W
Welcome to 2025!
It is with great excitement that we welcome you to this new year, a time filled with hope, achievable goals, and dreams ready to come true. At Houston Latino Family Magazine, we begin 2025 with a strong commitment to continue being a bridge that connects, inspires, and celebrates our incredible Latino community in Houston.
For this first edition of the year, we are proud to feature Solís Law Office on our cover. This law firm has stood out for its dedication and commitment to defending the rights of our community. With a personalized approach and a deep understanding of the needs of Latino families, the Solís attorneys have built a reputation for excellence and service. We are confident that their story will inspire and motivate many of our readers.
Throughout 2025, we will continue working to bring you relevant content, authentic stories, and valuable resources that strengthen the ties that unite us as a community. Our goal is for this magazine to remain a space where we celebrate our culture, traditions, and the achievements of Latinos making an impact in Houston and beyond.
Thank you for being part of our family of readers. This year promises to be special, and we are thrilled to walk this path full of opportunities and new experiences together.
We wish you a year filled with success, health, and happiness!
For nearly 35 years, Houston’s Manuel Solis Law Firm has been a lifeline for the immigrant families navigating the daunting complexities of U.S. immigration law. What began as one man’s mission to serve his community has evolved into a family-run powerhouse that spans generations, earning a nationwide reputation for its expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Interview and Editing by Hannah Menslage
The story of the Manuel Solis Law Firm begins in the early 1980s, when Manuel Solis, Jr., arrived in Houston, Texas, with a dream. A newly minted lawyer with limited resources, he opened a small office with the goal of providing high-quality legal services to Spanish-speaking clients—people who often felt invisible and misunderstood within the legal system.
“It all started with my father in a small, little office, where my mother worked as the secretary,” reflects his eldest son, Manuel Solis III. “He noted that people would seek him out because their attorneys didn’t speak Spanish. He felt the need to help the Latino and Hispanic community in their needs when it came to immigration.”
The challenges were immense, but so was Manuel Jr.’s determination. Clients quickly recognized his tireless advocacy and genuine care. Word spread throughout the community, and his reputation as a trusted advocate grew. His office became a beacon of hope for families seeking safety and stability, laying the foundation for a legal legacy that now spans decades.
Today, the firm is a family affair, led by Manuel Jr. and his three sons: Manuel Solis III, Juan Solis, and Gabriel Solis. Each brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table while honoring their father’s unwavering commitment to justice.
Manuel Solis III, the eldest, continues his father’s work in immigration law, specializing in asylum cases and removal defense. Juan Solis, the middle son, has expanded the firm’s services to include civil litigation, handling personal injury cases, insurance disputes, and contract breaches. Gabriel Solis, the youngest, was recently accepted into law school and is preparing to contribute to the firm’s next chapter.
While his three sons have all chosen to pursue careers in law, their decision was not influenced by pressure from Manuel Jr. Instead, they were inspired by a desire to honor and continue their father’s legacy.
“ We were all very fortunate that our father just wanted us to do whatever made us happy. Growing up, outside of the house, I didn’t know what big of a deal my father was until I got a little older,” Gabriel recalls.
“It was like, ‘Dad’s a lawyer, he puts his suit on and goes to work every day,’ but when he came home, he didn’t say, ‘You need to go to law school.’ Later in life, I decided that I wanted to continue the legacy of my father, as well, by going into law. It wasn’t something that I always knew I wanted to do as a child, it was a very recent decision. My brothers [on the other hand] went into it right after school.”
The Solis brothers have a shared understanding of their work’s significance, particularly in a world where immigrants often feel isolated. Their collective mission goes beyond winning cases; it’s about standing alongside clients in their darkest hours, offering hope and solutions.
The trust the firm has built over decades is palpable, with clients often viewing the Solis family as more than just their attorneys. Manuel III shares a poignant memory:
“We’ve met clients who say, ‘Your father helped my parents when I was a child,’ and now they’re back for help with their own children’s cases. It’s deeply humbling to know we’ve made that kind of impact.”
One particularly touching story involves a family from Central America who sought help from Manuel Jr. over 20 years ago. After securing legal status, the family thrived, and their children eventually returned to the firm as adults to seek assistance with their own immigration matters. These relationships, built on trust and care, exemplify the deep ties the firm has cultivated within immigrant communities.
Expanding Services to Meet Community Needs
While immigration law remains the firm’s backbone, the Solis family has broadened their practice to address other critical legal areas. Juan Solis explains the evolution:
“We had clients returning to us for help with personal injury cases, work-related injuries, and even medical malpractice. They trusted us to handle these matters with the same dedication we brought to their immigration cases. So, we grew to meet those needs.”
“We really want to make sure that all of our former clients, current clients and anybody interested knows that we don’t only do immigration. If they’re ever in any type of situation where they need help, come talk to us. We definitely want to hear your story and see if we can help out.”
Because of its extensive experience in immigration law, Manuel Solis Law Firm is uniquely able to help immigrants with uncertain statuses in the U.S. with a wide array of legal concerns.
This expansion allows the firm to serve clients holistically, ensuring they have a trusted ally for a range of legal challenges. The firm now boasts offices in Houston, El Paso, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, and Chicago, bringing their expertise to communities nationwide.
Advice for Immigrant Communities in a Changing Legal Landscape
The Solis family’s work is not without its challenges. The current legal environment, marked by increasingly restrictive immigration policies, has made their advocacy more vital than ever. Courts in cities like Houston have some of the nation’s highest denial rates for asylum cases, placing immense pressure on legal teams.
“ Immigration law has become highly politicized,” says Manuel III. “But we fight tirelessly for our clients because we know what’s at stake—not just for individuals, but for entire families.” Depending on who is in office, immigration processes can either become more difficult or slightly easier, but they are often more complicated, Manuel III explains.
In the past, the administration didn’t influence immigration cases as much—immigration professionals simply did their jobs, determining whether a person qualified or not. There was a more hands-off approach, leaving immigration Court and administrators to handle things independently.
This shift has politicized immigration, making the process more tense and frustrating for those involved. Looking forward, things are expected to become even stricter, particularly from the court’s perspective. Immigration courts will likely become more difficult to navigate, as the standards for success are already high. For example, a Houston Chronicle article pointed out that Houston courts have a 90-100% denial rate, meaning there is only a 10% chance of winning an asylum case. This trend will likely be exacerbated when Trump takes office, as immigration judges are selected by the federal government. Under Trump, judges tend to be more selective, which makes immigration proceedings more difficult to navigate.
Many clients are concerned about their cases’ future, unsure of whether they will succeed. One issue that has gained significant attention is the desire of many to become U.S. citizens. This shift in motivation occurred when Trump took office, encouraging many residents to apply for citizenship.
However, the process of obtaining citizenship has also become more challenging. Traditionally, there were 100 questions on the citizenship test, but when Trump assumed power, he added 20 more questions and made existing questions more difficult. This change caused concern, especially among immigrants who are not fully proficient in reading or writing English, as they were required to become more educated and adept to pass the test.
A common concern is also the timeliness of processing immigration cases. Clients are frustrated as the process takes years, leaving them in limbo. They cannot leave the country or fully settle in the U.S., which makes many feel trapped.
While the future of immigration laws and policies is uncertain, Manuel Solis Law Firm emphasizes that it is essential to be proactive. Always have your documentation ready—if you don’t have a birth certificate, request one, and if you have an arrest record, gather that as well. If you have a family member who can file a petition on your behalf, it’s wise to explore that option. Don’t wait until you’re in a difficult situation, as it’s better to be prepared in advance.
For those who are residents, it’s advisable to become citizens as soon as possible. As long as individuals remain neutral in their political choices, the goal is for them to secure citizenship and vote for the candidate of their choice. One of the key differences for non-immigrant U.S. citizens is that if they make a mistake, such as getting a DWI, they are not at risk of deportation or losing their residency. While it’s important to follow the law, individuals should be aware that when involved in immigration proceedings or status changes, the stakes are much higher. Therefore, it’s essential to be cautious and avoid mistakes, as the threshold for mistakes in immigration cases is much stricter.
Advocates for Compassion and Change
Beyond the courtroom, the Solis family actively advocates for humane immigration reform. Gabriel Solis emphasizes the emotional weight of their work:
“People don’t always see the humanity behind these cases. These are families seeking safety, stability, and hope. If more people understood that, we might see greater empathy in how immigration policy is shaped.”
This compassion drives their relentless pursuit of justice, even in the face of systemic challenges. The firm’s legacy is rooted in understanding and uplifting the human stories behind every case.
As the firm approaches its 35th anniversary in September 2025, the Solis family reflects on their journey and looks ahead to the future. With a network of offices and a dedicated team, they are well-positioned to continue serving immigrant families and communities nationwide.
“As much as he doesn’t want to shed light on it, he kind of is a legend in the immigration world,” Gabriel says proudly, “just because of how many cases he’s won and how difficult immigration has gotten. Truly, no one will ever break his record of cases won. He is genuinely, truly and statistically the best at what he does.”
The Manuel Solis Law Firm isn’t just a legal practice; it’s a testament to the power of family, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of justice. For those seeking representation that combines legal expertise with heartfelt compassion, the firm remains a trusted ally, standing firmly on the side of hope.
By Hannah Menslage
A New Path to Mental Wellness
Mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked. In a world where stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges are increasingly common, seeking professional support has never been more crucial. That’s where In My Heart Psychology and Counseling comes in—a practice founded on compassion, expertise, and a commitment to making mental health care accessible to all.
Founded by Dr. Rebecca Heron, In My Heart Psychology and Counseling offers both in-person and virtual therapy services to individuals of all ages (children, teens, and adults), as well as couples and families. From personalized therapy sessions to comprehensive assessments, workshops, and group therapy, the practice is dedicated to helping people improve their mental health, strengthen relationships, and build resilience.
A Personal Mission to Help Others
Dr. Rebecca Heron is the heart and soul of In My Heart Psychology and Counseling. A fully licensed psychologist, professor, author, and above all, a wife and mother, Dr. Heron understands the complexities of balancing personal, professional, and family life. Her commitment to mental health—both as a professional and a parent—motivated her to establish the practice in early 2024.
Dr. Heron’s journey into psychology began with a deep passion for helping others. Having experienced firsthand the importance of emotional support during times of personal difficulty, she envisioned creating a space where individuals could heal, grow, and feel empowered. As a professor, she has mentored countless students and played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of mental health professionals. As an author, she has made significant contributions to the field through her writings on key psychological topics.
Over her years in practice, Dr. Heron noticed a gap in mental health care—specifically, the difficulty people face in finding accessible, reliable, and non-judgmental therapy services. With this in mind, she founded In My Heart Psychology and Counseling, blending her expertise with her passion for service to create a practice where everyone, regardless of background, feels heard, valued, and supported.
Comprehensive Care for All
At In My Heart Psychology and Counseling, we offer a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or the complexities of daily life, we have tailored solutions to support you: Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions designed to help you explore your emotions, manage stress, and overcome personal challenges. Couples Counseling: Guided sessions to improve communication, deepen connections, and navigate relationship dynamics.
• Family Therapy: Support for families facing communication barriers, conflicts, or life transitions, fostering stronger bonds and mutual understanding.
• Group Therapy: A safe and supportive space for individuals to share experiences, build community, and develop coping strategies. Assessments: Comprehensive psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes, as well as assessments related to personal growth, academic performance, and mental health concerns.
• Workshops: Interactive sessions on topics such as stress management, emotional intelligence, and building resilience, offering practical tools for mental wellness to individuals, couples, and organizations.
Whether you prefer virtual therapy from the comfort of your home or the more personal touch of in-person sessions, we offer flexible options to fit your schedule and lifestyle.
Why Mental Health Matters
The rise in mental health challenges in today’s fast-paced and uncertain world highlights the need for accessible care. At In My Heart Psychology and Counseling, we believe therapy is for everyone—no problem is too small, and everyone deserves to feel supported and understood.
Mental health care isn’t just about addressing crises; it’s about nurturing emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Therapy can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and growth.
A Welcoming, Open Space for All
At In My Heart Psychology and Counseling, we are committed to making mental health care accessible to everyone. We welcome clients from all walks of life—whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, a student, or someone seeking to improve your relationships or personal well-being.
CONTACT US TODAY TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY TO WELLNESS
Take the first step toward a healthier, happier you. Contact us to schedule your initial appointment and begin your journey toward personal growth and well-being. 281-962-6025 www.inmyheartcounselingandpsychologicalservices.com
Resolutions Rooted in Faith: A Christian Perspective on the New Year
As we ring in the New Year, many of us see it as a fresh start, a time for reflection and self-improvement. We set goals and make resolutions, determined to make the next year better than the last. However, as Christians, our perspective on New Year resolutions should differ from the rest of the world.
Instead of focusing on our own willpower and selfimprovement, let us look to God and His Word for guidance and encouragement as we embark on this journey.
First, we must remember that our identities are found in Christ, not in our resolutions. We are not defined by our successes or failures in achieving our goals. Our worth and value come from being children of God, and nothing can change that. So, as we strive toward our resolutions, let us find our strength and identity in Him.
Furthermore, we must seek God’s will for our lives before making our resolutions. Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” We may have our own plans and desires, but ultimately, it is God’s purpose that will prevail. As we set our goals for the year, let us surrender our plans to God and ask Him to guide us toward His purpose for our lives. In doing so, we will find true fulfillment and joy, even if our resolutions don’t turn out as we expected.
Additionally, let us approach our resolutions with hearts of gratitude and contentment. It can be easy to focus on what we lack or what we want to change in our lives. But as Christians, we must remember to be thankful for all that God has provided for us. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, it says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” So, instead of setting resolutions out of a mindset of lack, let us approach them with gratitude, knowing that God has already blessed us abundantly.
As we strive to change and improve ourselves, let us not forget the importance of relying on God’s strength, not our own. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” Our own willpower and determination can only take us so far, but with God, all things are possible. So, instead of relying solely on our own strength to achieve our resolutions, let us lean on God’s power and trust in His ability to help us reach our goals.
Lastly, it’s important to remember that our ultimate purpose as Christians is to bring glory to God. As we strive toward our resolutions, let us do so with the intention of glorifying God in all that we do. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, it says, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Our resolutions should align with God’s will for our lives and bring honor to His name. As we make progress toward our goals, let us not forget to give glory to God for His guidance and provision.
As we enter the New Year, let us make resolutions with hearts focused on God and His will for our lives. Let us not depend on our own strength and willpower, but rather rely on God’s strength and guidance. Most importantly, let us remember that our worth and value come from being children of God, not from our achievements or resolutions. So, whether we achieve our goals or not, let us trust in God’s plan and find joy and contentment in Him alone.
Let this year be a year of growth, both spiritually and personally, as we seek to honor God in all that we do. Happy New Year, my brothers and sisters in Christ. May God bless and guide you in all your endeavors.
PRINTING
BUSINESS & SOCIAL
COPIES
BLACK/WHITE • COLOR
BANNERS • POSTERS
OFFICE SUPPLIES • RUBBER STAMPS
FAX SERVICE • LAMINATING
The beginning of a new year brings with it the scent of possibilities—a blank page inviting you to write meaningful stories. While we’re used to setting individual goals—losing weight, reading more books, or saving money—we rarely think about the transformative power of setting goals as a family. What if, instead of running in different directions, you decided to walk together toward a shared destination?
By Evis Martinez
Family Goals for 2025: The Art of Dreaming Together and Building as a Team
2025 could be the year your family becomes more than just people living under the same roof. It could be the year you transform into a true team, where every member contributes, grows, and feels valued. Here are some ideas to get started:
1.Real Communication, Beyond Logistics
Between “Who’s picking up the kids?” and “What’s for dinner?” many families forget the essence of communication: connection. Make it a goal to set aside weekly time to truly talk. Create a ritual, like a family chat night, where everyone shares their dreams, fears, achievements, and ideas.
2.A Shared Family Vision
It’s not enough for everyone to have personal goals. Create a mission as a family—something that reflects who you are and where you want to go together. Do you want to prioritize health? Help your community? Travel more?
3.Shared Activities: Fewer Screens, More Experiences
Let 2025 be the year you stop being spectators and start being protagonists in your family story. Plan activities that break the routine and bring everyone together. Shared experiences create lasting memories.
4.Team Finances: Learning and Growing Together
Use the new year as an opportunity to sit down and talk about money as a family. This doesn’t have to be a taboo subject.
What can you save together for that dream trip? How can you involve younger members in simple financial goals? Families that discuss finances as a team not only achieve economic stability but also teach essential values like responsibility and collaboration.
5.Gratitude as a Driving Force
The world is full of superficial goals, but one of the most profound and transformative is cultivating gratitude. Commit as a family to keeping a “gratitude journal,” where each night you write down something you’re thankful for. This simple practice can completely shift your family dynamic.
The Challenge: Committing Together
Achieving family goals requires commitment and flexibility. There will be days when things don’t go as planned, but that’s part of the process. It’s not about perfection; it’s about connection. Every effort counts. Every small step, every conversation, every shared laugh brings you closer to becoming the family you dreamed of at the start of the year.
2025 is just around the corner. It’s time to dream together and create a home that’s not just a physical space but one filled with love, trust, and purpose. Because when families come together to grow, their impact transcends generations.
The Ultimate 2025 Mortgage Guide for Homebuyers
Are you dreaming of buying your first home or upgrading to your dream house in 2025? Navigating the mortgage process can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it’s much easier than it seems. Here’s your go-to guide for understanding mortgages and getting the keys to your future home.
Step 1: Understand What a Mortgage Is
A mortgage is a loan you take out to buy a home. You’ll repay the loan, plus interest, over time— typically 15 to 30 years. Your monthly payment includes:
1. Principal: The amount you borrow.
2. Interest: What the lender charges you to borrow the money.
3. Taxes and Insurance: Property taxes and homeowner’s insurance, often bundled into your monthly payment.
Step 2: Check Your Credit
Your credit score plays a big role in determining your loan options and interest rate. A higher score (usually 680 and above) can help you secure better terms. If your credit isn’t perfect, don’t worry—there are loan programs for various credit profiles.
Pro Tip: Start improving your credit now by paying bills on time, reducing debt, and avoiding new credit inquiries.
Step 3: Choose the Right Loan Program
There are several types of loans tailored to different financial situations: Conventional Loans: Ideal for borrowers with good credit and a steady income.
• FHA Loans : Great for first-time buyers or those with lower credit scores.
• VA Loans: Exclusive to veterans and active military members, with no down payment required.
• USDA Loans: For buyers in rural areas, offering 100% financing.
• I can help you determine which option best fits your needs.
Step 4: Save for a Down Payment and Closing Costs
Most loans require a down payment, typically ranging from 3% to 20% of the home’s price. You’ll also need funds for closing costs (about 2%–5% of the loan amount). Some programs offer down payment assistance—ask me how you might qualify.
Step 5: Get Pre-Approved
A pre-approval letter from a lender shows sellers you’re serious and financially ready to buy. It also gives you a clear budget, so you’re not house hunting blindly.
Step 6: Work with Experts
Buying a home is a team effort. Surround yourself with trusted professionals like a knowledgeable loan officer (that’s me!) and a great real estate agent to guide you every step of the way.
Step 7: Be Prepared for the Process
The mortgage process involves providing documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. Stay organized and responsive to ensure a smooth experience.
Why Choose Us?
At Somos Latino Mortgage, we’re here to make your dream of homeownership a reality. With a wide range of mortgage products tailored to your needs, we simplify the process and help you secure the best deal.
CRAVEABLE CHICKEN FINGER MEALS™
Q&A With Local Bookkeeper Angie Ward of Toros Taxes
Q: Could you share with our readers a brief background of Toros Taxes and how you began working in bookkeeping?
A: I began studying accounting in Colorado in 2017. After graduating, I decided to move to Houston and start my own bookkeeping firm. In 2022, I aimed to streamline the process for my clients, so I acquired Toro Taxes. Our clients have greatly appreciated the improvements, which have allowed them to focus on what matters most: running their businesses. Our office is located on the feeder road of 290 and Fairbanks.
Q: What can our readers expect while filing their taxes in 2025?
A: As we approach the 2025 tax season, taxpayers can expect several updates and changes designed to make the filing process smoother and more efficient. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
By Angie Ward
1. Enhanced Online Tools: The IRS has introduced new and improved digital tools to assist taxpayers. These tools include the IRS Online Account, where you can view key details from your most recent tax return, request an Identity Protection PIN, and manage payments.
2. Inflation Adjustments: Tax brackets have been adjusted for inflation to help prevent taxpayers from moving into higher tax brackets due to rising wages or prices. For example, the 10% tax bracket for single filers now applies to income up to $11,925, up from $11,600 in 2024.
3. Tax Credits: There are notable changes to important tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, which helps low-income families reduce their tax bills. The amount of credit you can receive depends on your income and the number of children you have.
4. Preparation Tips: The IRS encourages taxpayers to prepare early by organizing their tax documents, checking their withholding, and using the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to ensure the correct amount of tax is withheld from their paychecks.
Q: How do you anticipate the upcoming Trump administration will change tax laws?
A: With the upcoming Trump administration, several significant changes to tax laws are anticipated. Here are some key areas to watch:
1. Making 2017 Tax Cuts Permanent: One of the main goals is to make the tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanent. This includes maintaining lower individual income tax rates, a higher standard deduction, and increased child tax credits.
2. Corporate Tax Rate: There is a proposal to further reduce the corporate tax rate to 15% for many C corporations.
3. Child Tax Credit: The administration plans to increase the child tax credit, providing more financial relief to families.
4. Green Energy Tax Breaks: Some green energy tax incentives from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act may be rolled back, while preferences for fossil fuels could be maintained.
5. Estate Tax Exemption: The higher estate tax exemption introduced by the TCJA might be made permanent, which would have long-term implications for estate planning.
6. Tariffs and Trade: High tariffs on imported goods are also on the agenda, which could impact various sectors of the economy.
Importance of the Detoxification Stage in Natural Treatment
Considering that the goal of natural medicine is the emotional and physiological rebalancing of the body’s natural instincts, it is essential to design an individualized strategy following a protocol where detoxification plays a key role.
In a serious and professional protocol, there are three unavoidable stages:
1. Detoxification
2. Nutrition
3. Cellular Regeneration
The detoxification stage is especially important. Let’s go over its objectives:
• Activate the body’s natural detoxification systems: sweating, kidney function, digestion, and respiration.
• Break toxic habits and addictions related to behavior and nutrition.
• Deprogram emotional toxicity.
• Identify the organs and systems most affected by toxicity and activate their drainage.
• Apply and recommend the most suitable therapies and supplements according to the case.
If the body is not properly detoxified, the results of the nutrition stage will not be achieved efficiently, and the cellular regeneration stage will not take place. It’s highly likely that any improvements will be shortlived. That’s why, when discussing natural treatment for chronic degenerative diseases and serious conditions, it is crucial to keep the following in mind:
• Each case must be individualized.
• Without a serious nutrition plan, change is impossible.
• The patient must be 100% committed.
• The negative emotional programming of the patient must be considered.
One example of this is cancer treatment. It doesn’t make sense for the body to undergo chemotherapy and/ or radiation therapy without prior nutritional preparation before and during treatment. These treatments are so aggressive that they alter the immune system, leaving it vulnerable to opportunistic diseases, which could compromise both the treatment and the person’s life. In the best-case scenario, after receiving the good news of cancer remission, the cancer may return with metastasis within six months.
My best recommendation is that if you choose to undergo natural medicine treatment, do so with seriousness and commitment to achieve extraordinary results. True miracles happen, not because of a specific treatment or medicine, but due to the timely stimulation of an immune system that corrects itself naturally.
GET THE MAXIMUM REFUND
