Celebrating the Hispanic Impact in Houston - A Resounding Success
EMPOWERING THE FUTURE: THE
2024
STATE OF
HISPANICS
– DATA SUMMIT & BUSINESS EXPO
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
In the heart of Houston, where cultures blend and opportunities flourish, the 2024 State of Hispanics – Data Summit & Business Expo was a testament to the power and influence of the Hispanic community in the region. Held at the prestigious Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, this event drew over 400 leaders from various sectors, all united by a common goal: to understand and amplify the economic and social impact of Hispanics in Houston.
A Gathering of Visionaries
Hosted by the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, this one-of-akind event brought together a diverse group of influencers, from academia to business, government, and civic sectors. The morning of Thursday, August 22nd was charged with anticipation as attendees, supported by key underwriters such as @aarptx, @pncbank, and @wearehccs, gathered to engage in thought-provoking discussions and data-driven insights that highlighted the burgeoning role of Hispanics in the region.
A Data-Driven Narrative
The summit was not just about celebrating achievements but about grounding the narrative in hard facts.
Dr. Jeronimo Cortina, Associate Director & Associate Professor at the Center for Mexican American Studies, presented a compelling analysis on the increasing presence of Hispanics on corporate boards. This was further enriched by Lopez Negrete Communications’ exploration of the economic impact of Latinos in Houston. Pablo Pinto, Director of the Center for Public Policy at the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs, offered a forward-looking perspective on what lies ahead for the Hispanic community in Houston.
Houston Hispanics’ spending power has already surpassed $54 billion annually, with projections suggesting it could reach a staggering $80 billion by 2022.
Homeownership among Hispanics is robust, with over 53% owning their homes, and the community accounts for a quarter of the region’s residential market.
Entrepreneurship is thriving, as Hispanics are twice as likely to start a business compared to other demographic groups, and Hispanic-owned small businesses make up more than 42% of the region's total.
A Community on the Rise
The summit underscored the Hispanic community's growing economic clout in Houston. Whether it's owning a home, launching a business, or making significant investments, Hispanics are leading the way. The data revealed that 27% of Hispanics in
the region own investments, and they are twice as likely to start a business compared to other demographic groups, contributing significantly to the city's vibrant economy.
Looking Forward
As the summit concluded, the mood was one of optimism and determination. The insights shared not only celebrated past achievements but also laid the groundwork for future successes. With Hispanic spending expected to account for more than a quarter of the region's spending by 2022, the community's influence is set to grow even further.
The 2024 State of Hispanics – Data Summit & Business Expo was more than just an event; it was a clarion call for continued growth, empowerment, and collaboration within Houston's Hispanic community. As we look to the future, the impact of Hispanics in Houston will undoubtedly continue to shape the region's economic and cultural landscape in profound ways.
For more insightful stories and community-focused news, stay connected with Houston Style Magazine, your source for the latest happenings in the heart of Houston.
UNIQUE PLACE IN CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORY
By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator
The modern civil rights movement hit a new peak last week in Illinois. It marked the movement coming full circle, in a way, back to the state of its birth more than a century ago.
Illinois is the unsung “alpha and omega” of the movement.
It was the 1908 Springfield, IL Race Riot that sparked the creation of the NAACP. That marked the beginning of what would become the modern civil rights movement that evolved through the 1950s and 60s and is still evolving today.
And last week, Illinois hosted the nomination by one of America’s major parties of a candidate for president who has broken barriers her entire career … who comes from a family of bold civil rights activists … who could be our first woman president, our first president of Asian descent, and only our second Black president.
If Springfield was the civil rights movement’s “alpha,” then this year’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago and Kamala Harris’s campaign are, to date, its “omega.” Barely more than a month ago nobody knew this was going to be Harris’s convention. Yet the history of the civil rights movement makes poetry of the fact she accepted her party’s nomination in Illinois.
The city of Chicago itself has played a crucial role in this history. In the wake of the Springfield Riot, the anti-lynching crusader and Chicagoan Ida B. Wells-Barnett was a leading national voice against that racial violence and one of the original cofounders, six months later, of the NAACP. And Chicago played host to a key civil rights moment featuring another NAACP cofounder, W.E.B. Du Bois.
In 1929, it was where Du Bois dispatched white supremacist Lothrop Stoddard’s toxic eugenics claptrap, arguing for racial equality in what was billed at the time as “one of the greatest debates
ever held.”
It is the home of Mayor Harold Washington and Jesse Jackson. Reverend Jackson’s presidential campaigns offered me one of my own first experiences in political organizing. I was captivated by his campaigns and led my county’s arm of Youth for Jackson when I was 14.
Those Black leaders’ groundbreaking campaigns helped create a tailwind for Black candidates across the country to make history in the 1980s. Doug Wilder became the first African American elected statewide in Virginia as Lieutenant Governor in 1985. 1989 then saw Wilder become the first ever elected Black governor in the United States and David Dinkins elected the first Black mayor of New York City.
I had this epiphany about Illinois’ special place in the civil rights movement right before traveling to Chicago to take part in various events held during this year’s Democratic convention. It was at the White House, of all places. I had the privilege of being in the Oval Office for President Biden’s dedication of the site of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot as our country’s newest national monument.
Among the crowd were some of Illinois’ top political leaders. And one of them mentioned that Illinois currently does not have a Civil Rights Trail.
I thought about that as I was walking out and a photograph on display in the Oval Office caught my eye. It was President Biden with his mother and then President-Elect Barack Obama on election night in 2008 in Chicago’s Grant Park.
I remembered that night and was immediately awash in more memories close to my heart and my sense of patriotism. I was in Springfield, IL when President Obama launched his campaign for president there in 2007. I have always remembered that campaign kickoff vividly because of its historical significance and because of how cold it was. It will be forever even more deeply ingrained in my memory because one of my crew that day who I stood with during the rally was my friend Kamala Harris, then the district attorney of San Francisco.
Springfield was the home of Abraham Lincoln. When the NAACP was formed in 1909, six months after the Springfield Race Riot, it was on what would have been the Great Emancipator’s 100th birthday. Then in 2007, nearly 100 years after that, Springfield was where Illinois Senator President Obama chose to begin his presidential journey. Once again, it was that pattern of things continuing coming full circle back to Illinois in our nation’s long march towards free-
dom and justice.
Clearly, Illinois deserves to have several Civil Rights Trail-recognized sites.
Last week’s convention was one for the ages. The speeches, the optimism, the energy, and yes, the joy. It was also just the latest of Chicago’s and the state of Illinois’ immense contributions to America’s progress toward the day when the rights and dignity of all people are fully realized.
This week we celebrate Women’s Equality Day. It is the anniversary of women gaining the right to vote with the adoption of the 19th Amendment in 1920. As our country sits poised to elect its first woman as president, it is also fitting to remember that Illinois was part of the very first group of states (along with Wisconsin and Michigan on the same day) to ratify that amendment.
Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.”
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com www.StyleMagazine.com
Ben Jealous and Kamala Harris in Springfield, Ill. at Barack Obama's Presidential Announcement
In a bold and transformative move for Houston's public safety landscape, Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Roderick Jackson as the new Director of the Houston Emergency Center (HEC). This decision marks a pivotal moment in the city's ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety and well-being of its residents. Jackson's appointment, along with other key public safety appointments, was officially recognized during the August 14, 2024, City Council meeting, signaling a new era for the HEC.
Mayor Whitmire’s confidence in Jackson is rooted in a deep respect for his extensive experience and proven track record within the HEC. "Roderick climbed through the rank and file in the Houston Emergency Center, and his experiences will benefit the City of Houston's 9-1-1 call center and our community," the Mayor stated. Indeed, Jackson's journey is one of dedication and resilience, having served the HEC for over two decades in various critical roles, including call floor supervisor, trainer, operations manager, and division manager.
Jackson's brief departure in 2022 to serve as the 9-1-1 Communications Manager for the Baytown Police Department only further solidified his expertise. His return to Houston, now as the Director of
LOCAL : EMPOWERING HOUSTON’S SAFETY: THE STRATEGIC APPOINTMENT
OF RODERICK JACKSON AS DIRECTOR OF THE HOUSTON EMERGENCY CENTER
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
HEC, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public safety. "I look forward to leading the hard-working employees of HEC and emphasizing exceptional work ethics," Jackson assured. "I'm hopeful my years of experience will enable us to provide and maintain the high priority of public safety work standards expected of us by the residents of the City of Houston."
The HEC's origins are a testament to Houston's forward-thinking approach to emergency communications. Before its inception in September 2003, the city relied on
three separate emergency communications centers for 9-1-1 services. Each agency—the Neutral Public Safety Answering Point, the Police Department Emergency Communications Division, and the Fire Department Emergency Communications Operations—operated independently, with distinct answering centers, computer networks, and technical support systems. The creation of the Houston Emergency Center represented a significant leap forward, consolidating these efforts into a unified, state-of-the-art facility.
This $50 million investment in public safety is more than just a building; it is a critical asset to the city, equipped with cutting-edge emergency communications technology. The facility operates 24/7, providing round-the-clock 9-1-1 services to the community. It also boasts advanced systems for police dispatch, fire dispatch, fire records, fire alerting, and geographic information, with upgrades amounting to approximately $12 million. The consolidation of these services into a single, innovative, and redundant complex has replaced outdated facilities, ensuring that Houston remains at the forefront of emergency communications.
The HEC's role extends beyond its daily operations. During incident activations, the facility's Emergency Operations Center becomes a hub of coordination, facilitating constant communication with local, state, and federal agencies. This capability is perhaps the HEC's most significant strength, enabling a seamless exchange of information between 9-1-1, Police, Fire, EMS, and Emergency Management teams through a common protocol for interagency transactions.
Mayor Whitmire Appoints Roderick Jackson as director of HEC
As the summer heat begins to wane and Labor Day approaches, Texas finds itself on the cusp of what could be the most tightly contested statewide elections in over three decades. Tuesday, November 5th, marks the date when Texas voters will have the opportunity to make history, with races that could elect America’s first female President, Texas' first African American U.S. Senator, and Texas' first African American woman to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
A fresh poll, conducted jointly by the University of Houston and Texas Southern University, has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The survey, which sampled a broad cross-section of likely voters across the state, indicates that Vice President Kamala Harris has made substantial inroads into former President Donald Trump’s once-commanding lead in Texas. The numbers show that Houston’s own U.S. Senator Ted Cruz is now clinging to a razor-thin 2.1 percentage point lead over his challenger, U.S. Congressman Colin Allred.
This poll suggests that if the election had taken place in August, Texas would be witnessing the closest presidential race since 1992, when then-incumbent President George H. W. Bush squared off against Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton. Furthermore, Allred’s narrowing of the gap with Cruz is
POLITICAL: TEN WEEKS TO TEXAS’ TIGHTEST ELECTIONS IN THREE DECADES
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
significant; it’s even closer than the margin by which Beto O’Rourke nearly toppled Cruz in 2018, coming within just 2.5 points.
Should the current trends continue, with Trump’s decline and Harris’s ascendancy, Allred could break a 36-year Democratic drought by becoming the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate from Texas since Lloyd Bentsen’s 1988 victory. Bentsen, who ran for Vice President alongside Mike Dukakis, famously benefited from a unique Texas law allowing him to run for both Senate re-election and the vice-presidency simultaneously—a provision originally crafted when Lyndon Johnson was tapped as JFK’s running mate.
Allred’s potential victory would also mark a historic moment, making him the third African American U.S. Senator elected from the South and only the seventh in U.S. history. The former Baylor Bear and Tennessee Titan, who traded his NFL career for a role as a civil rights lawyer and federal legislator, is no stranger to political upsets. In 2018, he successfully unseated long-time Republican incumbent Pete Sessions in the Dallas suburbs, a feat mirrored by fellow Democrat Lizzie Fletcher’s victory over John Culberson in Houston.
Meanwhile, Judge Chika Anyiam, also hailing from Dallas, is making waves in her bid for a seat on the Texas Court of
Criminal Appeals. Armed with a wealth of judicial experience, Anyiam is the only candidate in her race who is a Board-Certified Criminal Law specialist, a credential awarded by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Should she win, Anyiam would make history as the first African American woman to serve on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
Anyiam’s path to the general election was not without drama. Her opponent in the general election was a candidate promoted by former President Trump at the behest of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who sought to prosecute Beaumont's first African American woman sheriff, Zena Stephens, for election fraud—a case dismissed by Judge Michelle Slaughter and her colleagues. This ruling earned Anyiam respect on the general election ballot, where her reputation for independence, integrity, and intelligence has made her a formidable contender.
Houston Style Magazine readers, as Texas barrels towards this historic election, the stakes have never been higher. With the possibility of electing trailblazing leaders at both the state and national levels, Texans are poised to shape the future of not just the Lone Star State, but the nation.
Sandra Levine, Judge Chika Anyiam, & Burt Levine
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® (AKA) has long been a beacon of empowerment and change, leading initiatives that uplift communities and transform lives. This illustrious sorority, founded on the hallowed grounds of Howard University in 1908, has a storied history of service that stretches back over a century. From their early efforts during the Great Migration to their more recent accomplishments-such as setting a new Guinness World Record for packing the most hygiene kits for the homeless—Alpha Kappa Alpha has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
In today’s challenging social and political climate, the power of service takes on an even greater significance. The AKAs, along with their Divine Nine counterparts, have proven time and again that they are a force to be reckoned with in the realm of social advocacy. This was especially evident during the last presidential election, where the women of AKA, adorned in their signature pink and green, played a pivotal role in the election of Joe Biden as President and Kamala Harris—an AKA sister—as Vice President. Their support was palpable, from organizing “Stroll to the Polls” campaigns to making symbol-
NATIONAL: ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC.®
URGES YOU TO “TAKE 4 OR MORE IN 24”
By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
ic donations of $19.08 to the Biden-Harris campaign.
Now, as the nation gears up for another high-stakes election, Alpha Kappa Alpha is once again at the forefront of voter mobilization efforts. Under the leadership of their current International President & CEO, Danette Anthony Reed, the sorority has launched the “Take 4 or More in 24” initiative. This campaign, a key component of their broader “Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood” theme, encourages each member to bring at least four people to the polls in 2024. It’s a call
to action that emphasizes voter education, registration, and engagement, while also addressing transportation barriers and combating voter suppression tactics.
“Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. members across Texas are actively embracing the 'Take 4 or More in 24' campaign by organizing voter registration drives and partnering with community organizations to reach underrepresented groups. Through educational workshops and extensive public outreach, our members are committed to ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts. We
are leveraging social media and collaborating with local leaders to maximize our impact, especially among young and firsttime voters.
Vice President Kamala Harris
Lecrae Dr. Timmey T. Zachery - PVAMU Southern University - Human Jukebox
Photos By TeamStyleMag Photography
Boosie Badazz
BOTB - Honorning Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
Tuskegee University - The Marching Crimson Pipers
Tenn. State - Aristocrat of Bands
Prairie View A&M Marching Storm
TSU - Ocean of Soul
Jackson State - Sonic Boom of the South
Doug Emhoff & Kamala Harris
Barack and Michelle Obama
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
Oprah Winfrey
AARTS: DISCOVER THE PULSE OF DANCE AT THE INAUGURAL – HOUSTON BLACK DANCE FESTIVAL
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
re you ready to move, groove, and be part of something spectacular this Labor Day weekend? The vibrant city of Houston is about to make history with the inaugural Houston Black Dance Festival, a celebration that promises to bring the heart and soul of Black dance to the forefront. Starting from 10:00 AM each day and continuing until 8:00 PM on Friday, August 30 to Sunday, September 1, 2024, dance enthusiasts of all levels will gather at The MATCH, 3400 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002, for an unforgettable three-day experience that blends culture, community, and rhythm like never before.
What to Expect at the Festival
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or someone who simply enjoys the rhythm of life, the Houston Black Dance Festival offers something for everyone. The festival is packed with a dynamic lineup of workshops, performances, and activities that celebrate the rich tapestry of Black dance and culture.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:
- Black Art Bus Tour by Sawari: Explore the rich history and influence of Black art in Houston with a guided tour that’s as enlightening as it is inspiring.
- African-American Dance Workshops:
Get your groove on with workshops that highlight the beauty and diversity of African-American dance styles, including Line Dancing and Zydeco.
- Contemporary & Traditional African Dance Workshops: Dive deep into the roots of African dance, exploring both modern interpretations and traditional movements that have stood the test of time.
- Afro-Latin Dance Sessions: Experience the infectious energy of Afro-Latin dance, where African rhythms meet Latin flair.
- Business of Dance Panel Discussion:
Gain insights from industry experts on navigating the business side of dance, a must-attend for aspiring professionals.
- FREE Salsa Workshop: Perfect your Salsa moves in this free workshop, open to all levels!
- Live Performances, Vendors, Food Trucks, and More: Enjoy live performances that will captivate your senses, along with a variety of vendors and food trucks offering delicious treats to keep you fueled throughout the day.
A Cultural Hub in the Making
The Houston Black Dance Festival is more than just a celebration of dance; it’s a movement aimed at strengthening the infrastructure of Black dance in Houston. By providing a platform for dancers to showcase their talents, the festival aspires to position Houston as a leading cultural hub for Black dance. This is an opportunity to witness the richness of Black culture, art, and expression, all under one roof. Meet the Visionary Behind the Festival
The driving force behind this groundbreaking event is none other than Dr. Lindsay Gary, a visionary dedicated to celebrating and promoting Black culture through dance. In an exclusive interview, Dr. Gary shared the inspiration behind the festival and the importance of bringing this event to Houston.
"The Houston Black Dance Festival is a dream come true. It's about creating a space where Black dance is not just seen but celebrated, where our stories are told through movement, and where the community can come together in joy and unity," says Dr. Gary.
ILOCAL: CELEBRATING PROGRESS: METRO’S NEW PARK &
n a significant stride toward improving Houston's transportation network, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) celebrated the "topping off" of its highly anticipated Park & Ride garage at Fort Bend Town Center. This event marks a milestone in the construction of a facility that promises to revolutionize daily commutes for thousands of residents in the area.
Situated strategically at the intersection of Highway 6 and the Fort Bend County Toll Road, the state-of-the-art garage will boast 1,750 parking spaces. This expansive structure is not just a parking facility but a gateway to enhanced connectivity, offering seamless access to downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center. The new garage is expected to become a crucial part of the daily routines for many, especially those working in Houston’s bustling medical district.
A Visionary Project in the Making
The project, a result of a 40year agreement between METRO and NewQuest Properties, highlights a collaborative effort that underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing Houston’s infrastructure. METRO’s board of directors approved the contract in May, following careful negotiations that began in September. The
RIDE GARAGE AT FORT BEND TOWN CENTER
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
agreement ensures METRO’s significant investment of up to $59.8 million in the construction of the garage. Furthermore, METRO will pay an annual ground rent of $325,000, while also overseeing the operations, maintenance, and State of Good Repair, ensuring the facility remains topnotch for years to come.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
METRO Board Member Diann Lewter expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I think it's going to serve a huge number of people in the medical center, and I think it's going to be a very busy center pretty
soon." Her words capture the essence of the project’s potential to transform the daily commute for thousands, reducing travel time and easing congestion on Houston's busy roads.
The new garage is more than just a parking facility; it’s a pivotal step towards a more connected and efficient transit system. By providing residents with convenient access to the METRO network, the Park & Ride garage will play a vital role in enhancing mobility across the region.
Looking Ahead
As Houston continues to grow,
the demand for efficient and reliable transportation solutions becomes increasingly important. The Fort Bend Town Center Park & Ride garage is a testament to METRO’s commitment to meeting this demand, providing residents with practical and sustainable transit options. The facility is not just an infrastructure project; it’s a symbol of progress and a brighter, more connected future for all who call Houston home.
Houston Style Magazine readers, with construction well underway and the "topping off" ceremony behind us, the community eagerly awaits the completion of this transformative project. The Fort Bend Town Center Park & Ride garage stands as a beacon of hope for smoother commutes and a more integrated transit system in the years to come.
SEPTEMBER 26, 2024
IHEALTH: HARRIS HEALTH'S NEW $1.6 BILLION LEVEL I
TRAUMA-CAPABLE HOSPITAL EXPANSION AT LBJ
By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
n, a significant leap forward for healthcare in Houston, Harris Health broke ground in May 2024 on a groundbreaking $1.6 billion Level I trauma-capable hospital, set to transform the Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital campus. This ambitious 12-story facility will be the first of its kind in Harris County outside the Texas Medical Center, addressing the urgent need for expanded trauma care in the rapidly growing northeast region of Houston and beyond.
"LBJ and Ben Taub hospitals were built over 30 years ago, and since then, our community has grown exponentially," remarked Esmaeil Porsa, MD, President and CEO of Harris Health "This new hospital is not just an expansion; it’s a necessity. It will provide state-of-the-art Level I trauma care, filling a critical gap in our healthcare infrastructure."
Slated for completion in early 2029, the new hospital is designed to be a beacon of advanced medical care. It will span 1.3 million square feet and house 390 private patient rooms, with the flexibility to expand to 450. The facility will boast a rooftop helipad, 15 dedicated operating rooms, and cutting-edge hybrid suites equipped to handle the most complex emergency surgeries. With these capabilities, the hospital is poised to become a vital resource
for routine and emergency medical care in southeast Texas.
The official groundbreaking event on May 9, 2024, was a momentous occasion, drawing over 300 attendees, including Houston Mayor John Whitmire, executives and board members of Harris Health and UTHealth Houston, and philanthropic leaders from the Harris Health Strategic Fund and Harris County Hospital District Foundation This celebration marked the start of a new era in Houston’s
medical landscape.
“This is the beginning of a monumental improvement in our medical infrastructure to provide state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional healthcare for all Harris County residents,” said Andrea Caracostis, MD, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Harris Health. “The expansion of this hospital is long overdue and will significantly enhance our ability to meet the needs of our staff, patients, and the broader community.”
This new hospital is just one piece of Harris Health’s larger $2.9 billion strategic facilities plan, which also includes major renovations to the existing LBJ Hospital, an expansion of patient bed capacity at Ben Taub Hospital, and the construction of three new health centers in northwest, southwest, and east Harris County. Additionally, significant refurbishments are planned for existing health centers and clinics to ensure that all residents have access to top-tier medical care.
As construction progresses, the Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital campus will undergo several transformations, including a new parking garage expected to be completed by April 2026 and a central utility plant by February 2027. The hospital itself is anticipated to be ready by October 2028, with the doors opening shortly thereafter.
Houston Style Magazine readers, this project underscores Harris Health’s commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare and improving the well-being of every Houstonian. Once completed, the new hospital will not only be a medical marvel but also a symbol of hope and progress for a growing community in need.
For more info, visit https://www. harrishealth.org/
Campus Chronicles
Alief ISD’s Therapy Intervention K9 program features Holly, a 1-year-old Border Collie mix who has been serving the district since May 2024. Holly's presence has been transformative, providing a unique form of support that only a therapy dog can offer.
At work, her mission is simple: spread happiness. She visits different campuses, interacting with students and staff, and performing her signature tricks, including her famous High Five and hand
Fort Bend ISD is inviting seniors aged 62 and older to support the district's 2024 senior student-athletes at four special 'Senior Night' varsity games. The Gold Card Club is set to kick off the festivities with the Elkins vs. Dawson game at Hall Stadium on Saturday, September 7.
Seniors are encouraged to attend the game, enjoy the exciting football action, and stop by the Gold Card Club tent to pick up complimentary goodies. Those
Two standout students from Aldine ISD's Carver High School showcased their musical talents at the 5th Annual Mariachi Festival, held on August 25th at the Wortham Center. The event, known for celebrating the rich cultural tradition of mariachi music, featured performances from Diego Alonso Ochoa and Edgar Hernández, both of whom have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their craft.
Diego Alonso Ochoa, a recent graduate from the Class of 2024, captivated the audience with his passion for mariachi. Ochoa, who plans to continue his journey in the genre, aspires to become a music educator, sharing his love for ma-
shake. These small gestures brighten the day for everyone she encounters.
After a full day of bringing joy, Holly returns home with her handler, Officer Allen, to relax with her human and fur siblings. "Holly has been a pure joy to add to the K9 unit, and she is ready to provide her services to all those in need,” Officer Allen shared. This sentiment highlights the immense value that therapy dogs like Holly bring to the school community.
who haven’t yet obtained their Gold Card are encouraged to do so now, as it offers access to these events and more.
Community members are asked to share this opportunity with any seniors who would enjoy participating in these special nights of celebration. Seniors can secure their Gold Card by visiting the Fort Bend ISD website at www.fortbendisd. com/goldcard.
riachi with future generations. His performance at the festival marked a significant step in his musical career as he continues to pursue his dream of teaching music.
Edgar Hernández, also from the Class of 2024, brought his enthusiasm for mariachi to the stage, with plans to keep the tradition alive even as he pursues a major in engineering. Hernández intends to join the University of Houston's mariachi ensembles, balancing his academic pursuits with his commitment to the musical art form. His participation in the festival underscored his dedication to both his cultural heritage and his future aspirations.
The community celebrates the achievements of Ochoa and Hernández, recognizing their contributions to the mariachi tradition and their promising futures ahead.
INATIONAL : LULAC AND DEMOCRATS STAND FIRM AGAINST VOTER INTIMIDATION TACTICS
n, a state as diverse as Texas, where every vote carries the weight of history and the promise of change, recent actions by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton have sparked a wave of indignation among Latino communities and their allies. The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has risen as a vocal opponent, condemning what they describe as deliberate voter intimidation tactics that target Latino voters and Democratic activists. These actions, which have escalated just weeks before the 2024 elections, are seen by many as a strategic move to undermine the democratic process.
Paxton’s raids, which occurred in predominantly Latino communities, have been widely criticized as an abuse of power. The timing of these raids, so close to the upcoming elections, has raised questions about their true intent. Gabriel Rosales, Texas LULAC’s state director, did not mince words, accusing Paxton of using these raids to suppress the Latino vote and to sway the electoral process in favor of his political allies. “This is not about election integrity,” Rosales stated, “This is about intimidation, plain and simple.”
One of the most high-profile targets of these raids was Cecilia Castellano, a Democratic candidate running for a state
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.
House seat. Castellano’s home was raided, her phone confiscated, and her campaign thrown into turmoil. The shock and anger were palpable when Castellano spoke, expressing disbelief at the lengths to which Paxton’s office would go to interfere with the election.
But Castellano is not alone. The homes of at least five other Latino individuals, all connected to her campaign, were also searched. Among them were longtime activists and LULAC members,
individuals who have spent years working to empower their communities through voter registration and education. Lidia Martinez, an 87-year-old LULAC member, described the raid on her home as a “Gestapo-style” operation, designed to humiliate and intimidate her. Standing outside her home in her nightgown, she was interrogated for hours, an experience she describes as deeply traumatic.
LULAC has not taken these actions lightly. In a strongly worded letter
to the U.S. Justice Department, LULAC President Roman Palomares and CEO Juan Proaño called for a federal investigation into Paxton’s actions. They argue that these raids are part of a broader pattern of voter intimidation aimed at suppressing the political power of minority communities in Texas. “This is not an isolated incident,” the letter states. “This is a concerted effort to undermine the democratic process and disenfranchise minority voters.”
As the election draws nearer, the stakes could not be higher. The raids have sent a chilling message to Latino and Black communities across Texas, but they have also galvanized a movement. LULAC and its allies are more determined than ever to protect the right to vote and to ensure that every vote is counted.
For the readers of Houston Style Magazine, this story is more than just a headline. It is a reminder of the ongoing fight for civil rights in our state and our country. It is a call to action to stand up against intimidation and to exercise your right to vote. In these critical moments, our voices matter more than ever. And as we head into the 2024 elections, it is clear that the future of our democracy is at stake.
Gabriel Rosales, LULAC Texas State Director
GREAT EDUCAT RS THE HEART OF LEARNING STARTS WITH
Nominate a deserving teacher, principal, counselor, early childhood learning center, school board or school district.
Created in 2002, the H‑E‑B Excellence in Education Awards was designed to honor and thank outstanding public school professionals. Through this program, H‑E‑B awards over $700,000 annually to deserving educators who go the extra mile to serve their students and communities.
To submit a nomination or application, go to heb.com/nominate.
