Designed to address the urgent nursing shortage, the accelerated three-semester program will graduate its first cohort in August—bringing much-needed talent into Houston’s health care system. Excellence That Leads the State From public safety to emergency response, Houston City College continues to set the bar. Law enforcement cadets at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy can now earn college credit for Basic Peace Officer training, accelerating career advancement while reducing costs. And in emergency medicine, HCC’s EMS program earned the No. 1 ranking in Texas, boasting an extraordinary 99% pass rate on the National Registry exam— far exceeding state averages and reinforcing HCC’s reputation for excellence. Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond With momentum firmly on its side, Houston City College is already looking ahead. Plans are underway to explore new bachelor’s degrees in business, computer information systems, and nursing, further strengthening Houston’s talent pipeline. All of it aligns with HCC’s powerful vision: “Real World Education for a Talent Strong Houston.” It’s a vision that recognizes education as economic mobility, workforce development as community empowerment, and Houston City College as a cornerstone of the city’s future. Houston Style Magazine readers in 2025, HCC didn’t just change its name—it reaffirmed its mission. And as Houston continues to grow, innovate, and lead, one thing is clear: Houston City College is right there with it—educating, empowering, and transforming lives.

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

COMMENTARY

WHEN BIG TECH’S THIRST THREATENS OUR HEALTH, WE MUST DEMAND BETTER By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator

n Morrow County, Oregon, families are living through a crisis. According to a Rolling Stone investigation, mothers have suffered miscarriages. Neighbors are battling rare cancers. Local officials have raised concerns about dangerously elevated nitrate levels in the community’s drinking water following the siting of a nearby Amazon data center. The investigation reports that the facility’s massive water consumption—up to five million gallons per day—may have accelerated nitrogen migration into the aquifer faster than natural filtration can occur. Amazon strongly denies any connection between its operations and these health problems. Whatever the ultimate cause of the health crisis in Oregon, the broader concern is undeniable: when data centers consume enormous amounts of water, communities can face real risks. And now, similar pressures are emerging in Ohio. Central Ohio already hosts about 130 data centers, representing more than half the state’s total. In Marysville, just two facilities consume roughly ten percent of the city’s entire daily water supply. Amazon operates dozens of data center facilities and campuses across the New Albany, Hilliard, and Dublin region. Residents are watching water demand surge as new facilities are proposed. Here is what should concern every Ohioan. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has issued a draft General National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit governing wastewater discharges from data center facilities into state waters, including non-contact cooling water, cooling tower blowdown, and associated stormwater. The publicly released draft does not specify nitrate limits among the listed regulated pollutants. The draft permit also relies on existing antidegradation standards that allow a lowering of water quality when deemed necessary to accommodate important social

or economic development. In plain terms, regulators are signaling that some degradation of water quality may be acceptable to support data center growth. This is not just about water. Modeling by researchers affiliated with the California Institute of Technology suggests that air pollution associated with data center growth could contribute to approximately 1,300 premature deaths annually nationwide by 2030, with an estimated public health burden approaching $20 billion. But it does not have to be this way. We can build data centers today that eliminate operational water consumption entirely—and with the right policy reforms, they can be built at lower total cost than conventional designs. The solution is zero-water cooling through immersion systems with dry heat rejection. Instead of water, servers are cooled using specialized dielectric fluids. Instead of evaporative cooling towers, heat is rejected through air-cooled radiators or

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

geothermal systems. In these configurations, operational water use is eliminated. Some raise concerns about the safety of dielectric cooling fluids. Modern formulations are engineered to be non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for humans and wildlife. The answer is not avoiding zero-water systems, but requiring the safest available fluids rather than the cheapest. Industry representatives argue that zero-water cooling is too expensive. That claim does not withstand scrutiny. Multiple industry analyses, pilot deployments, and academic studies indicate that zero-water data center systems increase upfront capital costs by roughly 35 to 45 percent. However, analyses synthesizing findings across these studies suggest that targeted policy and procurement reforms can more than offset those added costs. These reforms include streamlined permitting for zero-water systems, public sharing of facility designs tied to devel-

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opment incentives, competitive bidding requirements, bulk purchasing cooperatives, standardized modular systems, antitrust enforcement in cooling equipment markets, and shared geothermal infrastructure where appropriate. Taken together, these measures could reduce total project costs by more than ten percent while eliminating operational water consumption altogether. In other words, we can build cheaper data centers without draining aquifers or compromising drinking water. Strong safeguards must accompany any expansion. Communities deserve meaningful input on whether data centers locate nearby. Facilities should be confined to industrial zones, with enforceable buffers for noise, heat, and air quality. Homes and schools should be off limits. Jerome Township has already enacted a moratorium on new data centers, citing utility and safety concerns. Other communities across Ohio are paying close attention. The technology exists. The economics can work. What remains is political will. Big Tech will complain. Some companies may threaten to locate elsewhere. But no community should accept development that requires sacrificing clean water or public health. Whatever ultimately caused the health crisis in Oregon, Ohio communities are already feeling the strain of unchecked data center growth. We know how to prevent similar harm. We know it can save money. The only remaining question is whether our leaders will act in time—or wait until the damage is done.

You can write to Ben Jealous incare of this Newspaper or by website at:

www.BenJealous.com

JUDGE SURENDRAN PATTEL: A LIFE OF SERVICE SHAPING FORT BEND COUNTY’S FUTURE By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com

n Fort Bend County, where diversity is not just celebrated but lived daily, Judge Surendran Pattel stands as a living bridge between the American dream and the responsibilities of public service. As he seeks re-election in the Democratic Primary, his story continues to resonate across communities that see their own struggles, hopes, and triumphs reflected in his journey. Judge Pattel officially launched his campaign in Missouri City at a Mexican American–led Veterans of Foreign Wars post—a setting rich with symbolism. Surrounded by African American Democratic precinct chairs, organized labor advocates, Hispanic war veterans and their families, South Asian neighbors, and longtime Fort Bend residents, the moment felt less like a political kickoff and more like a community reunion. The message was unmistakable: Fort Bend County’s future is strongest when everyone has a seat at the table. “My wife and I chose to come to America—and especially Fort Bend County—because of the smiling faces we saw here from every race, ethnicity, and nation,” Pattel shared. That belief in inclusion has guided his life’s work, from his earliest days to his current role on the bench. International headlines once followed Pattel’s oath of office, with stories reaching back to southern India, where his life began in profound poverty. Raised by laborer parents supporting six children, Pattel learned resilience early—sometimes working overnight rolling cigarettes simply

ters is how you serve—with honesty, integrity, patience, professionalism, persistence, and patriotism.” Those values now define his reputation at the courthouse and throughout the county. Judge Pattel’s service does not end when court adjourns. He is a familiar face at MLK Day services, Black History Month events, Juneteenth parades, and holiday meals he helps provide at the VFW during Thanksgiving and Christmas. For him, justice is not only a legal principle—it is a lived commitment to fairness, dignity, and community care. As Fort Bend County continues to grow as one of the most diverse regions in Texas and the nation, Judge Surendran Pattel represents leadership shaped by lived experience and guided by empathy.

Judge Surendran Pattel to afford meals. After the tragic loss of his eldest sister, who left behind a 15-month-old daughter, Pattel left school, only to later make the resolute decision to finish what he started. That determination carried him to Houston, where his wife Subha built a nursing career in the Texas Medical Center. In a defining act of partnership, Pattel followed her path, enrolling at the University of Houston Law Center. “I never wanted to stand in the way of her career,” he has said. “Without her, I would never be who

I am today.” Together, they raised two daughters in Fort Bend County’s public schools, cheering from the stands at school athletic events and staying rooted in community life. Pattel built a respected law practice before answering a deeper calling to serve as judge. Even then, the road was not easy. He recalls being mocked for his accent—but he persisted. “I’ve learned it doesn’t matter how long you’ve lived here,” Pattel says. “What mat-

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Voter Information Early Voting for the Democratic Primary begins Monday, February 17, 2026. Primary Election Day is Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Houston Style Magazine readers, for voters seeking steady, inclusive leadership rooted in service, Judge Pattel’s story is not just about where he has been—but about where Fort Bend County is going.

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December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE AND GOOGLE.ORG SPARK A NEW AI ERA FOR HOUSTON’S FUTURE WORKFORCE By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

n Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 8:30–10:30 a.m. CT, the West Loop Campus Auditorium at Houston City College (HCC) buzzed with possibility, optimism, and purpose as educators, civic leaders, and innovators gathered for a Breakfast & Press Briefing that marked a defining moment for Houston’s future. At the heart of the celebration was a transformational $2 million partnership between Houston City College and Google.org, designed to expand access to artificial intelligence education and prepare Houstonians to lead in the next generation of technology-driven careers. From the moment doors opened at 5601 West Loop South, it was clear this wasn’t just another announcement—it was a call to action. The partnership positions HCC as a regional leader in AI education, offering free AI training for local K–12 educators and HCC faculty, while dramatically expanding dual-credit AI opportunities for high school students across the Houston region. In a city built on innovation and resilience, this initiative signals that Houston is not waiting on the future—it’s building it. “This agreement represents an energizing moment for Houston,” speakers emphasized, noting that the program directly addresses a national shortage of AI instructors while opening wide, equitable pathways for students preparing for careers

in AI, robotics, data science, and emerging technologies. By strengthening instructional capacity and rolling out forward-looking curriculum, HCC is ensuring that opportunity reaches classrooms today—and careers tomorrow. As the home of HCC’s AI program, Houston City College Southwest proudly took center stage during the briefing. Attendees received an early look at how the partnership will unfold across campuses and communities, followed by a guided tour of HCC’s technology facilities that showcased

where innovation meets instruction. The message was clear: Houston’s AI talent pipeline is no longer theoretical—it’s operational. Google.org’s role in this partnership extends far beyond funding. Through its mission of unlocking potential for everyone, everywhere, Google.org is bringing its research, technical expertise, and global resources to Houston. Its focus on Knowledge, Skills & Learning, Scientific Progress, and Stronger Communities aligns seamlessly with HCC’s long-standing commitment to

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December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

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access, workforce readiness, and student success. Together, the collaboration reflects a shared belief that AI’s full potential is realized only when it serves people and communities. The ripple effect of the partnership is significant. Thousands of learners—students, educators, and future professionals—will benefit from expanded training, professional development, and real-world exposure to AI tools and concepts. For Houston’s employers and innovation ecosystem, it means a deeper, more diverse pool of homegrown talent ready to compete on a global stage. For Houston Style Magazine readers, this moment underscores a powerful truth: Houston wins when education, technology, and community move forward together. The HCC–Google.org partnership is not just an investment in AI—it’s an investment in people, equity, and the city’s long-term economic vitality. As the breakfast briefing concluded, one thing was undeniable: Houston City College isn’t simply teaching the future—it’s shaping it. And with partners like Google.org at the table, Houston’s next generation of AI leaders is already rising.

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December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

2025

SEE MORE +

HILTON AMERICAS HOTEL www.HAUL.org

H HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE – 2025 EOD GALA H Judson Robinson, I I - President H Mark Jacobs - Board Chair H Eric Goodie - E.V. President

H PRESIDENT - Judson Robinson, III + EVENT CHAIRS - Morris and Toni Smith H Saturday, December 13, 2025 H

Judson Robinson, III – HAUL President & CEO Guests were celebrating in ‘Style’ at the 2025 HAUL EOD Gala!

Mark Jacobs - HAUL Board Chair

By Linda Toyota, Lisa Valadez, Twice Media & Right Time Solutions

Eric Goodie – HAUL Executive Vice President

ouston showed up—and showed out— when the Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) hosted its 57th Annual Equal Opportunity Day Gala on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Hilton Americas-Houston. More than 900 civic leaders, elected officials, corporate partners, and community champions packed the sold-out ballroom and helped raise over $1.3 million—the largest total in the organization’s 57-year history—to expand HAUL programs that strengthen families, build workforce readiness, fuel entrepreneur-

ship, expand housing stability, and promote health and wellness across Greater Houston. The night came with star power and real heart. Special video tributes from Rev. Al Sharpton and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett applauded HAUL’s steady, neighborhood-by-neighborhood impact. Host Brian Courtney Wilson—Grammy-nominated and Dove Award–winning—delivered a soaring performance of “A Great Work” that felt like a musical amen to 57 years of progress. HAUL honored leaders whose influ-

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

ence moves Houston forward: James Harris (H-E-B), Ann Stern (Houston Endowment), Eric Mullins (Lime Rock Resources), and June Deadrick (CenterPoint Energy). In a crowd-pleasing surprise, Harris celebrated H-E-B’s 120th anniversary by gifting one attendee free groceries for a year—proof that community investment can be both strategic and sweet. Gala Chairs Morris and Toni Mooney Smith kept the evening equal parts elegance and purpose, echoed by remarks

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from Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Shell USA, and JPMorgan Chase. Title Sponsors Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages and Shell USA helped turn generosity into opportunity for thousands. CEO Judson W. Robinson III closed with a clear reminder: real leadership is selfless, consistent, and rooted in lifting others. With live sets from Cupid and After 7, Houston danced—then doubled down on impact. Houston Style Magazine was the PROUD Media Partner. Learn more at: www.haul.org

2025

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HILTON AMERICAS HOTEL www.HAUL.org

H HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE – 2025 EOD GALA H

James Harris - Lifetime Impact Award H Sr. Director Supplier Diversity - H-E-B H PRESIDENT - Judson Robinson, III + EVENT CHAIRS - Morris and Toni Smith H Saturday, December 13, 2025 H

James E. Harris - Sr. Dir. Supplier HEB Mark Jacobs, Morris Smith, James Harris, Toni Smith & Judson Robinson

CUPID - Rocked The House with ‘Wobble’

By Linda Toyota, Lisa Valadez, Twice Media & Right Time Solutions

Venora and Eric Goodie

US REP. Al Green & Dr Ruth Simmons www.StyleMagazine.com

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

2025

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HILTON AMERICAS HOTELwww.HAUL.org

H HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE – 2025 EOD GALA H

Ann Barnett Stern - Community Service Award H President & CEO - Houston Endowment H PRESIDENT - Judson Robinson, III + EVENT CHAIRS - Morris and Toni Smith H Saturday, December 13, 2025 H

Ann & Karl Stern - Houston Endowment President

Christian & Kaitlyn Menefee, Ann & Karl Stern

Mark Jacobs, Morris Smith, Eric Mullins Toni Smith & Judson Robinson

By Linda Toyota, Lisa Valadez, Twice Media & Right Time Solutions

Ann and Karl Stern with Linda Toyota

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

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2025

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HILTON AMERICAS HOTEL www.HAUL.org

H HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE – 2025 EOD GALA H

June Deadrick - Heritage Award H VP Community Affairs - Centerpoint Energy Official GALA Wine - Branwarwines.com - careful y curated South African & Dusty Baker Wine Collections

Anita Bates and Branwarwines.com

Mark Jacobs, Morris Smith, June Deadrick , Toni Smith & Judson Robinson, III

By Linda Toyota, Lisa Valadez, Twice Media & Right Time Solutions

Brian Courtney Wilson - HAUL Gala Emcee

Bonita Green Gambrel, Francis Page, Jr. & Debbie Dil ard www.StyleMagazine.com

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

FIFAe World Cup™ Featuring Rocket League Kicks Off Houston, Get Ready to Play Big on the Global Pitch By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com

hen FIFA says “The Best of the Beautiful Game,” the world listens—and this week, the future of football is roaring to life with turbo boosters, gravity-defying goals, and global bragging rights on the line. The FIFAe World Cup™ 25 featuring Rocket League officially kicked off on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM (GMT+3) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the next thrilling chapter in FIFA’s rapidly expanding esports universe. For Houston—one of the official FIFA World Cup 26™ Host Cities—this kickoff isn’t just international esports news. It’s a cultural preview of what’s coming home in 2026.

From the Pitch to the Arena: Football Reimagined Following the electric conclusion of the FIFAe World Cup™ featuring eFootball™ (Console & Mobile), the spotlight now shifts to Rocket League—where football meets high-octane esports in a format that’s as thrilling to watch as it is to play. Sixteen elite national teams from around the world have arrived ready to compete, including defending champions Saudi Arabia, all battling for the coveted World Title and a place in FIFAe history. Rocket League’s appeal lies in its universal language: football instincts fused with esports precision. Goals are scored mid-air, teamwork is everything, and strategy unfolds at lightning speed. It’s football for the digital gener-

Beautiful Game—it’s expanding it, and Houston is ready to play offense. Merch, Momentum, and the Road to 2026 Adding to the excitement, official FIFA World Cup 2026™ merchandise is now available through the FIFA Store, offering fans a chance to gear up early with jerseys, accessories, and memorabilia that celebrate football’s biggest stage—soon to arrive right here in Houston. As FIFAe World Cup™ 25 continues, Rocket League’s kickoff sends a clear message: football’s future is fast, global, and interactive. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter, a gamer, or a proud Houstonian counting down to 2026, this is your moment to lean in.

ation—and FIFA is embracing it with full force. Houston’s Moment Is Loading… As Houston prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, moments like this Rocket League kickoff underscore the city’s growing role in the future of the game—not just on grass, but on screens, stages, and global platforms.

Houston’s diverse, tech-savvy, youth-driven culture aligns perfectly with FIFAe’s vision, where innovation, inclusivity, and international competition intersect. From local gaming lounges and university esports programs to community watch parties and digital creators, Houston is already part of this global conversation. FIFAe isn’t replacing the

Final Whistle The FIFAe World Cup™ featuring Rocket League isn’t just a tournament—it’s a statement. The Beautiful Game is evolving, and Houston is perfectly positioned at the crossroads of sport, culture, and innovation. Buckle up. The countdown to FIFA World Cup 26™ just got a turbo boost. Stay tuned with Houston Style Magazine for continued coverage of FIFA, esports, global football culture, and Houston’s road to 2026.

www.StyleMagazine.com

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December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

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A LIVING LEGACY IN THE THIRD WARD: REV. WILLIAM A. LAWSON’S VISION RISES AGAIN THROUGH NEW SENIOR HOUSING EXPANSION By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

n Houston’s historic Third Ward—where faith, resilience, and progress have always walked hand in hand—a powerful new chapter is taking shape. The William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP) has officially broken ground on a $29.3 million senior housing expansion, a project that is as much about dignity and stability as it is about honoring one of Houston’s most revered civil rights leaders, Rev. William A. Lawson. The expansion adds 102 new affordable, one-bedroom apartments for low-income seniors 55 and older, growing WALIPP’s senior housing footprint from 50 residences to a vibrant, purpose-driven community rooted in service. Rising across Scott Street and Grantwood Street, the approximately 90,000-square-foot development brings new life—and new hope—to the heart of the Third Ward.

This milestone project stands as a living tribute to Rev. Lawson, the founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, whose leadership helped shape Houston’s civil rights movement and desegregation efforts. Though Rev. Lawson passed away in May 2024 at the age of 95, his vision continues to guide the work unfolding today—brick by brick, neighbor by neighbor. “These buildings represent more than housing,” said Cheryl Lawson, executive director of WALIPP and daughter of the late Rev. Lawson. “They represent my father’s lifelong belief that communities thrive when we come together to serve one another—especially our seniors.” Designed with comfort, independence, and community in mind, each apartment will feature central HVAC, a full kitchen, and modern appliances, including in-unit washers and dryers—details that reflect WALIPP’s commitment

to dignified living. Residents will also enjoy thoughtfully planned amenities such as furnished community rooms, a fitness center, business and computer center, activity spaces, and welcoming green areas that encourage connection and well-being. The project is the result of a collaborative effort that mirrors Rev. Lawson’s inclusive spirit. Support includes a $750,000 Affordable Housing Program grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, provided through Frost Bank, along with a key land grant from the Midtown Redevelopment Authority. Development partners Volunteers of America National Services are working alongside WALIPP to bring the vision to life, with architectural design by Hatch + Ulland Owen Architects and construction led by NEI General Contracting Inc. Founded in 1996 to honor Rev. Lawson’s 50 years in ministry, WALIPP has long

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been a cornerstone of the Third Ward, providing wraparound resources that include The Lawson Academy, legal aid services, and affordable senior housing. Its original senior residences, completed in 2004, laid the groundwork for what has now become a bold expansion rooted in compassion and continuity. For Houston—and especially for the Third Ward—this development is a reminder that progress doesn’t have to erase history to move forward. Instead, it can elevate it. As cranes rise and walls take shape, so too does a promise: that Houston’s seniors will age with dignity, community, and the enduring legacy of a man who believed deeply in justice, faith, and opportunity for all. In the Third Ward, Rev. William A. Lawson’s legacy isn’t just remembered—it’s being lived.

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December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

TEXAS WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME GALA 2025: A NIGHT OF BRILLIANCE, LEGACY & TEXAS-SIZED INSPIRATION By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com

riday, December 5, 2025, 7:00 PM CT will long be remembered as an evening when Houston shimmered a little brighter. The Texas Women’s Hall of Fame Gala—held at the elegant Royal Sonesta Hotel—brought together 400 guests for a sold-out celebration honoring the trailblazing women who continue to move Texas forward with brilliance, courage, and unstoppable vision. By the end of the night, the gala had raised more than $290,000, fueling transformative programs for women and girls across the state. The energy in the ballroom matched the magnitude of the moment— uplifting, glamorous, and unmistakably Texan. From civic leaders to corporate executives, entrepreneurs, educators, and philanthropists, the crowd represented a powerhouse network united by a shared mission: championing the next generation of female leaders. Houston’s Mayor delivered heartfelt remarks, applauding the honorees for shaping the social and economic landscape of Texas. His message was clear—these women are not only leaders; they are architects of opportunity whose influence reverberates far beyond their fields. Suzan Deison, CEO/President & Founder of the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame, captured the spirit of the evening

finance, philanthropy, innovation, and the arts. Their collective accomplishments tell a powerful story—one of mentorship, barrier-breaking leadership, and a relentless commitment to elevating women and girls throughout Texas.

beautifully: “The Texas Women’s Hall of Fame Gala honors visionary leaders whose accomplishments uplift our communities and inspire future generations.” Honoring Icons: The 2025 Texas Women’s Hall of Fame Class The 2025 Class represents a dazzling spectrum of talent, leadership, and statewide impact, showcasing women who continue to push boundaries and elevate communities across Texas. This year’s honorees—Esi Akinosho, Emily Armenta, Chree Boydstun, Juliet Breeze, MD, Zane Carruth, Betty Hrncir, Maria Martinez, Janette Marx, Chantell Pres-

December 18, 2025 – December 24, 2025

ton, Heidi Rockecharlie, Alicia Smith, and Connie Taylor—embody excellence across industries spanning healthcare, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, finance, education, and the arts. Together, they reflect a powerful coalition of innovators and change-makers whose accomplishments uplift others, expand opportunities for women and girls, and strengthen the economic and cultural fabric of the state. Their collective achievements illuminate what is possible when leadership meets purpose, making the Class of 2025 a true testament to Texas brilliance.These remarkable women embody excellence in healthcare, entrepreneurship, education,

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A Lifetime of Leadership: Hallie Vanderhider Honored A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Hallie Vanderhider, whose decades of leadership and philanthropy have transformed lives across the state. Her legacy stands as a testament to what happens when determination meets compassion—she has expanded opportunities for women, strengthened community institutions, and inspired countless professionals to rise higher. A Night of Purpose, Power & Philanthropy Gala Chair Farida Abjani reflected on the evening with warmth and pride: “It was a privilege to celebrate such extraordinary women. Their accomplishments illuminate the importance of mentorship, representation, and opportunity.”

Houston Style Magazine Vol 36 No 50