Ona Judge escaped George Washington once. Now the federal government is trying to make her disappear again.
I teach in Philadelphia, a short walk from the site of the President’s House.
George and Martha Washington lived there when the city was the nation’s capital. Nine enslaved people lived there too.
My own family fought in the American Revolution. We descend from the youngest boy to carry a musket at Lexington. So I grew up believing the American story belongs to every American. Not the cleaned-up version.
Ona Judge was one of those nine. The promise of the Revolution lived in that house. So did the cruelty of slavery.
That is not a footnote. That is the American story.
For fifteen years, visitors to Independence National Historical Park could learn that story at an exhibit called “Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation.” It told the truth about the people Washington enslaved there. It told the truth about Ona Judge, who chose freedom in 1796 and refused to return. It told the truth about a country that promised liberty while permitting slavery.
Then the Trump administration took the panels down.
In January, the National Park Service removed the exhibit on White House orders. The administration calls this kind of history too “divisive.” Empty bolt holes marked the brick where the panels used to hang. Only nine names remained, engraved on the wall. Austin. Christopher Sheels. Giles. Hercules. Joe Richardson. Moll.
ONA JUDGE ESCAPED ONCE. NOW THEY WANT TO ERASE HER.
By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator
Oney Judge. Paris. Richmond. Someone left flowers.
The city of Philadelphia sued. A federal judge ordered the exhibit put back. The administration appealed. The case is now before the Third Circuit.
This is a fight over whether America is strong enough to tell the truth about itself.
And in that fight, we need heroes.
One of them is Judge Timothy K. Lewis, a retired Black federal appeals judge. President George H.W. Bush appointed him first as a district judge, then to the very Third Circuit now hearing this case.
Judge Lewis came up through the Republican legal world of Western Pennsylvania. His mentor was Wendell Freeland, a Tuskegee Airman who became a leading civil rights lawyer and a lifelong Black Republican in Pittsburgh. That lineage matters.
In 2006, Judge Lewis testified at Samuel Alito’s Supreme Court confirmation hearing. The two did not agree on much. Lewis told the committee he was “openly and unapologetically pro-choice.”
But he stood up for Alito’s character because integrity mattered more than politics.
That kind of judge does not lend his name to easy fights.
A friend-of-the-court brief from the African Methodist Episcopal Church and historian Dr. Erica Armstrong Dunbar makes the stakes plain. Take Ona Judge and Bishop Richard Allen out of this story and you erase something we cannot afford to lose. Enslaved people and free Black people helped shape the conscience of this nation.
Allen was born into slavery. He bought his freedom. He founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, the first independent Black church in the United States. He built a free Black community that pushed America closer to its own promise.
But what is divisive about telling children that enslaved people dreamed and planned and ran?
What is divisive about telling tourists that George Washington was both the father of his country and a man who held people as property?
The real division comes from the lie.
It comes from asking Black children to walk where their ancestors’ suffering has been scrubbed away. It comes from
asking white children to grow up on a fairy tale. It comes from saying that loving America requires forgetting.
Real patriotism does not fear Ona Judge.
Real patriotism can stand in the President’s House and say: Here lived George Washington. Here also lived the people he enslaved. Here a young woman named Ona Judge saw her chance and took it. Here the promise of America was broken. Here it was also pushed forward by people who refused to be owned.
This year America turns 250. The fight over how we tell our story will only get bigger. Pressure to turn the founders into marble and the enslaved into ghosts. Pressure to call love of country a cleanedup script we must recite.
But Ona Judge already showed us another way.
She told her own story with her feet.
She walked away from the President’s House. She made herself free. Washington tried to get her back. He failed. More than two centuries later, no government should be allowed to do what Washington could not.
Ona Judge did not ask George Washington for freedom.
She took it.
The least we can do now is refuse to let anyone take her story away.
Ben Jealous is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and former president and CEO of the NAACP.
In a region where growth meets grit and diversity fuels innovation, last Saturday’s suburban elections across Greater Houston delivered more than just results—they revealed a powerful narrative of unity, progress, and possibility. From Pearland to Katy and Stafford, voters turned out in force, building multi-generational and multi-cultural coalitions that are reshaping the political and civic landscape of suburban Texas.
At the forefront of this historic wave is Quentin Wiltz, who captured the mayoral seat in Pearland with 51.12% of the vote, defeating incumbent council member Tony Carbone. Wiltz’s victory is more than electoral—it’s symbolic. After three previous bids over a decade, his perseverance culminated in becoming Pearland’s first African American mayor, a milestone that underscores the city’s evolving identity.
“I am deeply humbled, incredibly grateful, and honored,” Wiltz shared, reflecting a sentiment that resonated across a city ready for forward-thinking leadership. With a background in corporate finance and public service as a former Parks Board Chair, Wiltz’s platform of fiscal responsibility and inclusive growth attracted a broad cross-section of voters—bridging divides that once seemed insurmountable.
Meanwhile, in the ever-expanding Katy Independent School District, Cicely Taylor made history of her own. Winning nearly 75% of the vote in a three-candidate race, Taylor becomes the first African American woman elected
DIVERSITY DELIVERS: SUBURBAN HOUSTON ELECTIONS SIGNAL A BOLD, INCLUSIVE FUTURE
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
to the board and only the second Black trustee in the district’s history. Her victory is a testament to both her experience and the community’s commitment to inclusive excellence in education.
A Chicago native with more than 25 years of educational leadership—and two decades of life in Katy—Taylor brings both perspective and passion to the role. “I’m ready
to listen, to lead, and to deliver for our students,” she affirmed. Her focus on safe, joyful, and academically rigorous learning environments signals a new chapter for one of Texas’s largest school districts.
In Stafford, continuity and confidence defined the outcome as Xavier Herrera secured re-election to City Council with a commanding 64.9% of the vote. Backed by strong grassroots support, Herrera’s win reflects a community aligned behind steady leadership and local engagement.
Together, these victories tell a compelling story: diverse coalitions are not only participating—they are leading. Younger voters, families, professionals, and longtime residents came together with a shared vision for stronger communities, better schools, and accountable governance.
For Houston Style Magazine readers, the takeaway is clear—this is what progress looks like. It’s collaborative. It’s inclusive. And it’s happening right here in our backyard.
As Greater Houston continues to grow as one of the most dynamic and diverse regions in America, these election results are more than headlines—they are a blueprint for the future. One where every voice matters, every vote counts, and every community has a seat at the table.
Quentin Wiltz – New Mayor of Pearland, Texas.
Houston is once again stepping into the national spotlight — and this time, the city’s powerhouse women are bringing even more heat, heart, and hustle. OWN’s breakout reality docuseries HEART & HUSTLE: HOUSTON officially returns for its highly anticipated second season on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 9:00 PM ET/ PT, delivering a fresh chapter packed with emotional revelations, fractured friendships, entrepreneurial triumphs, and unapologetic Houston ambition.
Set against the backdrop of one of America’s most culturally dynamic and fast-growing cities, the series continues to shine a national spotlight on successful Black women navigating business, family, relationships, and sisterhood in Houston, Texas — a city known for producing leaders who don’t just dream big, but live even bigger.
This season, however, the glam comes with growing pains.
The once-tight-knit sisterhood between Chloe Cooke, La’Torria Lemon, LeBrina Jackson, Muneera Page, Roe Grady-Pichardo, and Alaina Saulsberry faces its most turbulent chapter yet. Explosive disagreements, emotional betrayals, and shifting alliances leave the women divided into opposing camps as they attempt to rebuild bonds that once felt unbreakable.
HOUSTON’S QUEENS
OF THE GRIND ARE BACK: OWN’S HEART & HUSTLE: HOUSTON RETURNS SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2026
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
But if there’s one thing Houston women know how to do, it’s perservere.
From luxury beauty brands and elite wellness businesses to high-powered public relations firms and Houston nightlife empires, these women continue to redefine what Black excellence looks like in the modern South. Their journeys reflect the very spirit of Houston itself — resilient, evolving, stylish, ambitious, and impossible to ignore.
Among this season’s most compelling storylines is Chloe Cooke’s emotional crossroads as she balances a potentially life-changing engagement with growing questions surrounding her relationship.
Meanwhile, public relations powerhouse La’Torria Lemon continues expanding her impact across Houston while processing the heartbreaking loss of her father — a deeply personal journey many
viewers will find profoundly relatable.
Fan favorite LeBrina Jackson enters a season of self-discovery after learning some members of the group now view her differently, forcing her to reevaluate loyalty, friendship, and her own identity within the circle.
Content creator and entrepreneur Muneera Page peels back the layers of her picture-perfect life, offering viewers a vulnerable look into marriage, motherhood, and the emotional walls built from generational trauma. Her story promises to be one of the season’s most emotionally powerful arcs.
Houston hospitality leader Roe Grady-Pichardo continues commanding attention both professionally and personally as she attempts to rebuild a healthy co-parenting relationship while confronting unresolved emotions from her past.
And beauty mogul Alaina Saulsberry faces one of life’s most painful transitions — divorce — while rediscovering her strength, clarity, and purpose as a woman determined to rise stronger than ever before.
Produced by the Emmy Award-winning Jesse Collins Entertainment for OWN, the series continues to elevate authentic Black storytelling while positioning Houston as a vibrant hub for culture, entrepreneurship, luxury, and influence.
For Houston viewers, the show offers more than entertainment. It represents visibility. It showcases the complexity, brilliance, and evolving narratives of Black women building legacies while navigating real-life challenges in one of America’s most influential cities.
The premiere episode launches Saturday, May 30, 2026, before transitioning to its regular 8:00 PM ET/PT timeslot beginning June 20. Fans can also stream the series through Max, discovery+, WatchOWN.tv, and connected devices.
As Houston continues cementing its place as a national epicenter for culture, innovation, and Black excellence, HEART & HUSTLE: HOUSTON arrives at the perfect moment — reminding audiences everywhere that in Houston, ambition never sleeps, healing is always possible, and the hustle is forever.
The passing of media titan Ted Turner marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in American journalism history. As the visionary founder of CNN the world’s first 24-hour news network — Turner revolutionized how the world consumed information, forever changing television, media, and storytelling.
But his impact reached far beyond cable news studios and global headlines.
Right here in Houston, Texas, Ted Turner’s groundbreaking vision helped shape part of the remarkable evolution of Houston Style Magazine.
For approximately 17 consecutive years since 2009, Houston Style Magazine has proudly maintained a unique distinction as the only weekly newspaper publication in the State of Texas affiliated with the CNN digital affiliate publishing ecosystem. In a media environment traditionally dominated by large daily newspapers and national television outlets, that achievement positioned Houston Style Magazine in rare and historic company.
Founded in May 1989, Houston Style Magazine has spent nearly four decades championing Houston’s diverse communities, amplified the underrepresented voices, and celebrated the people, culture, businesses, leaders, and institutions shaping one of America’s most dynamic cities. What began as a respected community publication evolved into a multimedia platform
Ted Turner's Legacy Lives On The Through Houston Style Magazine's Historic CNN Connection
with influence extending far beyond Houston city limits.
Ted Turner’s fearless innovation helped make opportunities like that possible.
Long before smartphones, streaming services, and social media transformed communication, Turner dared to imagine a world where news never stopped. His creation of CNN shattered the traditional broadcast mold and opened doors for local and independent media organizations to think nationally while remaining deeply rooted in their communities.
By Lisa Valadez for StyleMagazine.com
dents for meaningful conversations surrounding race, economic empowerment, education, opportunity, and the future of Black America.
Those collaborations represented more than media partnerships — they reflected Houston Style Magazine’s commitment to connecting national conversations with real community dialogue happening across Houston neighborhoods every day.
Those moments inspired dialogue, awareness, and hope — and that’s what impactful journalism is supposed to do.”
Today, Houston Style Magazine continues to thrive as one of Houston’s most influential multimedia brands through print journalism, digital publishing, social media engagement, community partnerships, and SEO-driven storytelling. StyleMagazine.com now reaches readers across Texas and throughout the nation while maintaining the authenticity and cultural relevance that have defined the publication since 1989.
Houston Style Magazine embraced that philosophy wholeheartedly.
Beyond its digital affiliation, Houston Style Magazine also partnered with CNN on multiple nationally recognized “CNN Presents: Black in America” community engagement events hosted in Houston. These impactful gatherings united educators, civic leaders, entrepreneurs, students, clergy members, and resi-
“Being affiliated with CNN for nearly two decades has been both an honor and a responsibility,” said Francis Page, Jr., Publisher of Houston Style Magazine. “Ted Turner changed the world of media forever, but he also helped create opportunities for community-based publications like ours to prove that local stories matter nationally. Houston’s voices deserve to be heard, celebrated, and elevated.”
Page added, “Our work with CNN on the ‘Black in America’ events helped bring critical conversations directly into our communities.
The publication’s long-standing relationship with CNN symbolizes more than media credibility — it represents the evolution of Black-owned media, the strength of multicultural journalism, and Houston’s emergence as one of America’s most influential and globally connected cities.
As the world reflects on Ted Turner’s extraordinary legacy, Houston Style Magazine proudly recognizes the role his visionary leadership played in expanding opportunities for independent and community-centered journalism nationwide.
Ted Turner changed the way the world received news.
Houston Style Magazine helped ensure Houston’s voice became part of that global conversation. And that legacy continues today.
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Robert 'TED' Edward Turner, III (1938 - 2026)
Rima Adil and Lina Hidalgo
Rima Adil and Marty McVey
Claudia Gonzales & Sheroo Mukhtiar
Photography By Linda Toyota
In a city defined by resilience, opportunity, and innovation, Houston continues to produce inspiring stories that reflect the very best of its spirit—and Gia Jones is one of them.
Before stepping into the academic halls of Houston City College (HCC) , Jones proudly served her country as a logistics specialist in the U.S. Army at Fort Bliss, Texas. Today, she is trading military precision for medical purpose—pursuing a career in diagnostic medical sonography, a field where compassion meets cutting-edge technology.
Driven by a desire to make a real-time impact on patients’ lives, Jones found her calling in healthcare. “Sonography allows me to use technical skills while thinking critically and helping patients in real time,” she shares—a statement that perfectly captures the heart of modern medicine.
A Strategic Choice with Real-World Impact
Choosing Houston City College was no coincidence. Known for its strong healthcare programs and immersive clinical training, HCC has become a launchpad for future medical professionals across Houston and beyond. For Jones, it was the ideal environment to transform discipline into distinction.
FROM SERVICE TO SONOGRAPHY: Houston City College and Army Veteran
- GIA JONES Charts A Powerful Path in Healthcare Excellence
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography program is not for the faint of heart. It demands long hours, technical mastery, and calm execution under pressure. But for a veteran accustomed to high-stakes environments, these challenges became steppingstones.
Others
Leadership, Legacy, and Lifting
Jones isn’t just excelling in the classroom—she’s leading across campus.
She serves as:
• President of the HCC United Student Council
• Vice President of the Student Government Association at HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences
• Treasurer for her sonography cohort
Her commitment has not gone unnoticed. As a recipient of the prestigious Cindy Fraser Memorial Endowed Scholarship, Jones represents the very best of HCC—academic excellence paired with meaningful community engagement.
And in a defining honor that underscores her leadership and voice, Army
Veteran Gia Jones has been selected to deliver the Houston City College Graduation Address on Friday, May 8, 2026—a moment that will place her story, and her message of perseverance, front and center before graduates, families, and the Houston community.
Clinical Confidence in the Texas Medical Center
Recently completing her clinical training at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in the Texas Medical Center, Jones has already stepped into the real-world demands of patient care. The experience sharpened her technical expertise and strengthened her confidence.
“Being able to apply what I learned in class in a real clinical environment was wonderful,” she says—a sentiment shared by many HCC graduates who seamlessly transition into Houston’s world-renowned healthcare workforce.
A Future Fueled by Purpose
As a proud member of the Class of 2026, Jones is preparing for graduation with momentum—and a vision that extends far
beyond it. She plans to continue her academic journey at Texas Southern University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration.
Her goal? To merge clinical excellence with leadership, shaping the future of healthcare delivery in underserved and growing communities.
A Houston Story Worth Celebrating Balancing rigorous academics, leadership roles, and personal milestones—including preparing to welcome a daughter with her husband, Michael Green—Jones exemplifies strength, grace, and forward-thinking ambition. Whether painting, horseback riding, or preparing for motherhood, she embodies the balance that defines true success.
In every sense, Gia Jones represents the evolving face of Houston: diverse, driven, and deeply committed to making a difference.
Start Your Journey
Ready to follow in Gia Jones’s footsteps? Discover how Houston City College can help you turn passion into profession:
�� Learn more about the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program: https://www.hccs.edu/sonography
GIA JONES – To Deliver the HCC 2026 Graduation Address
In a city known for doing everything bigger, Houston delivered yet another unforgettable moment as the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola made its highly anticipated stop on Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 3, 2026—igniting global excitement and local pride in advance of the historic FIFA World Cup 26™
Hosted by Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages (ACCCSWB), the Houston activation wasn’t just an event—it was an experience. Set against the innovative backdrop of Helix Park at TMC3, thousands of Houstonians and visitors alike gathered for a rare, oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the FIFA World Cup™ Original Trophy, the most coveted prize in all of sports.
The celebration kicked off in grand
Houston Raises The Cup: FIFA WORLD CUP TROPHY TOUR BY COCA-COLA ELECTRIFIES THE BAYOU CITY
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
fashion on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM CT, with an exclusive unveiling at the TMC3 Collaborative Building. The moment brought together global prestige and hometown leadership, with remarks from AC-CCSWB President Susanne BradyLusk , Chris Canetti and FIFA Legend Christian Karembeu—each underscoring Houston’s vital role as a host city for the world’s biggest sporting event.
From there, the excitement flowed into a dynamic public showcase on May 1–3, where fans were immersed in interactive games, branded activations, and Coca-Cola sampling stations that kept the energy high and the memories flowing. Families, soccer enthusiasts, and community leaders alike reveled in a shared celebration of sport, culture, and unity.
“This is more than a trophy—it’s a symbol of global connection, excellence, and aspiration,” said Brady-Lusk. “Bringing it to Houston is a testament to this city’s international spirit and its growing role on the world stage.”
Indeed, with FIFA World Cup 26™ set to span the United States, Mexico, and Canada—with more teams and matches than ever before—Houston is stepping confidently into the spotlight. The Trophy Tour itself reflects that scale, traveling to over 70 stops across 27+ FIFA Member Associations during its 170+ day global journey.
But beyond the spectacle, the Houston stop carried a deeper message. Coca-Cola and its partners emphasized sustainability throughout the tour—highlighting recycling initiatives, efficient
transportation strategies, and community engagement designed to leave a positive footprint long after the final whistle.
As a proud FIFA partner since 1978, The Coca-Cola Company continues to bring fans closer to the game, bridging cultures and communities through shared experiences like this one. And in Houston, that mission came to life in full color, full flavor, and full celebration.
For Houstonians, this was more than a preview—it was a promise. A promise that in 2026, the world will be watching, and Houston will be ready.
To learn more, visit: www.coca-colacompany.com/
Residents across Fort Bend County will have a wide range of opportunities to celebrate culture, creativity, and wellness this May, as Fort Bend County Libraries rolls out dozens of free programs in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.
The library system’s signature AAPI event, the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Fest, will take place Saturday, May 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Fulshear Branch Library. The festival will feature a lineup of cultural performances and interactive experiences, including Polynesian storytelling, Ayurvedic cooking, a beginner Mahjong session, K-pop dance performances, and a traditional dragon and lion dance showcase. An all-day exhibit, “Filipino Mythology” by artist Royal Sumikat, will also be on display.
Library officials say the goal is to highlight the diverse traditions and cultural contributions of AAPI communities through engaging, family-friendly programming.
Beyond the festival, AAPI-themed events will be held throughout the month at multiple branches. These include craft workshops, cooking demonstrations, cultural performances, and educational talks designed for all ages. Highlights include:
• A discussion on Japanese war
FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES UNVEIL MONTH-LONG AAPI HERITAGE AND MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
By Lisa Valadez for www.StyleMagazine.com
brides at George Memorial Library
• Indian classical dance instruction at Sugar Land Branch Library
• Polynesian storytelling performances at Cinco Ranch Branch Library
• Hands-on cultural crafts and activities at branches in Needville, Houston, and Missouri City Teens and young adults can also participate in specialized programs such as K-pop craft sessions, manga zine creation, and sushi-making workshops, while families can explore “Passport to Asia” events and multicultural food experiences.
In addition to cultural programming, Fort Bend County Libraries is also recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month with a series of educational events focused on emotional well-being.
A key session, “Mental Health Awareness,” will be held Friday, May 8 at the George Memorial Library, offering guidance on recognizing signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, along with strategies for coping and support. The program is presented in partnership with Fort Bend County Behavioral Health Services.
At the First Colony Branch Li-
brary, two additional programs will address modern mental health challenges. Licensed counselor Kristen Carruth will lead a discussion on stress, anxiety, and burnout on May 16, followed by a documentary screening and discussion of The Anxious Generation on May 19, exploring the impact of smartphones and social media on youth mental health.
According to Mental Health America, nearly one in five U.S. adults experiences a diagnosable mental health condition each year, underscoring the importance of awareness and access to resources.
Library officials emphasize that all programs are free and open to the public, with some requiring advance registration due to limited space.
For a full calendar of events and registration details, residents can visit the Fort Bend County Libraries website or contact their local branch.
With a blend of cultural celebration and community wellness, this month’s programming reflects the library system’s broader mission: to educate, connect, and enrich the diverse communities it serves.
The passing of Lynn Carol Page has left a deep and painful void for all who knew and loved her. Her loss is felt not only within her family, but throughout a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives she touched in meaningful and lasting ways.
Lynn died on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 4:09 p.m. For her loved ones, her passing is a moment of profound sorrow and reflection, held alongside the belief that
RIP – Lynn Carol Page – Remembered For Her Legacy of Love, Leadership and Community Impact
H
Sunrise – January 15, 1961 • Sunset – May 03, 2026 H
By Lisa Valadez for www.StyleMagazine.com
her journey continues beyond this life. They take comfort in remembering her spirit, her love, and the legacy she leaves behind.
Her daughter, Khayla Page, reflected on the quiet, deeply personal bond they shared. “We could sit on the phone together without even needing to talk the whole time,” she said. “She might be working while I was just relaxing, talking about how life felt unfair. She always let me vent without judgment. She always wanted to
give me solutions. Sometimes I just wanted to talk and complain.” Her significant other, Martin Troupe Sr., also expressed the depth of the loss.
“There aren’t enough words to describe this overwhelming sense of loss,” he said. “She was my rock, my glue, my confidante, my equalizer, my superstar, my everything.”
Remembered as a devoted daughter, sister, cousin, mother, and friend, Lynn
shared a lifetime of memories with those closest to her. From cherished gatherings at The Red Rooster to more recent moments spent at community events and golf tournaments, her presence was a constant source of joy, laughter, and connection. Family members say Lynn exemplified strength, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service. Her work in the community, paired with her deep love for family, created an enduring impact that
extended far beyond her immediate circle. Those who knew her describe her presence as transformative, someone who not only showed up but uplifted and inspired others in meaningful ways.
Her influence also extended into her professional life, where colleagues and partner organizations are now remembering her contributions and leadership. In a statement, Houston Community College Southwest reflected on her impact: “HCC
Southwest is mourning the untimely passing of Lynn Page, Project Manager at Southern News Group, who worked closely with Communications Director Zen Zheng and college leadership to help launch a partnership between SNG and HCC,” the statement read. “Her professionalism, creativity, and kindness left a lasting mark on our work and our community.”
Tributes continued to pour in from those who knew her best. “She was our
shero,” another family member shared, reflecting on Lynn’s legacy of excellence and compassion. “Her life continues to guide us, even in her absence.”
Though her passing leaves a profound sense of emptiness, her family says they remain committed to carrying forward her vision, passion, and high standards in all aspects of life. They point to her achievements and example as a lasting source of inspiration, encouraging others to
think bigger and strive for more. Lynn Carol Page’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her. While her physical presence is gone, her influence endures in the lives she shaped, the love she gave, and the legacy she leaves behind.
In a city where culture moves as fast as commerce and diversity defines its rhythm, something extraordinary is unfolding—one wall at a time. With bold strokes, vibrant color, and a powerful message, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, in partnership with Street Art for Mankind, has unveiled six breathtaking new murals in downtown Houston—further cementing the city’s rise as a global epicenter for public art, civic storytelling, and cultural unity.
This latest installment of the acclaimed “Big Art. Bigger Change.” initiative now brings the total to an impressive 58 murals across the region—each one a visual anthem echoing themes of resilience, justice, sustainability, and human connection. Timed perfectly as Houston prepares to welcome more than 500,000 international visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the city is not just hosting the world—it’s telling its story in living color.
Commissioner Ellis, a longstanding champion of equitable access and community investment, continues to redefine how public spaces serve the people. With over $1.8 million invested in public art since 2023, his vision is clear: art belongs to everyone, regardless of zip code. And in Houston—a city built by many cultures— that message resonates louder than ever.
BIG ART. BIGGER CHANGE. HOUSTON RISES: DOWNTOWN MURALS TURN CITY STREETS
INTO A GLOBAL CANVAS AHEAD OF WORLD CUP 2026
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
A City Transformed: Where Art Meets Purpose
Curated by globally recognized nonprofit Street Art for Mankind, the new murals transform downtown Houston into an immersive, open-air gallery—accessible, inclusive, and inspiring. Each piece tells a story, not just of artistic brilliance, but of shared humanity.
Among the standout works:
• “Where Borders Fade” by Dulk — A stunning tribute to unity through sport, featuring symbolic wildlife from the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, celebrating the unifying power of soccer ahead of World Cup 2026.
• “The Texan Kiss” by Eduardo Kobra — A bold, Houston-inspired reinterpretation of the iconic WWII-era embrace, blending nostalgia with Lone Star pride and modern multicultural flair.
• “Persephone’s Dream” by Vizsla Bacon —
A thought-provoking call to action on sustainability and overconsumption, inspired by global environmental goals.
• “Rich in Heart” by RoosArt — Located on the walls of SEARCH Homeless Services, this deeply moving piece centers dignity, compassion, and the human journey beyond homelessness.
• “Safe Passage” by Curtis Hylton — A poetic visual narrative honoring freedom seekers and the enduring legacy of courage and protection.
• “Wave in Kandinsky’s Key” by Leo Shallat — A dynamic, Bauhaus-inspired composition that bridges history, abstraction, and modern resilience.
Each mural is more than paint—it’s a platform. A platform for dialogue. For awareness. For change.
Powered by Partnership,
Rooted in Community
This cultural milestone is made possible through a coalition of visionary partners including ExxonMobil Pipeline Company, the Michael & Rebecca Cemo Foundation, SEARCH Homeless Services, and Harris County Precinct One. Their collective investment underscores a powerful truth: when art, innovation, and community align, cities thrive.
As Houston continues its global ascent—economically, culturally, and socially—these murals serve as both mirror and megaphone. They reflect who we are and amplify who we aspire to be.
Why It Matters Now
With the world’s eyes turning toward Houston in 2026, initiatives like “Big Art. Bigger Change.” are not just beautification projects—they are strategic cultural investments. They enhance tourism, elevate local voices, and position Houston as a city that leads with creativity, compassion, and courage.
For residents and visitors alike, downtown Houston is no longer just a destination—it’s an experience. One that invites you to pause, reflect, and engage.
In a city celebrated for its resilience and heart, Houston is preparing to host an inspiring celebration of strength, renewal, and unapologetic self-worth. On Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 9:00 AM–1:00 PM CT, the Daisie Foundation will present its highly anticipated Mother’s Day Makeover Experience—a transformative event designed to uplift mothers who have faced life’s toughest challenges and are ready to reclaim their confidence.
Set against the welcoming backdrop of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston, located at 1003 Washington Avenue, this powerful initiative is far more than a beauty event—it’s a movement. With roots extending to Chicago and Milwaukee, the Daisie Foundation’s multi-city mission is simple yet profound: restore visibility, celebrate resilience, and remind women of their undeniable value.
A Makeover That Goes Beyond the Mirror
From 9:00 AM to 11:55 AM, the venue will come alive with stylists, beauty professionals, and volunteers working sideby-side to deliver stunning physical transformations. But the true magic lies beneath the surface. Each makeover represents a renewed sense of identity—an emotional reset for mothers who have often placed their own needs last.
BEAUTY, BOLDNESS & BREAKTHROUGHS: HOUSTON MOMS TAKE CENTER
AT THE DAISIE FOUNDATION’S MOTHER’S DAY MAKEOVER EXPERIENCE
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
The before-and-after transformations from previous years speak volumes. Smiles return. Shoulders lift. Eyes sparkle with a rekindled sense of purpose. These moments are not just visual—they’re deeply personal victories.
Elevating Voices Through Leadership
Following the makeovers, the experience transitions into a dynamic Leading Ladies Luncheon & Panel from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, where Houston’s influential women in business and community leadership will share stories of perseverance, purpose, and power. This portion of the event brings depth and dialogue to the day’s celebration. Attendees will hear firsthand how adversity can become fuel for success—and how
community support can turn obstacles into opportunities. It’s an empowering exchange designed to leave every woman in the room feeling seen, heard, and inspired.
Why This Matters to Houston
Houston thrives because of its diversity—and its unwavering commitment to lifting one another up. Events like the Mother’s Day Makeover Experience embody that spirit, shining a spotlight on women who are too often overlooked while reinforcing the importance of community-driven change.
In an era where mental wellness, self-image, and representation are critical conversations, the Daisie Foundation is stepping forward with action. By combining beauty, empowerment, and meaningful dialogue, this event delivers a holistic approach
to transformation that resonates far beyond a single day.
A Celebration of Strength, Style, and Sisterhood
For the readers of Houston Style Magazine, this is more than an event—it’s a reminder. A reminder that behind every mother is a story of courage. That transformation is always possible. And that when women support women, entire communities rise.
Whether you attend, support, or simply share the message, the impact is undeniable.
Event Details at a Glance: What: Mother’s Day Makeover Experience
When: Thursday, May 7, 2026, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM CT
Where: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston, 1003 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77002
Houston, get ready to witness beauty redefined—not just in appearance, but in spirit.
