Houston Style Magazine Vol 37 No 07

Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com

Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@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

Sports Editor Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com

Food & Wine Writer

Monica Jones alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

Entertainment Writer D'Nesha Bell / TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com

Career Columnist Nikki Miles ailormaderesumes2576@gmail.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Ben Jealous info@benjealous.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES advertising@stylemagazine.com

Got community news?

We want to hear from you! editorial@stylemagazine.com

MCITY BEAT: WILLIE DAVIS OPENS 2026 WITH A PEOPLE-POWERED TOWN HALL

onday February 9, 2026, marked a strong, community-first start to the year as Willie Davis, Houston City Council Member for At-Large Position 2, hosted his first town hall meeting of 2026 at the Metropolitan Multi-Service Center. From the moment doors opened, the evening carried an unmistakable tone: this was City Hall showing up, listening closely, and getting to work alongside residents.

The well-attended gathering reflected Council Member Davis’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accessibility, and practical problem-solving. With a bustling resource fair leading into the program, neighbors connected directly with city departments, asked questions, and walked away with real information they could use—no bureaucracy required.

A United City Leadership Panel, One Community Conversation

At the heart of the evening was a robust Q&A session featuring senior leadership from across Houston’s public-service ecosystem. Residents engaged directly with Houston Police Department Chief J. Noe Diaz, Houston Fire Department Chief Thomas Muñoz, City Attorney Arturo Michel, Public Works COO Chris Butler, Office of Emergency Management Director Brian Mason, Solid Waste Director Larius Hassen, and People with Disabilities Director Angel Ponce, among others.

The two-minute question format kept the conversation focused and energetic, allowing more voices to be heard. Topics ranged from public safety and emergency preparedness to neighborhood services, accessibility, and infrastructure—underscoring just how interconnected city issues are to daily life.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors With City Support

By Francis Page, Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com

Beyond the stage, more than two dozen resource tables transformed the center into a one-stop civic hub. Residents connected with services from Houston Public Works, Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Houston Public Library, METRO, Houston BARC, United Way, AARP, and many more. The result was an atmosphere that felt less like a meeting—and more like a collaborative neighborhood summit.

District C Council Member Abbie Kamin also joined the evening, reinforcing the spirit of cross-district cooperation that residents increasingly expect from city leadership.

Leadership Rooted

in Service

Since his inauguration in 2024, Council Member Davis has represented all 2.4 million Houstonians with a steady focus on public safety, emergency management, affordable housing, and veteran affairs. As

Vice-Chair of the Housing and Affordability Committee—and as a longtime pastor, Houston Christian University board member, and Vietnam War Army Special Forces veteran—Davis brings a rare blend of policy expertise, lived experience, and moral clarity to City Hall. That blend was on full display Monday night. The town hall wasn’t just informative—it was reassuring. In a city as vast and dynamic as Houston, residents left knowing their voices matter and their concerns are being heard by leaders willing to meet them face-toface.

As 2026 unfolds, Council Member Willie Davis’s first town hall of the year set a high bar: accessible leadership, honest dialogue, and a city government that shows up for its people—every time.

Chicago's keep Black History Month on one shelf and Valentine’s Day on another. One is supposed to be about pain and struggle. The other about flowers and pastel sugary hearts. Public remembrance of the most important Supreme Court decision about love in American history—Loving v. Virginia—waits for June, as if love itself were a summer excursion.

My life has taught me that matters of the heart belong in Black History Month too. Indeed such a short and bitterly cold month needs the memories of courageous love perhaps more than any other.

When I was a child in the 1970s, barely a decade after the Court decided Loving, I watched my parents hold hands in public and draw the kind of looks a child never forgets. The law had changed. The reflex had not. We honor Mildred and Richard Loving for their courage, and we should. Yet their victory was not a gift delivered from above. It was the law finally meeting the life people had already been living.

My maternal grandmother, Mamie Bland, taught me that long before I could name it. Her face was very English. Yet by Virginia law she was unquestionably Black. She carried the stories of our family quietly, without ornament, the way some people carry a Bible. She knew the South lived two lives at once—one written in statutes and another written at kitchen tables. Mamie believed the second life would outlast the first. She was right.

Virginia’s history shows that interracial unions were never an exception. They were part of the everyday rhythm of the Commonwealth. After Bacon’s Rebellion— hardly the only time Virginians of different races had made common cause—the ruling class answered with laws meant to keep Black and white people from finding one another again.

Those walls were rebuilt after Reconstruction and perfected in the Racial Integrity Act of 1924, the eugenic scheme that forced Virginians into two boxes: white or colored.

The hypocrisy was written into the fine print. The same statute that criminalized Black-white marriage carved out a special door so white Virginians could continue

COMMENTARY

FEBRUARY IS ABOUT LOVING TOO

By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator

boasting of descent from Pocahontas and John Rolfe. By law you were 100% white even with one-sixteenth Native ancestry. And by the same law yet one-thirty-second African Ancestry made you 100% Black.

My own family sits inside that ledger. DNA confirmed what Mamie already knew. I descend from the Bland line of Virginia, a family that proudly traced its roots to the Pocahontas-Rolfe union. Yet my great-great-grandfather Edward David Bland was born enslaved because his father Frederick was the son of a Bland planter and an enslaved woman—and Frederick was legally owned by his own half-brother, Richard Yates Bland. That is not a metaphor. It is a document. It is a life passed from one column of a will to another.

Virginia celebrated a legend while

punishing a reality. The colony preferred a story about John Smith rescuing an Indian princess to the recorded marriage between Pocahontas and Rolfe that produced living descendants. Myth was easy to salute. Intimacy was harder to face.

By the time Mildred Jeter and Richard Loving married in Washington in 1958, generations had already voted with their hearts. Couples crossed county lines, raised children in common-law homes, or kept their vows in quiet rooms. The state called those unions unnatural, yet they were as Virginia as the river and the red clay. In 1967 the Supreme Court did not create a new country. It recognized the one that had been breathing all along.

Judge Leon Bazile, who sentenced the Lovings to exile, said God had placed the races on separate continents and never

meant them to mix. But the very families who wrote Virginia’s laws had been mixing since the first ships anchored at Jamestown, perhaps even before. There is the truth defined by legislating otherness. And then there is the truth defined by loving one another despite it all

That is why the story of Loving should be celebrated in February, too. Black history is not only the history of pain and protest. It is also the history of love surviving under threat.

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.

History rarely announces itself loudly—but sometimes it taps us on the shoulder and asks us to show up.

That moment arrives Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as Early Voting officially begins across Texas, setting the stage for one of the most consequential primary election cycles the Lone Star State has seen in decades. From Washington power plays to neighborhood-level impact, what Texans decide between now and Super Tuesday, March 3 will echo far beyond the ballot box.

Early Voting runs Tuesday, February 17 through Friday, February 27, giving voters ample opportunity to cast ballots ahead of Election Day. If no candidate captures 50 percent plus one vote, runoff elections will follow on Tuesday, May 28, the day after Memorial Day.

The Stakes Are High And Houston Is at the Center

Across Texas’ 254 counties, voters will weigh in on races for:

• U.S. Senate

• 38 U.S. Congressional seats

• 150 Texas House seats

• Judicial races

• Education boards

• County and district offices

In Harris County alone, voters will have access to 60 Early Vote polling locations, with 29 sites in Fort Bend County,

EARLY VOTING BEGINS TUESDAY,

FEBRUARY 17TH

— A Defining Moment for Texas, Democracy, and Houston’s Voice

By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com

ensuring broad access across the region. But make no mistake—this election cycle isn’t just big. It’s pivotal.

U.S. Senate: A Race Too Close to Call

Recent polling from the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs and other statewide surveys shows multiple Senate contests locked in statistical dead heats, with most analysts projecting runoffs.

On the Democratic side, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett—a proud Texas Southern University alumna and University of Houston Law Center graduate—has emerged as a commanding grassroots force. Despite being outspent by challenger State Rep. James Talarico, Crockett’s relentless campaign schedule—often 12 events a day across Houston and Texas before returning to Washington—has propelled her to the top tier of likely Democratic primary voters.

Polling shows Crockett with 47 percent support, edging close to a first-round victory. Talarico, a former schoolteacher from Austin, has benefited from heavy fundraising and high-profile advertising, including Super Bowl placements—but momentum remains firmly in play.

Crockett’s rise underscores a powerful truth: authentic connection still matters in Texas politics.

Republicans: A Three-Way Battle with National Implications

On the Republican side, the Senate contest is equally volatile.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton polls at approximately 27 percent

Congressman Wesley Hunt, a Houston native and West Point graduate, trails closely at 25.7 percent

Incumbent U.S. Senator John Cornyn, a fixture on Texas ballots since

1990, stands at 25.5 percent

Hunt’s story resonates deeply in Houston—born and raised here, a combat-tested Apache helicopter pilot with service in Iraq and Saudi Arabia, and now a rising national figure.

Should Hunt and Crockett both secure their respective nominations, Texans would witness a historic general election matchup: two young, second-term African American members of Congress competing for a U.S. Senate seat—a scenario that could reshape national leadership pipelines for decades to come.

Congressional Races: Houston Districts in Transition

U.S. House races appear second on the ballot but are no less significant—especially as redistricting reshapes Houston’s political map.

Key matchups include:

Tina Cohen challenging incumbent Lizzie Fletcher in Congressional District 7 Christian Menefee, now a congressman, facing 22-year incumbent Rep. Al Green in the newly drawn Congressional District 18

IAMANDA EDWARDS STEPS FORWARD BY STEPPING BACK: A HOUSTON LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP, SERVICE, AND CIVIC POWER

n Houston politics, history often turns not on who wins an election—but on who chooses to keep serving when the headlines fade. That truth feels especially present as Amanda Edwards announced the suspension of her campaign for Texas’ 18th Congressional District, signaling not an exit from public life, but a purposeful pivot back to the grassroots.

For Edwards, a former Houston City Council member and longtime civic advocate, the decision reflects both realism and resolve. Following a decisive loss in the special runoff election to fill the remainder of the term, Edwards acknowledged the moment—and then reframed it. With filing deadlines already passed, her name will still appear on the March 3 Democratic primary ballot. Yet her focus has shifted squarely toward something she has long believed in: empowering voters where democracy actually lives—inside neighborhoods, churches, restaurants, and everyday community spaces.

From Campaign Trail to Community Ground Game

At the heart of Edwards’ announcement is the relaunch of her Do Something Houston Voter Registration Initiative, an effort she first launched in 2024. The initiative is unapologetically Houston-rooted and mission-driven, emphasizing civic participation during what Edwards has described as a “critical election cycle.”

Her message is clear: elections matter, but participation matters more. Health care

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

access, economic opportunity, education, and the future of democracy itself remain front and center—issues that have long defined Edwards’ public service record and resonate deeply across Houston’s diverse communities.

This shift also reflects the broader reality of a district that has endured nearly a year of political upheaval and voter fatigue.

A District Marked by Loss and Transition

Texas’ 18th Congressional District has weathered an extraordinary period of instability following the death of the iconic Sheila Jackson Lee in July 2024—a moment that sent shockwaves through Houston and the nation. Her passing was followed by the election and subsequent death of her successor, former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, shortly after he took office in March.

The resulting special election and

runoff unfolded amid confusion, redistricting changes, and historically low voter turnout— conditions election experts attribute to fatigue and prolonged uncertainty. These circumstances created a challenging environment for any candidate, particularly one running on a message of broad civic engagement rather than narrow political calculus.

The Road Ahead for CD18

As the district moves forward, attention now turns to the March Democratic primary, which will be conducted under newly redrawn district lines approved by the Texas Legislature. Veteran Congressman Al Green, who has represented parts of the district for nearly two decades, will face Christian Menefee, who won the January 31, 2026, special election runoff with approximately two-thirds of the vote and will serve the remainder of the term through January 2027.

Early voting runs from Monday, February 17, through Thursday, February 27, with Election Day set for Tuesday, March 3.

A Different Kind of Political Courage

In an era when political success is often measured strictly by wins and losses, Amanda Edwards’ decision stands out for its long view. By stepping back from the ballot and stepping forward into civic action, she reinforces a Houston tradition of leadership rooted in service—not self.

This is not a retreat. It is a recalibration. And for many Houstonians, it

underscores an essential truth: democracy is not sustained by candidates alone, but by communities that show up, register, vote, and stay engaged long after election night.

As Houston continues to navigate change, grief, and renewal within one of its most historic congressional districts, Edwards’ renewed focus on voter registration serves as both a call to action and a reminder of legacy. Leadership, after all, is not only about holding office—it is about holding space for the people.

For Houston Style Magazine readers, the message resonates clearly: the work continues, the stakes remain high, and Houston’s civic heartbeat still depends on those willing to do something—especially when it matters most.

www.StyleMagazine.com

One Stage. Many Roots. One America. BAD BUNNY’S SUPER BOWL PERFORMANCE BECOMES

A POWERFUL, MUTLI-ETHNIC STATEMENT OF UNITY

By Francis Page, Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com

Who Is the Boy Who Received Bad Bunny’s Grammy on Stage?

WBad Bunny

and handed his Grammy Award for Album of the Year to a young boy during his performance, the moment stopped the show—and sparked instant curiosity across living rooms, watch parties, and social media feeds nationwide. That child was not a random selection. He was Lincoln Fox, and his role carried deep symbolic meaning.

Meet Lincoln Fox

Name: Lincoln Fox

(also reported as Lincoln Fox Ramadan)

Age: 5 years old

Profession: Child actor

Ethnicity: Mixed heritage; reported as Argentinian-American Role in the performance: A symbolic portrayal of Bad Bunny as a child

Why This Moment Mattered

The Grammy handoff was not about celebrity—it was about possibility

Lincoln was styled to resemble a young Bad Bunny, representing the artist’s own beginnings before global fame. The gesture quietly but powerfully communicated a universal message: Every dream starts small—and greatness often begins in unlikely places.

For millions of viewers, especially children watching at home, the image of a world-renowned artist placing his highest honor into the hands of a child was a reminder that success is transferable, hope is generational, and dreams are meant to be passed forward

Clearing Up the Confusion

In the hours following the performance, misinformation circulated online misidentifying the child. Multiple national outlets later confirmed that Lincoln Fox—not the child referenced in unrelated viral stories—was the performer involved.

The clarity mattered, not for celebrity gossip, but because the moment itself deserved accuracy and respect

The Takeaway

Bad Bunny didn’t just showcase success—he shared it

And in that simple, silent exchange between an artist and a child, America saw something rare on the Super Bowl stage: humility, hope, and the promise of what comes next.

On the world’s biggest stage, Bad Bunny didn’t just deliver a halftime performance—he delivered a cultural moment. A moment rooted in pride, powered by joy, and amplified by a deliberately multi-ethnic cast of artists, actors, and athletes whose presence told a deeper story about America as it truly is.

This was not spectacle for spectacle’s sake. It was intention. And it landed.

A Celebration of Belonging— Without Compromise

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance was anchored in Puerto Rican identity, but it radiated outward—embracing Latin America, the Caribbean, and the United States in one unified rhythm. There were no speeches, no slogans flashing across the screen. Instead, the message came through representation , language , and shared space

Spanish was front and center—not translated, not softened, not explained. And it didn’t need to be.

That choice alone spoke volumes to millions of households across Houston and beyond where bilingualism isn’t political—it’s personal.

The Faces on Stage—and What They Represented

•The performance featured a carefully curated group of well-known figures whose ethnic backgrounds collectively reflected the modern American mosaic:

• Bad Bunny

• Ethnicity: Puerto Rican

The heartbeat of the performance— grounded in Caribbean rhythm and island pride.

• Ricky Martin

• Ethnicity: Puerto Rican

A global icon whose presence bridged generations of Latino excellence.

• Lady GAGA

•Ethnicity: Italian American

A global pop powerhouse whose surprise appearance symbolized artistic unity— bridging cultures, genres, and generations.

• Pedro Pascal

• Ethnicity: Chilean Representing South America’s cultural influence and immigrant storytelling in Hollywood.

• Jessica Alba

• Ethnicity: Mexican-American

A reminder of Latina visibility in mainstream American culture.

• Cardi B

• Ethnicity: Dominican & Trinidadian Caribbean-American energy embodying unapologetic individuality and crossover success.

• Karol G

• Ethnicity: Colombian Representing South America’s global musical influence and female empowerment.

• Young Miko

• Ethnicity: Puerto Rican

A rising voice of a new generation— queer, bold, and redefining representation.

• Ronald Acuña Jr.

• Ethnicity: Venezuelan Highlighting Latin American excellence in U.S. professional sports.

•Xander Zayas

•Ethnicity: Puerto Rican Youth, discipline, and the future of Puerto Rican sports pride.

• Emiliano Vargas

• Ethnicity: Mexican-American Representing legacy, family, and cross-border athletic heritage. Together, these faces told one story: America is not one look, one language, or one rhythm—and never has been.

Why This Hit Home in Houston

Houston doesn’t need a lecture on diversity—we live it.

From Gulfton to Acres Homes, from the East End to Alief, Houston thrives because cultures don’t just coexist here— they collaborate. Bad Bunny’s halftime show mirrored the lived reality of this city: many origins, shared purpose

This performance didn’t divide audiences. It unified them—through music, pride, and visibility.

The Bigger Message: Unity Doesn’t Erase Identity

The genius of the moment was its confidence.

Confidence that celebrating Puerto Rico doesn’t exclude Texas. Confidence that Spanish doesn’t threaten English. Confidence that visibility is not zero-sum. Bad Bunny and his cast didn’t ask America to change who it is. They simply showed America who it already is. And on that stage—under those lights—unity wasn’t whispered. It danced.

www.DebitiRarmasFotos.com

hwww.NFL.com/super-bowl www.StyleMagazine.com

Pride Month in Houston reached a powerful crescendo on Friday, June 12, 2026, as the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce hosted its signature Pride In Business Celebration & Awards Luncheon + After Party at the Hilton Americas–Houston Grand Ballroom. More than a luncheon, the event unfolded as a declaration—ten years strong and just getting started.

With over 1,000 business, civic, and community leaders in attendance, Pride In Business once again affirmed its reputation as Houston’s largest LGBTQ+ business event during Pride Month, outside of the Pride Parade itself. This year’s gathering carried special resonance, anchoring the Chamber’s 10-Year Anniversary theme: A Decade of Impact. Stronger. Bolder. Unstoppable. Together.

From the moment guests entered the ballroom, the energy was unmistakable—equal parts celebration, reflection, and forward momentum. The room buzzed with conversations between entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 partners, elected officials, and nonprofit leaders, all united by a shared belief: economic inclusion isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Serving as Co-Chairs for the 2026 celebration were Brooks Ballard, Dr. Jac-

Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber Marks 10 Years of Economic Inclusion

By Francis Page Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com

quie Baly, and Francisco Sánchez, Jr., whose leadership and community stewardship were evident throughout the program. Under their guidance, Pride In Business delivered both polish and purpose, balancing recognition with resolve.

At the heart of the luncheon were the Pride In Business Awards, honoring LGBTQ+ and allied businesses, executives, and organizations that are actively reshaping Houston’s economic landscape through visi-

bility, equity, and opportunity. Each honoree represented a chapter in the Chamber’s evolving story—one defined by courage, collaboration, and measurable impact.

“This celebration reflects who we’ve become,” said Tammi Wallace, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of the Chamber. “Over the past decade, we’ve navigated change, uncertainty, and growth—always staying rooted in our mission. Pride In Business is both a celebration of how

far we’ve come and a bold statement about where we’re going next.”

New in 2026, the Pride In Business Expo expanded the experience, offering Chamber members enhanced visibility and direct engagement with attendees.

The addition underscored the Chamber’s commitment to evolving alongside its members—creating platforms that generate real business outcomes.

Following the luncheon, the celebration continued with a high-energy After Party, transforming the afternoon into an open invitation for connection, joy, and community. Laughter, music, and meaningful networking filled the space, reminding everyone present that progress can—and should—be celebrated.

As the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce steps into its second decade, Pride In Business 2026 served as both milestone and manifesto. Houston’s inclusive economy is no longer a vision—it’s a movement. And if this year’s celebration was any indication, the next ten years promise to be even bolder.

For ongoing updates, sponsorship opportunities, and future events, visit houstonprideinbusiness.com.

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.

Saturday , February 7, 2026, didn’t feel like a routine civic gathering. It felt like a community checkpoint—the kind where Houston looks itself in the mirror, adjusts its crown, and says: We’re not letting anyone rewrite our story.

Hundreds filled the room for Congressman Al Green’s Inaugural Black History Month Legislative Update, anchored by a national theme with deep roots and present-day urgency: “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”

And because Houston knows how to do “history” with both reverence and rhythm, the program made space for the full spectrum—policy and poetry, legacy and leadership, truth and tomorrow.

CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN’S BLACK HISTORY MONTH LEGISLATIVE UPDATE TURNS MEMORY INTO MOMENTUM

By Francis Page, Jr. – www.StyleMagazine.com

A Century in the Making and a Moment that Mattered

Black History Month doesn’t just “happen” each February. It evolved from Negro History Week, established in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson and what is now known as ASALH, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.

So when Congressman Green framed this year’s observance as part of a century-long tradition of commemoration, he wasn’t reaching for a slogan—he was placing Houston inside a historical timeline that begins with truth-telling and continues with truth-protecting.

From

the

Podium to Congress: Resolutions with Receipts

The headline action of the day: Congressman Green highlighted the resolutions he is introducing in Congress aimed

at preserving Black history and confronting ongoing efforts to erase or undermine it.

Among them were his Black History Month Resolution and Slavery Remembrance Day Resolution. One of the nation’s formal legislative vehicles for this remembrance is already on the congressional record as a joint resolution designating “Slavery Remembrance Day” on August 20.

In a moment that landed like a gavel—and a sermon—Green delivered a message that did not tiptoe:

“Black history was not meant to be hidden or stolen…”

He went further, emphasizing that the United States must never forget the forced, unpaid labor extracted from millions of Africans over more than two centuries—calling enslaved persons the economic foundational mothers and fathers of America and insisting they be honored

and commemorated.

Houston Style Magazine readers know this part already: you can’t build a nation on stolen labor and then act surprised when people demand the truth be taught.

Houston’s Young Voices Brought the House to Its Feet

The event didn’t just spotlight legislative work—it lifted up the next generation of civic power.

A moving recitation was delivered by Otis Marks III, winner of Houston’s Foley MLK Jr. Oratory Competition. Local coverage has described Otis’s speech as a tribute to his family’s civil-rights legacy and a call to keep pushing forward—proof that Houston’s youth aren’t waiting for history; they’re already writing it.

Then came a goosebump-worthy symbol of service and possibility: the Pledge of Allegiance led by students from the 9th Congressional District accepted into United States military academies.

Translation: Houston’s future leaders were in the room—some headed to Congress, some headed to the academies, all headed toward impact.

In a city defined by resilience, service, and innovation, a new partnership is setting the tone for what opportunity looks like after the uniform comes off. Houston City College and the Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce have officially signed a Strategic Alliance Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a milestone moment for veteran entrepreneurs and military families across Greater Houston.

This historically supportive collaboration is more than a ceremonial handshake—it’s a bold commitment to empower those who have already served our nation with the tools, training, and confidence to succeed in today’s fast-moving business economy. In true Houston fashion, the agreement blends grit with growth, honoring service while investing squarely in the future.

From Service to Startups: A Mission with Momentum

At the heart of the partnership is a shared belief: veterans are natural leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. The MOU creates a clear pathway for veterans and military family members to transition those skills into entrepreneurship, small business ownership, and scalable ventures.

Houston City College, long recognized for its workforce development leadership and community-centered mission, brings academic strength, real-world training, and nationally

HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE AND VETERANS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Forge a Powerful Alliance for Veteran Entrepreneurs

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

recognized entrepreneurship programs to the table. The Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce contributes deep community roots, trusted networks, and a proven launchpad for veteran-owned businesses ready to grow. Together, they’re building a pipeline where discipline meets digital skills—and where purpose meets profit.

Inside the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP)

Central to this alliance is the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP), a comprehensive, hands-on initiative designed to meet veterans where they are and move them forward with intention.

Stage 1: Practical Digital Skills

Participants begin with cutting-edge digital training through the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program, gaining essential tech, marketing, and online business tools from industry experts.

Stage 2: Practical Business Skills

Next comes business fundamentals through Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurship (STRIVE), combined with HCC’s own Small Business Success Series—covering everything from business plans and financing to branding and growth strategy.

Stage 3: The Local Launch Pad

Finally, the Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce provides the real-world runway—connecting participants to mentors, capital resources, community partners, and a vibrant ecosystem designed to help veteran-owned businesses thrive.

Participants also gain access to HCC’s renowned entrepreneurial initiatives, including Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, the Minority Business Development Agency, the HCC Business Plan Competition, and a signature Pitch Competition tailored specifically for veterans and military families.

A Houston-Style Commitment

This alliance reflects Houston at its best: collaborative, inclusive, and forward-looking. It acknowledges that supporting veterans doesn’t end with a thank-you—it continues with education, opportunity, and sustained investment.

As Houston City College leaders proudly noted, serving veterans is both an honor and a responsibility. And as the Houston Regional Veterans Chamber of Commerce continues its mission to champion veteran-owned enterprises, this partnership ensures that no veteran walks the entrepreneurial journey alone. In a region fueled by small businesses, innovation, and heart, this MOU sends a clear message: Houston has your back—on the battlefield, in the classroom, and in the boardroom.

For Houston Style Magazine readers, this moment isn’t just news—it’s a reminder that when institutions align with purpose, heroes don’t just return home. They rise, rebuild, and lead.

More Info: www.hrvcc.org/ or www. hccs.edu

Houston has long been a city that champions access, ambition, and achievement—and on Saturday, March 7, 2026, that legacy takes center stage as the Nation’s Largest Annual National HBCU College Fair returns with unmatched scale and purpose. Hosted by the Houston HBCU Alumni Association (HHBCUAA) and underwritten for the sixth consecutive year by H-E-B, this free, high-impact event transforms aspiration into action for thousands of students and families across the region.

From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Houston Marriott South Hobby Airport (9100 Gulf Freeway), more than 50 Historically Black Colleges and Universities will gather under one roof with a single mission: recruit, inspire, and invest in the next generation of leaders.

A One-Stop Gateway to HBCU Excellence

This isn’t just a college fair—it’s a launchpad. Students will connect directly with admissions officers, explore majors aligned with today’s workforce, and experience the vibrant culture that defines HBCUs nationwide. Highlights include:

50+ HBCUs recruiting on site, representing academic excellence from coast to coast

Band, choral, and theater auditions

HOUSTON OPENS THE DOOR TO BLACK EXCELLENCE:

NATION’S LARGEST HBCU COLLEGE FAIR

BOLDER, AND BRIMMING WITH OPPORTUNITY

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

led by national HBCU directors

HBCU dance informational workshops spotlighting performance pathways Student-centered workshops covering financial aid, admissions, athletics, Army ROTC, and degrees in demand

Conversations with current HBCU students, offering real talk and real insight Health screenings, door prizes, and scholarships, including two $2,500 H-E-B scholarships

Each year, more than 5,000 students and parents attend—proof that Houston families recognize HBCUs as engines

of academic rigor, cultural pride, and career readiness.

Why This Matters—Especially Now

In an era where access to higher education can feel uncertain, HBCUs continue to deliver certainty: belonging, excellence, and outcomes. The HHBCUAA College Fair demystifies the process, humanizes the journey, and meets students where they are—with information, encouragement, and opportunity.

H-E-B’s continued underwriting speaks volumes. It’s a Texas-proud com-

mitment to education, equity, and the future workforce—one scholarship, one conversation, one student at a time.

Free. Open. Powerful. The fair is FREE and open to the public, but registration is encouraged. Families, counselors, educators, and community advocates are invited to show up and show out for Black excellence in higher education. Register now: www.hhbcuaa.org

About the Host

The Houston Historically Black Colleges and Universities Alumni Association, Incorporated (HHBCUAA) is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit consortium of Houston-based alumni, friends, and supporters representing 50+ HBCUs. Its mission is simple and profound: educate the public on the value of HBCUs as premier institutions of higher learning—and ensure students have every opportunity to thrive.

On March 7, 2026, Houston doesn’t just host a college fair—it hosts the future. And at Houston Style Magazine, we’ll be there celebrating every step forward.

Houston -area pop culture fans, cosplay creatives, and multi-generation fandom families, clear your calendars. POP CULTURE CON is returning bigger, bolder, and more imaginative than ever, transforming the **Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwood Village Michael Biehn, Mark Rolston, Jenette Goldstein, Ricco Ross, William Hope, Cynthia Scott, and Carl Toop—all appearing for panels, autographs, and photo opportunities that fans won’t soon forget.

But POP CULTURE CON doesn’t stop at sci-fi legends. The 2026 guest roster stretches across decades and genres, welcoming Zach Galligan (Gremlins), Garrett Sander (creator of Monster High), and beloved voice actors who helped shape childhoods and fandoms alike. That includes Scott Innes, the unmistakable voice behind Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, and Scrappy-Doo, alongside anime favorites Vic Mignogna, Chuck Huber, Meredith McCoy, and John Burgmeier.

Comic book lovers are equally spoiled, with legendary artists and writers headlining Artist Alley, including Mark Bagley, Sam de la Rosa, Renee Witterstaetter, Pop Mhan, Bill Williams, David Roman, and Dirk Strangely—each bringing decades of storytelling, sketching, and pop-culture influence to the show floor.

Beyond celebrity encounters, POP CULTURE CON is a hands-on, high-energy

POP CULTURE CON 2026 LANDS IN SPRING, TEXAS

with a Galaxy-Sized Guest Lineup, Iconic Anniversaries, and Family-Friendly

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

Fun

weekend built for discovery. Attendees can explore a vibrant vendor hall, attend live Q&A panels, compete in a cash-prize cosplay contest, and shop for rare collectibles and custom art. Families are especially welcome—kids 12 and under attend free with an accompanying adult—making this one of the most accessible and inclusive pop culture events in the Houston region.

Event Details

WHAT: POP CULTURE CON

• Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

WHERE: Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwood Village 1200 Lake Plaza Drive, Spring, TX 77389

TICKETS: 2-Day Pass: $34.99 • Single Day: $24.99

• Kids 12 & under: FREE (with adult)

Register now and explore free and discounted ticket options for a limited time: https://popculturecon.com/ Whether you grew up on Satur -

day-morning cartoons, midnight movie premieres, anime marathons, or comic-shop Wednesdays, POP CULTURE CON 2026 promises a joyful reunion with the stories—and the stars—that shaped generations.

Follow @popculturecontexas on social media for updates, guest announcements, and cosplay highlights.

What Houston Travelers Need to Know Before Booking Their Next Adventure As global conversations around medical cannabis accelerate, so too does confusion—especially for travelers navigating destinations where laws are evolving in real time. One such place is Thailand, where authorities are reinforcing a medical-only cannabis framework, quietly but firmly closing the door on lingering misconceptions about recreational use.

Travel experts at Global Work & Travel are now urging international visitors—particularly tourists from the U.S.—to pause, read carefully, and understand Thailand’s current legal reality before packing their bags.

And the timing matters.

Recent global trend data shows medical cannabis searches surging more than 120% year-over-year, with hundreds of thousands of people actively searching for clarity around what’s legal, where, and under what conditions. That surge reflects genuine curiosity—but also risk.

Clearing the Smoke:

THAILAND TIGHTENS CANNABIS RULES AS GLOBAL MEDICAL INTEREST SURGES

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

What’s Actually Legal in Thailand

The festivities begin Friday, February 13, with Galentine’s Night, a chic toast to sisterhood, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s your longtime ride-or-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 celebrate the love that shows up every day.

Clearing the Smoke: What’s Actually Legal in Thailand

Thailand’s cannabis policy has shifted decisively. While early decriminalization created widespread assumptions of relaxed access, today’s rules are far more structured—and enforcement is increasingly visible, particularly in major tourist areas.

Here’s what travelers should clearly understand before arrival:

Medical use only: Cannabis is permitted strictly for medical purposes and requires authorization from a licensed Thai medical professional.

Recreational use remains illegal: Possession or consumption without proper medical approval can lead to penalties.

Public consumption is prohibited: Smoking or consuming cannabis in public spaces may be treated as a public nuisance offense and result in fines.

No informal purchases: Unlicensed sales, advertising, and casual or street-level purchases are illegal.

No border crossings—period: Importing or exporting cannabis into or out of Thailand is illegal, regardless of prescription status.

Penalties can vary by offense, but travelers should not underestimate the consequences, which may include significant fines or custodial sentences.

Why This Matters More Now

According to Global Work & Travel spokesperson Jessie Chambers, the spike in online interest reflects people trying to reconcile outdated information with a rapidly changing legal environment. In short: curiosity does not equal protection. Thailand’s authorities are signaling clearly that laws are being enforced, not merely written—and tourists are not exempt.

Hollywood has always loved a great heist—but when Crime 101 arrives, it does so with brains, beauty, and a bold emotional core powered by the incomparable Halle Berry. Set against the sun-bleached grit of Los Angeles and the relentless pulse of the iconic 101 freeway, Crime 101 promises a smart, stylish thriller that elevates the genre—and Berry’s presence raises the stakes from the very first frame.

At the heart of the film is an elegant collision of lives on the brink. An elusive jewel thief played by Chris Hemsworth has spent years perfecting a pattern of precision heists that have baffled law enforcement. As he eyes one final, life-changing score, his path crosses with Berry’s character—a disillusioned insurance broker standing at her own moral and professional crossroads. What unfolds is not just a crime story, but a character-driven meditation on risk, reinvention, and the cost of choice.

Berry brings her signature depth and intelligence to a role that feels both grounded and electric. Her character is not a bystander to chaos but a fully realized force—sharp, conflicted, and quietly formidable. It’s the kind of performance Ber-

HALLE BERRY SHINES AT THE CROSSROADS IN NEW MOVIE THRILLER – CRIME 101

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

from historic milestones to bold creative risks, Crime 101 feels like another confident stride forward.

The tension escalates as a relentless detective, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, begins to close in. Convinced there’s a pattern others can’t see, he narrows the gap between hunter and hunted, forcing all three leads toward an inevitable reck-

collide, and the illusion of control slips away.

Adapted from Don Winslow’s acclaimed novella, Crime 101 is written and directed by Bart Layton, whose reputation for intelligent, immersive storytelling (American Animals, The Imposter) makes him the ideal architect for this slow-burn thriller. The film is bolstered

Hawkins, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Nick Nolte, adding texture and gravitas at every turn.

With a 140-minute runtime, Crime 101 takes its time—leaning into atmosphere, moral tension, and character psychology rather than easy spectacle. That deliberate pacing allows Berry’s performance to breathe, reminding audiences why she remains one of the most compelling screen presences of her generation.

For Houston Style Magazine readers who appreciate cinema that’s both stylish and substantive, Crime 101 is one to watch closely. It’s a film about ambition and consequence, about the lies we tell ourselves on the road to “one last move,” and about the quiet power of a woman who refuses to be underestimated.

Get Tickets & Showtimes

Check local showtimes and secure your seats via Fandango: https:// www.fandango.com/search?q=Crime%20 101

As opening night approaches, one thing is certain: Crime 101 isn’t just another heist film—it’s a reminder that when Halle Berry steps into a story at a crossroads, the audience is right there with

MARSALIS QUARTET BELONGING TOUR