f Harris County were a person, it would be the one juggling five phones, three group chats, and a hurricane tracker—while still making it to work on time. This is the nation’s third-largest county, a global economic engine, and a place where “normal” now comes with a forecast. And in that reality, Lina Hidalgo has been leading through what feels like a decade’s worth of crises compressed into a few short years.
In this one-on-one with Houston Style Magazine (HSM) , Editor and Publisher Francis Page Jr. speaks with Harris County Judge - Lina Hidalgo to talk about what she learned when emergencies hit early, why procurement reform matters to every neighborhood, and how international partnerships can translate into local paychecks, safer infrastructure, and long-term opportunity for Harris County families.
QUESTION: When you took office, Harris County quickly faced overlapping emergencies—public health, flooding, industrial incidents. How did those early experiences shape your leadership and your belief in building systems that last?
Hidalgo: Thank you for having me. I knew emergency management was part of the job, but I never expected that just three months into my tenure we’d have a chemical fire so large that firefighters said they’d never seen anything like it. Then came the pandemic and repeated weather incidents.
It made me realize two things. First: collaboration during emergencies only works if you’ve built relationships and trust on “blue-sky days.” We work with dozens of agencies, and those friendships matter when things get hard. Second: emergencies don’t just test leaders—they test systems. During the ITC fire, we found out the county didn’t have proper air-monitoring equipment. We were relying on the company’s monitoring, and we’re supposed to be watchdogs. We borrowed equipment and then made the county’s largest investment in environmental protection. That system still benefits us today.
And it connects to flood control too—because how strong our infrastructure is depends on how well we choose the companies building it.
QUESTION : Serving as Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management gave you a real-time view of how government performs under pressure. How has that influenced your reforms in procurement and infrastructure planning?
Hidalgo: Harris County is huge— about the size of Louisiana and larger than half the states. We have dozens of departments, and for years they reported directly to the five members of Commissioners Court. That’s like a big company reporting to a board with no CEO.
We created basic structures—an executive management role, a strategic plan, better budgeting systems. But as we modernized, I kept hearing concerns about how con-
tracts were awarded—especially engineering and flood control. It took time to uncover, but what we learned, now reflected in the county auditor’s reports, is that the process for awarding these contracts hasn’t met basic standards. That matters because when the process is weak, results suffer—projects cost more, take longer, or stall out.
QUESTION: You’ve said transparency is a cornerstone of good governance. How do you see procurement reform strengthening public trust?
Hidalgo: Procurement isn’t glamorous—just hearing the word can make you yawn. But it has real-life impact. When hurricane season comes around, people say: “Didn’t we vote for that flood bond? Didn’t we pay for these projects? Where is my project?”
If people knew the county had awarded contracts for decades without proper processes—no scoring system, no selection committee, no records—especially for billions of dollars in work, that would absolutely undermine trust. It’s the kind of thing that fuels apathy and low turnout. So procurement reform isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about restoring confidence that government is working fairly and effectively.
QUESTION : The county auditor highlighted the need for stronger centralized tracking of professional services contracts. What’s the solution?
Hidalgo: The solution is straightforward because Harris County is an outlier. Other major counties were baffled when they learned how little structure we had. The standard process is: define written criteria, use an independent committee without conflicts of interest to evaluate proposals, and keep records of decisions.
Commissioners Court voted unanimously to create these processes for engineering and flood-control contracts, but the auditor later found departments hadn’t implemented them. So we have to hold folks accountable.
Ultimately, the big fix is structural: these contracts should be awarded independently of elected officials—through the purchasing department, which is designed to be independent. Decades ago, engineering and flood-control contracts were pulled out of purchasing and placed under departments reporting to elected officials, and that’s con-
tributed to today’s problems. My goal is to move them back.
QUESTION : Your administration has pursued global engagement—trade missions to Paris, Taiwan, and Japan. What made international partnership essential to your economic strategy?
Hidalgo: I appreciate your support, because I did take heat for those trips. But jobs are the point. I’m an immigrant—my family moved here when I was fourteen because my dad had a job here. That job could have been somewhere else. It was here because Harris County is a good place to invest and live. Companies will choose to invest somewhere—either here or elsewhere. To attract them, you show strong infrastructure, flood control, roads, and a transparent, ethical system of governance. They also ask: “Is it a good place for our employees to live?”
We met with senior leaders at Foxconn and Inventec, and we cemented commitments to expand and establish facilities here—work that supports advanced hardware and the broader AI economy. Harris County, especially the northwest and western areas, is becoming a growing hub for that kind of investment.
QUESTION: As new industries grow, how is Harris County ensuring local workers across neighborhoods and income levels can benefit?
Hidalgo: Workforce is a major concern for these companies. They need people with training, and they need workers to be able to get to job sites—often in areas where there’s land, not necessarily where workers live. That brings up transportation and education.
We’ve created training opportunities in high-need areas like tech, and I’m proud of that work. Long-term, early childhood education is also critical—it builds the workforce for the future so companies don’t leave for places with stronger talent pipelines. I couldn’t get enough support to put an early childhood measure on the ballot, but the effort continues through nonprofits and community leaders, and I hope it comes back.
QUESTION: Final word to the community?
Hidalgo: Stay engaged. Local government affects daily life. Show up, pay attention, and make your voice heard. Public attention makes reform possible—especially on how we award contracts—because that can fundamentally leave Harris County in a better place.
Photo By Keith Hankins
LINA HIDALGO Harris County Judge
COMMENTARY BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND THE POWER THAT HOLDS DEMOCRACY TOGETHER
By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator
Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson has emerged as a clarion voice for American democracy in turbulent times.
The values he represents reflect the voters who elected him. They remind us of the power of the Black community and the White, Asian American, Latino, and Native American voters who believe in multiracial democracy. Together they help ensure our country ultimately remains a place defined by a deep commitment to achieving freedom and opportunity for all.
Yet events at home and abroad show how fragile that path can be. As Black History Month begins, let us rise to this moment again. Let us take stock of what has made the Black community the backbone of movements that strengthen democracy.
Our strength has never been our size. Our strength has been that we hang together. Since we first won the ballot, Black voters have stood remarkably united. Often 80 percent or more have chosen the same candidate and the same vision of fairness.
That unity has given us influence far beyond our numbers.
It is no surprise that those who attack democratic rights try to break our voting bloc. They come for civil rights. They come for workers’ rights. They come for equal pay and fair treatment. I have helped lead coalitions to defend our community from those attacks. I have faith we can see through them.
What keeps me up at night is quieter. It is the slow erosion of the cohesion that fuels our power.
Our political unity reflects our community life. For generations we were held together by congregations, by family reunions, by Sunday phone calls that crossed state lines. Cousins recognized one another by a reunion T-shirt. Even relatives we rarely saw were still close kin. Those bonds helped us resist the divisions that split others apart.
That cohesiveness was not magic. It was history. The Black community remained confined to segregated towns and
neighborhoods long after White America began to suburbanize. We built economically mixed communities out of necessity. In them, elders—especially grandmothers and great-grandmothers—kept the circle tight. They did it in church basements after service. They did it around kitchen tables late at night.
From coast to coast, Black children heard the same maxim: “To whom much is given, much is expected.” Elders organized the reunions. They made the long calls between holidays. They told the stories that reminded us who we were.
That love became political power. It lifted leaders from Shirley Chisholm to Jesse Jackson to Brandon Johnson—leaders who speak clearly for democracy and equality.
But the elders who held us together are disappearing. One by one. Funeral after funeral.
They were born into communities that were integrated by necessity. Many of us were born into communities divided by
class, except in a few sacred spaces, often the church on Sunday. As we entered the broader economy, we absorbed its class lines as well.
This Black History Month, let us hold our community together by holding our families together. Replicate the reunion. Make the phone calls the elders used to make. Tell the stories they told us. Democracy is under pressure. That pressure should remind us we need one another. We must hang together so our children can live better lives than we have. Let us never forget that the elders we are burying have already shown us how to keep this country free—by keeping our families connected, in tough times and even across great distance.
Ben Jealous is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and former national president of the NAACP. He is the author of Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.
As Fort Bend County continues its rapid rise as one of the most diverse and dynamic counties in America, the role of County Clerk has never been more important—or more demanding. From safeguarding life’s most essential records to modernizing public access in a fast-growing community, this office requires steady leadership, deep experience, and a servant’s heart. Few candidates embody that combination more completely than Judge Maria T. Jackson.
With more than 18 years on the bench and over 18,000 cases presided over, Judge Jackson brings to this race a proven record of fairness, discipline, and respect for the rule of law. Her campaign for Fort Bend County Clerk is not about learning on the job—it’s about elevating the job with experience earned the hard way: case by case, decision by decision, community by community.
A Judge Who Earned Trust Across the Spectrum
During her judicial career, Judge Jackson earned respect from every corner of the courtroom—victims and defendants, law enforcement and defense counsel, Democrats and Republicans alike. That reputation for balance and meticulous attention to detail led to broad support from organizations as discerning as the Houston
EXPERIENCE. INTEGRITY. SERVICE.
WHY MARIA T. JACKSON IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR FORT BEND COUNTY CLERK
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Police Officers Union (HPOU), Combined Law Enforcement of Texas (CLEAT), and the Houston Regional Business Coalition (HRBC).
“The role of County Clerk is about managing the official records that mark the most important moments in people’s lives— from birth certificates to military records to death certificates,” Jackson explains. “After presiding over thousands of cases, I understand how critical accuracy, transparency, and professionalism are. That experience directly translates to managing this office with excellence.”
Rooted in Service, Grounded in Community
Judge Jackson’s story is deeply Texas—and unmistakably Houston. She attended Will Rogers Elementary School, Sidney Johnston Junior High School, graduated from the University of Texas, and earned her law degree from Texas A&M University. Her commitment to service was shaped early by her parents: a father who was a Texas Southern University graduate and U.S. Air Force fighter pilot in Vietnam, and a mother who served Harris County through a career in healthcare.
“From my parents, I learned that service comes before self,” Jackson says. “That principle has guided every chapter of my public life.”
First appointed as a Houston Municipal Judge by Mayor Lee P. Brown and later reappointed by Mayor Bill White, Jackson went on to win election as a Texas State District Judge in 2008, 2012, and 2016 before retiring in 2020. Along the way, she was named Best Criminal Court Judge by the Houston Press and received the Outstanding Public Service Award from the Mexican American Bar Association—honors that reflect both professional excellence and community trust.
Ready for a County on the Move
As a mother who raised her two sons in Fort Bend County, Judge Jackson understands the county’s remarkable di-
versity and accelerating growth. With the population on track to exceed one million residents, the demands on the County Clerk’s office—from technology upgrades to customer service expectations—are only increasing.
“Fort Bend County is one of the most racially and ethnically balanced counties in the nation,” Jackson notes. “That diversity is a strength, and it requires a clerk’s office that is reliable, respectful, responsive, and technologically prepared to serve everyone.”
Her vision emphasizes modernization without losing the human touch—efficient systems paired with compassionate service, and innovation guided by integrity.
A Steady Hand for a Critical Office
As early voting approaches, voters in Fort Bend County face a clear choice. Judge Maria T. Jackson offers not just qualifications, but confidence—confidence that the County Clerk’s office will be managed with precision, transparency, and care. Her lifelong commitment to public service, combined with decades of judicial leadership, positions her as a steady and trustworthy steward of one of the county’s most essential offices.
Maria T. Jackson
Houston evenings are more than elegant celebrations—they are investments in community, culture, and future generations. On Saturday, May 2, 2026, the Edison Arts Foundation will host its 6th Annual Tutus & Tuxes Fundraising Gala, an inspiring night dedicated to advancing arts education and cultural access across Fort Bend County and Greater Houston.
Held at the Edison Cultural Arts Center, the gala brings together civic leaders, arts advocates, families, and philanthropists who believe that creativity strengthens families, bridges communities, and builds opportunity.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026 • Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Edison Cultural Arts Center • 7115 West Fuqua Street, Mo City, Texas 77489
Website: www.EdisonArtsFoundation.org
A Night That Builds Lasting Impact
The Tutus & Tuxes Gala serves as the Foundation’s premier annual fundraiser, generating essential resources to sustain educational and outreach programs that ensure the arts remain accessible and impactful for children, adults, and families.
Through sponsorship and community support, the gala directly:
Funds arts education and cultural outreach initiatives
THE EDISON ARTS FOUNDATION’S 6TH ANNUAL TUTUS & TUXES FUNDRAISING GALA
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Expands opportunities for family and youth participation in the arts
Strengthens the long-term sustainability of the Edison Cultural Arts Center
As the Foundation proudly states, “What We Build…Builds Us!”
Visionary Leadership
At the helm is Executive Director Charity Carter, a Houston native with more than 30 years of experience in dance and arts education. A graduate of Sam Houston State
University, Carter holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance and has dedicated her career to cultivating access, excellence, and opportunity through the arts. She is also the founder of the Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance, a pioneering institution that introduced after-school dance programs throughout Fort Bend County. In 2013, inspired by her parents, Robert and Bertha Edison, Carter established the Edison Arts Foundation—laying the foundation for a future anchored by a 400-seat performing arts
center with equity at its core.
2026 Gala Chair: Leadership with Purpose
Serving as 2026 Gala Chair is Kethia Webber, a respected human resources professional with more than 25 years of experience and a long-time strategic partner at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Webber and her husband, Jeffrey, are deeply committed to education and the arts, supporting scholarships, cultural institutions, and organizations throughout Houston and beyond. Her leadership ensures the 2026 gala reflects both excellence and meaningful community impact.
Get Involved
Community leaders, corporations, and arts advocates are invited to review sponsorship opportunities and join this mission-driven celebration. Contact:
Charity Carter, President –Edison Arts Foundation
• Kethia Webber, 2026 Gala Chair –kmweb04@yahoo.com
When the curtain rises on Tutus & Tuxes 2026, it will mark more than a gala—it will celebrate legacy, leadership, and the unifying power of the arts. Website: www. EdisonArtsFoundation.org www.StyleMagazine.com
As Black History Month shines a national spotlight on legacy, leadership, and lived experience, Houston Public Library is once again centering history where it belongs—within the voices of young people. In partnership with the Friends of the Beulah Shepard Legacy Committee, HPL proudly invites Pre-K through 12th grade students across Acres Homes and the greater Houston area to participate in the Beulah Shepard Annual Student Essay Contest, a beloved community tradition that honors the past while investing in the future.
At its heart, this Black History Month initiative celebrates the enduring legacy of Beulah Shepard, a revered educator whose commitment to literacy, civic pride, and community empowerment helped shape generations in Acres Homes. The contest challenges students not just to write— but to remember, reflect, and reimagine the contributions of African American leaders who helped build Acres Homes into one of Houston’s most historically rich and culturally vibrant neighborhoods.
Students are encouraged to explore the lives of iconic figures such as Loretta Devine, civic trailblazer Ruby Mosley, Pastor F.N. Williams, or another community hero whose story deserves to be
BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPOTLIGHT: HPL Launches Beulah Shepard Annual Student Essay Contest
By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
preserved. Essays are judged on originality, grammar, and creativity, with all submissions archived by the Legacy Committee as part of its ongoing commitment to protecting and elevating local Black history.
“Houston Public Library is a part of the powerful history of the Acres Homes neighborhood, and our students are a vital part of its future,” said Sandy Gaw, Library Director—capturing the spirit of a program that blends education with empowerment.
Awards Ceremony & Celebration Winners will be recognized during a community awards ceremony at the Beu-
lah Shepard–Acres Homes Neighborhood Library on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM CT.
Grade-level requirements are thoughtfully designed to meet students where they are—ranging from collages for early learners to full-length essays for older students. Awards will be presented to the top three entries in each category, ensuring broad recognition and encouragement.
$500 Senior Scholarship Opportunity
Graduating seniors have an added incentive: a $500 Senior Scholarship awarded to the top 12th-grade essay. To qualify, students must:
• Submit a 1,500+ word essay
• Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Demonstrate community service
• Plan to attend a college, university, or accredited trade school in Fall 2026 How to Enter
• In-person submissions: Beulah Shepard–Acres Homes Neighborhood Library
8501 West Montgomery Rd., Houston, TX 77088
• Questions: Friends of Beulah Shepard Organization at 281-594-7910
Deadline: Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 12:00 PM CT
Why This Matters
In a city as diverse and dynamic as Houston, programs like the Beulah Shepard Essay Contest do more than mark Black History Month—they cultivate future historians, storytellers, and civic leaders. By placing local Black excellence at the center of education, Houston Public Library continues its mission of equitable access, cultural preservation, and lifelong learning for all Houstonians.
LET US UPGRADE YOU: METRO’S NEW RIDEMETRO FARE SYSTEM SIGNALS A SMARTER WAY TO MOVE HOUSTON FORWARD
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
In has always been a city on the move— growing, evolving, and reinventing how people live, work, and connect. From the early days of bus routes carving pathways through expanding neighborhoods to today’s light rail lines stitching together communities, public transit has quietly shaped the rhythm of everyday life. Now, METRO is once again stepping into the future with a customer-first upgrade that feels less like a system change and more like a lifestyle glow-up.
Welcome to the RideMETRO Fare System—a faster, easier, and more flexible way to ride that proves progress doesn’t have to come with a higher price tag.
A Modern Upgrade Without a Fare Increase
Let’s start with the headline Houstonians love most: there is no fare increase. That’s right. The new RideMETRO Fare System delivers more convenience, more options, and more control—without asking riders to pay more.
At the heart of the upgrade is a cloud-powered, account-based system. Translation? Funds are available instantly. No waiting. No lag. Just tap, board, and go—keeping buses on schedule and riders moving.
Tap Into Choice: More Ways to Pay, More Ways to Ride
The RideMETRO system introduces a reusable RideMETRO Fare Card paired with a redesigned RideMETRO app, giving riders flexibility that fits real life. Whether you’re a daily commuter, an occasional rider, or a visitor exploring the city, paying your fare is refreshingly simple.
Riders can:
Tap their RideMETRO Fare Card on any METRO bus or METRORail station
Scan a QR code using the RideMETRO app Pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit, debit, or prepaid card
Just look for the bright red reader—it’s your signal that Houston transit has officially leveled up.
Loyalty Has Its Rewards
Frequent riders, METRO sees you—and rewards you. With the new system, every 10 paid taps earns one free ride. The RideMETRO app makes it easy
to track trips, manage balances, monitor rewards, and even oversee family accounts. It’s transit that works smarter, not harder.
As METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock puts it:
“Every improvement we make is about respecting our riders’ time. The RideMETRO Fare System makes boarding faster and easier, without raising fares. Transit should work for people, and this system does exactly that.”
Inclusive, Accessible, and Built for Everyone
In true Houston fashion, the upgrade keeps equity front and center. Students, seniors 65 and older, and qualified veterans can apply online for discounted or free RideMETRO Fare Cards—and even convert them into virtual cards within the app for seamless access.
Cash isn’t going anywhere either. METRO buses will continue accepting cash (exact change required), along with RideStores, select retailers, and Ticket Vending Machines. That said, digital payment unlocks the full suite of benefits—including free transfers and loyalty rewards.
A Smooth Transition Into the Future
Current METRO Q® Fare Cards won’t disappear overnight. Riders will have plenty of time to make the switch, with the transition period expected to run through April 2026. RideMETRO Fare Cards are available at METRO RideStores, Mini-RideStores, Ticket Vending Machines, online, and select retail locations.
The Bottom Line: Houston, You’ve Been Upgraded
The RideMETRO Fare System isn’t just a tech update—it’s a statement. A statement that public transit can be modern, flexible, inclusive, and rider-focused. A statement that progress doesn’t have to cost more. And a statement that Houston continues to lead by investing in systems that move people—and the city—forward together.
So go ahead. Tap in. Ride smarter. And let METRO upgrade your journey.
www.RideMetro.org
Brenda & Jesse
Brenda & Jesse
Brenda & Leslie Briones
Brenda & Good Friends
Linda Toyota & Brenda Photography By Linda Toyota
HFLEET WEEK HOUSTON 2026 SETS SAIL
Houston City College Anchors Education, Access & Opportunity
ouston is officially back on course for one of the most anticipated civic celebrations in the nation. In partnership with the United States Navy, the City of Houston has announced that Fleet Week Houston 2026 will take place Wednesday, April 15 through Wednesday, April 22, 2026, marking the city’s long-awaited inaugural Fleet Week after last year’s federal shutdown postponement.
At the heart of the planning and educational mission is Houston City College, whose Southeast Campus has emerged as a critical hub for coordination, workforce engagement, and community integration— proving once again that Houston’s future is built where education and service intersect.
A Citywide Salute with Purpose
Fleet Week Houston 2026 will celebrate the courage, professionalism, and global service of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, while shining a spotlight on Houston’s role as one of the world’s most important port cities. More than 1,000 active-duty service members and multiple visiting military vessels are expected to arrive, transforming Houston into a living classroom of patriotism, innovation, and opportunity.
“This is about access, appreciation, and inspiration,” said John Whitmire, who
By Francis Page, Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com
announced the new dates alongside Navy leadership. “The City of Houston never forgot its commitment to hosting Fleet Week. I’m excited about the new dates and honored to welcome the men and women who serve our country. I’m bringing my grandkids—and I invite every Houstonian to join us.”
Houston City College: Where Planning Meets Possibility
Momentum is already well underway. A major Mid-Planning Meeting was held Tuesday–Wednesday, February 3–4, 2026, at Houston City College Southeast – The Learning Lab (6815 Rustic Street), bringing together military leaders, city officials, educators, security teams, and
media partners.
Key planning priorities included:
• Military Roll Call & Operational Overviews, aligning ship participants and berthing plans
• Community Relations & Ship Tours, reinforcing Fleet Week’s “Liberty as a Mission” philosophy
• Media, Marketing & Band Coordination, ensuring citywide visibility and cultural inclusion
• Education & ISD Engagement, positioning students for STEM, maritime, aviation, and public-service pathways
By hosting these working sessions, Houston City College reinforces its role as more than an academic institution—it is a connector between industry, service, and community futures.
What the Public Can Expect
Fleet Week Houston 2026 promises seven days of high-energy, family-friendly programming across the region, including:
• Ship Tours & Live Demonstrations
• Educational Expos and Career Pathway Showcases
• Concerts, Parades, and Community Service Projects
• Student Engagement and Workforce Development Events
Key venues will include the Port of Houston, Downtown Houston (City Hall, POST Houston, Discovery Green), the East End, and surrounding neighborhoods—ensuring the celebration reaches Houstonians where they live, learn, and work.
For the latest updates on official events, ship schedules, times, and locations, visit:
H2026 ROCKETS – HEART OF A CHAMPION GALA: A
ouston doesn’t just cheer champions — it builds them. That spirit was on full, sparkling display at the 2026 Heart of a Champion Annual Gala, where the Houston Rockets and the Fertitta family turned Toyota Center into the city’s most glamorous proving ground for generosity, raising a record-setting $2.2 million for the Rockets’ Clutch City Foundation.
Originally planned for the Fertitta family’s River Oaks home, the evening pivoted seamlessly when weather intervened. The result? A dramatic, arena-floor takeover that felt less like a fundraiser and more like a Game 7 moment — electric, emotional, and unmistakably Houston.
Presented by THINK Neurology for Kids, the gala gathered 500 of the city’s most passionate supporters alongside Rockets royalty, current players, and leadership. Guests were welcomed by Rockets President of Business Operations Gretchen Sheirr, General Manager Rafael Stone, and Head Coach Ime Udoka, all united by a mission that extends far beyond the hardwood.
Founded in 1995 after the Rockets’ legendary back-to-back NBA championships, the Clutch City Foundation has evolved into one of Houston’s most impactful sports-driven philanthropies. This year’s funds will expand scholarships for
By Francis Page, Jr. –
higher education, renovate neighborhood basketball courts, continue relief support for families impacted by Hill Country flooding, and strengthen programs serving underserved communities across the region.
And yes — the fashion deserved its own standing ovation. The dress code, “Glam meets basketball,” delivered exactly that: red and black sequins shimmering under arena lights, paired with fashion-forward sneakers built for dancing well past the final buzzer. The energy was contagious, buzzing through Toyota Center like a playoff crowd on its feet.
Rockets legends made the night even richer with history. Hakeem Olajuwon, Finals MVP of both championship seasons, mingled with championship coach
The Walk to End HIV is a powerful, community-driven celebration of care, connection, and compassion— proof that Hope Lives Here. Every step taken fuels lifesaving programs, and transforms hope into action for individuals and families across our community.
Rudy Tomjanovich , NBA Top 75 icon Clyde Drexler , and three-time All-Star Steve Francis. On the current-day side, the room glowed with optimism as Kevin Durant, Alperen Şengün, Amen Thompson, Fred VanVleet, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard represented the future of Rockets basketball.
With Rockets owner and U.S. Ambassador Tilman Fertitta overseas on duty, alternate governor Patrick Fertitta took the helm as host. His message was simple and sincere: the Rockets thrive because Houston shows up — in wins, in losses, and especially in moments that matter.
The live auction delivered its own highlight reel. A road-trip experience with the Rockets sparked a bidding war that
reached $200,000 — twice — capped by an additional $200,000 contribution from the Fertitta family. When the paddles finally lowered, the mission had already won.
As the night closed with dancing on the same floor that would host a nationally televised Rockets win less than 24 hours later, one thing was clear: in Houston, heart, history, and hope always play on the same team.
Houston Style Magazine proudly celebrates the champions who give back — because being Clutch City has never been just about basketball. ��✨
WITH US! SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2026, 10 A.M.
Along the serene, shimmering shoreline of Lake Conroe, a distinctive new community is taking shape—one that blends elevated resort-style living with faith-driven purpose and long-term vision. Lakewood Oaks on Lake Conroe, now officially under construction, is redefining what luxury living looks like when integrity, family values, and stewardship lead the blueprint.
Located at 14830 FM 1097, Willis, Texas, Lakewood Oaks is thoughtfully designed as a refined waterfront enclave where elegant homes, natural beauty, and intentional living coexist. With more than 70 percent of residences already sold, the project has captured strong market confidence—an early affirmation that buyers are seeking more than square footage; they’re investing in meaning, community, and legacy.
A Groundbreaking Rooted in Purpose
The project’s transition into its construction phase was marked by an intimate and inspiring groundbreaking gathering, bringing together investors, community leaders, and international guests. The moment that set the tone was a dedication and prayer led by Danilo Montero of Lakewood
LAKEWOOD OAKS ON LAKE CONROE: WHERE FAITH, LUXURY, AND LEGACY MEET THE WATER
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Church, grounding the development’s next chapter in faith and intentionality.
Adding to the significance of the day was the presence of María Elena Orantes López, Consul General of Mexico in Houston, alongside local officials and business leaders from Houston and international markets. Guests were welcomed into an atmosphere of understated sophistication—international cuisine, classical music, and thoughtful details that mirrored the community’s elevated yet grounded vision.
Resort Living with a Conscience Lakewood Oaks on Lake Conroe is more than a collection of waterfront homes—it’s a carefully curated lifestyle.
Designed as a resort-style community, the development emphasizes privacy, natural surroundings, and spaces that encourage connection, reflection, and family life. It’s luxury without excess, elegance without ego.
The project is led by developer Michaelangelo Del Valle, in collaboration with Carlos de la O, with the support of the Richardson family and Lic. Alfonso Pérez. Together, the team shares a unified commitment to building with excellence, guided by Christian principles and a desire to create enduring value for generations to come.
A Lasting Legacy on Lake Conroe
The new visual identity was de-
veloped in partnership with Houston-based creative designer Chris Izaguirre, a Houston native and former participant in affordable housing programs. The logo is intended to represent the agency’s mission of opening doors and expanding opportunity through housing and supportive services.
What Remains the Same
In a Texas real estate market often defined by speed and scale, Lakewood Oaks stands apart for its intentional pace and principled foundation. It represents a vision where faith, design, and waterfront luxury converge—offering homeowners not just a place to live, but a place to belong.
As construction moves forward, Lakewood Oaks on Lake Conroe is poised to become one of the region’s most meaningful luxury addresses—where mornings open to lake views, evenings settle into peace, and every detail reflects a higher purpose.
Location & Contact Info:
Lakewood Oaks on Lake Conroe 14830 FM 1097, Willis, TX 77318
The Gordon Parks Foundation is marking its 20th anniversary with a bold, forward-looking statement: the arts are not only meant to be seen or read—they are meant to be felt, heard, and lived. In 2026, the Foundation expands its celebrated fellowship program with the launch of its inaugural Fellowship in Music, joining its long-standing honors in art and writing. The announcement signals both a tribute to legacy and a promise to the future.
This year’s Fellows in Art—Sanford Biggers and Amanda Williams—are artists whose work reshapes history, architecture, and Black cultural memory through bold visual language. The Genevieve Young Fellowship in Writing is awarded to Leigh Raiford, a scholar whose writing examines photography, race, and political imagination with depth and urgency.
But for Houston, this year’s announcement carries special pride.
A Houston Fellow Takes Center Stage
The inaugural Gordon Parks Foundation Fellow in Music is none other than Jason Moran—a Houston-born jazz pianist, composer, and interdisciplinary artist whose global influence is rooted in the city that shaped him. Raised in Houston and trained at Houston’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA),
FELLOWS OF VISION: Gordon Parks Foundation Celebrates 20-Years
By Francis Page, Jr. –
blends sound, history, visual art, and social commentary, making him a natural steward of
and global conversations about identity, justice, and creativity.
Fellowships with Purpose
Each Gordon Parks Foundation fellowship provides meaningful resources to support new or ongoing projects, all culminating in solo exhibitions at the Gordon Parks Foundation Gallery in Pleasantville, New York. The Foundation will also acquire works by the Art Fellows for its permanent collection, ensuring their impact extends well beyond the exhibition walls.
These fellowships trace their inspiration to a pivotal moment in Parks’ own life—his 1942 Julius Rosenwald Fund fellowship, which launched his career and affirmed his belief that art could be a catalyst for social change. That philosophy continues to guide the Foundation’s mission today: investing in artists whose work advances both beauty and justice.
Moran’s career—spanning jazz, classical composition, multimedia performance, and cultural scholarship—mirrors Gordon Parks’ own multidisciplinary spirit. Like Parks, Moran refuses to be confined by a single medium. His work
as a cultural activist and artistic truth-teller.
For Houston Style Magazine readers, Moran’s fellowship is more than a personal honor—it’s a hometown victory. It is further proof that Houston continues to nurture artists whose voices shape national
For Houston Style Magazine readers, and for the cultural world at large, this year’s fellowships strike a powerful chord— one rooted in history, lifted by creativity, and carried forward by artists unafraid to lead.
Moran embodies the creative excellence that has long flowed from the Bayou City to the world stage.
Parks’ legacy
JUST THE FACTS: Harris County Toll Road Authority
HCTRA toll roads are a vital mobility option for the Harris County region. Our roadways connect people with alternatives that are designed with safety as the number one priority. New projects are in development with the goal of continuing to increase efficiency and convenience for area residents. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there, so we’re here to share the FACTS.
FACT: Toll road dollars maintain the lanes and fund future roadway improvements.
HCTRA toll roads are funded entirely by the people who use them. Toll money is reinvested back into the system to better serve HCTRA customers through maintenance and safety measures designed to protect the regional asset. Everything from roadway debris clean up to tolling system upgrades is powered by HCTRA users.
Taxpayer funds are never used to fund HCTRA toll roads.
FACT: HCTRA is focused on mobility for today and tomorrow.
Our region is growing and so is traffic. For Harris County to thrive, we must be able to move safely and securely on our roadways. HCTRA looks for mobility solutions for what drivers face every day – our projects focus on creating a better path forward that is sustainable for today and tomorrow.
From the reconstruction of the Sam Houston Ship Channel bridge to an extension of the Hardy Toll Road to inside the Interstate 610 loop, HCTRA
projects are designed for our community now and in the future. The region’s growth continues to be strong, and robust infrastructure is needed to support the people and industries that rely on our network of toll roads.
FACT: EZ Tag users get a 10% discount on Harris County toll roads. Less slowdowns. Fewer brake lights.
More of getting where you need to go. We want to take the pain out of commuting - with our barrier-free system and EZ Tag, there’s no stopping
to pay your toll. And with EZ Tag, customers get a 10% discount on HCTRA tollways. Savings that are quick and automatic.
You can also use your EZ Tag seamlessly throughout the state of Texas as well as Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and Florida. Don’t worry about bills from out of town – HCTRA handles the billing conveniently for you. Road trip! Getting an EZ Tag is also simple – visit HCTRA. org to get started. And if you ever encounter an issue while driving on a HCTRA roadway, our Incident Response Team (IRT) is available to help. Whether it’s a flat tire or a stalled vehicle,
simply call the number on the back of your EZ Tag to get help quickly. IRT keeps our roadways safe and moving. We won’t leave you stranded.
FACT: At HCTRA, we keep it moving. Everyone benefits from HCTRA toll roads. By providing more options for daily commuting and general travel, we help to keep the people that drive growth working. Well-maintained infrastructure is key to the region’s strength and success and we’re working in partnership with others to ensure ongoing project development benefits the region.
At HCTRA, we’re always working for you to keep it moving.
Courtesy HCTRA
In a city that celebrates resilience as much as reinvention, few stories capture both quite like the journey of DeShanna Negret and her daughter, Alejandria. Their story is not just about earning degrees—it’s about rediscovering purpose, honoring family, and proving that growth has no expiration date when love and determination walk hand in hand.
When DeShanna first enrolled at Houston City College in 2019, she was standing at a crossroads many mothers quietly face. Her oldest daughter was preparing to graduate high school, her younger daughters were growing more independent, and the rhythm of daily motherhood was shifting.
“My first baby was about to graduate,” DeShanna recalls. “And I realized my girls didn’t need me in the same way anymore. I asked myself, ‘What am I going to do with myself now?’” It was Alejandria—then still a teenager—who offered the answer that would change everything: Finish school.
Rewriting the Timeline
DeShanna initially doubted the idea. Life had already given her a full résumé—years as a cafeteria manager with Houston ISD and leadership roles in food service management. College felt like a chapter she had closed decades earlier, after briefly attending Lone Star College before marriage and motherhood took center stage. But curiosity won. While exploring
A Mother and Daughter’s Shared Walk to Graduation at HOUSTON City College
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
programs, DeShanna found a Restaurant Management certificate that aligned perfectly with her professional experience. One class led to another. One certificate became two. By 2022, she had completed her Restaurant Management certification—and then added payroll specialization when an advisor pointed out she was closer to additional credentials than she realized. Momentum became motivation.
“If I wanted my bachelor’s degree one
day,” she said, “I knew the next step was earning my associate degree.”
Perseverance Through Life’s Hardest Lessons
The journey wasn’t linear. In 2023, as DeShanna began business administration coursework, life delivered its heaviest blows. Her mother passed away. Her father became seriously ill and moved into her home, requiring full-time care. Her husband’s health declined. There were
semesters when stepping away from class was unavoidable—but quitting was never an option. Before her father passed, he offered words that became her anchor: “Don’t stop. Don’t let anything stop you from getting your degree.”
She didn’t.
And in a twist worthy of a movie script, DeShanna and Alejandria soon found themselves enrolled at HCC at the same time—sometimes even taking the same classes.
A Daughter’s Path, Inspire by a Mother’s Strength
Alejandria’s college story reflects a generation shaped by uncertainty. Graduating high school during the height of COVID-19, she enrolled at HCC in 2021 navigating delayed plans and shifting dreams. She explored sociology and fashion design before discovering her true passion: English.
“I realized how much I love writing,” Alejandria said. “And I wanted to grow that through education.”
The two became study partners, accountability buddies, and emotional anchors for one another. They shared professors’ insights, compared assignments, and pushed each other through deadlines and doubt.
HCC’s
DeShanna Negret and her daughter, Alejandria
Love doesn’t clock out after one night at Winsome Prime. This February, the city’s beloved modern American dining destination is stretching Valentine’s Day into a full, joy-filled weekend—where romance, friendship, great food, and stylish vibes all share center stage.
From girlfriends’ night out energy to candlelit Valentine’s dinners and indulgent brunch moments, Winsome Prime is inviting Houston couples, crews, and hopeless romantics alike to celebrate love in every form—because one night simply isn’t enough.
The festivities begin Friday, February 13, with Galentine’s Night, a chic toast to sisterhood, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s your longtime rideor-dies or a glam night out just because, the evening sets the tone for the weekend with vibrant energy, fabulous company, and complimentary champagne for guests ordering from the specialty menu. Consider it the perfect excuse to dress up, clink glasses, and
WINSOME PRIME TURNS VALENTINE’S DAY INTO A WEEKEND-LONG LOVE AFFAIR WITH GALENTINE’S NIGHT, VALENTINE’S DINNER & A SWEET BRUNCH FINALE
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
celebrate the love that shows up every day.
Valentine’s Day Dinner: Romance with Rhythm
On Saturday, February 14, Winsome Prime turns up the romance with an elevated $95 three-course Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu designed to impress from the first bite to the last dance.
From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, a live percussionist creates a sultry soundtrack for the evening, followed by a late-night DJ to keep the mood flowing. Thoughtful touches—including a complimentary rose for the ladies and champagne for prix fixe guests—add just the right amount of
sparkle.
Menu standouts include crave-worthy favorites such as Crab Beignets, Parmesan-Crusted Filet, Pan-Seared Halibut, Double-Cut Lamb Chops, and the always-essential Chocolate-Covered Strawberries—because Valentine’s Day without dessert is simply not an option.
National critics have taken notice:
“Julia Bullock gives an extraordinary performance of Messiaen’s song cycle. Her voice filled the hall and never wavered.” — OperaWire
“Bullock took a spectacular deep dive into this hour of agony and ecstasy… She made Harawi into a beauteous yet
dark landmark of singing.” — Los Angeles Times
At the piano, Conor Hanick proves an equal partner—his virtuosic, razor-sharp playing illuminating Messiaen’s intricate rhythms and kaleidoscopic harmonies with clarity and urgency. Together, Bullock and Hanick form a musical partnership defined by trust, intensity, and shared artistic vision.
Valentine’s Brunch: Sweet Starts & Weekend Vibes
The celebration doesn’t stop when the sun comes up. Winsome Prime extends the love with Valentine’s Weekend Brunch on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15, blending its signature classics with festive, heart-inspired indulgences. Expect playful and decadent offerings like red velvet waffles, stuffed French toast, and more chocolate-kissed favorites—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone who believes brunch is love language.
The 2026 Grammy Awards reminded the world why music still matters— and why culture, when done right, can move people beyond the stage. From jaw-dropping performances to moments of real conviction, the night belonged to many artists. But make no mistake: Bad Bunny was the undeniable star of the night.
In a broadcast that leaned into artistry over spectacle-for-spectacle’s sake, Bad Bunny commanded attention with the ease of a global icon and the intention of an artist who knows exactly what his voice means in this moment. The Grammys didn’t just crown winners this year—they amplified messages. And Bad Bunny delivered one that echoed far beyond the room.
A Star Turn—With Purpose
When Bad Bunny stepped onstage to accept his Grammy for Best Música Urbana Album, the applause was thunderous—but it was what came next that defined the night. Before thanking collaborators or industry gatekeepers, he spoke plainly and powerfully, declaring, “ICE out.” The room rose. The moment landed.
BAD BUNNY WAS THE STAR OF THE NIGHT
Grammys 2026 Delivered Music, Meaning — and a Moment Houston Won’t Forget
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
It was bold, unapologetic, and deeply human. In an era when many artists choose neutrality, Bad Bunny chose clarity. For a global superstar with massive commercial reach and a Super Bowl halftime performance looming, it was a reminder that courage still has a place on the biggest stages.
For Houston—a city built by immigrants, powered by diversity, and driven by culture—his words resonated deeply.
The Grammys, When They Get It Right
This year’s Grammy Awards felt refreshingly focused on the music itself. The show balanced celebration and risk, joy and substance—delivering moments that felt alive rather than overproduced.
and leaning into absurdity with confidence and humor. It was theatrical, irreverent, and unforgettable—exactly the kind of creative swing live television needs.
Tyler, the Creator delivered a dizzying, cinematic spectacle that may go down as one of the most ambitious Grammy performances in recent memory. From stark black-and-white imagery to explosive color and symbolism, his set blurred the line between performance art and controlled chaos. It was daring. It was weird. It worked.
And then there was Clipse, finally receiving their long-overdue flowers. Watching Pusha T and Malice share the Grammy stage with Pharrell Williams felt like a victory lap not just for them,
that longevity, when paired with integrity, still wins.
Why Bad Bunny Owned the Night
What set Bad Bunny apart wasn’t just star power—it was intention. He didn’t need theatrics to dominate the evening. He used presence. He used voice. He used truth.
In a single night, he embodied what the Grammys aspire to be at their best: a platform where music intersects with culture, identity, and conscience. He proved that global superstardom doesn’t require silence—and that representation, when wielded responsibly, can uplift millions.
As anticipation builds for his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, one thing is clear: Bad Bunny isn’t just performing for the moment. He’s shaping it.
Final Note from Houston Style Magazine
The 2026 Grammys delivered plenty of highs, a few head-scratchers, and more than one performance we’ll be talking about for years. But when the lights dimmed and the headlines settled, one truth stood tall:
MARSALIS QUARTET BELONGING TOUR
SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2026, 10 A.M.
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